COMPLETE LIST OF VISA-FREE COUNTRIES FOR PHILIPPINES PASSPORT HOLDER (AND VISA ON ARRIVALS) |
||||||||||||||||||
| ASEAN COUNTRIES (VISA FREE FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Brunei Darussalam | 14 Days | free | return/onward ticket | |||||||||||||||
| Cambodia | 21 Days | free | ||||||||||||||||
| Indonesia | 30 Days | free | ||||||||||||||||
| Laos | 30 Days | |||||||||||||||||
| Malaysia | 30 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Myanmar | 14 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Singapore | 30 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Thailand | 30 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Vietnam | 21 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| REST OF ASIA (VISA FREE FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Armenia | VOA at Yerevan Airport maximum of 120 days or better yet, get an e-Visa | Visa payable in local currency only | ||||||||||||||||
| Hong Kong | 14 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Iran | 30 Days but 14 Days at Kish and Qeshm Airport | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Israel | 30 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Kyrgyzstan | 30 Days VOA | hotel vouchers, return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Macau | 30 Days | return/onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds (at least MOP 5000.-) |
||||||||||||||||
| Maldives | 30 Days VOA | hotel vouchers or at least USD
100.-, and also USD 50.- per person per day, return/onward ticket |
||||||||||||||||
| Mongolia | 21 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Nepal | 90 Days VOA | |||||||||||||||||
| Sri Lanka | 30 Days ETA on arrival | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Taiwan | 30 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| AFRICA (VISA FREE & VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| 30 Days VOAFree | ||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Cape Verde Islands | VOA | |||||||||||||||||
| Comoros | 45 Days VOA | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Djibouti | VOA | |||||||||||||||||
| Gambia | 90 Days | return/onward ticket, entry clearance from the Gambian Immigration prior to travel |
||||||||||||||||
| Guinea-Bissau | 90 Days VOA | |||||||||||||||||
| Kenya | 90 Days VOA | $50 for 30 days | return/onward ticket, at least USD 500 | |||||||||||||||
| Madagascar | 90 Days VOA | $27 for 30 days | return/onward ticket | |||||||||||||||
| Mauritius | ||||||||||||||||||
| Morocco | 90 Days | free | return/onward ticket | |||||||||||||||
| Mozambique | 30 Days VOA at Beira, Nampula, Maputo, Pemba, Tete and Vilankulo Airports | $50 for 30 Days Single Entry | return/onward ticket, sufficient funds to support their stay and proof of purpose of visit |
|||||||||||||||
| Rwanda | 90 Days | $50 for 30 days | ||||||||||||||||
| Senegal | 30 Days VOA | official invitation letter, return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Seychelles | 30 Days VOA | return/onward ticket, sufficient
funds (minimum of USD 150.- or equivalent per day), proof of accommodation during stay |
||||||||||||||||
| Tanzania | 30 Days VOA | $50 for 30 days | return/onward ticket | |||||||||||||||
| Togo | 7 Days VOA | return/onward ticket, 3 passport photos | ||||||||||||||||
| Uganda | VOA | $50 for 30 days | return/onward ticket, contact
details of a person or organization in Uganda and an address and phone number of the place of stay in Uganda, proof of the purpose of stay and sufficient funds to cover the stay, d ocuments required for next destination |
|||||||||||||||
| Zambia | E-Visa – Preapproved | $50 | return/onward ticket | |||||||||||||||
| CENTRAL AMERICA (VISA FREE & VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| I will update this list esp for those with a valid tourist visa from Western countries – if you do have it, all countries in Central America are visa-free for you! | ||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Costa Rica | 90 Days | free | return/onward ticket | |||||||||||||||
| Nicaragua | 30 Days VOA | $50 | return/onward ticket, Tourist Card on arrival | |||||||||||||||
| CARIBBEAN (VISA FREE & VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| I
will update this list for Valid Visa Holders of UK, USA, Canada or Schengen
visa! Most of the countries in the Caribbean will also allow you to stay for up to 48 hours visa free if you will be going on a Cruise ship! |
||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Haiti | 90 Days | return/onward ticket, an address (place of stay) in Haiti | ||||||||||||||||
| EUROPE (VISA FREE & VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| I will update this list for OFWs working in the Middle East/ GCC countries where you get perks to traveling to some countries visa-free because of your residency! | ||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Georgia | E-Visa | return/onward ticket, proof of
