Berlin Germany Travel Guide [Non-Touristy Things to Do!]

I traveled to Berlin recently. I loved it and I want to break down how you can have an amazing time visiting Berlin. You can check out my YouTube channel to watch my Berlin Vlog and Berlin Travel guide. That way you can see all the places I discuss in this guide. I saved for this trip I paid for this trip. Throwing that out. In the future when I start getting free rooms and food I’ll let you know. Manifesting. But this trip wasn’t the one.

I’m a chill, laid-back traveler. I see a few things but I’m about eating and drinking. You’ve seen enough super touristy travel guides by now. This will be a good supplement for those guides.

Berlin is hipster grunge in the best ways. I found the prices pretty affordable for Europe. Remember I’m coming from Los Angeles so everything might be cheaper for me. If you want to see certain tourist attractions like the Reichstag dome. You must book it way in advance. I’m talking months!

How to get to Berlin?

We flew Lufthansa to Frankfurt and then Frankfurt to Berlin. There wasn’t a direct flight from LA to Berlin. It was a comfortable flight. Dinner and lunch were good. Breakfast was ok. My Dagne Dover personal item did not fit under the seat in front of me during this flight. I still loved it but I had to throw it in the overhead compartment real quick. I would still 100% travel with it though.

From the airport, we couldn’t figure out Uber so we took a taxi. Which cost about 50 euros, the same amount an Uber would have been.

How to get around Berlin?

Getting around Berlin is fairly easy. They have a straightforward metro. Though we walked most places. I love to walk when I’m traveling. You get to see more of the sights and get the lay of the land. The best mode of transportation if you’re up for it is riding a bike. They have a lot of different apps you can use to rent bikes right from your phone. But, the only one that worked for us having an American phone number was Donkey Republic Bikes. You can rent two bikes on one account.

My best tip if you plan on riding bikes is to rent a bike the first day you’re there and jump in. Otherwise, you will see the bike riding and psych yourself out. I found side streets easier to ride when starting out.

It costs us about 3 euro each for 2.5 hours of riding. Not sure if it was a promotion but that’s how much it costs and we used them on two different days.

Our Airbnb

Where to stay in Berlin?

We stayed in the area Kreuzberg. Which I picked for the location. I loved the vibe of the area it had a lot of cute restaurants, shops, bars, and coffee nearby which was fantastic. I would definitely stay here again.

We decided on Airbnb instead of a hotel. When looking for vacation rentals I like natural light, a clean aesthetic, and a view. Our spot in Berlin delivered. If you would like to book the same accommodations you can find the Airbnb here.

It was one bedroom, with a bathroom with a heated towel rack. It had an open-concept kitchen and living room space and a view of the TV Tower. Fair warning, there are a lot of stairs to get to this rental. I say that and I’m sure some of you are like “a few stairs no biggie” because that was me. No, you will hike lots of stairs in Europe for views.

Where to eat in Berlin?

We had an Airbnb and didn't cook any meals while we were there. Here is a rundown of some tasty food you can get while you’re in Berlin. I always make sure where I eat has reviews of 4.0 and higher. I don’t have time for mediocre food while traveling.

Jolesch - Muskauer Str. 1, 10997 Berlin, Germany

Recommended by our Airbnb host. This served Austrian food. We went and scored a table but I do think you should make reservations since it was pretty popular when we went. The menu is always changing. I got the vegetarian dish and my husband got the schnitzel. For dessert, we got an apple strudel. I also tried Lillet cocktail which is a french liquor that I had never tried. If you get the schnitzel ask for some sauce or jam. Later on in the trip, we had more schnitzel and realized that Jolesch was the only place we didn’t get a sauce. And we are a saucy couple.

Markethalle Neun - Eisenbahnstraße 42/43, 10997 Berlin, Germany

If you are indecisive or with a group that can’t make up their mind on where to eat. This Markethalle is a great option. Street food Thursdays are the best day to go and that's when we decided to check it out. They have a lot of different food options and if you’re a foodie that means heaven. We decided on Mani Pasta which had great portions. I got the basil tomato pasta, my husband got Arriabata and I got an Italian soda. Grab a table when you see an opening and let someone in your group order the food.

Zola - Paul-Lincke-Ufer 39-40, 10999 Berlin, Germany

This is a trendy restaurant with a patio that serves Neopolitan-style pizza. If the weather is nice, there is a wait to sit on the patio during dinner. But you can drink in line while you wait. It’s faster to grab a seat inside which is what we did. Still cute vibes. Ordered a beer and the house red wine. I got the Bufalini pizza and my husband got Salami. Both were pretty big and delicious! Some of the best pizza I’ve had.

Cocolo Ramen - Gipsstr. 3, 10119 Berlin Germany

This is a delicious ramen restaurant in Berlin. It’s cute and it hit the spot. If you like ramen I recommend this place. It’s in a cute neighborhood too. I got the Miso Ramen with extra noodles and the cocktail was a yummy honey soda chuhai cocktail. If it has honey I’m going to get it.

Goldies - Oranienstraße 6, 10997 Berlin, Germany

This is a french fry place I had walked by a few times and I had to try it. I love fries and a place dedicated to loaded fries is a must-visit for me. It is a bit of a fast-food or after-bar type of place. The portion was big. I would definitely get these fries again. They were greedy goodness. Again this was a fast-food style place. I’m sure there are places near you that are as good. But it’s nice to have comfort food like this while traveling. Especially if you want to save some money.

From Wurst :) - Ebertstraße, Ecke, Scheidemannstraße, 10117 Berlin, Germany

Located near a lot of tourist attractions - Brandenburg Gate and Tiergarten. We went here for quick currywurst and fries fix. If you’re taking a break from sightseeing and you need a quick snack in the area this is a cool place to get a bite.

Where to get Coffee?

If you love coffee like us then it’s always good to try a few local coffee shops during your travels. Here are two favorites we had while we were visiting in Berlin.

Bonanza - Adalbertstraße 70, 10999 Berlin, Germany

This is part of the third-wave coffee scene in Berlin. Which means they are serving high-quality coffee. This location was fun to go to because it’s a bit hidden but great for some IG photo opportunities. Also, their croissants are fresh and made by a French pastry chef in Berlin. I got a flat white, croissant and pain au chocolate. All delicious. Apparently, they sell out of pastries a lot. So if you see them out order some. My husband got a filter coffee, which we learned was how you ask for “black coffee” if that’s your thing.

Kaffebar - Graefestraße 8, 10967 Berlin, Germany

A trendy hipster coffee shop. They have a lot of gluten-free and vegan options. Cute place started to get a line while we were there so the locals definitely like it. Not the cheapest coffee we got in Berlin. Also got a slice of honey almond lemon cake but cause I couldn’t resist. Glad I did, it hit.

Where to go out?

Let’s get this out of the way. Sometimes I like to go clubbing. But most of the time I’m a true millennial and I like a good bar with some cocktails and good music. We did go out in Berlin but to dope bars and lounges. If that’s your thing here are some favorites I visited.

Cake - Mariannenstraße 27, 10999 Berlin, Germany

Loved this little bar. They had a cool vibe with good music. Sexy atmosphere. Also, there was a stage so I’m assuming they have live music sometimes. The bartender was very friendly. So friendly she offered to make me a drink to see if I liked it. I ended up ordering the Basil Smash Cocktail. It’s a popular choice there and it was delicious.

Fuchsbau - Planufer 96, 10967 Berlin, Germany

This bar serves breakfast and coffee during the day and cocktails and light food at night. We went at night and scored a cozy spot on their patio. The staff was super friendly and it had great vibes and people-watching. They provide blankets too if it gets more chilly and you want to sit outside. Grabbed some beers here.

Die Perle - Reichenberger Str. 47, 10999 Berlin, Germany

This felt very local. Which made us love it even more. I don’t even think the bartender spoke English. We grabbed beers here and enjoyed the music and people-watching of this cool local spot.

Fun things to do in Berlin?

Rent Bikes or Electric Scooters

You want to have a lot of fun on your trip. Rent bikes. You will feel like a local and see so much more than you would if you take the metro everywhere. Plus it’s fun. We used the app Donkey Republic Bikes because it was the only one that worked with our American phone. You can rent two bikes on one account. Unfortunately, I believe Donkey Bikes is only located in Berlin. We didn’t see these again in other cities.

Electric scooters are also a fun option. You can get these through the Uber app which will connect you to lime scooters. You can only rent one scooter through your account though.

Holzmarkt 25

I didn’t put this under “going out” because it’s a fun daytime hangout. This is a great spot when the weather is good so Spring and Summer. This cool market/beer garden is near the Spree River Banks. We loved grabbing beers here and hanging by the water with the locals. We loved it so much that we actually went here twice during our trip. They have beer garden, some food options, and a restroom. I have to say that because it’s nice to know when traveling!

When you get the beer you pay a euro deposit. Then when you return your glass for the day you get the euro back. During your stay when you buy more beer they will rinse and refill the glass you have. One of my favorite spots in Berlin.

Take a Picture in a Photoautomat

These are all around Berlin and other places in Germany (I saw a few in Hamburg). Anyway, make sure to grab a photo in one of these at some point. Some are cleaner and better than others. You will be able to tell. There was one in the Markethalle Neun and next to the Holzmarkt. The photos cost 3 Euro make sure you have the exact change if you can. Otherwise, you won’t get your change back. Also, hold those poses! Once you’re done you have to wait about 5 minutes for your photo to print. You will get one strip.

Visit the Brandenburg Gate

Always good to fit one touristy thing in the mix. Visit the Brandenburg Gate (on the way to Tiergarten). It’s Berlin’s top tourist attraction. It’s very cool to see. A symbol of Berlin and German division during the Cold War, it is now a national symbol of peace and unity.

Tiergarten

From the Brandenburg Gate, it’s a short walk to Tiergarten. A beautiful park that I recommend you ride bikes in. It’s Berlin’s version of Central Park. It’s 210 acres and beautiful. It’s the perfect location to get used to bike riding if you’re intimidated about it. There is a beer garden in the park, it’s called Cafe am Neuen See. We stopped by there and grabbed some beers - Helles and Radler. It’s a very large beer garden with ample seating. There is also a restaurant. You can park your bikes and hang out here for an hour or two.

Tempkof

Another cool park. If you like parks I mean this one is another option to ride bikes in. This was one of the first airports built in Berlin and was operational for 85 years. Now it’s Berlin’s largest urban park spanning 800 acres. For reference Central park is 335 acres. It’s huge but super flat. It’s fun to see because it’s an old runway. However, if pretty parks are more your thing then stick with Tiergarten.

Tiffy Quick Tips

Everyone smokes in Berlin. They will smoke in restaurants and bars. It is what it is.

Spring is a great time to go and enjoy some good weather before it’s packed during summer.

To see more videos on the Millennial lifestyle and travel check out my YouTube Channel.

Austin Texas Travel Guide

Know before you go

Austin is an up-and-coming city but they are still conservative. If you plan on drinking with friends over the weekend stock up on liquor before Sunday. Liquor stores do not sell hard alcohol on Sundays. Meaning if you plan on taking your drinks to the River float then get it on Saturday. Restaurants and bars sell booze on Sunday but that can be an expensive option to rely on.

Weather

Coming from Los Angeles I didn’t know about their weather. We went to Austin in June and the weather was overcast most days but hot and humid. Also sometimes it would rain. Then go back to being hot and humid. There were no rain showers while we were there. I know I mentioned rain and you’re thinking, “what do I pack for Austin?” Like I mentioned, even though it rained it was still hot and humid when it stopped. You’ll be fine with a light jacket. No need for rain boots.

Transportation

We flew Delta to Austin and it was a great experience. The flight attendants were amazing and went out of their way to show us a good time. Once we got to Austin we took Ubers and Lyfts most places. It worked fine and got us to where we needed to go. Which included a lot of different places.

Where to Stay in Austin?

While in Austin we stayed in the JW Marriott in Downtown Austin. If you like to go out and walk to places this was a great location. They hooked us up with a two-bedroom suite which was amazing. We had views of Lady Bird Lake. They also had a rooftop pool that was fun to hang out at. I would stay again if I visit in the future because I found it convenient for going out. The staff was also very nice and accommodating. I mean, they upgraded our room to a wonderful suite so they get an A+ from me.

Next time I visit Austin I will also consider staying at the Line Hotel. For some reason I didn’t know they had one and then when I saw it I had to take a look. It was cute and modern. Very cool hotel with all the amenities, bells, and whistles. We grabbed some food here that I will get to later. But I liked this hotel’s vibe too. Also, it is within walking distance of a lot of cool places.

Where to eat in Austin?

Let’s talk about Food here are some of the places I got to try while I was visiting.

3 Forks

This was a fancy steakhouse that we went to on the first night to celebrate. It was good food, your usual steak, and sides. I say it like that because I don’t eat red meat. But the sides were delicious. For an entree, they didn't have a lot of seafood options so I got the Crabcake as my meal. I have to say I felt it was a pretty good size if you decide to go with that and a few sides. This is the most expensive place on my list.

Torchy’s

This was my first introduction to Tex-Mex. It was pretty tasty. They have all types of tacos here including shrimp and beyond meat. I’m used to Los Angeles tacos so I ordered two tacos and the Queso and Guacamole. I could have gone with one taco because these were pretty big. My favorite item was the Queso.

Voodoo Doughnuts and Gordough’s

Yes, I got doughnuts from two places while I was in Austin and I regret nothing. I mean Voodoos is famous and Gordough's is more local. The Gordough’s Public house is more a bar-restaurant. You’re ordering your doughnut and they are making it fresh. The doughnuts are huge. If you go here get any doughnuts as doughnut holes instead of the actual doughnut. I felt the holes tasted better and were more balanced. Out of the two VooDoo doughnuts was my favorite.

Da Vinci’s Pizza

If you’re going out on Sixth street and get hungry. This is a good pizza place to hit up to grab you a slice or two. The slices are pretty big so you will only need one. But I mean I love pizza and this one was convenient and delicious. It’s hard to mess up pizza.

Veracruz All Natural

Located at the Line Hotel this is the place you go when you are ready for a little detox. They have fresh juices and tacos. There is a bit of a wait for them to make your food but it’s worth it. If you grab tacos here I recommend the Poblanos taco. Also, they make their flour tortillas and they are delicious.

