DESTINATIONS Planning a trip? Here you will find all the areas we currently have articles covering. ASIA AsiaKoh Phi Phi – Falling in love with life on a tropical island paradiseOctober 30, 2022Asia / Beach & Island / Thailand / Travel ReviewsWhen thinking of the islands of Thailand Koh Phi Phi may be known for its parties and nightlife but there is so much more. After living life on this gorgeous island – I am in love! by Jessica Dale Reading Time: 14 minutes Koh Phi Phi in a nutshell Koh Phi Phi also know as Phi Phi Don is one of the smaller islands of Thailand but the largest of the 6 islands that make up the group known as the Phi Phi islands. Located in the Andaman Sea approximately 43km (26.7 miles) off the coast of Krabi in southern Thailand. It is only accessible by ferry which takes 1-2 hours to reach. Be sure to read my ultimate guide detailing the various ways to get to Koh Phi Phi. Koh Phi Phi is a small island with the majority of its offerings located in the short stretch between Tonsai beach and Loh Dalum beach.The island enjoys plenty of sun and high temperatures year round, the lush greenary comes at the cost of a good amount of rainfall but this is usually heaviest between July and September which is the islands monsoon season so it may be best to avoid visiting at those times, nobody likes to visit somewhere to experience constant rain for weeks on end. There are no roads on Koh Phi Phi, instead pathways are essential to get from one place to another by foot, this also means the only traffic you need to worry about is the odd scooter. You do get a number of people carrying bags on wheelable trollies so rememeber to listen out for the familiar “beep beep”, a simple move to the side to let them pass is all that is needed. Boasting cheap accomodation and very reasonable prices Koh Phi Phi should be on your radar as a place to visit. From my experience A lot of people only tend to stay for 2-6 days however I would definitely say that if you want to see everything and can afford the time it is worth staying just that little bit longer. In this article I will detail what and where is worth visiting and why. Table Of Contents Koh Phi Phi in a nutshell [2022]First arrival on Koh Phi PhiNightlifeFire ShowsClubs & DancingBars & Quieter PlacesShops & TownClothingJewellerySouvenirsArtCannabisAccommodationFoodKoh Phi Phi offers a wide variety of culinary delights, let’s face it, we are driven by food and here are just a few of the varied selections available.From succulent steak to sweet chilli roasted pork to Mac N Cheese Carbonara, there really is something here for everyone and this writer can honestly say that she only had just the one poor meal in months!NatureSurrounding areasConclusion First arrival on Koh Phi Phi When you first arrive at Koh Phi Phi sadly the first thing that you tend to notice is the McDonalds and Burger King, this may be news to your ears however for me it is a shame to see the tide of capitalism reach this beautiful paradise island but that is just this womens opinion. As you walk down the pier you see a number of hotel representatives so keep an eye out if you have pre-booked your hotel for somebody holding a sign with the name, these are usually the people sent to collect your bags however not every hotel offers this service. Nightlife OK so lets start with the obvious – Koh Phi Phi has some great nightlife for sure, it doesn’t earn that reputation for nothing but after living there for months at a time I can honestly say Koh Phi Phi has a little bit of something for everyone, if you like to party it definitely accommodates perfectly with its many beach bars and clubs located on Loh Dalum beach. But for those of us that like a bit of piece and quiet I would suggest heading to the side of Ton Sai beach – here you will find plenty of quiet escapes where there are far fewer people and less crowded spaces. Fire Shows Dotted around the beaches after dark you will no doubt come across a fire show, these locals are very talented and can usually draw in a great crowd. Sit and watch in amazement as they twirl firesticks, poi and shoot flames 25 foot into the air. This is a routine every night and they are great at it. The shows are usually free with only a small voluntery contribution at night. Fireshows are a great way to sit, relax and be dazzled for hours over a cheeky drink or two. If you’re feeling brave you can even participate a little. The main shows can be found outside Slinkies bar and Stonez bar on Loh Dalum beach. The is also one at Carlitos bar just off Tonsai beach. Clubs & Dancing If you like a good dance whilst consuming your body weight in cheap booze often from a bucket then on Loh Dalum beach you will find a variety of beachside clubs. For a wild night try Slinkies, good deals on buckets, a rodeo bull and plenty of good music to get you on your feet. Further down the beach you will find Stonez bar, some of the music can be a little dated at times but the drinks prices and cheap UV face paint station really brings it into its own. Stonez bar also takes full advantage of the beach which is a great stage for large groups of people, you will be sure to have space to dance whilst maintaining a connection to the group. Next to Stonez bar you will find Blanco bar, this bar is definitely the smaller of the ones previously mentioned, the music is pretty good with some classic British bangers coming through the speakers.Every other day there is a pool party at Ibiza Pool Party, a beach club style venue located on the beach with some of the best pool parties I have ever been to on this side of Asia, beer pong and a great DJ make this pool party a must attend. It can get a little crowded but honestly after a couple of buckets you don’t really care!On the other side of the town next to Tonsai beach head down and away from the pier, eventually you will come to a bar I found to be a little more varied than the others – Carlito’s offers not only a fireshow around 10pm (although I am sure times vary slightly depending on time of year) but also live music and banging tunes. Carlito’s offers a wide variety but it should be noted the drinks are pretty expensive in comparison to the others. Stonez bar on Loh Dalum beach Finally I come to the last two bars worth mentioning in this category, the backpacker bar and Rolling Stone bar. These two bars could not really be more different in terms of music. The Rolling Stone offers good music of the Rock genre, a snooker style pool table, live music and karaoke. They also have great deals on drinks if you enjoy shots. The Backpacker is a very different vibe – Loud pop music, beer pong and plenty of deals aimed to get you drunk. It is probably one of the most popular bars on the island and it is clear to see why although the target audience is definitely aimed at the younger audience. Both the Rolling Stone and the Backpacker are on the same row seperated only by a phenominal indian restaurant but I will get onto that shortly. Bars & Quieter Places Sometimes we prefer just a quiet drink without anything too crazy and for a nice drink with the locals I cannot recommend Relax bar enough! Located near the main entrance to Loh Dalum beach and up some stairs this bar is also run by the owners of the Pirate Boat Tour (Check out my article on the best activities to do in Phi Phi here), Relax bar is where the many of the locals, expats and divers meet to shoot a bit of pool and as the name suggests – Relax at the end of the day. I found most of my time was spent here on nights out. Onto the beach is