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January 24, 2017

Top 7 Places to Visit in Hangzhou, China

See the grandeur of imperial China by witnessing the top 7 places to visit in Hangzhou. Located in the eastern part of China, Hangzhou is the capital of the province of Zhejiang and is bordered by the Hangzhou Bay. The city is still considered a semi-provincial territory even if it is the fourth biggest city in the whole of China. There are several attractions in Hangzhou that magnetize quite a number of tourists but still not comparable to those that visit Beijing and Shanghai. For this reason, Hangzhou remains to be an unexplored city of China.

Before boarding the next flight to China, make sure that you have the necessary documents needed to secure a Chinese tourist visa.

At present, there are about 126 countries with existing mutual visa exemption agreement with China. Although most of these agreements only allow visa exemptions to foreign diplomats, it is still helpful to see the list of countries with this mutual agreement. If you are a passport holder of country with no special arrangements, then you will need to apply for a tourist (L) Chinese visa. Here are the requirements to secure one:

Valid passport
Photocopy of the first and last pages of passport
Application form
A colored passport photo with light background
Flight Itinerary
Itinerary in China
Hotel Booking
Certification of Employment (if working)
Certification of Education (if studying)
Letter of Invitation (if invited by a Chinese local)

Top 7 Places to Visit in Hangzhou:

The city of Hangzhou itself is quite easy to traverse. Tourists can actually purchase a Z-card which gives access to trains and bike rentals within the city. Only tourists are allowed to get such a card – make sure you have your passports with you when you purchase one plus RMB200 for security deposit. You can refund the deposit when you return the Z card before leaving Hangzhou.

He Fang Jie or Hefang Street:

He Fang Jie or Hefang Street shows a great contrast between the traditional Chinese and the modern Chinese.

The street is lined with quite a number of shops that sell clothes, shoes, bags, traditional Chinese medicine, handmade crafts, and many more. Where else can you find a McDonald’s restaurant surrounded by traditional Chinese noodle restaurants? Only at Hefang Street!

While walking the street, make sure you pass by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum of Huqingyu Hall. Situated in an ancient imperial building, this museum shows visitors of the rich history of Chinese medicine and proves that this tradition is based on sound research and is indeed effective! The Medicine Preparation Hall within the museum explains how the concoction of herbs are measured and prepared to produce a potent medicinal potion. Tourists who are interested to try out traditional Chinese medicine can even go to the museum’s health care clinic.

Confucius Temple:

Located along Laodong Road, the Confucius Temple is a memorial hall built-in the name of the great Chinese philosopher, Confucius, who established Confucianism.

Believe it or not, the entire compound where the temple lies used to be located at the foot of the Fenghuang Hill but was slowly transferred to where it is now. Confucianism became really strong during the Song Dynasty and this temple represents its prominence during the said dynasty. Today, the memorial hall and temple is open to both locals and foreign tourists who wish to either pay respects, pray, or know more about Confucius.

Qian Wang Temple:

Located near the famous West Lake, the Qian Wang Temple is large compound made in memory of King Qian and the Kingdom of Wu and Yue.

Spend an hour or two in this huge complex and marvel at the intricate handmade designs that ornate the old Chinese structures built centuries ago. Some of the displays in the temple are more than 300 years old and these show how rich and colourful Chinese history is. Learn a lot of the ancient imperial China just by walking along the pathways and looking at the memorial halls built within the compound.

Leifeng Pagoda:

Just two kilometres south of Qian Wang Temple is the Leifeng Pagoda. Built by the bank of West Lake, this pagoda was built more than a millennium ago during the Five Dynasty Period.

King Qian named this pagoda after one of his wives, Huang Fei. The pagoda that stands tall today may not be the original pagoda built long ago but the restoration efforts of the local government made sure that the replica remained true to the original architecture of the pagoda.

West Lake:

Most of the historic attractions and top 7 Places to visit in Hangzhou are found in and around West Lake.

If you plan to spend a day or two in Hangzhou, make sure you spend your full day in this lake. Take a lake cruise so you can take all the routine stops to all of the must-see sites at West Lake.

Three Pools Mirroring the Moon:

Start your West Lake cruise at Lake Side Park. From the dock, you will be taken to the famous Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.

These are three small pagodas built on islets within the lake that literally mirrors a moon-like image on the lake. When a lit candle is placed in the pagoda, the light shines out the 5 holes and this even creates a moon-like image at night.

Viewing Fish at Flower Pond:

If you want to see schools of kois, gold-fish, and carps in a pond, then stop by the Flower Pond at West Lake.

This top attraction is a great resting point for children and adults who are fond of fish. The pond may seem ordinary but the history behind it is deeper than the lake itself. This flower pond dates back during the South Song Dynasty, when the king asked his men to dig him a pond to raise a variety of fish. Now this pond is filled with red carps and gold-fish.

Top 7 Places to Visit in Hangzhou – Fly to China Now!

Excited for your much-needed oriental vacation? Make sure you have secured a Chinese Tourist Visa before setting foot in China. Should you have any questions or need any assistance is getting a visa or getting an itinerary for the visa application, you may contact us through our website or Facebook page.

Take a trip to the almost tourist-free part of China and see the top 7 places to visit in Hangzhou.

January 23, 2017

A Trip to the Northern Part of Japan

Travel to the untouched and well-preserved part of the Land of the Rising Sun and take a trip to the northern part of Japan. The second biggest island of the country, Hokkaido, is found at the northern part of the archipelago. Literally translates to the Northern Sea Circuit, Hokkaido remains to an integral part of Japan. It still boasts of pure Japanese traditions and culture which is something that modern cities like Tokyo and Kyoto cannot offer its tourists. A planned trip to this part of Japan will show tourists of the provincial Japanese life as well as the many undisturbed sites that can take tourists back to the imperial times.