Terry’s BBQ

I know what you’re thinking, you went to Austin and didn’t get any BBQ. Well, we did end up getting some. I don’t eat meat so the group ordered the BBQ and I got the sides. We ordered from Terry’s BBQ, picked it up, and then ate it in our hotel room. I know it's not the most glamorous but we were drunk and the line to eat at Terry’s is crazy. So there is a hack for you, if you don’t care about the dining experience you can order Terry’s ahead of time for pick up. You want to order an hour before. Then go enjoy it in your hotel room or on a picnic.

Fun Things to Do in Austin?

We need a little bit of everything while on my trip and I’m so happy.

Going out Rainey Street and Sixth Street

If you’re staying in Downtown Austin you want to check out Rainey Street or Sixth Street. Out of the two I would hit up Rainey Street. Rainey Street is filled with old houses that are now bars. You could dance, talk to people and grab a drink. All the places I checked out had no cover. I will say that the drinks seemed to be watered down so pregame a bit before you check these places out.

Now Sixth street. That is the place that everyone will tell you about. I find that this is a bit more College party scene. There are two sides to Sixth Street one is more chill and the other is party party party. Be safe if you visit this area and if you don’t like it you can walk to the pizza place I mentioned or grab some donuts.

Boating at Devil’s Cove

We rented a boat for one of the days. It was about $1500 and came with a slide. There were 11 of us that split the cost but you could have more than us. To get to the boating place we took an Uber from our hotel. If you’re going to do boating you can be more prepared than us. You’re going to want to pack your snacks and drinks. Also if you take food and arrange it ahead of time the Captain will grill the food for you on the boat.

If you do this and you’re down to socialize then have your Captain take you into Devils Cove. There you can tie up with another boat. This is a lot of pressure because you’re going up to strangers' boats and asking if you could tie up with them. It’s a fun way to make friends and have a bigger party. If you don’t like who you tie up with you can always move to another boat or be solo.

This was so much fun and a unique way to party. We rode down the slide and swam in the lake. Highly suggest it if you’re with a fun group of people.

River Float Tubing

On another day we did the River float at Texas Tubes. It’s about $60 per person. You can book through them and go to a pickup spot for a shuttle to and from the place. However, we did this so last minute we couldn't get the shuttle so we had to take an Uber there and back.

When I first signed up for this I thought it was going to be a chill ride down the river. That is not the case for the entire River trip. There are going to be faster moments and you can fall off your float if you’re not used to it. Here are some quick tips:

When picking your float ask the person that works there what the best ones are. I promise they are not all made the same. Also, get one with a cup holder. Make sure it is firm to the touch.

I wish I had tied with one person. To make it less isolated in some sections since you can and will bump into other people out there. You can’t control where the float takes you.

If you’re going over a “rapid” part, lift your butt a bit in the float so you don’t hit rocks.

Get a waterproof phone case or this bag from Amazon before you go. Your phone is gonna get wet put it in some protection

Sunscreen, a waterproof speaker, and a hat are your friends. Make sure you use them are you are gonna get burnt up.I had a visor and was so happy I did!

Water Shoes. If you travel a lot, invest in these. These were great to have for standing in the lake and the short hike to the water to start floating.

The floating takes 3-4 hours to complete.

Get a cooler to store your belongings if you don’t want them to get “as” wet. Good protection for fanny packs, your clothes, etc. It’s worth renting for $10.

You can pick up Ubers from this location back to Downtown as well. When you end the River float they will collect your float and cooler if you rent one. Then jump on the school bus that takes you back to the parking lot. From the parking lot, you will be able to grab a Lyft or Uber. Have both of them downloaded in case one of them isn't connecting.

Know that you can take your drinks for this adventure as well.

My favorite part of this trip? Tie between the boat and river float.

To see more videos on the Millennial lifestyle check out my YouTube Channel.

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Cabo San Lucas Mexico Travel Guide [First All-Inclusive Experience]

This trip was my first time going to Cabo San Lucas Mexico. We stayed at the Riu Palace. This is an all-inclusive resort. This was a different experience than my trip to Puerto Vallarta but a fun one! This guide will let you know everything about all-inclusive in Cabo.

Transportation

I flew Alaska Airlines to Cabo. Which is my favorite airline. They have good customer service. Plus I have their credit card that gives awesome companion fare. Sidenote: When I travel I love to go to an airport lounge. It makes the flying experience so much better. They usually have their bathrooms, free food and drinks, and wi-fi. I use Priority Pass for lounges. My fiance loves that I have it cause I can take a guest in with me.

Book transportation from the airport to your hotel before you get to Cabo. It will make your life easier and you will be happy to have a nice comfortable car. I booked my travel from Cabo Incredible and they were great. I would book them again for my travel needs.

When you land at the airport in Cabo make sure you exit the airport before making travel decisions. There are people inside of the airport that will try to stop you. They are selling timeshares, car services, and excursions. Be polite but tell them no and keep walking. KEEP WALKING. The legit taxis and car services are outside of the airport next to that outdoor bar.

Hotel

We stayed at the Riu Palace hotel in Cabo San Lucas. After a lot of research, we choose this. A lot of people were telling us that we need to try all-inclusive. Now my fiance and I are explorers we like to travel and explore our surroundings. But, we always wanted to give all-inclusive a try. We figured with the travel regulations lately this would be a good time to try it. Since it would be a bit safer.

Again all-inclusive at the Rui means all your food and drinks are already paid for. You get a wristband and anytime you walk into a restaurant or bar you can order anything you want. From my understanding what’s not covered is salon and spa services and excursions they book for you.

Our first room was wack but I asked to change rooms our second room was 100% nicer. Our room number was 4112. It has a perfect Ocean view. I’m giving you my room number so that you know which room to request.

Walkability

We love to walk around when we stay in different places. This was my first time in Cabo but I found that it wasn’t as walk-friendly as Puerto Vallarta. We still walked though. If you're staying at the Riu your best bet is to walk via the beach to the main town area. It was a nice walk. If I go back to Cabo I would stay closer to the Marina if I wanted to walk. But per our driver, heading to San Cabo San Lucas would be a better more local experience.

Money + Tipping

I didn’t take any Pesos with me when I went to Cabo. Because I knew it was all-inclusive. They like and accept USD over there. I took USD 100 in USD 1 for tips. Let me start by saying I never find concrete answers on tipping etiquette. So I have to go by experience and chatting with friends.

Yes, everything is all-inclusive at the resort. BUT you can still tip people and I recommend it. At the pool, I generally tipped $1-2 per drink order. After each dinner at the resort restaurant, I tipped my server or servers $2 each.

Generally tipping $1-2 for drinks while you’re there and $2-3 for dinner. I also tipped housekeeping $2 every day.

Food

I ate most meals at the resort. In case you're headed to the Riu Palace here is my ranking for restaurants so you don't waste your time:

Best Food at the Riu Palace

Maski Japanese Restaurant - Get the Sushi, Salmon, and Tempura Ice Cream (ask for it). I ate here twice.

Food Stand at the pool - Cheese fries and nachos will save your drunk ass.

Buffet - When you go for breakfast ask the taco lady to make you a quesadilla.

We also enjoyed hitting up the little coffee shop Cappuccino. If you go there the muffins and chocolate croissants are good.

Worst Food at the Riu Palace

The Steakhouse - I got the lobster and I hated it. This was our first meal. It was trash. Listen to my advice don't make it your first meal.

Overall Favorite Food!!

My favorite food though was of course not at the hotel. It was the one time we ventured away from all-inclusive.

Gardenias Tacos

Delicious and affordable everything I wanted. The funny thing is. It's the type of Mexican food we wanted the hotel to serve us. We got ceviche, fried shrimp, fried fish, and grilled shrimp tacos. All delicious with so many sauces and toppings. I loved this place. Check it out and get a taco in my honor if you go.

Fun things to do

We were relaxing and contemplating for two days on which excursion to get. Then got too drunk one day and were honest with ourselves that we didn’t want to do any. But, in our true relaxing fashion, we did get massages. I love getting massages when not in the USA because I can afford them. Upon research, I found Sandbar which had an amazing deal. In case it changes I won’t mention it here. Let's just say I got a 90-minute massage for under $60. With the sounds of the ocean waves. Tip well when you go!

Other than that we hung at the beach and pool pretty much every day. The infinity pool looked out over the beach where we could see the arch in the distance. With food, drinks and some people watching.

Here are some quick Tiffy Travel Tips:

Make sure that you have some cash in small dollars or pesos. Since I hear that the taxis only take cash and they don’t turn on their meters. Meaning that you need to negotiate with your cab ahead of time. A cab from Rui to the town should be $14 there and $14 back.

Book your transportation round trip to and from the airport ahead of time.

The weather during the trip my weather app said that it was 70-72 degrees every day. Letting you know that it felt like 80+ degrees every day. All you will need is a light sweater or jacket at night and you’ll be fine.

My thoughts on the all-inclusive experience

It was cool. I'm glad I did it. However, you’re not going to get an authentic experience in all-inclusive. It’s built so that you don’t leave the hotel. Which I understand! But I didn’t understand until I was in it. Know yourself. Because there are a lot of benefits to all-inclusive. But there is a lot of fun in staying somewhere and scooping out the scene too.

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Best Nightlife in Koreatown Los Angeles

The best bars and nightlife in Koreatown Los Angeles. There’s a lot of great places to grab food and drinks when you come to Koreatown. If you love the nightlife they have it all from karaoke bars to speakeasies. Located near Downtown LA, Koreatown is one of the most diverse areas of Los Angeles. In fact, this area was once the heart of Golden Age Hollywood. Today there is a large Korean population that adds to the rich diversity. K-Town has delicious Korean BBQ, Spas, Bubble tea, and fun things to do. Come with me as I give you the best bars in Koreatown. 

Line Hotel

Line Hotel - 3515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010

The Line Hotel in Koreatown is the perfect spot to start or end your evening. They’re home to some of the best spots in Koreatown. Starting at the Lobby bar you can grab a drink and bites with friends in their open seating plan. You can even get it started early with their happiest hours. 

Openaire

Openaire - 3515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping a drink in a greenhouse then Openaire is for you. This beautiful rooftop restaurant bar is situated near the pool of the Line Hotel. The greenhouse gives and indoor and outdoor feel. The menu inspired by California vibes and fresh ingredients was created in collaboration with a 2-star Michelin chef. The food is pricey but you can taste the Michelin stars. It’s divine and I recommend getting a few appetizers as you test their cocktails. We got not your dad’s old fashioned, purple haze and shattered.

The 8th Notch

The 8th Notch - 3500 Wilshire Blvd Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90010

You know I like to give you some casual vibes when I’m showing you these areas. This is The 8th Notch where you can grab some beers and comfort food. The name is a throwback to the trains that used to maneuver throughout Los Angeles. The 8th notch is a train’s highest gear and fastest speed. This spot is not a super late-night bar but it’s great fo grabbing some food before you really start to party. Their savory food includes burgers, briskets, and anything smoked. 

H Cafe

H Cafe - 3200 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005

Prohibition-style they specialize in their brunch but you can have fun here anytime you come. They have a unique cocktail menu where you can infuse any drink with CBD. This is the future. We got the mac n cheese and a round of drinks. A cool place for a group of friends.

The Normandie Club

The Normandie Club - 3612 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005

Located in the historic Normandie Hotel. This cocktail bar is the perfect date spot. It has mood lighting, large booths, and the right level of music. Cozy up on the first or second date. You won’t be alone since it’s fun to people watch. We enjoyed the spritz, penicillin, and old fashioned.

Apt 503

Apt 503 - 3680 Wilshire Blvd #503, Los Angeles, CA 90010

I usually cover bars but this nightclub makes the list because of it’s cool aesthetic. You’ll feel like you’re in a cartoon with the cool design elements of this club. Go early and you should have no problem getting in. If you don’t feel like the clubbing just head to the back where they have a taco stand set up all night. This is where I spent most of my time. 

Shabuya

Shabuya - 1925 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006

With all of the drinking on my list, you’re bound to get hungry. Shabuya is an all you can eat hot pot restaurant. You pick your broth and then enjoy a number of ingredients you can add-in. Don’t forget to grab a pitcher of beer when enjoying a meal with friends here.

Watch the Video: Best Nightlife in Koreatown

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Seattle Travel Guide

Seattle Travel Guide. I will be covering transportation, eating and what to do, and my thoughts. Also, I can’t tell you how excited I was to be on a plane!

TRANSPORTATION

We flew to Washington in Alaska. I happen to love flying Alaska and found that it was pretty safe. You have to wear your mask the entire time aside from eating and drinking. They do still give drinks and snacks on the flight. They give you mini cans versus pouring it for you. The airport was a bit more empty than usual but I flew out of Burbank which is less crowded.

When I travel to Washington it’s usually to visit family so I’m used to the trek. Which includes planes, trains walking, and ferries. Which all felt safe.

FOOD

Let’s get to it because I like to eat and I know y’all like to eat. I went to a few restaurants while I was there.

LARSEN'S BAKERY

I love sweets no matter where I go you will always see sweets. Lars Bakery is a Danish bakery located in Ballard. It has fresh pastries, bread, and coffee. We grabbed coffee and some baked goods one morning here. Everyone was very friendly. You can only eat outside on a bench if you try to eat here. But you can grab this and walk around the cute neighborhoods if you want.

PESTLE ROCK THAI

We were hanging out in Ballard one day on the main street. Which was nice. We did get hungry and wanted to grab something to eat. It was a bit difficult to find someplace to sit down and have a meal. We found Pestle Rock Thai. I’m glad we did! It was so cute inside. We were also the only ones eating there when we went. The food was delicious and I would go back there the next time I visit Seattle.

ELLIOT’S OYSTER HOUSE

If you enjoy oysters this is the place for you. A bit more expensive but worth it. We were able to eat inside here as well which was nice. You have to sit at a table of 4 with a lot of space until the next table. I got the clam chowder, salad, oysters and fish and chips which was delicious and a lot of food.

SHOPPING

I mean as long as your girl can shop I’m a happy camper. Ballard, which is one of my favorite areas, has a lot of cute shops lining their main street. If you like vintage stores, like me, you’ll find some fun ones. I was even able to score an 80's vintage Levi's jacket while I was there. I had a complete “treat yourself” moment. But yes I’m happy about that find.