another one of my personal favourites – Freedom bar, a little quieter than the others but definitely a nicer vibe, the beautiful multicolor lights strewn across the trees really amp up the atmosphere. If it is live music and a bit of food you’re after definitely check out Rosyinom, just down from Tonsai Pier this small restaurant has the best acoustic live music and is again another local favourite, the owner is lovely and the atmosphere is just calming through and through – As a bonus their food is divine! For a really nice environment I would also recommend Dojo bar, this is a little down the way from Carlitos on the Tonsai side of the town and offers beer on draught which is a nice commodity on the island, a lot of places only have bottles so Dojo offers a taste of the west in that respect. In the centre of the main town area you will see a couple of my favourites, one is the Sports Bar and do probably the best and cheapest cocktails I have ever had! I am not much into sports but I can definitely get behind great, cheap cocktails – their pina colada is to die for! The other bar is the Dubliner irish bar, another bar that offers a free pool table, cheap(ish) drinks and friendly staff, there is always some sport shown on the plethora of TVs dotted around the bar and the toilet behind a hidden book shelf is a nice touch. The music at times does get a little loud. To catch the sunset be sure to head to The Only Bar – Phi Phi, it is a little way to walk but should definitely be on your list of places to go, offering panoramic views of Loh Dalum bay it is simply the best place to go to see the sun bid farewell for the day. After this if you are looking for something a little more unique head back into the town and check out the Muy Thai Boxing bar, this is just opposite the Dubliner and you can often see tourists battling it out in the ring, the drinks are a little bit expensive but there is no cover charge so if you are into a bit of fighting this bar will not dissapoint. You will often see 20 something year old guys walking around Phi Phi sporting the belts they have won in this bar, it’s really quite amusing to watch. Catch a burger at sunset with a view at The Only Bar- Phi Phi Shops & Town The majority of shops, restaurants, massage parlors and bars are between the two beaches in a small town style setting. There are rows and rows of small stores and stalls each with their own unique charm and a wide variety of offerings. The shops on the main island of Koh Phi Phi Don are mostly local and offer a good variety of items: Clothing As you walk around the island you do tend to notice a pattern in the variety of clothing on offer as a lot of the vendors do tend to stock similar items but if you look closely you do find the odd unique gem. The one thing I will say with clothing is to check the quality before purchasing, items range widely in terms of quality. I have personally seen both sides of the spectrum regarding clothing quality on this island. Some is of a really good build quality but some I found have the thickness and integrity of toilet paper so please be sure to check. Jewellery Whilst you’re unlikely to come across any platinum or diamond items here there are some really cute pieces that still look lovely, as you can probably imagine there are a lot of string and woven bracelets and anklets, the earrings, rings and metallic items are also really lovely but just remember that like most cheap metal jewellery, the shine eventually will wear but for your stay you can pick up a bargain. Souvenirs Like any tourist destination you will of course find plenty of souvenirs and trinkets – everything from Thailand mugs to glassware, keyrings, postcards and pretty much anything you can imagine “Phi Phi” or “Thailand” can be printed on. These are perfect little reminders of your trip if you are a tourist, they are usually cheap and varying in quality. Art When walking around you are likely to see a couple of local artists, their works feature in some of the local eateries and are of a very high quality. Usually very colourful and featuring animals, these works you can actually see being painted and are astonishing to witness. I found the art in Phi Phi to be beautfil and if I ever decide to settle down would certainly go back for a comission peice. Cannabis Since it’s “legalisation” in Thailand this year, you now see that cannabis is for sale in some aspect pretty much everywhere. Note I say “legalisation” – this is because its full legality in Thailand is a little complicated, I explain in detail in my Cannabis – The Thailand Legality article here but essentially you are OK to buy cannabis, just be careful where and who you smoke around. That been said there are a large amount of vendors selling it as a sideproduct which is interesting to go to a bar and be able to buy a joint to go with your beer. The recent legislation turn around on cannabis is certainly making a difference to the local people and boosting local economy. Accommodation Accommodation on Koh Phi Phi ranges wildly and really does come down to budget, there are some hidden gems for a relatively good price and there are always places available at a ridiculously low price at times but let’s face it – most of the time the term “You get what you pay for” certainly applies here. Sure a THB 3,000 ($83 / €80 / £70) a month room sounds nice in low season but for that price, it is a windowless box with a fan if you’re lucky. In my opinion it is better to spend the extra baht but if budget is your no.1 priority then Koh Phi Phi certainly accommodates. Most of the accommodation you will find near the town area of the island and depending on the time of year a night in a standard hotel room with air conditioning can range anywhere from THB 500 – 20,000+ in high season and THB 250 – 15,000+ in low season. Check out our currency conversion tool here for the latest conversion rates Food Food! Isn’t it great? As well as having some fantastic Thai options Koh Phi Phi probably has the widest variety for food I have ever seen and after eating out evey day pretty much every meal has been consistantly amazing! In most cases much better than I have had in the west.Because of the tourism Koh Phi Phi attracts you will see a lot of restaurants and after trying a large selection of them the hardest decision was amazing food I wanted that day. Check out our Koh Phi Phi – Best Food Guide for a breakdown into each cusine along with full recommendations. Koh Phi Phi offers a wide variety of culinary delights, let’s face it, we are driven by food and here are just a few of the varied selections available. From succulent steak to sweet chilli roasted pork to Mac N Cheese Carbonara, there really is something here for everyone and this writer can honestly say that she only had just the one poor meal in months! Want to see more foods of the world? Check out our new instagram – Backpacks and Bistros! From the delightful snack stalls that populate a lot of the paths of Koh Phi Phi offering simple treats like Roti and pizza slices to the larger restaurants with menus that resemble a medium size book I can pretty much guarantee Koh Phi Phi will not dissapoint. Standout venues for me would be: Patcharee French Bakery: Located just down from the pier where the prices are not unreasonable considering the portions and quality of food. Fodo types include Thai, Italian, French, Breakfast and various random western dishes. Closing time is usually 5PM Mamas: At the bottom of the steps to Viewpoint 1 is a very small restaurant that offers some of the