Before heading to the Far East, you need to check if your passport is exempted from the Japanese visa or if you need to apply for one. Japan has given short-stay visa exemptions to 67 countries around the globe. Passport holders that are exempted from securing a visa may stay in Japan from 15 to 90 days, depending on the country of residence. However, passport holder that are not exempted must apply for a Japanese visa. Here are the requirements to secure a visa:

Completed visa application form
Filled out letter of guarantee
Filled out letter of reason for invitation
Full itinerary in Japan
List of visa applicants
Overview of company (if invited for a business trip)
Current passport
Couple of passport picture

A Trip to the Northern Part of Japan:

Hokkaido is biggest prefecture of Japan which means that there are many cities and towns that tourists can visit. Going to the island is very easy – it is just an hour’s plane ride from Tokyo. Daily plane trips are available from Narita Airport to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, the main airport of the capital of Hokkaido. When you plan to take a trip to the northern part of Japan make sure you arrange your flight itinerary with your travel agent.

Nakajima Park in Sapporo:

Sapporo is the most commercial and industrial part of Hokkaido. Being the prefecture’s capital, it is expected that the sights of Sapporo is somehow comparable to any concrete jungle of other countries.

However, since Sapporo is your only connection from Tokyo to Hokkaido, you are obliged to stay in the city and explore it for a day or two. One of the sights to see here is the Nakajima Park. This park is tucked in the center of the city and it boasts of natural forms and cultural buildings like a concert hall, an astronomical observatory, and a lake. A lot of tourists come here during the winter because there is a low-cost skiing lessons with free use of equipment.

A Day in Otaru:

Located west of Sapporo is a famous fishing village called Otaru. Travelling to Otaru is quite easy from Sapporo – just take the commuter line known as the Ishikari Line and the 30-minute train ride will take you along the coast of Ishikari Bay.

Once you reach Otaru, you will feel a bit nostalgic with old structures that are still well-preserved and well-visited by many tourists. Aside from old structures, Otaru also has many canals similar to Venice. One way to get around town is by a local boat that will take you to every canal in Otaru. After your scenic canal boat ride, do take slow walks along the cobblestoned paths that will lead you to either street food sellers or old Japanese stores. What is beautiful in Otaru is the contrast of the old Japanese architecture and the European-influenced buildings that create a different ambience. Before leaving Otaru, make sure to eat seafood ramen.

Motomachi Area and Mount Hakodate in Hakodate:

The island of Hokkaido might seem untouched from foreign influence but the Motomachi Area located in Hakodate is probably one that is heavily influenced by the Westerners. History dictates that Motomachi became a favourite resting place by influential and wealthy foreign residents.

For this reason, Motomachi has a lot of uniquely designed structures like Roman Catholic churches, Russian Church, British Consulate, and many more. Motomachi is located at the foot of Mount Hakodate so a quick visit to this area can be your starting point to hike the wonderful mountain. Atop the mountain is the best scenic view of the south of Hokkaido. If you do not want to hike the mountain by foot, you can opt to take the cable car to reach the viewing deck of the mountain.

Hell Valley and Oyonuma Pond in Noboribetsu:

Travel south from Sapporo to see the famous Hell Valley and Oyonuma Pond in Noboribetsu. Hell Valley isn’t like the Death Valley in California. It is not a barren piece of land but a landform that has numerous sulphuric acid deposits due to the nearby volcanic activities. Visitors who come to Hell Valley hike up the valley to see the steamy view of the hot springs and sulphuric vents. Those who take another 30-minute hike along the relatively flat trail reach the Oyonuma Pond, which is famous for its natural foot bath. The Oyonuma Pond is a flowing body of water where the hot sulphuric springs and the cold Oyonumagawa River water meet. This creates a mildly hot concoction of sulphuric and mineral water which is believed to be good for the skin and the body. Here you will see both locals and tourists sitting by the banks of the pond soaking their feet for a good 20 minutes.

Before leaving Noboribetsu, locals highly recommend staying at least a night in one of town’s traditional ryokan or inn. Most of the ryokans in this town have its own hot spring pool so if you don’t want to hike from Hell Valley to Oyonuma, you can spend a lazy afternoon in a nearby ryokan and privately enjoy a hot spring pool.

A Trip to the Northern Part of Japan – Go Now!

Japan isn’t all about new fashion trends and highly advanced gadgets; it is also about nature and the unassuming way of life. If you are interested to see this unique side of Japan, then prepare your documents for your Japanese tourist visa. Should you have any questions or need any assistance is getting a visa or getting an itinerary for the visa application, you may contact us through our website or Facebook page.

Go to Hokkaido and take a trip to the northern part of Japan!

January 16, 2017

3-Day Safari Trip in South Africa

Take a trip to the wild side as you spend a 3-day Safari Trip in South Africa. Most travellers assume that a Safari trip in South Africa need a hefty budget; however with enough research and the right connections, one can spend 3 days in the wild under a tight budget. Let this article introduce you to the Safaris in South Africa as well as guide you to the cheapest Safari trip in the country.

Before packing your binoculars and Safari outfits, your trip to South Africa may require you to apply for their tourist visa. The government of South Africa may have exempted nations from acquiring a visa but it is still safer to check if you are one of those passport holders exempted from applying for a South African Visa. If you are a passport holder from an exempted country, then you will be allowed to stay in South Africa for less than 90 days. However if you are required to secure a Tourist’s Visa to South Africa, you will need to prepare the following documents prior to your visit to their embassy:

Valid passport
Completed visa application form
Certification of Yellow-Fever Vaccination (for those going through the yellow fever area of Africa or South America)
Written purpose and schedule of your visit
Couple of passport photos (coloured)
Proof of travel – flight booking, hotel booking, and itinerary
Bank documents
Proof of custody – for travellers accompanying minors
Visa fee

3-day Safari Trip in South Africa:

Are you ready to see the savannah of South Africa and marvel at the animals amidst its habitat? Do check this suggested 3-day itinerary and see how you can explore the famous Safari of South Africa under budget.

Day 1 – From Johannesburg to Kruger National Park:

Start your day early as you get travel from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, the famous Safari adventure site in South Africa. Local travel agents usually arrange this trip around 5am as the road trip takes at least 5 hours. Do not be turned off by the 5-hour road trip because this scenic drive will take you to the borders of the national park where you can see glimpses of the exciting Safari trip. Along the way, you will have quick stops for breakfast and for some quick snapshots of great mountain views.