HANG OUTDOORS

If weather permits your best bet is to hang outdoors. Take walks and enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding Seattle. We took walks and took in the scenes. It was nice weather to be outside and have a picnic so that’s pretty much what we did.

MY THOUGHTS ON TRAVELING DURING THIS TIME?

Know yourself if you’re terrified of the idea then I wouldn’t suggest you travel right now. If you take on the same precautions that you do here then you should be ok.

To see more videos on Millennial lifestyle and dating check out my YouTube Channel.

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Maui Hawaii Vacation Travel Guide

Maui Hawaii is a slice of heaven in the United States. It offers beautiful beaches, tropical weather, and its own culture. This is my second time to Maui but I've been to Hawaii before. I love Hawaii but it is different from Thailand or Bali because it's expensive. Though it feels like you're in another country, Hawaii is part of the US. You get US prices plus it's an island that imports most of its goods. This makes everything in Hawaii more expensive than even most other US states.

How to get around Maui?

When you land it’s a good idea to head over and pick up a rental car. You can do this before you leave the airport. Check discounts online and book the car you want ahead of time. Also, you can ask the agent about discounts or specials when you get there. We went to Advantage Rent A Car and booked a Jeep for around $40/day. 

An economy car is around $25/day but can't drive everywhere on the island because it doesn't have FWD. It rains a lot there and you'll feel safer driving a Jeep in that weather. That is a reason you will see a lot of Jeeps as you travel throughout Maui.

I saw the same Uber/Lyft twice while I was in Maui. That was the only ride-sharing that I saw. I don’t know how much it cost but I’m pretty sure it’s more cost-effective to rent a car.

Get the essentials

Before heading to your Airbnb it’s a good idea to pick up food from Costco near the airport. Here you can get lunch for the next few days and you can pick up my favorite staple, liquor. We stocked up on food, coffee, water and ingredients for mixed drinks. This kept the Pina Coladas flowing.

Also, Costco is a great place to pick up a quick bite if you’re hungry from the long flight. This is the cheapest meal you’ll get in Maui.

Photo: Beach at Sunset in Maui.

Where to stay in Maui?

Your best bet to saving money on your trip is staying in an Airbnb. Though, I find the hidden costs of rentals comparable to hotels. The reason you save money in an Airbnb is the ability to cook some of your meals during a trip.

We stayed in an Airbnb on the Kā’Anapali side of the island. This was close to the beach and a quick drive to Lahaina's Town. Our Airbnb had two rooms, a living room, a balcony and a pool on the premises. The cost of our Airbnb was $375/night.

If you’re getting an Airbnb I'd make sure it has a pool. Though with Airbnb's you miss the people-watching of a hotel pool. 

Where To Eat In Maui?

Star Noodle 286 Kupuohi St Lahaina, HI 96761

We ate here on the first night in Maui. I enjoyed the modern aesthetic since Hawaii can get a bit dated in decor. It was delicious. It has shared plates of Asian Fusion cuisine. I loved the Salmon and garlic noodles. For cocktails, I got the Asian Pear. I’m not usually a fan of shared plates but I liked this place. Make sure you order a few items depending on your group or you could go home a little hungry. But isn’t that all shared plate restaurants? You're always a little hungry after. This is a popular place, make reservations ahead of time if you decide to visit here. 

Photo: Garlic Noodles at Star Noodle in Maui.

Photo: Asian Pear Cocktail at Star Noodle in Maui.

Ulalani’s Shave Ice 790 Front St Lahaina, HI 96761

This is a popular location to get shave ice. I lucked up and went when there was no line. I got a regular size and it was a bit much for me. You can get your fill with the small size. I got watermelon and cherry with ice cream in the middle and a snow cap (condensed milk on top). If you get shave ice to listen to me and make sure you order it with ice cream in the middle. I can’t have it any other way now. 

Photo: Shave Ice from Ulalani’s in Maui.

Monkeypod 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Lahaina, HI 96761

Located in Whaler’s Village Kā’Anapali. This is an outdoor shopping mall with access to the beach. Monkeypod has American and Hawaiian food. I recommend going for its happy hour. This can serve as a delicious meal without breaking the bank. We got pizzas, fries, soup, and drinks.

Slappy Cakes 3350 Honoapiilani Rd Lahaina, HI 96761

A fun breakfast place. Slappy Cakes is a DIY pancake place. It’s a great experience with friends or family. You can choose what kind of pancake batter you want and toppings. Then you make your pancakes on the grill in front of you. 

I found one bottle of batter makes more than enough pancakes for two people. Giving that pointer, since we each ordered a bottle and had leftover pancake mix at the end. If you love coconut, try their homemade coconut syrup.

Photo: Slappy Cakes in Maui Hawaii. Batter and whipped cream.

Photo: Pancakes at Slappy Cakes in Maui.

Maui Brewing Company 4405 Honoapiilani Hwy Lahaina, HI 96761

This is a smaller microbrewery to a bigger one they have on the other side of the island. They have beers and bar food. I recommend getting the beer flight which is $10-12 depending on the beers you choose. This allows you to try a few before choosing a favorite. My number one beer was the Bikini Blonde Lager. For food, I got the dynamite tots and fish tacos. 

Favorite Beaches

If you’re visiting Maui then you’re aware of the beautiful beaches you’ll encounter. There are many to choose from but here are the three I went to:

Napili Bay Beach

During the Summer this one is great. But, during the winter when I went the tide was a bit high leaving no sand to the layout. 

Photo: Tiffy at Napili Bay Beach.

Photo: Napili Bay Beach. Bit of overcast day.

Ka’anapali Beach

This one is near the hotels. If you’re lucky to land a parking spot it's worth it. A lot of sand to lay out and dip your feet in the water when you feel like it. There are a few public lots or you can park at Whaler’s Village, grab a validation and walk over.

Honokahua Bay

This beach included a lot of whale watching which makes it a winner in my book. We saw many whales, even a baby whale practicing its jumps in the water. I don’t know if this is a usual occurrence but it’s worth checking out. This one has two parking lots so it's easy to find parking.

Photo: Water Honokahua Bay in Maui Hawaii

Photo: Water Honokahua Bay in Maui Hawaii

Fun Things to do in Maui

This trip to Maui was a chill one for me. I didn’t do the Road to Hana but I did fit in a few activities. 

Take a Drive

Though I didn’t do the Road to Hana I still think taking a drive around the Island is a must. It's fun no matter which direction you choose. It’s an adventure to see where you end up because you might stumble upon a secret beach.

Photo: Tiffy posing near jeep before a drive in Maui.

Photo: View from driving around Maui

Visit Lahaina Town

This is the main town in Maui. It’s a cute place to take a walk or grab a drink while waiting for dinner reservations. I didn’t know that Maui had an art scene until I started to walk through the galleries that line Lahaina. You'll find all types of art. 

Lahaina is home to a 147-year-old Bunyan tree. Its branches have created many trees in the same area. It’s a beautiful sight to see in the middle of Lahaina.

Maui Blow Hole

We stumbled upon this while taking a drive one day while it was raining. This is a natural blowhole that shoots water into the sky. It’s a wonder to see. But, don’t get to close to the blowhole or you could get sucked in and die. Keep a safe distance from this natural sight. When I went it was raining and was not dressed for this hike. We ended up taking our shoes off and walking as close as we could to the blowhole. 

Tiffy Quick Tips

• Maui is not a walking place if you want to see everything. You will need to rent a car.

• Weather is unpredictable. I was there for 6 days and it rained for 2 of them

• It’s an island, everything is more expensive. 

• Get your liquor at Costco to save money.

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Best Restaurants and Local Businesses Selling Groceries in Los Angeles

With the recent stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders being implemented across the country many of us are cooking/baking at home a lot more than usual. It can also be difficult getting groceries these days while trying to snag a slot online or standing in line with multiple people outside of a store, which isn’t the best look when trying to social distance (lol right?)

I decided to look at options besides traditional grocers and take a different approach to buying the basics such as milk, eggs, bread, produce and wine during the quarantine. I researched and found quite a few restaurants in Los Angeles offering easy ways to obtain the kitchen staples you need while supporting their business and employees. You get what you need and you help keep them in business during this difficult time; it’s a win-win, guys. Your dollar goes a lot further towards helping a small business than it does a large national chain.

This list was compiled with the help of friends and a lot of research but since this is an ever-evolving time, just remember that the below information can change abruptly. Everyone is trying to navigate this crazy landscape from individuals to businesses to local governments so be aware of this reality. Most of the restaurants mentioned offer their own direct delivery or via Postmates and/or Caviar. If possible, I suggest ordering directly as food delivery services take a large percentage from the restaurants but either way, you’re helping them out!

Please share this list with family and friends so they know they have more options when trying to get groceries.

Seabold Ginger Beer - Los Angeles Area

This is my favorite ginger beer/mixer and it happens to be made right here in Los Angeles. While premium, organic ginger beer may not be a staple it’s nice to have something around other than flavored sparkling water to sip and mix your booze with. Who doesn’t love a good Moscow Mule or Dark ‘N’ Stormy?! They have two flavors - Original and Turmeric Black Pepper, I love both. They sell it in a lot of stores and restaurants based in L.A. (many of which have closed due to the quarantine) but it’s been harder to track down with the lockdown in place. That’s why I was excited to see that they deliver to individuals around the greater Los Angeles area!

You can order pick up in DTLA or get it delivered through them. Contact on their website or DM on Instagram.

@Seaboldgingerbeer - http://seaboldgingerbeer.com/

Tender Greens - Multiple Locations!

Tender Greens has successfully pivoted from a fast-casual dine-in restaurant to a grocery purveyor. They have a smooth interface on their website that is easy to navigate. They offer a variety of curated produce and grocery boxes to fit your needs; some of them even include wine, which is amazing!

You can order for pick-up or have it delivered. Shop hours are 11 AM - 8 PM daily.

If you order through their website you’ll get free delivery on purchases over $70 and a discounted delivery fee if you order under that amount.

Staples: meat, poultry, grains, bread, milk, eggs, produce, and dry goods.

Specialty items like the Indoor Picnic Box, which includes three bottles of wine, crackers, cheese, olive oil, and a baguette.

@Tendergreens - https://www.tendergreens.com/

Lemonade - Multiple Locations!

This popular restaurant is well-known for its fresh food, fun cafeteria vibe and delicious flavors of lemonade. It’s fitting they started offering grocery kits during the quarantine with all of the clean proteins, salads, and sides they’re famous for.

You can order pick-up or delivery. 

If you order through their website you get free delivery on orders over $30 and they charge $2.99 if you order under that threshold.

Staples: Cases of Water (They offer most of their items in prepared kits).

Specialty: veggies and grains kit, Cali garden kit, fresh fruit kit, and jugs of their lemonade.

@Lemonadela - https://www.lemonadela.com/

Sweetfin - Multiple Locations!

This poke chain is a great place if you’re looking for quality seafood as they’ve transformed into a fresh fish market. Even though they don’t have all the staples you’re after they do boast the most extensive fish list I’ve seen.

You can order pick-up or delivery directly through them or Postmates.

To order through their website just click “Catering/Fish Market” then hit “Packages.”

Staples: produce boxes, fish (mahi, halibut, salmon, yellowfin, and swordfish steaks), and wine + beer.

Specialty: fish marinades and sauces.

@Sweetfin - https://www.waltzin.com/restaurant/sweetfincateringfishmarket

LA Bodega on Wheels - Serving Los Angeles Area

Some of you may be familiar with the Coolhaus ice cream truck, which started out as a food truck pioneer back in the day. Well, this ice cream truck has transformed into a bodega on wheels serving neighborhoods across the city. They reach a large chunk of greater Los Angeles so check their website to see if you fall within their limits. They’ve partnered with other local businesses to provide groceries, sweets, and booze and 10% of their sales go to charity.

Place an order by 6 pm for next day delivery. There’s no delivery fee but a $50 minimum is required.

Check online for an updated schedule.

Staples Available: pantry, bread, milk, eggs, produce, and dry goods.

Specialty: Coolhaus Ice Cream (duh) and to-go martini shots.

@labodegaonwheels - https://labodegaonwheels.com/

Osteria La Buca - 5210 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles CA 90038

 This famous Italian neighborhood spot has a special takeout menu and also offers “Buca Grocers.” You can buy their high-quality groceries, certain staples, handmade pastas, and pizza dough to make at home. This hidden gem also gives frontline workers (nurses and doctors) 50% off of their goods.

You can order pick-up or get delivery through them.

Orders before 5 PM will be processed for next day pick-up or delivery between 3 PM - 5 PM.

A delivery fee of $10 is charged for the area they cover (see their website).

Staples Available: pantry, bread, milk, eggs, produce, dry goods, toilet paper, and soap.

Specialty Items Available: wine 50% off, bottled cocktails, desserts, and lotion.

@OsterialaBuca - https://www.osterialabuca.com/grocers

Civil Coffee - 5629 N Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90042

This cute coffee shop, located in Highland Park, has changed its name to the Bodega Cafe as they’ve started pairing specialty bags of coffee with home essentials.

You can order ahead for curbside pick-up or delivery through their website. 7 AM - 3 PM daily.

Staples Available: pantry, bread, milk, eggs, produce, dry goods, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

Specialty Items Available: cases of water, bags of coffee, concentrates and my favorite Seabold Ginger Beer.

@CivilCoffee - https://civil-coffee.square.site/

Petit Trois - 13705 Ventura Blvd. Sherman Oaks 91423

This Sherman Oaks French restaurant is fancy so when you order from the “Goods Market” you’re getting the best of the best. If you want to take your stay-at-home chef game to the next level you’ll want to grab a few staples from them.

You can order for pick-up or delivery.

Order through their website Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 10 AM - 6 PM. You’ll receive or pick up the items the next day between 12 PM - 6 PM.

Staples: meat, poultry, seafood, grains, bread, milk, eggs, produce, dry goods, wine, and beer.

Specialty: fancy cheese, dark chocolate, spices, cooking wine, homemade dijon, and merchandise.

@petittroisla - https://petittrois.com/goods

Tilda Wine - 1507 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

This intimate wine bar in Echo Park had just opened its doors when the stay-at-home orders began. Talk about bad luck but they adjusted quickly and took advantage of their unique interior design, which allows customers to order from behind the safety of a glass window. 

Takeout or delivery through Caviar. Tues - Sun from 12 PM - 8 PM.