best Thai food at a fantastic price, the owners are so friendly and the whole venue emits a homely, traditional vibe. I can not in all honestly say anything negative about this place. Open 9am – 9pm Annas: A welcoming restaurant with a host of friendly staff which can be found around the corner from the pier. Offering a good range of foods including German, British and Thai. Their steak is to die for and coming from the UK I honestly was delighted to have a taste of home with sausages, mashed potato and gravy. Open till 10pm daily Rosyinom: Just down from the pier is a cute restaurant serving predominantly Thai food. Best time to visit at night as their is usually live music and their food is absolutely amazing especially if you like spicy food as their thai dishes can be made to pretty much every level of spice required and still be delicious. Would defintely recommend their smash burger and they were branching out into Taco Tuesdays. Open till late Nature Koh Phi Phi town has a lot of venues to satsify a lot of people but from my experience I find it is easy for people to stay around the town and rarely explore further afield. Phi Phi has an amazing natural landscape once away from the town. Take a stroll down Viking Beach and beyond – You come across a side of Phi Phi that is much more relaxed and quiet. The beauty of Koh Phi Phi is that it is small enough to walk across in a couple of hours right through to the other side where you come to Phi Phi village – A much smaller settlement that definitely feels more like traditional thailand. The walk to the village is of a medium difficulty so remember to take plenty of water. The journey is an experience that is simply fantastic, little paths widing through the jungle – we stumbled across a cool buddhist type statue on route and saw some luscious scenery timing the return trip via the viewpoints where we could even see the milky way galaxy! Staring at the infinite expanse of Space is one of my personal Phi Phi highlights Surrounding areas If we consider Koh Phi Phi Don is the main island there several small islands that surround it. Koh Phi Phi Lee is the next largest island next to Phi Phi Don, it does not have any hotels or inhabitants but is easily reachable via boat. Home to Pi Leh Bay, Viking Cave and the infamous Maya Bay this tiny island is a sure stop on the travels and visited every year by thousands and thousands. There is a good reason for this – Pi Leh Bay offers a secluded place to kayak and swim, sheltered from the main sea and beautiful in nature. Just outside of the bay offers some beautiful spots to snorkel and dive with a wide range of tropical fish and sea life to observe. Viking Cave tells a fantastic story of the islands history, learn about the origins of birds nest soup and why there are canes reaching all the way to the top of the cliffs next to this intriguing landmark, sadly you cannot enter the cave but even from the outside it is an intriguing place to observe and consider the events that took place. For those of you similar to myself that are SCUBA divers the waters around this entire area usually offer great visibility and sealife that we sometimes dream about. I write more about this in my SCUBA review of Koh Phi Phi detailing my experiences under the waves in this area. Maya Bay is probably the jewel of the crown that is Koh Phi Phi, originally a filming location for the iconic film – The Beach, tourists flock to this beautiful detination to witness the stunning blue waters and clean white sand that makes this location the perfect vision of a beach paradise. If you are lucky you will spot a baby shark in the waters here but sadly you cannot swim in the sea here. The downside of tourism is it can have an impact on the surrounding environment and this affected the presence of reef sharks in this area, the coral was being damaged and overal the habitat for animals was impacted in such a way the Thai authorities imposed restrictions on this landmark. The rest of the islands of this group consist of Koh Bida Nok, Koh Bida Nai, Koh Phai (Bamboo Island), and Koh Young (Mosquito Island). Bamboo Island is absolutely tiny but the only other island in which you can easily stand on, it is a common stop on the boat tours and has a seating area. Bamboo Island for me was simply amazing and for those that love the quiet and catching some rays be sure to check this out. An aerial view of Pi Leh Bay and the waters around Viking Cave Conclusion Koh Phi Phi has seen massive development in recent years, from the tsunami of 2004 it has been rebuilt stronger than ever offering a huge variety of things to do. Whilst it does get rather busy in the high season (December-February) there are plenty of places to escape the crowds. The strong amount of tourism here is the reason there is so much variety in cuisine and activities seen here. It has a little something for everyone which is what makes me fall in love with this tiny yet alive island in the Andaman sea.... How to get to Phi Phi Islands in 2023 – The ultimate guideOctober 30, 2022Asia / Beach & Island / Guides / Thailand / TutorialsThe Phi Phi islands of Thailand offer stunning scenery, gorgeous food, and a chance to let your hair down, this collection of six islands is a dream for pretty much everyone, no matter if you are catching some rays or the adventurous type who loves a hike. Exploring these islands should be on everyone’s bucket list and this article will explain how to get to Phi Phi Islands in 2022. by Jessica Dale Reading Time: 5 minutes The Phi Phi islands are located approximately 43km (26.7 miles) off the coast of Krabi in southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea. Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest island of this archipelago, it is also the only place that has accommodations, restaurants, bars, etc so will likely be the primary destination when visiting. Want to see why the Phi Phi islands are so special? Read our article here. So how exactly do you get to phi phi? You may be thinking that getting to the Phi Phi islands could be quite a challenge, they do not have an airport and the only way to access is via boat but you can travel to these glorious islands very easily and the companies involved make it extremely easy to do. There are several locations in which the ferries operate and several ferries to choose from even in low season! Ferries run from Phuket, Krabi, and more recently Bundhaya Beach in Koh Lipe. Arriving at Phi Phi by ferry can be such a relaxing experience Phi Phi Entry Points Koh Phi Phi Don has two main entry points. The main one is in the south of the island called Ton Sai Pier. This pier is located next to the main town and where the majority of accommodation is located. The second dock is located at Laem Tong Beach in the much quieter part of the island to the north. There is some accommodation at this point so be sure to check which entry point you need to arrive at. It is a very long walk from one end of the island to the other! How to Get to Phi Phi From Phuket Getting to Phi Phi islands from Phuket is relatively straightforward, there is only one main departure point which is Rassada Pier located to the south of Old Town, Phuket. There are two main options: Ferry and Speedboat. The speedboat is by far the quicker option taking just 1 hour whereas the ferry takes double that time, however, is usually a much cheaper cost than the speedboat and is a much gentler ride. As of the time of writing the one-way prices from Rassada Pier to Phi Phi Don are: Boat TypeApprox Travel