After the 500-km drive, your guide will probably bring you to your campsite where you can take a rest, leave your stuff, and get oriented to the succeeding activities and schedule of the next couple of the days. After the quick orientation, your group will be brought to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center where injured animals are temporarily cared for until such time it is able to live independently back in the wild.

Safari adventure site in South Africa Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center — Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

There you will be educated about the real situation of the animals in the wild. Some of the animals in the center can only be observed from a distance while others can be seen at the closer distance. If you’re lucky you can even feed an adult vulture or even carry a large eagle on your arm.

As the sun sets, your guide will take you to your first Safari Caravan tour. There you will be assigned to your evening tents or lodges, depending on your budget. It is highly recommended that you call it a night early to be prepared for the 2^nd day’s adventure.

Safari adventure site in South Africa Safari Caravan tour — Safari Caravan tour

Day 2 – Exploring Kruger National Park:

Your second day of the 3-day Safari Trip in South Africa introduces you to the famous and highly-visited Kruger National Park.

Safari adventure site in South Africa Kruger National Park — Kruger National Park

While your first day has just given you glimpses of what to expect, your second day will bring you where the animals are. Wake up around 5:00am and have a quick breakfast while your tour guide reminds you of proper behaviour while in grazing the Safari. Make sure you have your cameras, zoom lenses, and extra batteries ready because you will be spending an entire day in the wild. Expect to see wart hogs, prides of lions, pods of hippos, zebras, giraffes, and many more.

Kruger National Park is truly one of the last frontiers that has a variety of savannah animals. This park is a great venue to see and understand the “circle of life.”

Before the sun sets, your group can see a more exclusive game reserve park called Motlala.

This privately-owned reserve has less Safari visitors therefore it has less caravans and has more wild animals to be seen.

Day 3 – En Route to Johannesburg:

Before going back to the city, make sure to wake up really early like 5:00am to witness the glorious image of the sun rising from the horizon. Seldom can you see the sunrise but here in Kruger National Park, you can witness the sun rising everyday. As you say goodbye to Kruger National Park and to the new acquaintances you have met during your short stay, share your last early morning breakfast before heading back to the city.

The ride back to Johannesburg has pockets of adventures which can be as exciting as the 3-day Safari trip in South Africa as well. Make sure you request your guide to bring you to Blyde River Canyon, the biggest canyon in the world.

Safari adventure site in South Africa Blyde River Canyon — Blyde River Canyon

The view atop the canyon is breathtakingly beautiful; it is a site that you should not miss! After that worthwhile stopover, you can continue your road trip back to Johannesburg.

3-Day Safari Trip in South Africa – A Journey to the Wild:

A trip to South Africa’s Safari entails a number of preparations; the most important of all is your South African tourist visa. Aside from the visa, you’ll need to pack binoculars, camera, first-aid kit, and many more. Should you have any questions or need any assistance is getting a visa or getting an itinerary for the visa application, you may contact us through our website or Facebook page.

Journey to the wild and see many kinds of animals during your 3-day Safari trip in South Africa!

December 21, 2016

Hiking the Alps in Switzerland

Soar higher and take your travel wishes a notch higher by hiking the Alps in Switzerland. You may think that hiking is not for the faint of heart as well as not for the thrifty travellers, but the good news is there are ways and means to make the hike up the Swiss Alps affordable and doable for the regular travel bugs. Yes, it is better for you to physically prepare for the trip and yes, you must invest on those thick hiking jackets, pants, shoes, and backpack prior to taking this breath-taking trip up the Alps.

Are you ready to challenge yourself and travel outside your comfort zone? Then make sure you have all the requirements need to secure a Schengen visa. Switzerland is one of 26 countries that comprise the Schengen area that implement the same visa for foreign visitors. This means that you can enter any one of these countries with the same visa. The application process for a Schengen visa is quite easy to do; here are the requirements that you need to prepare:

Valid passport and copies of the front and back pages
Current passport-sized photos with white background
Completed Schengen Visa application form
Proof of travel such as flight booking, travel itinerary, and hotel booking – You may get a Flight Booking for Visa and Hotel Reservation for Visa just for your visa application without having to pay for the airfare or hotel booking.
Travel Insurance – It is better to acquire this from Schengen Travel Insurance, an affordable and reliable insurance company.
Personal Coverage Letter
Bank Documents
For employed travellers, a No Objection Letter is highly recommended

Hiking the Alps in Switzerland:

Hiking the Swiss Alps is a once-in-a-lifetime event that every traveller must experience. Imagine seeing different peaks with different priceless views that comes with every hike. The view at the Alps is bar none the best in the world and this is what all other professional hikers have to say about these mountains. You need not be a hiker to be able to enjoy the sights of the Alps, but this article made sure that there are available hikes for beginners and advance climbers.

For Beginners: Hiking up Bachsee:

This easy climb is suitable for non-hikers who want to experience the excellent views of the Alps as well as the older travellers who want to erase some must-dos off their bucket lists. To get to the area, you need to take a trip to Grindelwald to get to the First (pronounced as Fierst) Gondola station.

From the gondola station, you can follow the easy trail that leads to Bachsee. You actually do not need a guide because the trail has yellow arrows that are easy to read and follow. These arrows act as your guides that will bring you to the best view of Faulhorn.

This hike may take up to 3 hours but majority of the terrain is low slopes and meadows. Only a short portion of the trail requires hikers to go up a steep ascent. This part of the hike may be quite difficult for elders but young, newbie hikers must be able to get by it. At the end of the 6-km hike, expect to see the picturesque view of the famous Faulhorn as well as the small mountain lake found at the foot of the mountain. If you still have energy up in your sleeves, then it is highly recommended for you to climb up Shreckhorn and see the view of the area from its peak. This is a great start to your hiking the Alps in Switzerland adventure.

For Experienced Climbers: Hiking from Bettmerhorn:

This moderately difficult climb starts from Bettmerhorn and ends at the famous Fiescheralp peak.

To get to Bettmerhorn, you need to take a train to the valley station of Betten. From there you need to walk to the cable car station. Take the cable car up to Bettmeralp and then finally take the gondola rail up to Bettmerhorn. Once you get to Bettmerhorn, prepare to follow the trail along the famous Aletsch Glacier.