Order online or call when you get there and someone will take your order over the phone while you stand behind the glass and point to the items you want.

Staples: grains, pasta, bread, milk, eggs, produce, dry goods, wine, and beer.

Specialty: produce boxes, tasty canned seafood, unique wine at a discount, and cute tote bags.

@TildaWine - https://tildawine.com/

Bar Avalon - 2112 Sunset Blvd. Ste. K Los Angeles, CA 90026

Bar Avalon, another Echo Park spot, has affectionately renamed themselves Bodega Avalon. In normal times this is a favorite neighborhood bar and they’ve stepped up to offer groceries and even connect you directly to their wholesalers to make purchases. 

Curbside pick-up or delivery through them, Postmatesor Caviar. Tues - Sat 11 AM - 5 PM.

Delivery from them within a five-mile radius is a $5 flat fee. 12 PM - 5 PM Tues, Thurs, and Sat. 

Staples: extensive pantry list (if you need baking supplies they have it), grains, dairy, eggs, produce, dry goods, and soap.

Specialty: alternative milk. Order seafood, meat, and Poultry through the wholesaler contacts on their site and they’ll deliver it to you.

@baravalon_la - https://www.baravalon.com/menu

Gwen LA - 6600 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles CA 90028

Located in Hollywood, Gwen LA is a famous restaurant and European style butcher shop that has pivoted into a marketplace for locals. They have family meals that serve 5-6 people and include a main course, sides, and dessert. 

Pick-up and Delivery through them, Postmates, and Caviar. 10 AM - 8 PM.

Delivery from them requires a $50 minimum order plus a $10 delivery fee for orders within zero-10 miles. If you’re between 11-20 miles away the delivery fee doubles to $20. 

Submit orders by 4 PM for next day delivery. The delivery window is between 2 PM - 8 PM.

Staples: premium meats, dairy, produce, wine, and beer

Specialty: family meals and Batched Cocktails

@GwenLA - https://www.gwenla.com/

The Destroyer Los Angeles - 3578 Hayden Ave. Culver City CA 90232

Located in Culver City this Scandinavian breakfast and lunch spot offers pantry staples with a farm-fresh presentation...think fresh milk and jams in mason jars. Something about mason jars makes me think I’m getting a high-quality product haha. A must-try is their famous vegan chocolate chip cookie dough! You’ll try it once and wish you ordered two batches.

Takeout and Delivery available through Caviar. 9 AM - 8 PM Daily.

Staples: grains, bread, milk, eggs, produce, dry goods, and toilet paper 

Specialty: vegan cookie dough, different flours, coconut Milk, chai case concentrate, and black currant jam.

@Destroyer.la - http://destroyer.la/

Hi-Lo Liquor - 8582 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232

This artisanal liquor store, which has two locations in Culver City and Long Beach, respectively, has extended its offerings by supplying groceries to L.A. and LB communities. They have a good online interface and delivery within one hour!

Curbside pickup and delivery through them are available 9 AM - 9 PM. $5 flat delivery fee.

Staples: grains, alternative kinds of milk, produce, wine, beer, and dry goods.

Specialty: snacks, ice cream, hard alcohol, mixers, totes, and beer glasses.

@hiloliquor - https://hiloliquor.square.site/

Platform LA - 8850 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232

This cute outdoor spot in Culver City includes restaurants, pop up shops, and specialty stores. They have created a unique shopping experience where you can drive through to pick up groceries, goods, and merchandise from the stores in one go! So you can pick up produce and fancy hand soap at the same time.

Drive-through pick up. 8 AM - 8 PM.

Orders through the website must be submitted by 7:15 PM for same-day pick-up. 

Staples: produce boxes, fish, pasta, pizza kits, beer, and wine

Specialty: hard alcohol, fresh handmade tortillas, at home mimosa kits, ice cream, lotions, soaps, clothes, and toys.

@platform_la - https://www.platformdrivethrough.com

Canggu Bali Travel Guide [Costs, Food and Fun Things to Do!]

When deciding on Bali the choices were difficult. We had never been and we couldn’t choose between Ubud and Canggu. We picked Canggu because it has a more kick-back vibe and is close to the beach.

I love traveling and some of my favorite places are tropical. If I can wear a bathing suit I’m happy. What drew us to Bali was the beautiful scenery, beach, villas, and affordability.

Tickets from Los Angeles to Bali were expensive. When researching how to get to Bali we looked at different options. We found the most cost-effective way to get to Bali was to take a flight to Taipei, Taiwan. Stay a few days there and then grab a flight to Bali, Indonesia. This was the route that saved us the most money. We found this combination by using google flights to mix and match. The flight from Taiwan to Bali was about 5 hours. 

Photo: Beach in Canggu Bali

We went in Mid-October. The weather was still nice and we enjoyed a lot of beach time. I found the people in Canggu to be friendly. We saw a lot of Australian tourists but not as many Americans. A lot of people spoke English though it’s a good idea to get a few phrases down. 

If you like to drink while you're on vacation. Get duty free booze from the airport before you board your flight to Bali. Going into Bali you're allowed one liter of duty-free alcohol per person. This will save you money as hard liquor is an expensive commodity in Bali due to excise and import taxes.

How much money to take to Bali?

I ordered Indonesian Rupiah from the bank before going on my trip. This is my preferred method but you can exchange money once you get there through the airport ATM or a bank. 

I enjoy getting my money ahead of time to get familiar with it and to have some cash as soon as I land. One less thing to worry about. On my flight back I talked to a girl that said the Airport ATM ate her debit card. Another reason I like to have money when I land.

If you order from your bank make sure you get a mix of big bills and small bills. I took 300 USD in Indonesian Rupiah. This lasted the majority of the trip. I was able to use my credit card a few places towards the end - beach clubs and restaurants. At restaurants, it’s best to ask before you dine if they take a credit card. Most places aside from the beach club will charge you a 3% transaction fee on credit cards. That’s even if your credit card is “transaction free.” 

Meals and massages were affordable. Most expenses went to beach clubs, excursions, and our driver.

How to use your phone in Bali?

I didn’t have a sim card in Bali. The 7-11s I went to didn’t have one or sold out in my area. Get a sim card from the airport or have your driver bring you one when they pick you up. Our driver offered to us, I wish we had got one through them.

If you don’t have a sim card, I found most establishments had Wifi. The big beach clubs had annoying Wifi that you had to sign in with an email to use. But other places had normal Wifi. Make sure that you have Wifi in your villa or hotel before you book.

How to get from the airport to your hotel in Bali?

When you’re leaving the airport in Bali a lot of people will ask you about transportation. It's overwhelming.  To make life easier and avoid the chaos hire a driver ahead of time. We used a driver to pick us up from the airport and drop us off. It was 18 USD to take us from the airport to our villa.

This was worth it, you walk outside the airport and someone is holding a sign with your name on it. You follow them and then take a passenger van with your group to your villa. The drive from the airport to our villa in Canggu took 1 hour and 45 minutes. The traffic can be slow in Bali so be aware of that when booking your ride back to the airport. You don't want to miss your flight!

Where to stay in Bali?

Hands down the best accommodation in Bali is booking a private villa. It sounds intimidating but it’s affordable, luxurious and more bang for your buck. We booked our villa through Airbnb for a group of 5 people. The cost was around 1,000 USD Total. Everyone got their own bedroom and bathroom. The villa also came with a pool, kitchen and cleaning staff. It was safe and walking distance to the beach.

Tips for booking Villas

• Make sure you examine all the photos. Sometimes what you see isn’t what you get so make sure the reviews say that it looks like the photos.

• The reviews are good and no one had any extreme problems.

• If the villa looks “outdoorsy” and you’re not down with bugs and geckos try to find villas that have a more modern design. As in, no straw roofs or eco-consciousness.

• Must have Wifi and A/C

• Location. Is it close to where you want to be? Bali isn't a walking place. But our villa was walking distance to the beach which was nice since we didn't have scooters.

How to get around Bali?

I’m used to walking when traveling. Leaving my hotel or Airbnb and exploring. Bali isn’t known as a walking place. There is no public transportation - no buses or trains. That's why you see people renting scooters so much on YouTube travel videos. 

There are different modes of transportation that you can use in Canggu Bali:

Scooters: Most people that travel to Bali for an extended time will rent scooters. We weren’t there long enough to experience this but if I go again I will. If you're scared to rent scooters know that there are back roads you can travel that avoid busy streets.

Gojek: This is equal to their Uber. Using it you can get rides on scooters or in cars. Usually, the cars are passenger vans. The rides are pretty cheap even if you have to haggle a bit. And you will have to haggle.

Taxies: In the more tourist areas you can find taxi stands where you can request a taxi. These are set prices so they’re a safe option for you to grab. Plus if you go to a real taxi stand you’ll see the prices on the board. 

Driver: You can rent a driver before you trip. They can be your driver all day or to pick you up and drop you off at the airport. I recommend this if you have a full day of excursions. We had a driver for one day from 7 am - 8 pm for $72. The prices will depend on where you want them to take you. Our driver was great and I would book with her again next time I go.

Information for our driver that we used to take us to the airport and for long day excursions:

Name: Yung

WhatsApp +62 811 5997 995

For the most part during our trip, we used a combination of Gojek, Taxis and a driver. Next time I visit Bali I will brave it and rent a scooter. 

What are Fun Things to Do in Bali?

Rice Terraces

To make the best of the Rice Terraces you need to get there early. We woke up were out of our villa by 7 am. We had a driver take us to the Rice Terraces so that we could check it out and get some Instagram worthy shots. When you go to the rice terraces take some cash with you as there are different “donation” checkpoints. The first donation checkpoint is as soon as you walk for 1.50 USD each person. The second is near the top for 1.50 USD for the entire group.

There are swings in a lot of places in the Rice Terraces. I recommend walking to the top for the best one. You have to pay for each swing station so pick the one that is best for you. You can negotiate the price of going on the swings. Make sure that you haggle it down a bit before getting on the swing. If you’re there earlier this works better because there are not a lot of people waiting to get on the swings.

Our swing experience was great and we enjoyed it. We paid 18 USD total for 5 people.

When walking the Rice Terraces you can walk the back terraces which lead back to the main street. This is less crowded than going back the way you came. 

Photo: Rice Terraces Ubud Bali

Luwak Coffee Plantation Tasting

What’s going to Bali if you don’t try some Luwak coffee? One of the swing guides from the Rice Terraces was nice enough to walk us to the Luwak Coffee Plantation. You can do a tour of the plantation or opt to do a tasting. We did the tasting which is free. We learned about Luwak coffee and got to try a variety of coffees and teas. We even met a Luwak!

The Luwak coffee cost 4.30 USD.

Bali Pertiwi Rafting Adventure - White Water Rafting

If you do nothing else while you’re in Bali do White Water Rafting. Hands down one of my favorite experiences on this trip. We went late afternoon which was fun and meant that the sun wasn’t beaming down on us. It also meant fewer other rafts on the river. You need to take a bathing suit, water shoes, and water. You can wear flip flops if you don’t have water shoes.

The guide drives you in an open trunk to a spot 10 minutes away. Then you do a quick hike down some stairs. While we were hiking down to the river we saw some wild monkeys.

The white water rafting experience was fun. We got stuck on a rock 5 minutes in and lost a paddle. The tide was low so it wasn’t as crazy as if you go in December. I thought it was still pretty cool. The ride was 2 hours but it went by fast. Halfway through there was a small waterfall that we could jump off the raft and play under. Then at the halfway point, you can buy Bintang beer and water. The cost is a bit higher but you have to support the fact that they carried the beer and water there.

When the rafting is over you go back to the compound for complimentary lunch. The food was vegetarian and all you can eat. It was some of the best-tasting food I had on the trip and safe to eat.

Cost: 20 - 25 USD per person

Note: If you go to their website it says it’s 70 USD/pp don’t book through there. If you book through TripAdvisor it’s cheaper. Also, book this on a day where you have a driver.

Lotus Massage

This was a Balinese massage parlor. It was very clean and reasonable. I got the signature combination which was a Balinese massage and facial. It was a great experience. It reminded me of a combination of Swedish massage with Thai. The girls get into the muscles.

It’s a small establishment. If you’re in a large group make appointments here ahead of time. The massage and facial combination will take about two hours. We tipped on the high-end but they will appreciate anything that you give them.

Cost: 18 USD

Starbucks Reserve

There is a Starbucks Reserve located in Bali. I didn’t know these were rare but this was the first one I’ve been to. It was the prettiest and largest Starbucks I’ve been too. It had different coffee bars, learning stations and real coffee plants around the premises. I got the Lavender Latte and bought a bottle that I use for water that says Bali on it and I love it.

Best Beach Clubs in Bali

Finn’s Beach Club

This day club was a blast and right on the beach. This was one of the best day clubs I’ve been to. Las Vegas used to be my favorite place for pool parties but it’s Bali now. Finn’s was a day club with direct access to the beach and many pools. We decided to get a daybed since we were in Bali and could splurge on the experience. 

The process was seamless and they let you pick which daybed you’d like. We got one near the beachside so that we could enjoy the Sunset. This is a great location to be next to the beach and the pools. The cost of the daybed is a credit towards food and drinks. They also have a happy hour deal where it was buying one get one bottle free.

You can keep stuff at your table or rent a locker for a few dollars. We opted for a locker to store our gear. If you don't want to rent a daybed you can rent a towel for 3.50 USD.

Cost for the Daybed: 200 USD 

The Lawn

This was another favorite beach club. We came here twice and enjoyed the sunset from here. We got a table and the cost went towards our food and drinks. They have a small pool. They have a security station to watch your stuff as you go to the beach to get in the water. A great highlight!

Cost for Daybed: 60 USD

Shopping in Canggu Bali

Photo: Exterior Love Anchor Bazaar Bali

Love Anchor Bazaar

This is a shopping market that has trinkets, bags, artisanal items, and clothes. I scored a few deals here: two round bags and a large dream catcher. Which I haggled for. I found the haggling pleasant.

How to haggle at street markets?

When haggling I found the vendors pretty nice. Be friendly through the process and walk away if the price isn’t right. When they give you the initial price ask for a 50% -75% discount at the jump or a little under half. If you are buying more than one item or you combine with your friend ask if they can give you a deal.  

Remember no matter what you pay it’s good to support these people and their economy. They are trying to make a living to feed their families.