TimeFrom – ToPriceFerry2 HoursDeparture Pier :Phuket (Rassada Pier)Arrival Pier :Phi Phi Don (Ton Sai Pier)Phi Phi Don (Laem Tong Beach)from 450 THBSpeedboat1 HourDeparture Pier :Phuket (Rassada Pier)Arrival Pier :Phi Phi Don (Ton Sai Pier)Phi Phi Don (Laem Tong Beach) from 850 THB Book your ferry from phuket to Koh Phi Phi Get from Phuket International Airport to Rassada Pier, Phuket Phuket airport is located quite a long way from Rassada pier and the trip takes approximately one hour. The best methods to get here will usually be via either a shared shuttle bus, private transfer, or taxi. If you look at the baggage claim area you will notice several tour operator booths. You can approach them on the day or it can sometimes be cheaper to pre-book your transfers. This can be done here. How to Get to Phi Phi from Krabi There are two main piers to choose from in Krabi town. The first one is called Klong Jilad Pier and is the most common departure point for the ferry which takes approx 2 hours to get to the Phi Phi islands. The second pier is the Krabi River Marina/Kong Ka Pier which is where most of the speedboats depart from although there are one or two speedboats that depart from Klong Jilad. There is a third departure point although this is not from Krabi town however if you are already in the area of Railay Beach there is a floating pier at East Railay that has a speedboat that takes just 30 minutes. This is useful only if you are in the area as although East Railay is in the Krabi province it is actually 18km away from Krabi Town. Here are the rough prices for each one-way journey: Boat TypeApprox Travel TimeFrom – ToPriceFerry2 HoursDeparture Pier :Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier)Arrival Pier :Phi Phi Don (Ton Sai Pier)from 450 THBSpeedboat1 Hour (East Railay- 30 mins)Departure Pier :Krabi (Kong Ka Pier)East Railay Floating PierKlong Jilad PierArrival Pier :Phi Phi Don (Ton Sai Pier)Phi Phi Don (Laem Tong Beach from Klong Jilad Pier only) from 850 THB Book your ferry from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi Getting from Krabi International Airport to the correct pier Shuttle Bus: When you first arrive at Krabi International Airport you will leave the baggage claim area and to your left will immediately notice a group of people trying to get your attention. I usually would suggest the company with the red shirts due to personal experience. The shuttle bus is cheap (Around 150 THB) for each person and is definitely an option if time is not critical. Note that the bus will wait outside until it is full so keep this in mind. If you are going to Klong Jilad Pier the shuttle bus will likely drop you at the tour office in Krabi Town where they will ask when your ferry time is. My advice on this route is sometimes you may have to wait 1-2 hours at the tour office so you may as well kick back, get some food and enjoy. They will then take you in another shuttle bus to the pier in time (Usually they set off 30-45 mins before) Private Taxi: If time is a critical factor and/or you want a private journey then a taxi is the way to go. It will cost you approx 500THB but will take you from point A to point B and can be the better option if you are traveling as a group. How to get to Phi Phi from Koh Lipe The best way to get to Koh Phi Phi from Koh Lipe is usually by ferry or speedboat. It is possible to get a ferry to the mainland and then travel by van to Krabi or Phuket but this will be a long journey involving multiple transfers. Going via the water is more direct and takes approximately 4 hours. This can be slightly longer as some boats may stop at Koh Lanta. Boat TypeApprox Travel TimeFrom – ToPriceFerry / Speedboat4 Hours – 4 Hours, 30 MinDeparture Pier :Koh Lipe (Bundhaya Beach)Arrival Pier :Phi Phi Don (Ton Sai Pier)from 1,950 THB Book your ferry from KOh Lipe to Koh Phi Phi Conclusion In this article, we have covered the main routes to get to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lipe. As you can see there are a variety of ways to travel to this beautiful location. Hopefully, this useful guide can help make your journey easier.... Explore the Iconic Street Art of Penang – A Expert 2023 GuideDecember 25, 2022Asia / City / Guides / MalaysiaOff the northwest coast of Malaysia is the island of Penang. George Town is the capital of Penang and is known for murals and other art installations. These works are contributions from both local and international artists and are great fun to explore for a day or two. This guide provides tips to successfully explore the street art of Penang. by Jessica Dale Reading Time: 7 minutes George Town – A Brief History George Town’s history dates all the way back to the 18th century and was founded by Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company. Captain Light arrived in Penang during 1786 and created a settlement, named after King George III from England – George Town was originally a trading post for the British East India Company but soon grew to be a major trading port exporting tin and rubber mainly amongst other commodities. In the 19th century GeorgeTown received a lot of immigration from countries including China, India and middle eastern nations who came to trade in the area. This influence can be seen all over Penang even as you walk around today. The architecture and unique culture of this local area are what make Penang amazing. Over the 20th century George Town has had several key developments and changes, from Japanese control to gaining its independence from the British to suffering an economic decline in the late 80’s/90’s and even early 2,000’s. George Town has revitalised significantly as we have ventured deeper into the 21st century. The interesting thing about George Town is that it has only become an art-centric hub in the past 15 years. In 2008 it was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site and it wasn’t until 2009 that George Town received its first art project. The project was called Making George Town and consisted of metal-worked sculptures in a cartoon-style depiction, these still exist all over George Town today and are great fun to find them as you wander the streets. Following on from this first art project George Town has seen several other successful projects focusing on a variety of subjects and causes. From the lives of the local people to raising awareness of stray animals. George Town has seen some incredible artists contribute to this location and has become the art hub of Malaysia. Prominent Works of George Town and Where to Find Them As you saunter through the streets of George Town you will be hard pressed to miss the large amounts of artworks here but here are some of the more prominent works and where they can be found. The Best Known Artworks Little Children on a Bicycle “Little Children on a Bicycle” by Ernest Zacharevic This piece is done by Ernest Zacharevic and is one of two murals located on Armenian Street as part of the Mirrors George Town project in 2012. The mural depicts a little boy being taken on a bicycle ride by his older sister and brings a lovely element of joy to this street. Boy on a Bike “Boy on Bike” by Ernest Zacharevic Another piece by Ernest Zacharevic – this mural depicts a little boy on a motorcycle watching the traffic passing by on the street. Located on Ah Quee Street in Georgetown this artwork is next to the “Little Boy with Pet Dinosaur” piece also by Ernest Zacherevic. The Real Bruce Lee Would Never Do This “The Real Bruce Lee Would Never Do This” by Artists Against Stray Animals