This glacier is the largest glacier found in the Alps which is declared by UNESCO as a heritage site.

The entire 10-km climb can be divided into three parts. The first part of this hiking the Alps in Switzerland adventure starts on a trail that is parallel to the Aletsch glacier. After a couple of kilometres of walking, you will notice that you are walking away from the glacier but approaching a wonderful lake called Marjelen.

There you can take your first stop. Take lots of pictures of the lake and the mountain.

The second part of the hike takes your hiking experience to a different level. From the Vorder Lake you will need to walk a kilometer inside a dark tunnel which is built under mountain and ice to make hiking safer and easier. If you are claustrophobic then you have no other choice but to take the longer route around the Vorder Lake.

As soon as you exit the kilometer-long tunnel, the third part of the hike begins. You can take a routine stop here to rest and take snapshots of the tunnel exit and the view. As you exit the tunnel you will be facing the Fiescher Glacier and the Rhone Valley.

If you want to extend your hike, then you can add a fourth part to your climb by taking the cable car to Eggishorn.

Hiking the Alps in Switzerland:

Are you ready to wear your hiking boots and carry your hiking backpack? Make sure you have secured a Schengen Visa to be permitted to set foot in Switzerland and to be able to tick off a few boxes from your bucket list. Should you have more queries about the visa application process, you may contact us through our website or Facebook page.

Explore the wonderful views of the mountainous regions of the Land of Chocolates and challenge yourself to hiking the Alps in Switzerland.

December 19, 2016

A 4-Day Itinerary in Amsterdam Netherlands

Go to one of the most-visited capital cities of Europe and enjoy this 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The most populated city in Netherlands, Amsterdam used to be a dam of the Amstel River hence the city’s name. During the 17^th century, Amsterdam became a major seaport where merchants dock to buy crystals and diamonds. This made Amsterdam’s economy rich and had paved the way towards the city’s current world-class status. According to surveys, Amsterdam one of the best cities to live in both economically and environmentally.

If you now ready to follow this 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam, you should also be ready to present your requirements to secure a Schengen visa. Not all foreign passport holders actually need to apply for one but nations that do not have an existing visa exemption agreement with the Schengen group of countries must apply for a Schengen visa. Don’t worry about this extra step because the requirements are easy to complete and the process is not complicated at all. Here are the requirements:

Valid passport and copies of the front and back pages
Current passport-sized photos with white background
Completed Schengen Visa application form
Proof of travel such as flight booking, travel itinerary, and hotel booking – You may get a Flight Booking for Visa and Hotel Reservation for Visa just for your visa application without having to pay for the airfare or hotel booking.
Travel Insurance – It is better to acquire this from Schengen Travel Insurance, an affordable and reliable insurance company.
Personal Coverage Letter
Bank Documents

4-Day Itinerary in Amsterdam:

Before proceeding to the itinerary itself, it is important for you to select a strategically located hotel so you can easily get to your desired destinations in Amsterdam. One of the centrally located hotels is the Rembrandt Square Hotel.

It offers double share rooms for less than €80 per night and it is a 2-minute walk away from a light rail station. If your budget can still be stretched and you want to stay in a better rated hotel, then you might want to stay in The Albus Design Hotel.

It has double share rooms for less than €130 per night which includes daily breakfast. It is also very near a light rail station making your travel easier and faster.

Day 1: A Look in the Past:

A lot of notable persons have resided in this scenic city and it is highly suggested that you visit their museums to see a glimpse of their lives. The first, and a must-visit, museum dedicated to a notable Dutch is the Anne Frank House.

You have probably heard of this young girl’s name and maybe know a bit of her life story, but if you have no idea who she was, Anne Frank is a teenage Jewish girl who hid in a small, discreet attic together with her family to avoid the wrath of Hitler. While staying atop the attic, Frank wrote daily accounts of her experiences living in a four-walled room. Her diary was found years after she died in a consecration camp and her diary was proved true with the discovery of the house where she and her family lived.

Should you plan to visit the Anne Frank House, it is best for you to purchase your tickets online to avoid the queue and to avail of a 30-minute guided lecture. The best way to go to the museum is by feet – it is a 20-minute walk from the suggested hotels. If you don’t want to walk, you can rent a bike.

The next notable person’s museum that you must visit is the Van Gogh Museum. A 13-minute bike from Anne Frank House, this museum is dedicated to famous painter, Vincent Van Gogh. The entrance fee to the museum may be a bit dear for €17/adult but it is made worth it by the hundreds of Impressionistic images painted by Van Gogh himself. Other painters like Gaugin, Monet, and Pissaro are also featured at the tail-end of the exhibit which you can also find interesting. Purchase your tickets online to avoid the lines and visit the museum in the late afternoon to avoid the rush of tourists.

Day 2: The Colors of Amsterdam:

When you think of Holland, you probably think of windmills and tulips. Well this is what you will see on Day 2 of your 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam. Your first stop after you have eaten your breakfast must be the Keukenhof Gardens.

This 32-acre haven is quite a distance from your hotel so it is best for you to take a private tour or ride the light rail. The best time to visit Keukenhof Gardens is during spring, from March to May, so you can see all 7 million tulips in full bloom. All these millions of tulips are arranged according to the current theme of the park to form images which you can from bird’s eye view. For 2017, the garden’s theme is Dutch Design and the highlight of the garden is a big Dutch Mosaic created by the multi-coloured tulip bulbs. It is something that you cannot miss! Make sure to purchase your tickets way in advance because tickets sell out real fast.

Before ending your day, make sure you make time to visit the Zaanse Schans Windmills. This area has the best preserved old windmills that were constructed in the 18^th century. Although these windmills were originally constructed elsewhere, in the 1960s these windmills were transported and relocated to Zaanse Schans and is carefully restored there. Rent a bike so you can pedal your way around the area. Watch the locals make cheese and even their traditional wooden clogs or Dutch shoes. You can also visit the Zaanse Schans Museum to learn more about the real purpose of these windmills.