health insurance, sufficient funds to cover the stay |
||||||||||||||||
| Kosovo | 15 Days for Schengen Visa Holders | |||||||||||||||||
| Turkey | E-Visa for Schengen, Ireland, UK, and the US residence permit Holders | return/onward ticket, proof of hotel
reservation, documents for next destination |
||||||||||||||||
| OCEANIA/PACIFIC ISLANDS (VISA FREE & VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Cook Islands | 31 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Fiji | 120 Days | return/onward ticket, visitors permit | ||||||||||||||||
| Marshall Islands | 90 Days VOA | |||||||||||||||||
| Micronesia | 30 Days | |||||||||||||||||
| Nauru | return/onward ticket, entry permit (visa letter) | |||||||||||||||||
| Niue | 30 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Palau | 30 Days VOA | proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay (USD 200.- per week), documents required for their next destination |
||||||||||||||||
| Papua New Guinea | 60 Days VOA at Port Moresby and Rabaul Airports | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Samoa | 60 Days Visitor’s Permit on arrival | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Tuvalu | 30 Days VOA | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Vanuatu | 30 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| SOUTH AMERICA (VISA FREE & VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR FILIPINOS) | ||||||||||||||||||
| COUNTRY | VISA STATUS | VISA COST | IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS | |||||||||||||||
| Bolivia | 90 Days | |||||||||||||||||
| Brazil | 90 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Colombia | 90 Days | return/onward ticket, proof of
sufficient funds to cover the stay, confirmed hotel reservation |
||||||||||||||||
| Ecuador | 90 Days | |||||||||||||||||
| Peru | 183 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| Suriname | 90 Days | return/onward ticket | ||||||||||||||||
| REQUIREMENTS COMMON TO VISA APPLICATIONS | ||||||||||||||||||
| Each
country that processes a visa for travelers has a unique set of requirements
for application. However, there are common documents that you must prepare wherever you are hoping to visit. Have these in advance to expedite your application: |
||||||||||||||||||
| A passport valid for at least six months. | ||||||||||||||||||
| IMPORTANT: Check the expiry date of
your passport and count six months backward. For example, if your passport
expires on October 3, 2017, you can only use it for traveling until April 2017. |
||||||||||||||||||
| Previous visas | ||||||||||||||||||
| Filled out visa application form. | ||||||||||||||||||
| QUICK TIP: Check if you can download the form on the website of your destination country or if you can fill it out online. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Passport photos. See any particular specification from the embassy website. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Proof of sufficient financial means. Examples include bank statements, investments, assets, employment contract, or income tax return. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Roundtrip reservation or itinerary including exact dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from your destination country. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Proof of accommodation for the whole duration of intended stay. | ||||||||||||||||||
| A letter of invitation and support, if visiting friends or relatives, as well as contact information of said friends or relatives. | ||||||||||||||||||
| Medical or travel insurance | ||||||||||||||||||
| Payment/ Fees I hope this helps! |
||||||||||||||||||
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Kuala Lumpur, The heart, and Capital of Malaysia is one of the liveliest places I have ever been. Tall buildings, food, people and the interesting historical sites are just a few of the many reasons why you need to visit the country. Many people are scared of getting into the country for some reasons. I tell you now that you should not because you will miss wonderful experiences that only this country can offer.
These are some of my budget travel guides with transportation, accommodation, food and places to visit around the city.
Many of its iconic attractions can be enjoyed without spending a dime. Join me as we navigate through this vibrant city and discover 10 incredible places that didn't cost me a penny.
TRANSPORTATION
Upon arrival, go directly to the express train on the underground level. IF you will be staying around the city center take the Express Train. It is called such because it doesn't have any stop over. It will take roughly 30 minutes to go to the city center. From the city center, it will already be very easy to make your way around. Once you reached the city center, I suggest that you use uber or grab. For some reason, Grab is more popular in this city than Uber so you know the drill.