Located between Ah Quee Street and Beach Street this artwork may require a bit of searching to find it. The mural depicts Bruce Lee kicking two stray cats and was painted by the Artists Against Stray Animals (ASA) group. It is designed to help raise awareness about the large amount of stray animals in the city. For Walking Further “For Walking Further” by Julia Volchkova Located on the popular and bustling Love Lane. This artwork is by an artist who is no stranger to Penang. This piece by Julia Volchkova depicts a street busker with the sign “For walking further”. Little Boy with Pet Dinosaur Mural “Little Boy With Pet Dinosaur” by Ernest Zacharevic Another piece by Ernest Zacharevic – this mural depicts a little boy holding onto a leash attached to a children’s drawing of a dinosaur. Located on Ah Quee Street in Georgetown this artwork is next to the “Boy on Bike” piece – positioned perfectly so the two artworks compliment each other. Children on the Swing “Children on the Swing” by Louis Gan In an alleyway off Chulia Street lies a well known piece by a local artist named Louis Gan. The piece contains two children (Assumed to be brother and sister) on a swing next to a road sign (also part of the work) called Step by “Step Lane” An Army of Chinese Cats “An Army of Chinese Cats” by Unknown Artist Found on Beach Street this depiction shows an army of cats holding a variety of objects with Chinese cultural indications. It is unsure on who the artist of this mural is but it certainly makes for an interesting piece. Pieces to Spot as you Walk Around As well as enjoying the well known artworks I personally find the very best thing about Georgetown being the street art capital of Malaysia is that art can be found pretty much everywhere! Various Pieces from the Making George Town Project Across the city you will find various installations involving metal steel rods formed as cartoon style characters. These are found in a lot of different locations so keep an eye out and see how many you can spot. We especially loved walking through the bustling streets of Little India, these sculptures can be found in even the most obscure places which means trying to find them leads you down roads, checking behind buildings, looking both up to the tops of buildings and in the arches. The interactive nature of this project is truly fantastic. New Artworks George Town is a forever expanding, evolving and changing canvas, from the work done over the last 15 years it serves to attract new talent. Some of the original murals may have faded but new ones are popping up regularly. The Artists Behind the Works of George Town, Penang Over the years, George Town has seen a variety of artists contribute to its increasing art scene. The artworks seen in this amazing city are from local and international artists of which are: Ernest Zacharevic http://www.ernestzacharevic.com/ A talented artist from Lithuania commissioned to create Mirrors George Town. This project helped put Penang on the map. The Mirrors project depicted the lives of local people and featured 6 works. Zacharevic’s works are perhaps the most publicised works in George Town. Artists for Stray Animals Tang Yeok Khang and Louise Low from Malaysia combined their efforts with Natthaton Muangkliang from Thailand to form the group named “Artists for Stray Animals” – These artists have contributed towards many works in George Town including a project named 101 Lost Kittens. The works of ASA have been joined over the years with several unknown artists contributing and adding their works to George Town. Louis Gan Louis Gan is a local freelance artist who is both deaf and mute. He is self-taught and prefers to use watercolours and acrylics. He is best known for the mural – Children on the Swing. Julia Volchkova https://volchkovaart.com/ Russian born artist Julia Volchkova captures the soul in her artworks of George Town, her works focus on the roots of local culture and was originally drawn to the location as part of the Urban Xchange: Crossing Over project “The Boat Man” by Julia Volchkova Conclusion While I wish I could detail exactly where to find all of the pieces there are new pieces appearing on a consistent basis so I can advise to go for a wander in the popular areas detailed in this article. There are some of the popular ones but I personally found it to be more fun to see this article for myself and be surprised. I hope this article has helped give an insight into what George Town in Penang has to offer, we had a fantastic day of exploring. It was fantastic for keeping fit as well as discovering some amazing works by some very talented artists. If you’re looking for another amazing experience in this cultural hub of a city – read our review on the Penang Upside Down Museum, it really does go to show that perspective is absolutely everything!... Rainbow Lodge Review – A Great budget accommodation in LangkawiJanuary 16, 2023Asia / Beach & Island / Malaysia / Travel ReviewsTrawling through the booking apps to find accommodation to suit is exhausting. Who knows what the actual accommodation will be like but Rainbow Lodge did not disappoint. We spent a month there to see how this budget to mid range option stands the test of time. by Jessica Dale Our Rating Reading Time: 6 minutes Top 6 Insta360 Cameras Rainbow Lodge, Langkawi Rainbow Lodge is located in the Pentai Cenang area of Langkawi, it boasts a varied range of accommodation options to suit pretty much any weary traveler. It offers accommodation types including budget backpacker dorm rooms, private budget rooms, small chalets and bungalows. Rainbow Lodge is not a luxury paradise but is works as a long term option. Location of Rainbow Lodge The first thing you notice if walking to Rainbow Lodge is the small stretch of road leading through a rural setting to get to it. If you approach from the Jalan Pentai Chenang direction, the fields are on the right and are teeming with wildlife and the faint moo of a yak heard from a field further in the distance. This stretch of road is important because this is not only the main road to get to Rainbow Lodge, it is also the road you are likely to walk down and see the lighting flashes in the clouds far far above on a warm winter’s night. Accommodation is not just about the room after all. Speaking of location, Rainbow Lodge is perfectly situated within a short walk of the main center of Cenang (pronounced Che-nang) and as such only minutes away from the bustling scene. It is the perfect location of peace and quiet when you need it and the convenience of the action close by. The main night market of Cenang is also only a few moments walk away which is held weekly on a Thursday. First Impressions Rainbow Lodge as a whole is split into 2 main sections. This can be confusing at first when you arrive only to be informed you are at Rainbow Lodge Budget instead of Rainbow Lodge. RL Budget is predominantly dormitories and as the name suggests – budget basic rooms. Head up to the next turning and although part of the same business – Rainbow Lodge (Also known as Rainbow Lodge 101) operates a different reception. After finding the correct reception we were shown to the room, a semi-detached chalet with a hammock outside, the area was peaceful and you could picture yourself spending a lot of time relaxing in that hammock enjoying the 30°C (86°F) November heat of Malaysia. Entering the chalet, you are greeted to a rather large room. A larger than usual television, fridge and small table to the left. To the right a secondary yet un-needed single bed. Straight