Agung Bali

If you don't want to haggle but still want the souvenirs you see at the markets. Agung is great for last-minute souvenirs. It's on the way to the airport from Canggu so you can take some time to check it out before you go home. This has all the stuff you’ll find at the markets but at fixed prices. Great for last-minute gifts they have shirts, round straw bags, wooden bowls, Luwak coffee etc. I got a few here. 

Where to Eat in Canggu?

XimmoR

This was a cute cafe and coffee shop that served an array of food. The aesthetic was clean and bright. It was an inviting atmosphere. I got the Salmon Benedict and yellow mix juice. It was all tasty. My brother got the french toast, Cappuccino, and a smoothie bowl.

Total Cost: 20 USD

Black Sand Brewery

We stumbled upon this Brewery on a walk around Canguu. It’s a huge place that has beer on tap. It’s a great place to grab a bit and enjoy some drinks with friends. A bit more pricey than grabbing a beer at the Circle K but still a lot of fun. 

Cost: Craft Beer 6 USD | Bintang Beer 4 USD

Photo: Exterior Black Sand Brewery Bali

Monsieur Spoon

Our driver recommended this. It’s a French bakery/coffee shop in Bali. It was very airy and pretty inside. If you go here get a croissant it’s what they specialize in. I got a cheese sandwich with one and it was divine. 

Total Cost: 3.50 USD (Crossaint and Coffee)

Photo: Exterior Monsieur Spoon Canggu Bali

Human Bean Denpasar

We found this place towards the end of our trip on a walk to the beach. The food was tasty and the coffee concoctions were unique.

Total Cost 35.64 USD (for the entire group)

Warlok Canggu 

This is located next door to Lotus. After you have a massage come here for lunch and smoothies. It’s run by a dedicated team that do everything from taking your order to make your food. They were so sweet and accomodating. I got a smoothie and seafood pasta. It was delicious and one of my favorite meals while in Bali.

Cost: 7 USD (Meal and Smoothie)

Tiffy Travels Tips:

Get your Sim Card at the airport or mobile store when you get to the city. 

Google Maps - Download the map for Canggu.

Order your White Water Rafting Tickets online.

Buy your Duty-Free Booze at the airport.

To see everything from this trip and more watch the video Bali Travel Guide.

If you’re wondering what to pack for a trip to Bali?Check out this blog post that covers everything I took in my carry on.

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What to Eat in Taipei Taiwan [Best Places and Cost of Food]

I recently visited Taipei Taiwan for 5 days and had an amazing time. Taipei has a lot of delicious food options that will delight your senses. I’m a pescatarian which means I’m more limited when it comes to adventurous street food. But, I still partook in the foodie scene. On top of that, I traveled with true foodies that have no problem trying anything. I will share their food discoveries so you get the full spectrum of the cuisine you can have while in Taiwan.

Fresh Fruit and Juice

In Taiwan you’ll find small street markets everywhere you walk. It’s fun to start your morning at one of these where you can grab a fresh juice. Near my hotel Chaiin, there was a street market that we grabbed a juice from daily. My favorite was the apple dragon fruit but I also tried the avocado. They make the juice fresh to order. Being in Taiwan allows you to try tropical fruits you don’t have at home. Even if you don't grab a juice partake in the delicious fruit options that include: guava, dragon fruit, and oranges.

Cost: $2.66 USD

7-11 | Circle K | Family Mart

You will find a 7-11 on every corner. You’re at a disadvantage if you’re not indulging in the snacks you can try. I find chips in Asia to be delicious and my favorites are sushi or seaweed flavor. I also loved the ramen, Peanut Butter Crunch Hagan Daz, and seaweed sandwiches.  The seaweed sandwich has different fillings you can choose like lobster or crab meat. In Asia, you'll find people enjoying meals in 7-11. You can also enjoy hot pot in some of them.

Soy Milk Magnate

This was the first place I ate in Taiwan. I enjoyed breakfast here with some local friends. The food was delicious and set the course for the rest of the trip. It was affordable and we were able to try a lot of food. If you come here make sure to try the soy milk. It’s made fresh and it tastes different than the variety you find in American grocery stores. They're famous for it so grab it hot or cold.  My favorite food item was mantou.

Cost: $.50 - 3.33 USD

Photo: Exterior Soy Milk Magnate

JenJudan Bubble Tea

You will have bubble tea while you're in Taiwan. It’s a delicious milk tea with tapioca balls mixed in. We have bubble tea in Los Angeles but I found the bubble tea in Taiwan to taste delicious and fresh. The tapioca balls have a warmth to them that adds to the taste. My favorite flavor, while I was visiting, was the brown sugar milk tea with boba. You also can’t go wrong with rose, lavender or almond flavor.

Cost: $1.83 USD

Street Markets - Raohe and Jiufen

There are street markets everywhere in Taiwan. One of the famous ones is the Raohe Street market because it’s known to have the most adventurous food. Everything is reasonable.

Cost: $.50 - $3.33 USD

We grabbed some beer at the 7-11 nearby. But there is a bar within the Raohe Night Market making drinks.

While there I tried:

Stinky Tofu - It’s a main dish of Taiwan. They’re famous for it here. It is an acquired taste. If you want the "best" tasting variety order it fried. If you’re walking around the market and wonder “What’s that smell?” nine out of ten times it’s stinky tofu. Again, the fried version, “taste” better. It was an interesting flavor but not something I need to have again.

Otafuku - This is a fried squid with cheese and sauces. It was very tasty and I would recommend.

Spiral Potato - This was good, it tastes like a big potato chip with some seasoning.

Custard, banana and chocolate crepe - This was huge and delicious. It was crispy so not the traditional crepe. It almost tastes like a cookie with all the ingredients wrapped inside. You can share it with someone since it’s so big.

Affordable Sushi: MRT Sushi

On the go, I found that the MRT station had the best sushi I had in Taiwan. It was also affordable. You could build a box of sushi or get a pre-made box. This was good to take with you on a day trip. The cost starts at

Cost: Start at $3.33 USD

Expensive Sushi: Addiction Aquatic Development

If you’re craving sushi and an experience you’ll want to visit Addiction Aquatic Development. This is a fresh fish and gourmet market. It’s a bit overwhelming because it has a few different restaurants and packaged food you can choose from. This was the most expensive food experience we had during our time in Taiwan.

We ate at the sushi bar which is standing room only. I shared a sushi set with my friend.

Photo: Exterior Addiction Aquatic Development

This is not a cheap experience. It is comparable to expensive sushi in any major city. If you don’t want to eat at the bar. The packaged sushi is a bit more affordable one pack was 420NT ($13 USD). We ordered two sushi sets at the sushi bar and they cost 1980NT ($65 USD). It was good sushi but for the price, it won’t fill you up if you’re sharing it. It didn’t beat out any of my favorite spots in Los Angeles. But, if you don’t have good sushi available where you live it’s a good place to have some.

This sounds like more food than it was. Of course, we were still hungry so I grabbed a box of sushi to go.

Photo: Addiction Aquatic Development standing only bar.

Mister Donut

The brother of Dunkin Donuts founder, Mister Donut was a dream to find. I went to one in the MRT station but there are a few locations around. I loved the shape of it and it was buttery and soft. My favorite donut is a traditional glazed and that’s what I got here.

Cost: Glazed donut $1.16 USD.

Photo: Mister Donut

Maokong Village

This is a village you get to by gondola. They have teahouses that do traditional tea ceremonies and street food outside. One of my favorite street food meals the entire trip was the fried egg scallion pancake. You’ll find this in every market. Some places will add cheese to it. It’s good both ways but if they offer it, add the cheese. This cost $1.66 USD. I had an embarrassing amount of these during the trip.

I also got the fried squid in Maokong village and the fish balls twice.

Those are most of the delicious treats I had while in Taipei Taiwan. If you want to see more of what I ate check out my video What to Eat in Taiwan.

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Taipei Taiwan Travel Guide

Why travel to Taipei, Taiwan?

When deciding on a trip this year I went back to Asia for affordability. When visiting Asia you can have a wonderful world-class trip without going into debt. The main goal of our trip was Bali, Indonesia. Yet, tickets there were expensive, so we looked for ways to get to Bali on a more affordable route. That’s why we decided to visit Taipei for a few days first, then travel to Bali from there. That made the trip affordable while also getting to explore another country.

Taiwan is an Island located in East Asia with Taipei being its capital. It gives the city life while still surrounded by parks and nature. It also has excellent public transportation street food and fun excursions.

We traveled to Taiwan in mid-October. Taiwan is prone to rain, especially in Fall and Winter. Leading up to our trip it said that it would be raining for most of it. Yet, we lucked up and didn’t encounter any rain the duration of our travels.

Make sure to have Google Translate with Chinese downloaded before you go. I was lucky to be with people that speak the language. But without them, I would have needed to rely on Google translate.

How much money to take to Taipei?

As a personal preference, I like to order my money from my bank before I go on trips. This allows me to have some cash and to get familiar with the currency. For the 5 day trip in Taiwan, I took $300 USD in New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). I was in a group where we shared costs for things. But this was enough for my trip. We ate street food and the day trips were easy to access on Taipei Metro. The most money went to Taipei 101, Hot Springs and Addiction Aquatic. Which ranged from $25-$65 USD.

I had a little bit of money left which I spend at the airport before going to Bali.

How to get from the Airport to your hotel?

From the airport, we had a driver that we hired ahead of time. Many services allow you to pay and hire drivers before you leave. They also have Uber in Taipei. Our drive cost about $30 USD to take us from the airport to New Taipei City.

You can also use the Taipei Metro. After a 14 hour flight, we liked the convenience of not figuring that out as soon as we landed.

Where to stay in Taipei?

When choosing a hotel we wanted something modern and close to public transportation. We choose the Chaiin hotel which was $60 USD a night. It’s a small boutique hotel but they pay attention to detail. They keep the rooms stocked with more than enough toiletries. Our room also came with complimentary breakfast every morning. The breakfast was buffet style which offered a different spread every day.

When traveling if you’re staying in a hotel find ones that offer complimentary breakfast. It takes care of a meal and saves you money.

The rooms were cozy so best for 1-2 people. When booking ask them for a view and the highest floor. We did and loved the view of Taipei from our room every day.

How to get around Taiwan?

Getting around Taipei is a breeze with the ease of public transportation. The Taipei MRT or Taipei Metro is easy to get the hang of and efficient. We had an MRT station less than a 5-minute walk from our hotel. This helped to make our day trips accessible.

If you’re intimidated about using the metro, don’t be. You can use Google Maps which will tell you which lines to take and connect to. Also, when using Google maps you can download offline so that it works with or without wifi or data. When using Google Maps you can pick the route that is easiest for you.

Before you start using public transportation, get an Easycard. You can buy one at any 7-11. I got mine and loaded it with $300 NT (about $10 USD) to start with and only reloaded one more time for $200 NT (about $7 USD). This is what you tap to enter and exit the MRT and buses in Taipei. It’s a must and a lot easier than calculating how much each metro trip is going to be.

When we needed to reload the card we went to the ticket window at the MRT station or the 7-11.

How to use your smartphone in Taiwan?

Unless your phone has global coverage you’re going to want to get a SIM card. First, make sure that your phone is unlocked. I have Verizon and it was as easy as signing into my account and talking to a live chat person. Verizon is a travel-friendly service provider. They unlock your phone after 90 days with them.

When you get to Taiwan you can pick up your SIM card at the airport or you can wait till you’re in the city. When I landed none of the phone stores within the airport were open yet. Which meant I had to wait to get a SIM card when a mobile store opened around 11 am.

I got my SIM card from TaiwanMobile. I got 4G and unlimited data for 5 days. This came to 1000NT ($33 USD). A SIM card will give you a local phone number. If you want to text friends or family give them the new number. This process took about 15 minutes to complete.

When getting a SIM card make sure to take your passport. As you’ll need it to take care of all the necessary paperwork.

I was only in Taiwan for 5 days. But if you’re there longer there are SIM card plans that can fit your needs.

Bathroom Tips

When traveling to Asia, you never know what the bathroom situation will be. Especially from a woman's perspective. In Taiwan, I found that it’s best to carry tissues and hand sanitizer in case. Also, the best bathrooms when out are in the MRT stations. They were always clean and had toilet paper. You will have to squat to use the bathroom in most places.

Things to do in Taipei

7-11 & Circle K

Asia keeps 7-11s and Circle Ks in business. They’re everywhere and I love them. One night I went out on my own to shop only to find everything closed. I ended up wandering around to different 7-11s. It’s a great place to pick up liquor, snacks, and water. 

Raohe St. Night Market

If you love street food this is the street market for you. Versus markets that have a lot of clothes or souvenir shopping. They also have a lot of claw machines (a thing in Asia). You’ll find unique carnival games between the different types of food. We ventured outside of the market and grabbed some beers before venturing back in. Which made the process more fun.

Photo: Raohe Street Night Market

If you need to use the bathroom while at a street market go through one of the claw machine arcades until you find one. Usually in the back and free to use.

Rainbow Bridge

From the Raohe St. Night Market stroll over to the Rainbow Bridge. It’s in the same neighborhood and a cool sight to see. This steel bridge is 167 feet long and only accessed by foot or bicycle. It lies across the Keelung River.

Photo: Rainbow Bridge in Taiwan

Day Trip to Jiufen

We went on a day trip to Jiufen which is an old mining town in the hills. Start early as traveling includes a few trains and a bus. Once in Jiufen you’ll find a street market, teahouses, and shopping.

Jiufen has a lot of beautiful views that you’ll want to check out from one of their many teahouses. When finding a teahouse don’t go to the first one you see. Make sure to check the prices of a few before making your selection and even asking to see the view. The teahouse we found was friendly and allowed us to grab some beers while enjoying the sights.

Light Lanterns in Shifen, Pingxi District

Light lanterns in Shifen. This is a popular tourist destination. You’ll want to visit it in the evening as the lanterns look cool going into the sky in the dark. That’s a personal preference though. We went all the way to the last stall and had a wonderful experience that seemed more private.

Photo: Getting ready to light lanterns in Shifen

Photo: Lighting Lanterns in Shifen, Pingxi District

The lanterns come in different color combinations. With each color symbolizing a different category. We were able to get 8 colors (two lanterns) and two polaroids for 350NT ($10 USD). They took a lot of photos for us with our DSLR camera with no problem. Very friendly team!