Price: 13 USD (55 RM)

ACCOMMODATION
There are so many options for accommodations in Malaysia. I suggest that you pre-book your accommodation since walk-in guests will be charged higher. I find booking.com very useful in this case because they have properties that doesn't need credit card to book. Plus they have recently offered guests some discounts for frequent flyers.
I have stayed in Hotel Chinatown 2 for only 12USD.
Again, the best way to book a ticket is to book online!
10 Free Must-Visit Places
1. KLCC Park
Distance from city center: Walking distance from the Petronas Towers
Ease of navigation: Easy, well-signposted
Nestled at the foot of the iconic Petronas Towers, KLCC Park offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Stroll along the beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy the dancing fountain shows, and marvel at the city skyline.
2. Batu Caves
Distance from city center: 11 km (20-minute drive)
Ease of navigation: Easy via train or Grab (ride-hailing app)
A short distance from the city center lies the majestic Batu Caves. Climb the colorful steps to this Hindu temple nestled within limestone caves. The towering golden statue of Lord Murugan is a sight to behold.
3. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
Distance from city center: 7 km (15-minute drive)
Ease of navigation: Easy via Grab or public transport
Discover the art of pewter at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre. Take a free guided tour to learn about the history of pewter craftsmanship and even try your hand at crafting your own piece.
4. Pavilion KL
Distance from city center: In Bukit Bintang, easily accessible by public transport
Ease of navigation: Very easy, located in a central shopping district
For a dose of luxury and window shopping, head to Pavilion KL. This upscale shopping mall is a paradise for those who love to browse high-end stores and indulge in a bit of people-watching.
5. Jalan Alor
Distance from city center: Located in Bukit Bintang, easily accessible
Ease of navigation: Very easy, a famous street known to all locals
Foodies rejoice at Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur's famous food street. Sample an array of local delicacies and street food offerings. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious smells make this a must-visit spot.
6. Jonker Street
Distance from city center: Located in Melaka (about 1.5 hours by bus from KL)
Ease of navigation: Easy via bus or Grab for a day trip
While not in Kuala Lumpur itself, Jonker Street in Melaka is worth the journey. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, lined with antique shops, museums, and vibrant street art.
7. Suria KLCC Mall
Distance from city center: Adjacent to the Petronas Towers
Ease of navigation: Very easy, connected to public transport
Adjacent to the Petronas Towers, Suria KLCC Mall offers not just shopping but also a range of free activities. Catch the dancing fountains outside or visit the art galleries inside.
8. Central Market, KL
Distance from city center: Walking distance from the Petaling Street area
Ease of navigation: Easy, located in a popular tourist district
Immerse yourself in Malaysian culture at Central Market. This historic market offers an array of local handicrafts, batik, and traditional snacks. Don't miss the chance to witness live cultural performances.
9. Petronas Towers
Distance from city center: Located in the heart of KL
Ease of navigation: Very easy, iconic landmark visible from many parts of the city
No visit to Kuala Lumpur is complete without a photo op at the Petronas Towers. While tickets to the Skybridge and observation deck come with a fee, simply marveling at these iconic towers from the ground is a breathtaking experience.
10. Visit Thean Hou Temple
Distance from city center: 7 km (15-minute drive)
Ease of navigation: Easy via Grab or public transport
Perched atop Robson Heights, Thean Hou Temple is a sight to behold. This impressive Chinese temple offers panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into the local Chinese-Malaysian culture.
Exploring Kuala Lumpur on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. From iconic landmarks to cultural treasures, this city has something for every budgetarian traveler. So pack your walking shoes, grab your map (or smartphone), and set off on an adventure through the vibrant streets of KL!
Yes Bes!
Murang Mura lang po talaga sa Thailand. As in sobrang mura! Kaya ewan ko nlang kung may excuse ka pa! Pareho lang po siya almost sa Philippines depende kung anong klaseng traveler ka. Either Tourist - Sosyalin or Backpacker - Cowboy ka! Here is my very matipid tip to your next trip to Thailand.