ahead was a standard size double bed. A small vanity table to the back of the room with perhaps the smallest almost comedic stool next to a wardrobe. The decor was rather plain and uninspired but bright. The bathroom featured a bath (albeit quite small but still useful) and in this part of the world the rare commodity of TWO rolls of toilet paper! After a quick shuffle of the furniture – This was home for the next month. Positive Aspects of Rainbow Lodge Rainbow Lodge is by no means luxury accommodation but this is not what we are here for. With that in mind let’s take a look at what things Rainbow Lodge is amazing for: Peaceful Area and Quiet This cannot be stressed enough, we have stayed in accommodation which doesn’t benefit from this quality and it has been sorely missed. Rainbow Lodge is in a great area and in the entire month of staying there, sleep was disturbed just the once by a huge downpour of rain. Rarely could other people even in the chalet next door be heard. Stable Internet Anyone that reads our articles knows the importance we stress on having consistent and fast internet. This allows us to do what we do and is essential in many things you do and use. Rainbow Lodge not only offers great WiFi speeds and coverage but the 4G speeds are great here too. For the entire month the internet didn’t fault once. From our experience with other accommodation in Langkawi, this is an extreme rarity so should be coveted. Rainbow Lodge offers traditional WiFi which is to say – you get the password and connect to the network. Nice and simple without any additional login screens. Why is this important? Any of you tech savvy people out there travelling with a Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire Stick – this will work here! Bathtub Considering a lot of budget/midrange accommodation rarely comes with a bathtub we think this is definitely a positive for this accommodation. There’s nothing quite like a good soak after a day’s activities, especially when those activities include taking on the Thousand Memories Eagle stairs of Gunung Raya! Price Point Rainbow Lodge is priced around 70-100RM ($15 – $20) per night depending on the season. As a member of the budget category, We can say it’s definitely worth that price. Having stayed in other accommodations in Langkawi that costs a lot more and returned much less value for money Close by Bar with Pool Table This is quite honestly one of the best features about this accommodation. In one of the sections of Rainbow Lodge Budget is the Rainbow Lodge bar. This bar attracts everyone from locals to back packers and is a fantastic spot to meet new people and mix with folks from all over the world! The bar itself offers cheap drinks and a free pool table. Anybody who knows us understands the importance of a free pool table that is actually level and great fun to share a game over a drink with someone new! Klook.com The Negative Aspects of Rainbow Lodge Rainbow Lodge has a good amount of positives but like most accommodation- it’s not perfect. There are some aspects we think could be worth knowing especially when considering a longer term stay here. Cleaning Schedule When we first checked in we were informed that cleaning is only done once weekly. In our month-long stay we found we had to request cleaning otherwise they would forget. This issue only really affects those staying longer term and the reception staff are quite friendly but are not always there so it can be a bit of a game trying to find them. Rubbish can be left outside and will be removed accordingly (we were only informed this on week 2 however). Only a minor inconvenience but certainly one that is worth your consideration should you wish to stay over a week. Tin Roof When Raining Of course, depending on when you visit Langkawi rain can be a crucial factor. This issue only presents itself when it downpours, the roof of the chalets in Rainbow Lodge is a tin-like roof and as such when it rains very heavily you can barely hear yourself think. This only happened twice but one of those times was in the early hours of the morning and thus disturbed our much-needed beauty sleep. We were not happy. The Sliding Bed with an Uncomfortable Headboard This negative is probably our biggest gripe with Rainbow Lodge! The mattress on the bed was not overly attached to the base and as you can imagine it was all fun and games pushing the mattress back to the headboard frequently. Speaking of headboard, it was a faux leather style with solid pieces of wood running through the center. We found this particularly uncomfortable when sitting upright in bed. A pillow resolved this issue but it is definitely worth mentioning. Conclusion Rainbow Lodge delivers above-average for the price point for Langkawi accommodation, sure it has a few negative aspects but we have yet to find a perfect accommodation. With its local bar only metres away from the chalets and the quiet (and safe) area Rainbow Lodge is the perfect accommodation for anyone looking to stay both short and long term. We thoroughly enjoyed this quaint little site and after staying in a good amount of places in this area of Langkawi – we can honestly say this is the best of the bunch. We booked Rainbow Lodge through Hotels.com which has a brilliant rewards program as they reward a free night for every 10 nights stayed, Click this link here to book Rainbow Lodge for your next Langkawi stay.... Seeking Accommodation – Basic Checks and Best Advice For Warm ClimatesDecember 17, 2022Asia / Digital Nomad / Guides / Malaysia / Thailand / VietnamIt’s easy to jump onto any old booking site and go for the cheap and cheerful option but when it comes to seeking accommodation in a warmer climate, it’s worth taking a moment to consider a few factors that could make your stay a lot more comfortable. Below we have highlighted some of the most important things we have learned in our reservation and accommodation experience. by Jake Roswell Reading Time: 6 minutes Filters are your friend When Seeking Accommodation Most if not all of the big name booking sites have a comprehensive filter selection that can help you tailor your perfect trip, but some options you may take for granted are in there too and should not be neglected. If you’re not one to share bathroom facilities this is a key one to look out for, as the descriptions can be missing these nuggets of information. Important ones to keep in mind are ‘free Wi-Fi’, some establishments offer this in communal spaces only. ‘Facilities for disabled guests’, not always a given around the world and the older the hotel the more chance you have of running into problems. If the room you are booking is in a shared property, this is largely a concern to be found on Airbnb but always worth thinking of, if a room looks a little too cheap to believe (even with great reviews) this could be the case. Reviews Be them comprehensive, one worded or just a thumbs up. User reviews are the main weapon of choice when it comes to picking your abode abroad, and some sites also enable reviewers to upload their own photos which can tell the story of a thousand words. Something to consider while getting a consensus from the masses is that the dark times of Covid 19 have left a black spot in the running narrative of user reviews. If you like to base your choice on not just the first one or two. If you’re looking to see what people are saying about something specific such as the quality of the Wifi, reviews can suddenly jump from the present to way back in 2019 and further. What was offered then may not be