Day 3: The Glitter of Amsterdam:

You know what the James Bond song says “Diamonds are forever.” This line is made true here in Amsterdam with its 400 year old booming diamond business. Famous diamond traders such as Coster and Gassan attract millions of customers who just fly to Amsterdam to purchase these shining gems that are worth a lifetime of savings.

Get to know the history behind the diamond trade of Amsterdam by visiting the Diamond Museum. Opened by the famous diamond trader, Coster, this museum features the process of revealing diamonds from carbon crystals as well as the process of cutting the diamonds. At present, the museum has 22 pieces of rare diamonds cut in a unique way. Finally, the museum teaches visitors how to spot a faux diamond from a real gem.

You will surely be inspired by the glit and glam that you just saw so the next best thing to do is to visit the famous diamond stores in the city. Go ahead and visit the Coster Diamonds store which is just near the museum itself. Coster is one of the oldest diamond traders in Netherlands. If you want to see a new diamond trader, go to Gassan Diamonds. The shop also does tours to tourists who want to learn more about diamond carats, clarity, color, and cut.

Day 4: Degustation in Amsterdam:

Amsterdam may be famous for its scenic view of the river and the rich historical museums but unknown to a lot of tourists, Amsterdam is also a great foodie destination. So before you end your 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam it is best to sample the local food and have a quick degustation before heading back to the airport.

Start your degustation by eating local pancakes in a nearby restaurant or better yet look for Pancakes Amsterdam. Prepare to line up and patiently wait for your turn to be served this wonderful Dutch breakfast treat. If the queue is just too long for you, you can opt for Koffie Huis De Hoek which serves the best coffee and toast.

After your breakfast, go right away to Manneken Pis to get your morning snack. This joint sells the best Amsterdam Fries, which are made from big cut fries with cheese and some secret sauce.

Before heading back to the hotel to check out, make a quick stop at Puccini Bomboni and have a taste of the local chocolate bonbons.

4-Day Itinerary in Amsterdam:

Excited to explore the city of Amsterdam, then what are you waiting for? Apply for a Schengen visa now so you can realize this Dutch adventure. If you plan to extend your itinerary to other European countries, it is best for you to know the different countries part of the Schengen area so you can apply for the most appropriate type of Schengen Visa. Should you need further assistance in getting a visa or itinerary, contact us through our website or our WhatsApp (+1 201-554-8735).

Get ready for this once-in-a-lifetime trip by taking this 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam!

December 18, 2016

Top 8 Places to See in Lithuania

Travel to the southernmost part of the Baltics and journey to the top 8 places to see in Lithuania. Also known as “The Iron Lady” of the Baltics, the Republic of Lithuania is a newly independent, sovereign nation that just got out of the Russian shadow in the 1990s. It is a fairly new European Union member and is a part of the Schengen area. For so many years, Lithuania belonged to the Soviet Union which had brought many trepidations to its citizens. With the recent developments that underwent after its independence, Lithuania has now become a true tourist destination with its raw natural resources and the remnants of its colonial past.

Before heading to this northern European country, make sure you have secured your Schengen visa first. While there are several nations that are exempted from this visa, there are still a number of passport holders that are required to apply for a Schengen visa. You need not fret about this because the requirements and the entire application process is quite easy to handle. Here are the requirements:

Valid passport and copies of the front and back pages
Current passport-sized photos with white background
Completed Schengen Visa application form
Proof of travel such as flight booking, travel itinerary, and hotel booking – You may get a Flight Booking for Visa and Hotel Reservation for Visa just for your visa application without having to pay for the airfare or hotel booking.
Travel Insurance – It is better to acquire this from Schengen Travel Insurance, an affordable and reliable insurance company.
Personal Coverage Letter
Bank Documents

Top 8 Places to See in Lithuania:

Have you secured your Schengen visa already? Then it is time for you to explore the top 8 places to see in Lithuania!

Top 8: Curonian Spit:

This 98-km sand dune is declared as a protected natural area by UNESCO and is actually one of the few national parks shared by two countries – Lithuania to the north and Russia to the south.

Majority of the park is under the care of Lithuania and fortunately most of the heritage sites on the dunes are carefully preserved by the government.

When you do decide to visit the Curonian Spit make sure to visit the Witches’ Hill – a hiking trail laced with wooden sculptures of devils, witches, and other weird creatures. Another site to see here is the Thomas Mann Memorial Museum. Thomas Mann was a famous German writer and Nobel Prize awardee who spent most of his summers in this quaint blue-red house. His house is now converted to a museum to commemorate his works and life.

Do not leave the Curonian Spit without experiencing the famous Musical Ferry. This ferry ride starts a couple of hours before the sunset and it will bring tourists to see the entire Curonian Lagoon and will finally end with the romantic view of the Curonian sunset.

Top 7: Klaipeda’s Old Town:

After seeing the UNESCO Site, Curonian Spit, it is best to see the nearby area known as the Klaipeda’s Old Town. Located in the third largest Lithuanian city, the Old Town in Klaipeda boasts of Scandinavian as well as German architectures.

The main attraction in this Old Town is the Theater Square. This is where many musical festivals like the Jazz Festival takes place. When you visit this structure, do take notice of the sculpture of the barefoot girl known as the Tawara Anike. This sculpture is built in memory of the famous composer Simonas Dachas.

Top 6: Hill of Crosses:

Lithuania is not actually a famous pilgrimage site but the country actually has one of the distinct and somewhat uncanny pilgrimage sites known as the Hill of Crosses.

Located at the outer rim of Siauliai, the Hill of Crosses truly deserves to be one of the top 8 places to see in Lithuania because of the variety of crosses, religious idolatries, effigies, and religious relics that are to be seen here. These artefacts are left by the pilgrims and are now appreciated by the thousands of either curious tourists or religious visitors.

Top 5: Saint Disciple Peter and Paul Cathedral:

While spending your time in the pilgrimage site of Siauliai, you may also want to visit the nice cathedrals in the area.

One of the most beautiful cathedrals here is the Saint Disciple Peter and Paul Cathedral. Also known as the Siauliai Cathedral, this structure’s architect followed the Renaissance and Mannerism style that showcases pointed spires and clean, white façade.