Day 1: Arrival (4pm)
Meal: Dinner
I am flying from Hanoi so I didn't include the airfare in this guide. So pag land sa Suvarnabhumi, go directly to the Immigration Area. Don't forget to fill - up the immigration form na makikita mo dun sa aisle. Note that sobrang dami ng tourist sa Thailand so mahaba talaga ang pila. Patience is a virtue! Pagkatapos ng immigration, just go straight to the exit and ask sa mga tao dun kung san yung sa Airport Link. Bibili ng ticket, actually token siya. I went to Ratchaparop - the train station nearest to my hostel.

Airport Link - Ratchaparop (Train Station a minute walk from the hostel) = 40 THB (Thai Baht)
Medyo inabot na aq ng almost 7pm sa hostel kasi medyo mahaba pila sa immigration. Pahinga ng slight, ligo and then hanap ng food which is just around the area. Mura lang po pagkain dito 30 - 70 THB lang po. Ang sasarap pa. Spicy but sobrang sarap!
Dinner - 1Meal - 50THB with Coke 9:)
After dinner is naglibot na ako sa malapit na Night Market na parang sa Divisoria so imagine kung gaano ka mura. Namili na aq ng mga pasalubong na keychain and enjoyed a bottle of beer before heading back to my hostel.
Keychain = 25THB 1 Pack Beer = 20 THB
Day 2: Grand Palace and Wat Pho
Meal: Lunch and Dinner
GRAND PALACE
Breakfast is served in the hostel for free. So see? Mura lang talaga. Today will be the main "gala" day! Grand Palace and Wat Pho are the most important destinations sa Bangkok so yun lang yung plano kong pinuntahan. Note that dapat maaga sa Grand Palace kasi sobrang daming tao! I mean sobrang dami! The gate opens at 8am but most of the time open na siya ng 7:30PM so ayun! Sobrang amazing ng Grand Palace so I don't want to spoil nlang and wala aq masyado pics.It will take half day para malibot ang the whole palace! I went there through uber and it is just 100THB.
Note: No Shorts, No sleeveless and NO Short Skirts There are available sarong naman but sayang din ang pambili so better na well - informed.
Mascot Hostel - Golden Palace = 100THB (98.something) UBER x 2
Lunch= 50THB
Golden Palace Entrance Fee + 500THB
WAT PHO
Before heading to Wat Pho, I decided to take a short break for lunch. There are a lot of small restaurants around the area. There are expensive ones and reasonably priced restaurants.After lunch, gora na sa Wat Pho! This is my next stop. WAT PHO. It is just a walking distance from the Golden Palace so lakad-lakad din pag may time. yung mga mahilig mag heels diyan, dios mi. Pag backpacker po wag masyado umarte. Mag tsinelas or kahit anong flats. Wag mag heels! Vietnamese? LolWat Pho is where the leaning Buddha is.
ENTRANCE = 100 THB

KHAOSAN ROAD
Natapos ng mga 4pm and tulog lang pagdating ng hostel tulog! Tulog until 7pm and then diretso na sa Khaosan Road. Khaosan Road is like the Red District of Bangkok! Nightlife kung Nightlife. Parang Makati Ave with Baclaran vendors. Masaya but medyo maingay masyado din. I had dinner around Khaosan and then grabbed some drinks until 11pm. Uwi then tulog!
Mascot Hotel - Khaosan Road = 100 THB
Dinner: 100THB
Day 3: Departure
Meal: Breakfast (I chose to eat out)
Free breakfast but nag inarte aq dito so ayun kumain sa labas! After breakfast, headed back to the hotel and packed up for my flight back to Hanoi.
Mascot - Airport = 40 THB (Airport Link)
My point is, don't hesitate to travel. Mas mahal pa yung sapatos mo keysa sa gagastusin mo ehh. Nka-iphone kpa! The best thing about traveling is mas nagiging open ka sa mga bagay and possibilities sa buhay. I am not rich. Kailangan lang magtravel para sa visa. At first, I was skeptical kasi mahal, kasi ganito. Antay - antay lang ng SALE beh! Mkakapunta ka din ng Bangkok!