When you get the lantern you get to write your wishes on them in black ink. Then when you’re ready they light them and you let them go into the sky.

While I was there I also bought two mini lanterns as souvenirs they were $2 each.

If you go late you’ll deal with fewer crowds. Pay attention to when the last train is so you don’t miss it.

Maokong Gondolas

If you take the Taipei Metro the Taipei Zoo you can take grab the Maokong Gondola. This is a must-do if you visit Taipei. You can use your Easycard and get a discount if you go during the week. The cost was less than $5 USD roundtrip. When you go get the crystal gondola which has a glass bottom.

Photo: Maokong Gondola

The gondola ride is about 30 minutes and will give you views of Taipei. It will take you to the village of Maokong which has street food and traditional teahouses. We did a tea ceremony there. A lot of the teahouses have a minimum that you need to spend to enjoy them. Our tea ceremony for 5 people was $15 USD in total.

Taipei 101

This is one of the biggest attractions in Taipei. It was the tallest building in the world from 2004 to 2010. It’s 101 floors with the main observatory on the 89th floor. The infamous elevator can transport passengers to the 89th floor in under 40 seconds.

You can order your tickets ahead of time for Taipei 101 or buy them there. To get to the entrance you’re going to walk through a huge mall with high-end stores. Once you get to the entrance of Taipei 101 you’re going to see a long line. That is for citizens of Taiwan. If you’re visiting you can go straight to the front and buy your ticket from a kiosk or person. The ticket is $20 USD per person. From there you’ll wait 20 to 30 minutes before you're let up to the 89th floor.

When visiting the 89th floor you’ll get 360 views of Taipei. You can also grab a snack and drink up there. I enjoyed the beer and mango ice cream float.

Photo: Exterior Addiction Aquatic Development

Addiction Aquatic Development

If you’re craving fresh sushi you’ll want to visit Addiction Aquatic Development. This is a fresh fish and gourmet market. It’s a bit overwhelming because it has a few different restaurants and packaged food you can pick up. If you want to eat sushi you can do it at the sushi bar. Which is standing only.

Beitou Springs

I had never experienced hot springs before and I went in with an open mind. The Beitou Springs are the most popular in Taipei. We went at night which meant fewer people and no sun beating down. This made for a relaxing night. The Spring City Resort is in the hills so you will need to take an Uber or car up very windy streets. It’s not a destination you can walk too.

The Spring City Resort can arrange a shuttle back to MRT or down the hill after your visit. We were having such a relaxing time we missed our shuttle and had to take an Uber back to our hotel.

The cost is $25 USD per person but there is no time limit and you can stay all day or night. We didn’t, but you can get a discount if you research and buy your tickets ahead of time.

Once you buy your ticket they’ll give you a bucket with:

• Towels

• Flip Flops (that you can keep)

• Shower cap

• Robe

• Locker Key

Make sure that you take a bathing suit with you when going to the Hot Springs. They have a locker room where you can change, take a shower and store your clothes.

In Beitou Springs, they have spring pools at different temperatures. From cold to hot. Each pool has a sign with the benefits for the body. Once you’re done in the hot springs you can shower and return your bucket of items. Don’t forget you can keep your flip flops.

Nightlife

The W Hotel

If you want to take a peek inside luxury check out the W hotel. This is full of Instagram worthy shots and beautiful restaurants, bars, a smoke room, and lobby. Grab a drink at the bar and take in the views. The W hotel's located in an area of Taipei surrounded by designer shopping. So you know this area is a bit more expensive than most.

Frank Taipei

After a tipsy trek through the city, we finally found Frank Taipei. This is a hip rooftop bar that serves high-end cocktails. You can chill outside or at the bar. We found this to be a great place to grab a drink with friends and the bartenders were very nice.

Quick note we did need an ID to get into the bars.

Tiffy Travels Tips:

Google Translate - Download the language “Simplified Chinese” to use offline.

Google Maps - Download the map for Taiwan to use offline.

Get your Sim Card at the airport or mobile store when you get to the city. 

Look online for deals on Taipei 101 and Hot Springs tickets.

Watch the Video Taipei Travel Guide.

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What's in my Carry-On Travel Bag for Bali

What’s in my Travel Bag for Asia 2019.Heading to Taipei, Taiwan, and Bali Indonesia soon for two weeks. I’m excited this is my second trip to Asia. Last year I went toThailand and visited Bangkok and Phuket. Where I traveled 11 days in a carry-on.

Heading to Asia again I’m a bit more prepared in what to bring. I’m using a 45-liter travel backpack as a carry on. Which is different than my last trip where I used a roller luggage.

When packing for Asia you need to consider the weather, humidity, and bugs. It’s smart to pack light and leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs you want to bring home. I always break this rule, so don’t be like me!

The new travel essentials I bought made me more prepared. You might find these packing items useful for your trip.

Here’s a list of the essentials in my travel bag for Asia:

45L Travel Backpack

I’m new to traveling with a backpack. I used it once before for a trip to Washington. I still love roller luggage but backpacks leave more flexibility. They’re good for maneuvering and getting around on different modes of transportation.  A travel backpack is good if your trip will include a lot of travel between many locations.

OSMO Pocket Camera

OSMO Pocket Camera

My favorite item on my list. The OSMO pocket camera shoots in 4K and has a built-in stabilizer. It’s great if you want to capture your trip for travel vlogging. It’s not as big as traditional cameras so you don’t feel annoying and intrusive. A lot of people don’t even know it’s a camera. You can get away with stealing shots from cool places. The OSMO can use your iPhone as a monitor which I recommend. The lightweight size makes it easy to pack and carry around. It’s an affordable investment if you want to try documenting your travel adventures.

DSLR SONY A6300 Camera

Sony A6300 DSLR Camera

I like having a DSLR camera to capture Instagram worthy shots while I’m walking around. The Sony A6300 has great features and is pretty small and lightweight if you want to throw it in your bag.

Power Plug Adapter (Pink)

Power Plug Adapter

I didn’t take an adapter last year to Thailand and I fried my phone as a result. This pink one is cute and convenient to carry. You can use it on pretty much any international trip you have. It's an investment if you travel a lot.

Mophie Powerstation

Power Bank

Having a power bank is a safety net. Sometimes you don’t know how long you’ll be gone on day trips. Creating social media content on your phone can drain the battery. It’s nice to know you have a way to charge your phone if needed. This power bank by mophie is my favorite because it’s lightweight, charges fast and two people can use it at once.

Kindle Paperwhite

Kindle Paperwhite.jpg

If you like to read, a Kindle is a nice luxury to have. Even if you enjoy the feel of books. It’s good to have a kindle for traveling since it lightens the load of what you’re packing. Another plus is that the battery life lasts a long time.

Bonus tip: If you want free ebook options check out Libby, Amazon Prime, and Amazon First Reads Program.

Paravel Travel Fold Up Bag

paravel fold up bag

I knew I wanted a bag to bring home souvenirs. This bag is my favorite for that purpose. It folds within itself for easy packing. You can also use it as a carry-on or weekend bag. I bought mine from the Paravel website so I could get personalization. But you can also buy it through amazon.

Travel Packing Cubes

Packing cubes make packing more organized. You can separate clothes and find what you’re looking for easier. I’ve used these with my backpack and with my rolling carry-on luggage. They compress what you’re packing so that you can fit more. If I’m not using packing cubes I’ll use zip-lock bags and push out the air so it has a “vacuum seal.”

Travel Wallet

Travel Wallet

This travel wallet makes airport travel easier. It holds tickets, credit cards, passports, and travel cards in one spot. Plus it’s durable and an eye-catcher. It looks more expensive than it is and you can use it as a clutch since it can hold your iPhone too.

Water Bottle

I like having a water bottle that I can refill. This one keeps drinks hot or cold. I love it and it’s a great way to stay hydrated. When traveling you’ll find that there are water stations at most airports and train stations. This also helps to cut the use of plastic. Even if you have to buy water at the 7-11s you can get large gallon water instead of wasting small water bottles.

Natrapel Bug Wipes

Natrapel bug wipes

I took these bug wipes on my trip to Thailand last year. Even if you don’t get this brand invest in some bug wipes. That way it’s not included as a liquid by TSA standards. I buy these in bulk so I have enough. Bug wipes and sprays in Asia can be expensive and you never know if you’re getting the real deal.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must-have. You’ll want to buy your own so that you know what ingredients are in it and that it’s good for your skin. In Asia, they don’t have as many sunscreen options. It’s also expensive and sometimes they scam you and give you lotion in a sunscreen bottle. To avoid that take your favorite body and face sunscreen.

Combination Locks

Master Lock.jpg

If you’re staying in Airbnbs or want added security in your hotel takes some combination locks. Now, you want to get normal locks, not the TSA approved ones. That’s because now scam artist has found ways to get the TSA keys. So you’re not even safe if you use those locks.

Skechers Sandals

Sketchers Sandals

Reef Flip Flops

Reef Flip Flops

Skechers Sneakers

Sketchers Sneakers

I researched a lot of shoes before choosing these for my trip. I even went to the store and tried on different styles and brands. These shoes were the winner of my trip. Sandals for day or night,flip flops for beach wear and sneakers for hikes and walking. I have sensitive feet that’s why I was so picky. Now, you don’t need all three pairs for your trip. I’m sharing the shoes I ended up falling in love with. (Update: I wore them all on my trip and none of them disappointed!)

Watch the video: What’s in my Travel Bag for ASIA 2019

To follow more of my Asia adventures check out Tiffy Travels.

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Best Beer in Downtown Los Angeles

The best places to grab a beer in Downtown Los Angeles. Since face it, we won’t always want the $15 cocktail. Growing up, Downtown Los Angeles wasn’t a place you’d go to hangout. That all changed in the early 2000s when the Staples Center opened. This introduced a new life into the area. Soon after the popular restaurant Bottega Louie opened creating restaurant row.

Now Downtown LA is a bustling part of town. Where you’ll find events, museums like the broad and Disney's concert hall. Many of the historic buildings around DTLA have remained intact. So it’s fun to see a mix of modern architecture with buildings that have been around for over 50 years. That’s why it’s fun to have a laid back weekend with friends here and grab a few beers. Here is where to get the best beer in Downtown Los Angeles:

Arts District Brewing Company

Exterior of Arts District Brewing Company

Arts District Brewing Company - 828 Traction Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Opened in 2015, Arts District Brewing company is a brewpub with 20+ handcrafted beers on tap. They have a 15 barrel brewhouse that is capable of brewing 3,300 barrels of beer each year. They offer original beers that include golden ales, stouts, and IPAs. The Brewpub is huge and I recommend it if you have a large group of friends. There is something for everyone to do besides beer! They have retro games that include pinball and restored skeeball machines. You can also find classic bar games and a photo booth to capture all your drunk glory. For food, you can find burgers, fries, nachos, and fish tacos. I come so I can beat my friends at skeeball which only cost $1 per game.

Imperial Western Beer Company

Exterior of Imperial Western Beer Company in Downtown Los Angeles

Imperial Western Beer Company - 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Imperial Wester Beer Company is a brewery located in the historic Union Station. I wasn’t sure I wanted to share this place or keep it a secret. The historic architecture, art deco details, and high ceilings are jaw-dropping. Making this the place if you want to impress some friends or a date. Opened last October it had been 50 years since it had been a bar and restaurant. The reason it stayed unused was that the cost to bring the kitchen up to code was an expensive undertaking. In 2014 the hospitality group 213 made it happen. From there it took 4 years to have their vision come to life. They’re also behind renovating DTLA gems Cole’s and Golden Gopher. The process took a while to retain as much of the historic detail as they could. There’s plenty to see and do here - pool, shuffleboard, and checkers. You can choose from many of their in-house beers and tasty bar snacks.

Angel City Brewery

Exterior Angel City Brewery

Angel City Brewery - 216 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Angel City Brewery is well known for their beer. But their brewery is a great spot to visit when in DTLA. They offer a lot of angel city beer on tap including exclusive flavors you can’t get anywhere else. If you’re into beer you can even schedule a brewery tour. They don’t offer food but you can bring your own. You can find cult favorite food trucks in their parking lot. For beer, if you don’t know what to get choose their flights. Last but not least, they are an example of sustainability. They’ve converted half their parking lot into a beer garden that has trees, native plants, and real grass. They donate their spent grain to a local farmer for his animals and compost for their garden. It’s pretty dope to find a brewery that is doing its part of the environment.

To get the full experience check out the video: Best Beer in Downtown Los Angeles

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Best Ice Cream in Studio City [Los Angeles]

If you have a sweet tooth like me then you’re always on the lookout for the treats. Studio City has a lot of bars, bakeries, and cafes but what about the best ice cream? Studio City is home to many ice cream shops. A lot of them within walking distance of each other. This list is to help you figure out the best ice cream shop to visit when you’re in Studio City, California. All offer something different. If you’re with a group of friends you can do an Ice Cream crawl and get a sampling of each. Makes for a fun weekend activity. If you’re more into where to grab a drink make sure to check out the Top 5 Bars in Studio City. Now let’s get to it, here are the best 4 places for ice cream in Studio City.

McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream

Exterior McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams in Studio City

McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream - 12073 Ventura Pl, Studio City, CA 91604

McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream has been around for 70 years. Yes, you heard right, 70 years. It started as a family-owned Dairy Farm in Santa Barbara until it decided to focus on only ice cream. A great decision on their part! In 2013 McConnell’s opened their flagship ice cream shop in Santa Barbara. They control the whole process of their ice cream. From day one McConnell’s has prided itself in the simplicity of their flavors. Starting with a base and making sure you taste the main ingredient.

McConnell’s is an experience. They have limited release seasonal flavors that you don’t want to miss, they often sell out! Some include Honey and Cornbread Cookies, Strawberry Rhubarb and Wild Sweet Clover.

I got the Churro Con Leche and the Cookie dough. I tried the Earl Grey Float. Which isn’t a popular choice but I enjoyed it with the honey and cornbread cookies ice cream,

Right now you can only find a McConnell’s Ice Cream shop if you visit California. That makes it a must-visit right there! Lucky to find a spot in Studio City.