Top 4: Kaunas Castle:

Venture to the second largest city of Lithuania, Kaunas, and visit the ever-famous Kaunas Castle. Believed to have been built sometime in the 14^th century, this castle boasts of a Gothic-style architecture clad with red bricks and red roofs.

The entire castle grounds is built along the banks of Nemunas River which made it accessible even to the royal adversaries. Due to this the castle had been battered by the series of wars; fortunately about one-third of the castle still stands and is now used as a museum and venue for festivals.

Top 3: Pazaislis Monastery:

Another top tourist destination in the city of Kaunas is the Pazaislis Monastery. Built in the 1600s, this monastery is a great example of Italian Baroque architecture and is the largest religious monastery in the country.

Tourists who go to this monastery love the romantic and somewhat ethereal ambience of the compound especially during winter season. Today, the monastery is made famous by the annual music festival that showcase classical tunes of Mozart and even pop tunes of ABBA.

Top 2: Vilnius Cathedral:

Do not end your Lithuanian adventure without making a routine stop at the country’s capital, Vilnius. There are many deserving sites to see in this city but one of the most imploring is the Vilnius Cathedral.

The architecture of this cathedral is not like any other Roman Catholic church found in other parts of the globe which is why it deserves to be in the top 8 places to see in Lithuania list. The façade of the cathedral looks more like a Roman government building than a religious site; however its interiors is filled with wooden pews, religious paintings and sculptures.

Top 1: Vilnius Old Town:

Lithuania has at least 3 different Old Towns but the best of all is found in the capital, Vilnius.

This Old Town is the largest, best-preserved medieval town in Europe with over 1,000 colorful and historical structures that show how thriving Vilnius was during the medieval times. While traversing its narrow streets, go and visit the Presidential Palace, All Saints Church, and the Vilnius Dungeons.

Top 8 Places to See in Lithuania – Fly now!

Excited to see the grandeur of Lithuania? Then apply for your Schengen visa now so you can board the next flight to this Baltic country. f you plan to extend your itinerary to other European countries, it is best for you to know the different countries part of the Schengen area so you can apply for the most appropriate type of Schengen Visa. Should you need further assistance in getting a visa or itinerary, contact us through our website or our WhatsApp (+1 201-554-8735).

Go to the unexplored part of Europe and visit the top 8 places to see in Lithuania.

December 12, 2016

7 Must-See Sites in Tokyo Japan

Fly to the Land of the Rising Sun and visit the 7 must-see sites in Tokyo. The most densely populated city in Japan, Tokyo is a bustling metropolitan destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. A leader in both commerce and culture, Tokyo has a distinct, almost border lining eccentric image that makes it an interesting destination to explore.

Prior to flying to this oriental destination, you need to know whether your passport is exempted from the Japanese tourist visa or if you need to apply for one. Japan has given short-stay visa exemptions to 67 countries around the globe. Passport holders that are exempted from securing a visa may stay in Japan from 15 to 90 days, depending on the country of residence. However, passport holder that are not exempted must apply for a Japanese visa. Here are the requirements to secure a visa:

Completed visa application form
Filled out letter of guarantee
Filled out letter of reason for invitation
Full itinerary in Japan
List of visa applicants
Overview of company (if invited for a business trip)
Current passport
Couple of passport picture

7 Must-See Sites in Tokyo:

It is quite difficult to deduce the best sites to see in the whole of Tokyo down to 7, but knowing that most tourists spend only at least 3 days in the city, it is important to choose the 7 must-see sites in Tokyo that will showcase what the city is all about.

Top 7: Tsukiji Market:

You must be wondering why a market is part of this top 7 list? Well, you must know that the seafood industry in Tokyo is a serious business. Choosing the best and freshest marine catch is a part of the Japanese culture.

Japanese do not mind spending a hefty amount for a freshly caught tuna because they believe in the best quality of food instead of the quantity. So while you are still overcoming your jetlag, better head to the Tsukiji Market during the wee hours to witness the very active fish auction as well as see the out-of-this-world marine life available in the market.

Top 6: Tokyo Imperial Palace:

After that wonderful trip to the market, your next destination must be the official seat of Japan’s Emperor. The Tokyo Imperial Palace is like an oasis in the middle of the concrete Tokyo jungle.

This park-like imperial compound shows how much the Japanese respect and adore the beauty of nature. Go here during spring to see the blooming cherry blossoms especially near the Chidori-Ga-Fuchi. Aside from the sprawling gardens around the palace, every tourist must see the castles inside the compound.

Top 5: Tokyo National Museum:

Visit the Tokyo National Museum to familiarize yourself to the historic past and the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Deserving to be a part of the top 7 must-see sites in Tokyo, the Tokyo National Museum is the oldest museums with the vastest collection in the entire country.

There are actually six separate halls that make up the entire museum which means that visitors can expect more than 100,000 artefacts displayed in the several permanent exhibits here. The highlight of the museum is probably the memorial hall outside the complex dedicated to Kuroda, the father of Japanese western-style paintings.

Top 4: Tokyo DisneySea:

Tourists all over the world must be familiar with the American theme park owned by Walt Disney. In Tokyo, however, the Disney people decided to create a new theme park that will revolutionize the Disney brand.

That is why in 2001 the Tokyo DisneySea was inaugurated and has amazingly attracted 10 million guests in less than a year after its opening. This giant water resort has quite a number of uniquely themed areas – Mediterranean Harbour, Mermaid Lagoon, Mysterious Island, Port Discovery, and many more. If you are traveling with kids or your teenagers, you better book at least an overnight stay at DisneySea.

Top 3: Kabukicho:

If you prefer a more adult-themed entertainment in Tokyo, then Kabukicho should be at the top of your list. Tokyo is a 24/7 city and nightly entertainments are just accessible and plentiful.

One of the lively “red-light” areas but minus the illegal activities, mind you, in Tokyo is Kabukicho. A famous men’s-only destination, Kabukicho is filled with host or hostess clubs, bars, and karaoke clubs. Don’t go here empty-handed because the price of drinks, entrance fees, and tips may be astonishingly high. You can may be scout the area first before deciding to enter your chosen club.