anymore and lots of places have yet to fully recover and or will have undergone remedial works in the meantime, so before you disappear down the rabbit hole of reviews keep one eye on the date posted. When Seeking Accommodation always Inspect the Room Photos Aside from the general look and feel of the hotel, the photos are a fantastic tool to inspect the details of the room but it is always wise to double check the validity of the photo. Is there a photo filter applied to make the pool look that bit bluer? Is the brightness pushed up to make the dim room look bright? Has the photo been taken with a fish eye lens? As well as the booking sites it is good practice to check Google reviews and photos from real people. They tell a better story of the real world experience than somebody with a fancy camera and a good photo editor. Next check the contents of the room photos and use them. They may mention a TV in the description but is it a modern one or a classic CRT? Is the air conditioning unit right above your bed? Why is the mini fridge doubling up as the bedside table? As most hotels now offer a plethora of photo documentation of what they have to offer, you can get as good a scoop on the facilities as much as the reviews and see for yourself if things are up to date. Location, Location, Location You’ve found the ideal hotel with a cheap room and all the extras you could ever want! But on arrival you have the unpleasant surprise of it being next to a nuclear fallout zone. A bit extreme but the point is if you do set your heart on a hotel do some extra research outside of the booking site on the area in which it is located, local history and current affairs. There may be a Facebook page for the area or even just throwing the name into google and seeing what info comes up in the news feed is a good shout. Some types of accommodation can be miles from anywhere, they can be in the middle of a field and therefore more prone to bugs and insects, the location of accommodation is definitely something you need to be aware of when booking. Air Conditioning Quite possibly the number one thing to look for when seeking accommodation in a warm climate. As a rule, you will find a good amount of places will have air conditioning units installed and listed in the amenities but there are a fair amount that still operate with just fans only. Fan only rooms can have free standing fans or ceiling ones which (we have found out from experience) are manageable for a couple of days but any longer and you can become somewhat sticky to say the least. Even if the aircon is listed in the description of the room you’re looking at, it’s always good practice to inspect the room photos to get an idea of the age of the unit just in case. Amenities When Seeking Accommodation Other than the basics, ask yourself: What is it that I want from the room?What are my daily habits and does the accommodation include the amenities I need? As an example you may like to make yourself a morning coffee – In our experience not every room comes with a kettle. It’s such a small thing but can be super inconvenient to have to run to the nearest coffee shop every morning just for the sake of a kettle. These little things are very easy to miss. Even with glowing reviews, if people do not have the same requirements as you – you can find yourself coming up short. Common amenities I would personally suggest looking for when seeking accommodation: Kettle – For the morning coffeePower outlets by the bed – To charge phones, tablets and other devicesNumber if power outlets in generalAdditional seating in the room or outsideThe presence of a window and/or view- This is not always stated or guaranteed. (As we found out one time in Phuket, Thailand where the curtain opened to view a solid concrete wall). Bugs By their nature, warmer climate countries have an abundance of creepy crawlies that will be delightful for you to meet when making your morning coffee. One to look out for in south east Asia especially are ants, both small and large. If you are keeping food or tea and coffee in your room we strongly recommend keeping these in air tight sealed bags and off any surfaces in the open as these pesky critters are extremely resourceful when it comes to getting into anything they want. I still mourn a pack of noodles I was looking forward to before discovering it had become an ant farm. Encounters with bugs are almost inevitable but the amount can be down to luck, we have stayed in bungalows with a garden in a semi rural environment and seen few then been on the third floor of a hotel and seen many. Type of Accommodation Accommodation types vary wildly. Some are little more than somebody’s house where others can be glitzy resorts with pools and gyms. Some can be treehouses and others are basically an amusement park with noise 24/7. The point I am making is that before hitting that book it now button always check who the main audience is in the hotel. An example of the importance of this would be:You like to swim and you book a hotel with a pool and you prefer a quieter environment. On arrival it looks more like a water park, there’s a constant noise of people and the pools are always crowded. The moral of the story is that It’s advisable to double check what kind of hotel you’re going to be stopping in, user reviews are always a good indicator for this as you may not always tell from the booking site description.... The Best Things to do in Koh Phi Phi, ThailandOctober 30, 2022Asia / Beach & Island / ThailandKoh Phi Phi is a lively place with plenty of fun things to do but how do we choose? It really depends on your interests and personality but in this article we will explain the best things to do in Koh Phi Phi broken down by type of activity. Active Things to do in koh phi phi water-based things to do in koh phi phi Koh Phi Phi is of course an island and as such surround by gorgeous turquoise waters. What better way to spend your time than to take advantage of the amazing water based activities this island offers. Kayak to Monkey Beach / Nui Beach If you head to Loh Dalum Beach you will see various locals renting kayaks. For around 300 THB ($8) you can rent a 2 person kayak for 2 hours. From here you can head to Monkey Beach and/or Nui Beach. Note that it is a good idea to check the tide before planning your trip as Monkey Beach is best at lower tides. Also if you are heading to Monkey beach be careful not to take food, the monkeys here are not all that friendly so be careful. The waters around Nui Beach are fantastic for snorkelling as they are quite shallow. For our full guide to Kayaking on Koh Phi Phi see our in-depth article here: Scuba Diving From stunning coral reefs to exotic sealife – The waters around Koh Phi Phi offer impressive visibilty and the dive spots are next level. It is easy to see why there are so many dive schools dotted around the main town. No matter your dive level or experience the diving here accomodates for all. In fact it was here that I completed my SSI Open Water certification with Phi Phi Sea Frog Diving Center and I cannot recommend them highly enough. As with any dive you can never guarantee what you will see but from my experience in 3 dives I saw reef sharks, stingrays, an eagle ray, puffer fish, squid, leopard sharks and so much more. It was amazing to see the little Nemos swimming amongst the corals.... Europe EuropeCycling from Cardiff to Brecon – The Taff TrailDecember 16, 2022Environment / Europe / Lakes and Mountains / United KingdomWhether you are visiting the area or a local- the Taff