Salt and Straw

Exterior Salt and Straw in Studio City

Salt & Straw - 12180 1/2 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604

Founded by cousins Kim and Tyler Malek Salt and Straw started in Portland Oregon as an ice cream cart. It’s now grown into a brick and mortar store that has scoop shops around the US. Salt and Straw prides itself on small-batch artisanal ice cream. Rolling out themed flavors monthly. They partner with small businesses and local farmers for a lot of their ingredients. Following a “farm to cone philosophy” that contributes to their cult following. When I say unique flavors I mean completely out of the box. During October you can find flavors that include mealworms, blood pudding, and crickets. It gets crazy but that’s what makes it fun.

I love Salt & Straw and find myself visiting them monthly to see what they’ve conjured up. On top of their monthly flavors, they have staples that you can always find in their shop. One of them is my all-time favorite honey lavender.

Their most popular flavor is sea salt with caramel ribbons. One of their most crazy creations is bone marrow and smoked cherries.

Since opening, Tyler who is the co-founder and head ice cream maker has come up with more than 500 flavors. I hope he has no plans on stopping!

Fatamorgana Gelato

Exterior Fatamorgana Gelato in Studio City

Fatamorgana Gelato - 12021 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

Let me break something down right now. If you love gelato. Like real Italian “you studied abroad in Italy” Gelato then you need to come to Fatamorgana. If that’s not enough, there are 8 Fatamorgana locations in Rome Italy. The founder, Maria, has prided herself in creating gelato that is 100% gluten-free. We’re lucky to have one location in Los Angeles and it’s here in Studio City! Fatamorgana has 350 gelato recipes and offers 66 flavors daily. That’s a lot of gelato!

You’re going to see unique flavors with ingredients from all over the world. You can find flavors like Madagascar chocolate, fennel and licorice, cognac, and popcorn

You’re going to need time cause the flavor options are plenty but you’ll find something you love. If you want to get the most popular flavor then try the “Stracciatella.” That’s what I got and it was divine.

Drip N Roll

Exterior of Drip N Roll in Studio City

Drip N Roll - 11048 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

This is the newest location on the list. It’s a family-owned business that serves organic rolled ice cream and drinks.  I love supporting family-owned businesses. What is rolled ice cream? This style of ice cream started in Southeast Asia, known as Thai-style. Rolled ice cream is created faster than regular ice cream. The ingredients are poured on a cold slab and then mixed together then chopped and scraped. This method reduces the amount of air in the ice cream. Creating a rich flavor.

I couldn’t decide on creating my own so I got their signature “Ice Cream Killer.” Which was a throwback to cereal in the 90s. I topped it off with condensed milk.

Ice Cream Tip!

Some of these places have major lines. If you want to “cut the line,” you can always bypass the sampling and buy a pint. You're taking a chance but it's ice cream so you'll pick a yummy flavor.

To get the full experience check out the video: Best Ice Cream in Studio City [Top 4 Places]

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Top 5 Bars in Studio City [Los Angeles 2020]

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Studio City is a suburb of Los Angeles that is walking distance to cute restaurants, bars, and activities. There’s new establishments popping up all the time as more people discover this hidden gem. Just over the hill from Hollywood, it’s not hard to find things to do in Studio City. There are a lot of great options but we narrowed it down to the top 5 bars in Studio City. 

From affordable to fancy I have you covered on where to grab a drink when visiting Studio City. We used the bird scooter to head to the first bar then we walked and used ride sharing. Don't drink and bird! 

Before we headed to the bars we stopped byPablito’s Tacos. This street food vendor in Studio City has garnered a well-deserved cult following. The grandmother of the family can be seen making fresh tortillas on site. The taco’s start at $3 and they have aguas frescas!  This family-owned business is on the corner of Moorpark and Whitsett 7 days a week. You won’t regret pulling over to grab a quick bite or two.

The Top 5 bars of Studio City:

Rocco’s Tavern

Rocco’s Tavern in Studio City

Rocco’s Tavern - Neighborhood Bar - 12514 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

This is a local spot that has happy hour 7 days a week. Including a late-night one. A casual “come as you are” atmosphere makes this a good choice to grab quick drinks. Their happy hour will get the drinking started day or night. Since every drink will be doubled, including the beer. I got their most popular drink, the watermelon mojito. Which was refreshing to sip on their patio.

The Thirsty Merchant

Photo Credit: The Thirsty Merchant

The Thirsty Merchant - Sport’s Bar - 12430 Riverside Dr #3510, Valley Village, CA 91607

This outdoor/indoor bar is perfect for a group of friends. It has happy hour 7 days a week and a delicious menu that include flatbread pizzas and garlic fries. I got the hot lips cocktail and because it was happy hour got a second one for only $2. They have several outdoor games to play including connect four, foosball and corn hole. Also, free popcorn in the bar area is a nice touch.

Laurel Tavern

Photo Credit: Laurel Tavern Studio City

Laurel Tavern - Gastropub - 11938 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

A popular gastropub, Laurel Tavern is the be seen place in Studio City. It has something for everyone with 16 beers on tap, many from California. If beer isn’t your thing they also serve cocktails and wine. I grabbed the strawberry basil lemonade and it hit the spot. For appetizers, I recommend the grilled cheese, garlic fries, pretzel bun or brussel sprouts. Make sure you don’t forget to order at the bar and seat yourself. If it’s summer I recommend the patio in front.

Firefly Library Bar

Photo Credit: Firefly Studio City

Firefly - Farm Fresh to Table - 11720 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

If you’re looking for a romantic spot that’ll impress your date then head to Firefly. This gem has been in Studio City for over 12 years. It was the pioneer for the trending and cool restaurants you see popping up in the area. The food is farm fresh to table. The chef, who is Michelin star rated, prides himself in the freshest ingredients. He frequents farmer's market's so you can always expect something new. A bit more pricey, if you don’t want dinner, you can grab drinks at their enchanting library bar. I got their pineapple express and couldn’t resist their beignets. 

Mister O’s

Photo Credit: Mister O’s Studio City

Drinks at Mister O’s

Mister O’s - New American - 11838 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

The owner of Mister O’s opened it in honor of his father. This restaurant has mid-century vibes - think The Rat Pack. It's the perfect spot to get that epic Instagram worthy shot. They have wonderful mixologists that handcraft the cocktails to perfection. You can grab dinner here or hang at the lounge. I got the Silly Rabbit cocktail and shared the Scorpion bowl with friends. Which comes out on fire! Great ambiance if you want a cool themed bar.

To get the full experience check out the video: Studio City Top 5 Bars [Los Angeles]

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Holiday House, Palm Springs + Where to Eat?

Photo: Sitting outside at the Holiday House in Palm Springs

Where to stay in Palm Springs?

Take me back to Holiday House in Palm Springs. The boutique hotel that is about to become so trendy I won’t be able to afford the stay anymore! I always do my research when it comes to getaway accommodations. Over the years I’ve found myself drawn to places with charm instead of the big name brand hotels. The Holiday House is now my go-to hotel for when I’m visiting Palm Springs. The hospitality is top notch, the pool is refreshing and the rooms are delightful.

Photo: Exterior of Holiday House in Palm Springs

Photo: Exterior of Holiday House in Palm Springs

Now would be a good time to mention that there are no televisions in the rooms. Don’t get scared! When deciding on Holiday House we wondered if we’d be able to live without a television for a few days. Well, we did! It forced us to explore and enjoy our time together.

This boutique hotel has 28 rooms located in downtown Palm Springs. Which means you can get everywhere on foot or rent one of their cute bikes (complimentary for guests!). We didn’t ride the bikes it was too hot. But we enjoyed being walking distance to the main restaurants and bars. This is an 21+ adults only hotel.Which is perfect for relaxing by the pool with a drink and not worrying about bumping into little ones.

Photo: Tiffy in lobby at Holiday House Palm Springs

When booking hotels I love to find ones that offer complimentary breakfast. It doesn’t need to be fancy. But it helps to have one meal taken care of to start our day. The Holiday House serves a pleasant continental breakfast that we enjoyed every day. It was a treat enjoying breakfast on their patio before going on Palm Springs adventures. And by adventures, I mean laying by the pool. That’s what Palm Springs is for people!

Since I mentioned the pool. While laying by the pool we received with complimentary glasses of Rose. The Holiday House pretty much has a late night policy with the pool as long as you’re not loud and annoying. We found the hot tub great for at night under the stars. Since during the day, it was too hot outside. During the day, there were no issues grabbing lounge chairs in the shade or near misters.

Where to Eat in Palm Springs?

We kept it simple and opted to walk to eat during our stay. We were walking distance to the main street in Palm Springs. These are some of the places we enjoyed.

Photo: Chocolate Malt at Great Shakes Palm Springs

Great Shakes

While in Palm Springs I knew that I wanted to have Great Shakes. I’ve never seen an establishment with 5 stars on Yelp. This place didn’t disappoint. With the overwhelming choices of flavors. I decided to keep it simple and get what I craved. A small chocolate malt. Each shake can also be a malt. Going in I knew I wanted a malt but I wasn’t sure what makes it better than a shake. Well, malt is a powder that gives shakes a more buttery texture. I got a simple chocolate malt and it hit the spot. The mini donut was a nice touch.

Photo: Elton John Pizza at Bill’s Pizza in Palm Springs

Bill’s Pizza

With a pizza named the Elton John, how could I not eat here? This place felt like a local spot. That’s what I like! To eat what’s delicious and not full of the only tourist. We made it in right before primetime. We started with a Caesar salad (get large if you’re gonna share). The Elton John pizza was delicious. A perfect bite with a delicious fresh crust.

Sushi Palm Springs

Sushi

We craved some sushi! They have a lot of tasty sushi options out there. Sadly the place I visited closed shortly after our trip. We hit a Happy Hour sushi. Always look for happy hour! The inside is nice and sleek. I got a Jalapeno Margarita which was spicy and strong. My favorite items ordered were the crunchy roll and the ahi pizza. Hopefully they turn the location of this Sushi restaurant into a new cool place. I’ll keep you updated on my next trip!

Lappert's Premium Gourmet Ice Cream

This ice cream shop is famous in Hawaii. In fact, it’s the biggest ice cream chain on the island. I decided to get a dole whip. If you’ve been to Disneyland or Hawaii there’s a chance you’ve had Dole Whip. What is dole whip? It’s dairy free pineapple soft serve pineapple. This treat is usually served as a scope in pineapple juice. A unique twist on ice cream floats. I devoured mine too quick to take a photo.

What to do in Palm Springs?

I’m a chill traveler. I enjoy relaxing. eating and walking around. We did a bit of that on our trip since we were so close to the main street from our location. I spent most of the time hanging at the hotel. Especially since I had the hot tub to myself. We did walk around during a cute Summer farmer’s market they were having. I also was able to capture some art we saw during our walks which is always a treat. Next time I visit I’ll check out the Aerial Tramway.

This trip to Palm Springs was tranquil and a perfect California getaway. I look forward to visiting it again. Next time I’ll take you to my favorite vintage store there. Palm Springs is one of my favorite California getaways. Only made more exciting with the Holiday House. I can’t wait to return to this little dessert Oasis.

Thanks for Reading! xoxo

Puerto Vallarta Mexico Travel Guide

Why go to Puerto Vallarta instead of Cabo or Cancun?

When deciding on a trip to Mexico the decision was between Cabo or Puerto Vallarta. After a lot of research, we choose Puerto Vallarta. I’m so happy we did. It’s the perfect blend of modern with cultural charm. The streets are cobblestone and the signs are tiles etched into the walls of buildings. Puerto Vallarta is where a lot of Mexicans go on vacations. They have their handful of foreign tourists but it felt authentic. I found it a great escape to feel like you’re in a foreign country. Even though we were 3 hours from Los Angeles, California.

Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta?

You’ll find options for all-inclusive, vacation rentals, small hotels, and big chains. For your first visit, you’ll want to stay near El Centro which is the Downtown area. I stayed in 5 de Diciembre which was walking distance to the Malecon (boardwalk) and El Centro. Another good area to stay in is Zona Romantica. If you pick from those you’ll be walking distance to stores and restaurants. Anything too north or south of those areas is too far for walking to restaurants and shops.

We stayed at the Villa Premiere located in 5 de Diciembre. This was a boutique hotel that offers ocean views from all the rooms. The boutique size allows you to have an intimate experience. They offer all inclusive but it’s not needed. With the cool restaurants and bars nearby you’ll be fine without all inclusive.This hotel is also Adults Only. Which sounds naughty but means there are no children allowed. A bonus for some.

Upon welcome, you’ll receive a glass of champagne and a 5-minute massage. You’ll have a brief introduction to the hotel. Where they do mention if you want to schedule a timeshare presentation. Say you’re not interested and they won’t bring it up anymore through your trip. From what I heard this is a normal situation at hotels in Mexico.

The pool was our favorite spot and we always found a seat. The drinks at the pool were reasonable about $5 USD for a margarita and $2.36 USD for a beer. They have board games available. We played backgammon and chess.

I was happy with my experience with Villa Premiere and I would stay here again. But I might try a vacation rental next time. Since they have a lot of cool condos available.

Best Places to Eat in Puerto Vallarta?

Eating in Puerto Vallarta is an experience you don’t want to miss. There is a lot of reasonable and delicious cuisine. Here is an overview of our favorites restaurants in Puerto Vallarta:

Mariscos El Güero - Mexican, Seafood

We had to visit this place twice during our trip. It’s seafood is flavorful and fresh. This seafood centered restaurant has a welcoming environment. Our waitress’ name was Cecilia and she was awesome. Recommend the ceviche, stuffed marlin taco, shrimp quesadilla, fish tacos, and shrimp tacos. Don’t forget to try all the sauces.

We ordered a lot of food both visits and never paid over $20 USD each time.

Gaby’s - Mexican

If you’re looking for a fancier experience. Gaby’s is a cool place for a romantic dinner. When heading to Gaby’s walk through the neighborhoods for a European feel. All the architecture and hidden corners are worth it. Plus you’ll see a few cute cats along the way. Once in the restaurant, get the table in the corner which gives a view of the beach. They have unique margaritas made with their own house tequila and carry local Mexican craft beers. I tried the passionfruit margarita and the Cayaco beer . I recommend that you start with the plantain empanadas. Our entrees were a burrito and shrimp fajitas.

This was our most expensive meal which was around $45 USD including drinks.