Top 2: Takeshita Street:

If Kabukicho is an all-men’s party place, Takeshita Street is every lady’s dreamland. This shopping haven, located in Harajuku, is lined with multiple clothing shops, shoe stores, restaurants, and cafes.

What is unique about this street are the multiple small businesses that are promoted and supported by the local government. Here you cannot find western products, instead find local products that can only be found in Japan. Many business owners in Takeshita Street use the market to dry-run and test products that can potentially set a trend in the future.

Top 1: Hachijo Island:

At the top of the 7 must-see sites in Tokyo, the Hachijo Island is located by the Philippine Sea and can be accessed by plane from Haneda Airport.

It is rare for tourists to know that Tokyo has several chains of islands within its territory which is why Hachijo is usually quiet and isolated – ideal for tourists who want to take a break from the Tokyo noise. The island is bordered by two large mountains and a coastline rich with marine corals. Adventure-seeking tourists can take diving lessons or snorkelling lessons in this island. Tourists can also hire a guide to take them up Mt. Mihara or Mt. Nishi.

7 Must-See Sites in Tokyo – Say Konnichiwa!

Say Konnichiwa to Tokyo by processing your short-stay tourist visa in your local Japanese embassy. Before you get your plane tickets, make sure that have the proper documents for your visa application. Should you have any questions or need any assistance is getting a visa or getting an itinerary for the visa application, you may contact us through our website or Facebook page.

Venture to the east and explore the 7 Must-See Sites in Tokyo!

December 8, 2016

A 4-Day Itinerary in Budapest

Travel to the capital city of Hungary and follow this 4-day itinerary in Budapest. One of the largest cities in Europe, Budapest has a rich historic past that goes way back during the Celtic settlement, the Roman, and the Ottoman periods. Being one of the thriving places of these empires, seeing rows after rows of world heritage sites is inevitable. Spending at least 4 days in this city is perfect time to go through most of the must-see places that only Budapest can offer.

Before you venture to this eastern part of Europe, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa to be permitted to enter the country. Although there are several passport holders who are exempted from this visa, there are still quite a number of nations that are required to get an approved visa prior to embarking to Budapest. You need not fret about this because the visa application process is simple and easy. Here are the requirements:

Valid passport and copies of the front and back pages
Current passport-sized photos with white background
Completed Schengen Visa application form
Proof of travel such as flight booking, travel itinerary, and hotel booking – You may get a Flight Booking for Visa and Hotel Reservation for Visa just for your visa application without having to pay for the airfare or hotel booking.
Travel Insurance – It is better to acquire this from Schengen Travel Insurance, an affordable and reliable insurance company.
Personal Coverage Letter
Bank Documents
For employed travelers, a No Objection Letter is highly recommended

A 4-Day Itinerary in Budapest

Are you ready for a unique European adventure? This 4-day itinerary in Budapest features the rich historical past of Budapest as well as the romantic Danube River. Unlike other European countries that you might have visited already, the sites to see in Budapest may be quite a distance from one another so ironing out your schedule is paramount to maximize your 4-day stay in this large city. Expect, at the end of your trip, to understand where the name “Budapest” stems from and how pivotal the Danube River is to the city’s image.

Day 1: See the “Pest” in Budapest:

Explore the eastern bank of the Danube River and see the historic past of Hungary. The now urban part of the capital of Hungary used to led by the Mongols, which have been vital in transforming the city into a center for commerce.

Start your 4-day itinerary in Budapest by visiting the famous Hungarian Parliament. This large, Gothic-styled structure is the center of politics in Hungary. Probably one of the most photographed buildings in Hungary, the Parliament is open to tourists and offers a well-guided tour for those who are interested in the building’s history, architecture, and interiors.

Another site to see at Pest is the St. Stephen’s Basilica. Within walking distance from the Parliament, this basilica can be easily seen from afar. With its two tall towers and its 300-ft high dome, you will definitely notice this grandiose structure. Built in the late 1800s, the construction of this basilica underwent a series of adversities due to structural issues. However with years of perseverance, the church finally was completed and is now revered as the city’s most beautiful Catholic church. Tourists are recommended to go up the western bell tower to see the beautiful view of the city.

Other sites to see on the eastern bank of Danube are the Elizabeth Park, Holocaust Shoe Memorial, and the Freedom Square. You may also visit McDonald’s, the first fast food chain to have been established in a Communist Nation. Finally, do cross the iconic Chain Bridge because this connects the Buda and Pest which are separated by the Danube River.

Day 2: See the “Buda” in Budapest:

Spend the 2^nd day of your 4-day itinerary in Budapest in the western bank of the Danube. Known as Buda, this side of the city is quite distinct from its eastern counterpart. Here, you can find several narrow roads that wind up a hill. You can also see more trees and can feel a more laid-back ambiance.

Your first stop in Buda should be the Buda Castle Hill. A UNESCO Heritage Site, the castle sits atop a hill which overlooks the entire Budapest. Tourists who wish to visit the castle can take the scenic Bus #16 from the base of Castle Hill.

Another must-see and must-do at this side of the city is the Buda Hill Funicular. This classic mode of transportation had been operating during the 1940s but was destroyed during the war. Luckily the government restored and reopened the tracks going up Castle Hill. If you want to experience going up a 48° slope with the best view of the city, then you must allot time to line up and take one of the 24 passenger seats in this fun ride.

Other sites to see in the western part of Danube are the Buda Royal Palace, History Museum, and Matthias Church.

Day 3: Go Back to the Center of Pest:

Time to go back to the eastern side of Danube and visit the central part of Pest. Not only is this site literally at the central part of Pest, but is also central to the city’s religion. Judaism is probably the most influential religion in the city; for this reason, the central part of Pest is dedicated to its religious followers.

Known as the Jewish Quarter, this area can take tourists back to the first century up until the time when the Jewish community suffered under the tyrant Hitler. Once you get into the Jewish Quarter, walk through the streets and visit the three large synagogues within the area. Visit the Dohany Street Synagogue which is the largest in Europe, the Rumbach Street Synagogue, and the Kazinczy Street Synagogue.

Day 4: Explore the Danube River:

You cannot spend 4 days in Budapest without having to venture along the famous Danube River. This historic river actually stretches and passes through several European cities.