Trail in South Wales, UK offers spectacular countryside, quaint villages, endless trees and countless photo spots. Traversing this route on a bicycle is the best way to see what this route has to offer and enjoy the outdoors. by Jessica Dale Difficulty Rating Reading Time: 4 minutes Mapped route of the Taff Trail Location of the Taff Trail The Taff Trail starts in Cardiff, Wales and runs some 55 miles (88km) up to the Brecon Brecons National Park. Aptly named as it follows the River Taff for the most part of the route.No matter where you start, the Taff Trail surely does not disappoint.The total time to complete should take between 4-7 hours depending on your level of fitness. The trail passes through the small towns of Taff’s Well, Tongwynlais, Pontypridd, Abercynon, Merthyr Vale, Merthyr Tydfil, Pencelli and finally ending at Brecon. The crowded areas of the route are mostly around Cardiff, Pontypridd and Methyr Tydfil leaving the rest of the Taff trail rather uncrowded leaving just you and nature. You will pass several bridges and landmarks on the river The Different Sections of the Taff Trail The Taff trail is easiest in the areas around Cardiff, the route is pretty flat right up to Tongwynlais with no hills which makes for a great leisurely ride for those not wanting to take on a steep incline. Keep in mind that due to the proximity to Cardiff city there are more people on the path but for the most part the folk of Wales are a friendly bunch. Heading further up into the welsh valleys the scenery and views of the river provide a fantastic aesthetic, the path is quiet and as you pass through the small towns and villages the people become super friendly. The route does divert through some streets around Pontypridd which can be a little confusing but keep following the blue signposts and you can’t go far wrong. Approaching Abercynon and Merthyr Vale from the Cardiff side of the Taff Trail be sure to keep a close watch for signposts (and Google Maps) to keep on route as the path seems to turn into a dirt track, followed by a confusing fork. Be sure to head left here as heading right (Which the signpost suggests) takes you over a main road up a super steep hill that has pretty much no sign posting indicating this is likely an error but works as an alternate route heading the same direction. As you get to Merthyr Tydfil the trail becomes very difficult to follow through the town but making it through and up into the Brecon Beacons the trail is easier to follow albeit contains some interesting hills. Take time to enjoy the fresh garlic among other flora Prep List There are plenty of small shops between Cardiff and PontyPridd but afterwards amenities become rather sparse. If you are attempting this route from start to finish by cycle I would suggest taking the following items: 2-3 Litres water (4L if it is a warm day)Fully charged mobile phoneSome snack and/or foodPuncture repair kitBike Lights Whilst the Taff trail is rather smooth and well maintained for the majority of the route there are areas where the terrain can be quite rough and sometimes there can be glass or sharp sticks on the floor so a puncture repair kit is essential as it is a long way to push the bike if you catch a flat tire between Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil as an example. The route features some great architecture For those desiring a more carefree ride it is best to advise that if you are starting off in Cardiff you may want to go only as far as Tongwynlais, the path up to this point is all off road, flat and still offers a comfortable, mid range ride with plenty of viewpoints including the Blackweir Bridge, Llandaff Weir and Radyr Weir. As you can see the Taff Trail offers something for everyone. If you are visiting South Wales anytime in the future (or even if you are a local) bring a bike and give it a go. Even if you don’t own a bike, there are plenty in the city centre available on a pay as you ride basis, you can’t miss them and this trail is perfect to get closer to nature.... Experience the Magic of Skógafoss – Ultimate Guide in 2023December 23, 2022Europe / Iceland / Lakes and MountainsIf travelling to Iceland I honestly recommend visiting Skógafoss. As one of the world’s most iconic waterfalls, this impressive landmark should be included on anybody’s itinerary. by Jessica Dale Reading Time: 3 minutes Located in the Skóga Valley in the South of Iceland and stands at a height of over 200 feet – Skógafoss is fed by the Skógá River and even though it is high it is also wide. The most amazing feature for this waterfall in my opinion was the rainbow that was formed from the cascading water as it plummeted to the bottom. Of course the best way to visit this amazing natural beauty is to rent a car which gives you the freedom of choosing when and where you go but if you are simply looking for a no hassle trip to this beautiful part of Iceland I can personally recommend the full day south coast tour which features a long stop at Skógafoss among plenty of the other locations along this southern route. It is quite easy to be able to walk quite close to the base if you want to feel the crispness of the water and is an experience like no other. The water is quite deafening as it thunders to the ground and you can feel a slight vibration under your feet. The location of Skógafoss in the South of Iceland Getting the Most out of Your Trip to Skógafoss If you want to make the most of your trip here I would suggest the follow advice: Try to get There Early Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most popular landmarks and as such attracts a lot of visitors. The summer months are when the crowds are at their highest so if you are travelling in that time then it is definitely something to remember. If you want those amazing photos without other people, aim to get there at first light. Explore the Surrounding Area Depending on how you get to Skógafoss will mean you could have a good amount of time to explore the surrounding area. This water is located in the Skóga Valley, it is worth getting off the beaten track and exploring the other natural beauties here. It is great for a cheap day out and will provide a more in-depth trip without breaking the bank. Walk up the Stairs At the side of Skógafoss is a set of stairs, I noticed that I was one of few people who actually ventured up these on my visit, the stairs are not overly steep and quite easy to make it to the top. The view from the top is breathtaking and allows a different perspective of the waterfall. Viewing the waterfall from a different perspective Wear Appropriate Footwear As I mentioned earlier it is quite easy to get to the base of Skógafoss but as you can imagine it can be quite slippery. Hiking boots or some good sturdy, waterproof shoes are the best footwear for this especially when climbing the stairs too. Iceland can become quite cold so you really don’t want to end up with wet feet. Remember Your Phone/Camera Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most popular landmarks, by ensuring you have some form of camera with you (be it phone or dedicated) you are sure to take some fantastic memories with you and will surely be a great feature for your Instagram or other social media. Hopefully you now know a little bit more about this gorgeous natural landmark. It is one of the most memorable waterfalls you can ever visit. Iceland has a reputation for being quite expensive but Iceland also offers a plethora of free, natural activities that will help you keep the costs down on your next visit....