The Green Place - Vegetarian, Breakfast

One morning we woke up with the need to start the day with a healthier meal option. I know we were on vacation but you have to listen to your body. Enter The Green Place. A restaurant that if it was in LA everything would be more expensive. Though not one of the cheapest options in Mexico. Everything was affordable and worth it! We got two coffees, overnight oats, peanut butter toast, smoothie, and wellness shot. They even make their own almond milk which is tasty.

The wellness shot was delicious and needed! I’ll return here next time I want a healthy option. I loved having this restaurant as an option in PV.

The total cost for both of our breakfasts with coffee was $15 USD

Photo: My Boyfriend and I at Basilio

Basilio - Italian Now Closed

After walking miles, we stumbled upon this place and didn’t want to check Yelp. We wanted to eat. This place was a gourmet surprise. We were both craving pizza. On top of the excellent service, we had more than enough food (and leftovers!). We started with the Cesar salad and it was crisp. The pizza was flatbread, fresh and unique. I was able to get half and half of two of their most popular pizzas the Basilio (signature) and Vallarta. I recommend both. Our waiter Nico was awesome.

The cost for dinner: $25 USD

La Bodeguita Del Cafe - Coffee Shop

My favorite little coffee shop. They sell their own coffee, vanilla flavoring, and agave. I got their Mocha Blanco latte two days in a row. One of the best latte’s I’ve had. I mean hello I got it twice! They take their time and create a delectable cup of coffee. This was a satisfying treat.

Cost for two lattes: $4 USD

La Romantica - Coffee and Churros

For some reason, I thought that I would see a churro stand on every corner while in Puerto Vallarta. Believe me, I walked miles so if there was one I would have found it. We ended up finding this churro cafe. Even though it wasn’t a street food experience it was worth it! They filled my churro fix. I got churros all the dipping sauces and a churro ice cream sandwich. I would go back because it was there when I needed it. Plus it’s a cute little shop with a friendly ambiance.

Cost for Classic Churros, all the sauces and ice cream sandwich: $7 USD

What to do in Puerto Vallarta?

There’s no shortage of activities in Puerto Vallarta. Just a quick walk down the Malecon and you will see deals for tours and tequila tastings. I’m more of a laid back traveler. I like to explore on my own, shop, eat and drink. With the occasional physical work out like hiking or yoga. Here are some activities you can do in Puerto Vallarta if you’re into keeping it chill:

Malecon

Walk the Malecon while you’re in Puerto Vallarta. Which is easy to access if you're staying in the El Centro, 5 de Diciembre or Zona Romantica areas. It’s a fun area to get a breeze from the ocean and check out some street art. At night they also have food vendors lined up and entertainment. I enjoyed walking up and down the Malecon every day. Tale a walk to El Centro where you can visit the Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. Which is a gorgeous church that is a Puerto Vallarta landmark.

Bonus Tip: Wednesday evenings they have an art walk.

boca hike to colomitos beach.jpeg

Colomitos Beach Hike

If you want to do something active, this hike is for you. The Colomitos hike will take you to a small private beach. The starting point of this hike is a small fishing village called Boca de Tomatlan. We took an Uber for about a 45 minutes. Which was nice to see the Southside of Puerto Vallarta. You can also take a taxi or bus to the main starting point of Boca. The Uber cost about $12 USD there and we took a taxi back for the same amount. There are no Ubers in Boca once you're done with the hike. You’ll have to take a taxi back so make sure you have pesos with you.

To start the hike grab some food at the nearby taco stand to take with you. We went to one right near the starting point (don’t know the name). It’s run by a husband/wife it looks like. We got some shrimp tacos and a burrito to go. Then we started the hike. It took about 45 minutes. The beach was a bit crowded with locals and children but it was easy to find a spot and set up a picnic.

We thought it’d be easy to grab a water taxi to leave. But they come in waves. You don’t know how long you’ll be waiting for one. Water taxis are $20 MXN ($1.05 USD) to take you back to Boca. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. There’s a guy that will say he has a boat for $100 MXN. You don’t have to listen to him. You’ll see the water taxis. We ended up hiking back. Which was easier than the hike there. Then grabbed a taxi back to the hotel.

The hike is worth it and adds a good element of activity to your trip. You will have earned the margaritas and tacos after this hike.

Bonus Tip: From Colomitos you can continue to hike to other beaches.

Where to shop in Puerto Vallarta?

Shopping in Puerto Vallarta is everywhere. I suggest to get the best deals you stray away from the Malecon and tourist sections. I did a little bit of shopping on my trip. Here are some of my favorites:

Photo: Wearing my Huaracheria Fabiola Sandals

Huaracheria Fabiola

I made the mistake of not packing any flip flops or flat sandal for my trip. When I got to Puerto Vallarta I realized my mistake. I only had wedges and sneakers. Which is great but the sneakers were for hiking so not the cutest outfit accessory.

Photo: Exterior Huaracheria Fabiola

Photo: Exterior Huaracheria Fabiola

I researched and found Hurarcheria Fabiola. I vowed to go on the second morning of the trip. Thank goodness I did! These handmade sandals were heaven sent. I didn’t have to break them in. They were comfortable from the start. I was ecstatic. I wore these shoes every day.

They were very friendly inside and helped me make my decision. It was a pleasant experience. I didn’t have to get custom sandals since I fell in love with the ones they had already made. They were $400 MXN ($20 USD) and worth it.

Next time I visit I will be going there again for another pair. This is a great handmade souvenir and unique experience if you want to treat yourself.

La Isla Shopping Mall

When visiting other countries it’s fun to visit their malls. You get to see new stores and what shopping is like there. We went to La Isla which is close to the Marina side of Puerto Vallarta. This store isn’t available in the US but has modern fashion at affordable prices. Plus it’s cool to have clothes you can’t get at home.

Bonus Tip: Make sure to get the Moneyback form. If you spend over $1200 MXN you can get money (8.9%) back.

Street Markets

The best market is the one near the bridge. It’s away from the Malecon area so you’ll find a better deal on souvenirs. I didn’t have enough time on my trip or enough space in my carry on. But next time I’ll take advantage of this market. They have a great selection of gifts to take home.

I loved this trip to Puerto Vallarta. I practiced my Spanish and feel I learned my way around pretty quickly. Next time I hope to explore some new places, eat more sweets and revisit the ones on this list.

TIFFY TRAVEL TIPS

• Catch a good flight deal. We booked with Interjet through Expedia and our tickets were $207 each for the round trip.

• Ubers are inexpensive and fast to catch. $5 to and from the airport!

• Only needed about $200 USD per person in pesos for the trip.

• Walk away from the Malecon for great restaurants at affordable prices

• Get water and cheap beers at the OXXO (their 7-11)

Watch the Video: Puerto Vallarta Mexico Travel Guide

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Elephant Sanctuary Thailand Tips

How to see elephants in Thailand?

The best way to see elephants in Thailand is by going to a reputable Elephant Sanctuary. This ensures the elephants have a better life than being a performing elephant. You'll learn about these animals while helping the sanctuaries buy food and land. You don’t have to attend the Sanctuary I did. BUT make sure the one you do is a no ride sanctuary. Meaning that you don’t ride the elephants. Why can’t you ride elephants? Elephants spines aren’t meant to carry human weight. I know that their size tells you differently. But carrying one human can cause pain and overtime damage their spine.

The Elephants living life at the sanctuary

Feeding elephants in Phuket

Best Elephant Sanctuary to Attend?

We went to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Which was around 3,000 BAHT ($100 USD). We booked this before we got to Thailand to ensure we got in. We choose a half day starting in the morning. This includes feeding and swimming with elephants. The sanctuary also feeds you lunch which is an added bonus. The sanctuary will pick you up from your hotel if you’re within a certain radius. They pick you up in a Songthaew and the ride from our hotel was about 1-2 hours. A Songthaew is a pickup truck with a covered flatbed you can sit in.

Since there are no lockers to store items. There’s an honor system but I suggest not taking anything valuable. If you’d like to buy a shirt or souvenir (I bought a shirt!) they range from 300-500 BAHT.

Hanging with elephants for the day was my favorite activity in Phuket. A true once in a lifetime experience. If you decide to partake don’t be afraid to get dirty. You’ll be happy that you did. A half day experience is more than enough.

TIFFY TRAVEL TIPS

• Do not ride Elephants.

• Take your essentials. You don’t need to take all your Baht and personal belongings. Take 300-500 BAHT and leave everything else at your hotel.

• Take the morning slot if you want to deal with less traffic AND first dibs on the food.

• If you get motion sickness to be aware that it’s a bumpy ride to the sanctuary. I felt fine but a few people sharing our truck got car sick.

• Don’t take expensive camera or gear unless you’re okay with lugging it around this experience. Which would be a pain. Use your smartphone or a go-pro sized camera.

• Get a waterproof pouch for your phone. They’re pretty cheap on Amazon and great.

• They have photographers taking pictures. But don’t forget to take your own. Since I promise yours will be better!

• Wear a bathing suit under your clothes and bring a towel.

WATCH THE VIDEO: 6 THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET THAILAND

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Top Things To Do In Phuket Thailand [TRAVEL GUIDE]

We traveled from Bangkok to Phuket. If you visit Bangkok hop on a flight to Phuket. It was a short flight, about an hour and a half. Phuket is a true island living experience. As you drive from the airport you pass lush greenery and roaming cows. Phuket is a very large island that contains beautiful beaches. Things to do in Phuket? Include beach, relaxation, food, island hopping and hanging by the beach.

WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET?

We stayed at the Hilton Arcadia which is a beautiful resort. It houses many swimming pools, restaurants, and lush greenery. This hotel is quiet and a great place to relax. Catering to a more demure crowd. If you’re a partier you’ll want to be closer to Patong. This is the main street for nightlife. When booking here, if make sure you’re placed in the main building where the lobby is. The rooms are nicer with better views and easier access to their trolly system.

PHUKET VS BANGKOK

The main difference I noticed in Phuket is that it’s more expensive than Bangkok. That’s because they’re catering to tourists. If you’re traveling to both places, get your main shopping done in Bangkok. This is because both places sell the same items. But, you’ll save money by buying them in Bangkok.

WHAT TO DO?

Phuket is a beach town. Make sure to walk around and enjoy the laid back atmosphere. If there is one thing you need to do everyday while you’re there. It’s go to the beach and swim. The water is warm and beautiful. Some of the best memories I have are swimming while in Phuket Thailand. Also make sure to visit an Elephant Sanctuary. Which I will explain in more depth in my next blog post. Always visit a sanctuary that works to protect and rescue the elephants.

MUST SEE - PHI PHI ISLANDS

While visiting Phuket you’ll want to do a Phi Phi Islands tour. I recommend if you’re traveling with friends to rent a boat or small yacht for you to share. This will be more comfortable for an all-day excursion of bouncing around islands. Plus you’ll move more on your own pace. I didn’t do that this trip but it’s my plan for the next time I visit Phuket.

FOOD

You’ll find the delicious street food that you also had in Bangkok. I’m a sucker for sweets so Banana Roti and Mango Sticky Rice will always have my heart. For luncg and dinner food, find a place that you like and go more than once. That place for me was the Red Chair. It was a recommendation from a friend and it didn’t disappoint. This was my favorite place to eat in Phuket because it was clean and well taken care of. They also made delicious food. If it was closer to my hotel I would have eaten there more! While walking back to my hotel I tried mangosteen and passion fruit for the first time. It was delicious! Definitely, enjoy the fresh fruit whenever you get a chance.

TIFFY TRAVEL TIPS

• Transportation is about the same price. You can download the Grab app for convenience but it can be more expensive than the taxi drivers on the street. BUT it will give you a good gage on what’s fair when bargaining.

• There is a more Island vibe so don’t expect restaurants with air conditioning.

• If staying at the Hilton book in the main building connected to the lobby.

WATCH THE VIDEO: TOP 6 THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET THAILAND [TRAVEL GUIDE]

Bangkok, Thailand: Massage Cost and What to Tip

Get massages when you go to Thailand. As soon as you’ve settled into your accommodations book a massage that day. The prices are reasonable and you can spoil yourself.

Near our hotel was a place called “The Thai Massage and Spa.” It had wonderful customer service and clean amenities. I booked the oil massage with lavender oil, but you can also get a traditional Thai massage. The oil massage was 900 BAHT ($28 USD) while the Thai started at around 250 BAHT ($8 USD). That’s a steal for what you get.

The rooms were private and came equipped with showers. They give you disposable panties and a robe. The massages I booked lasted 60 minutes. But you can also get longer. After the massage, they gave us tea and cookies and coupons for a free drink at the in-house cafe.

If you’re staying at a hotel they will have a spa available. But, I would do a quick search around the hotel's area cause you’re likely to find as a great place for a cheaper price.

Tiffy Travel Tips

• If you like massages book more than one massage during your trip. When I go back I plan on having a massage every day! Even twice a day.

• A lot of the Spas stay open pretty late! So don’t let time stop you from having a relaxing evening.

• TIP the masseuse. A lot of time it’s the only payment they receive.

• Tipping 50-100 BAHT per 30 minutes is a good rule. I tipped 200 BAHT for my services.

Watch the video: Best Thailand Travel Tips (Bangkok)

Bangkok, Thailand: Chatuchak Weekend Market

The Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must if you’re in Bangkok, Thailand Saturday and Sunday. We took the MRT for a 45-minute ride to the Weekend Market. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is a popular destination for great deals and shopping. You have to get ready to barter when you come here. Unless of course the booths you go to have strict no bartering rules. You will find everything in this market - clothes, accessories, souvenirs etc. You will also see the same items over and over again.

While I was at the market I had coconut ice cream during a break from the heat. It was delicious and one of my favorite desserts while I was there. Topped with jelly and peanuts. An interesting combination that worked!

I’m not the best at bartering. I did it, but halfway through I got fatigued The heat and humidity were getting to me.. If you’re like me, fight through it. Later you will wish you had bought more. I do!

After spending the day at the weekend market we went back to our hotel and hung out at the infinity pool. Which was refreshing after the day we had.

TIFFY TRAVEL TIPS

• Go later in the day so the sun isn’t making you melt.

• On that note, go between the stalls. GO INSIDE. There is A/C on the inside.

• Nothing should cost over 500 BAHT. Unless it’s super custom made. If you remember this you'll get good deals.

• If you like it, buy it. Buy it. It's going to be cheaper than anything you find in the US.

Watch the video: Best Thailand Travel Tips (Bangkok)