Tourists can experience one of the exciting stretches from Budapest by taking the Danube Bend Tour. This horseshoe-shaped bend can take tourists to some of the most unique river communities that date back during the Roman times. Should you have the time and the budget to take the Danube Bend Tour, you must take a routine stop at Esztergom and see the castle that sits right at the river bend. You can also make a quick stop at Vac and Aquincum.

A 4-Day Itinerary in Budapest – Get Ready Now!

Are you now ready for your Buda and Pest trip? Prepare all the documents you need to secure a Schengen visa before flying to Hungary. If Hungary is just one of several European nations that you wish to visit, then it might be useful to know the different kinds of Schengen visa to not ruin your planned itinerary. Also, if you wish to maximize your single entry visa, you may want to know the other Schengen countries that implement the same kind of visa. Finally, should you need further assistance to secure a Schengen Visa, you may contact us through Whats App (+1 201-554-8735) or leave us a message.

Get acquainted with Hungary by following this 4-day itinerary in Budapest!

November 30, 2016

The Colors and Flavors of Bratislava

Journey to the capital city of Slovakia and witness the colors and flavors of Bratislava. This underrated tourist haven oftentimes doesn’t reach the top of many travellers’ must-see destination list, but unknown to most, Bratislava has many sights, activities, and unique cuisines to offer. And because of the few adventure-seeking travellers, Bratislava is slowly creeping its way to the top European cities to visit. Are you ready to see the real beauty of the capital city of Slovakia?

Before you pack your bags and leave for Bratislava, you must know that Slovakia is one of the countries that is part of the Schengen area. This means that Slovakia implements the Schengen visa for short-term tourists who wish to visit the country. While there are some nations that are Schengen visa exempted, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa. The application process for a Schengen Visa is simple and trouble-free. All you need to do is to get all the following documents and requirements:

Valid passport and copies of the front and back pages
Current passport-sized photos with white background
Completed Schengen Visa application form
Proof of travel such as flight booking, travel itinerary, and hotel booking – You may get a Flight Booking for Visa and Hotel Reservation for Visa just for your visa application without having to pay for the airfare or hotel booking.
Travel Insurance – It is better to acquire this from Schengen Travel Insurance, an affordable and reliable insurance company.
Personal Coverage Letter
Bank Documents
For employed travellers, a No Objection Letter is highly recommended

The Colors and Flavors of Bratislava:

Welcome to Bratislava, the largest city of Slovakia. With more than 600,000 residents, Bratislava is a bustling city right in between the rivers Danube and Morava. While the city is bordered by the blue waters of the two rivers, the colors and flavors of Bratislava is made vibrant by the city’s unique structures partnered with its history and culture.

The Colors of the Old Town:

More known with the locals as Hlavné Námestie, the Main Square is probably the most popular part of Bratislava’s Old Town.

During Christmas season, the Main Square comes to life with the many hues of the yuletide decors, accessories, and artworks that are on sale every morning. The locals transform the Main Square into a market, selling Christmas goods to both locals and tourists. At night, the square transforms into a free lightshow full of white Christmas trees. Stalls continue to sell hot coffee, hot chocolate, and hot tea to families that wish to spend a quiet evening in the square.

The Gleaming Apollo Bridge:

Proof that Bratislava is fast progressing are the new structural designs that can be found around the city. One of the must-see avant-garde structures in Bratislava is the Apollo Bridge.

Built in 2003 and opened in 2005, this gleaming 5,000-ton steel structure goes over the River Danube and connects Stary and Pristavny. The bridge’s designers and engineers received the prestigious Outstanding Civil Engineering Award for the unique geometric design of the bridge as well as the genius construction strategy implemented on the structure – building the structure parallel to the river bank and rotating it in place after. At night, the bridge turns into a lightshow with many colourful lamps that highlight the clean lines of the bridge.

The Golden Colors of Craft Beers:

If Germany boasts of their very own Oktoberfest, the Slovaks have their craft beer festival held every September at the famous Old Market. During this month, at least 60 small breweries exhibit their best malt drink.

Some of these breweries are Slovakian locals while the rest are international beer makers. Unlike the festive feel of the German’s Oktoberfest, the Slovakian’s beer festival is maintained to have a more organized and personal feel to it. Beer tasters can immediately give feedback to the exhibitors, which the exhibitors appreciate.

Food! Glorious Street Food!

If you want to see and taste all the colors and flavors of Bratislava, then you better head to Bratislava’s Old Market Hall and visit the Street Food Park. This food market regularly operates from Wednesday to Saturday, afternoon to late in the evening, and offers famous local street food.

What interests both the locals and tourists to this street food park are the various colourful food trucks that function as mobile kitchens and are used to prepare meals on the spot. One of the must-try local food is the Slovak’s version of hamburger. Filled with thin slices of meat, fresh arugula leaves, cheese, and onions pressed in between fresh Brioche buns, these yummy burgers are both filling and satisfying. While enjoying the food-tasting feast, you can also enjoy the free live band that plays modern local tunes.

The Magnificent Bratislava Castle:

A perfect way to end the colors and flavors of Bratislava tour is by visiting the magnificent Bratislava Castle. Sitting atop a hill that overlooks the Danube River, the Bratislava Castle boasts of both white and red hues that can be clearly see from afar.

The site where the castle is built is really strategic – from its big windows one can see Austria, Hungary, and of course Slovakia. Tourists can go in this castle for an affordable fee and see the art exhibit and ancient artefact hosted by the country’s National Museum.

The Colors and Flavors of Bratislava:

Cannot wait for your Slovakian adventure? Do know that you may need to apply for a Schengen tourist visa to be allowed entry to Slovakia. If Slovakia is just one of several European nations that you wish to visit, then it might be useful to know the different kinds of Schengen visa to not ruin your planned itinerary. Also, if you wish to maximize your single entry visa, you may want to know the other Schengen countries that implement the same kind of visa. Finally, should you need further assistance to secure a Schengen Visa, you may contact us through WhatsApp (+1 201-554-8735) or leave us a message.

Go to the off beaten path and see the colors and flavors of Bratislava.