PS: My ticket from Hanoi to Bangkok is just around 20USD :) Ang saya dba?
TOTAL EXPENSES:
Hostel : 6USD per Night (2Nights) = 250THB
Day 1 :
Airport - Hostel = 40THB
Dinner = 50THB
Souveneir = 25 THB
Day 2:
Hostel - Grand Palace - 100 THB
Golden Palace Entrance = 500THB
Lunch = 50THB
Wat Pho Entrance Fee = 100THB
Wat Pho - Hostel 100THB
Hostel - Khaosan = 100
Dinner and Drinks = 200THB
Day 3:
Breakfast = 35THB
Hostel - Airport = 40THB
TOTAL : 1740 THB or 2663.79PHP
Change is for drinks and some other things that I forgot to mention.
SAWADEE KA!
"Hello" in Thailand. This is a simple greeting that meet you almost everywhere in Thailand. People literally says "Sawadee Ka" even in the entrance of a washroom. Thai people are generally nice and friendly. They will go out their way to help you in simple ways they can. Marami din na alam mu na, but it's everywhere. I just so happened to be lucky to have meet good ones.
I have been to Thailand # times already and I never get tired of coming back there. The food, the people, the endless surprises it offers and the fact that it is the most recommended place to travel outside Vietnam. I gained experience in finding the cheapest way possible to travelling Bangkok, Thailand and here are my Top 3 Ways To Travel Cheap in Bangkok, Thailand.
1. Take the Airport Train
I am impressed by the transportation system in Bangkok to be honest (The same with Malaysia). This is very convenient to all passengers. One way of getting away from the dreadful traffic and of course to save a lot of money. The Airport Link Only costs 35 - 45 Up to the last stop and you can get to anywhere from there.
SmartPass.jpg)
2. Stay in a Hostel
If you're here for budget travel tips, then listen up: stay in a hostel! Hostels are perfect for those who enjoy meeting new people and immersing themselves in a lively atmosphere. Luckily, Bangkok is filled with hostels catering to every budget.

In a typical hostel, you'll have your own bed in a room shared with 6-8 other travelers. If you're lucky, you might even have your own locker with a lock. Most hostels also offer complimentary breakfast, along with amenities like Wi-Fi and TV. One hostel I highly recommend is the Mascot Hostel, located just a few meters away from the Airport Link Station. The rooms are clean, the staff is friendly, and the prices are affordable. Here's the link to their website! For my Filipino readers, PINOY po ang may-ari at ang nasa reception!
"Hello" in Thailand. This is a simple greeting that meet you almost everywhere in Thailand. People literally says "Sawadee Ka" even in the entrance of a washroom. Thai people are generally nice and friendly. They will go out their way to help you in simple ways they can. Marami din na alam mu na, but it's everywhere. I just so happened to be lucky to have meet good ones.
I have been to Thailand # times already and I never get tired of coming back there. The food, the people, the endless surprises it offers and the fact that it is the most recommended place to travel outside Vietnam. I gained experience in finding the cheapest way possible to travelling Bangkok, Thailand and here are my Top 3 Ways To Travel Cheap in Bangkok, Thailand.
1. Take the Airport Train
I am impressed by the transportation system in Bangkok to be honest (The same with Malaysia). This is very convenient to all passengers. One way of getting away from the dreadful traffic and of course to save a lot of money. The Airport Link Only costs 35 - 45 Up to the last stop and you can get to anywhere from there.
SmartPass.jpg)
2. Stay in a Hostel
If you're here for budget travel tips, then listen up: stay in a hostel! Hostels are perfect for those who enjoy meeting new people and immersing themselves in a lively atmosphere. Luckily, Bangkok is filled with hostels catering to every budget.

In a typical hostel, you'll have your own bed in a room shared with 6-8 other travelers. If you're lucky, you might even have your own locker with a lock. Most hostels also offer complimentary breakfast, along with amenities like Wi-Fi and TV. One hostel I highly recommend is the Mascot Hostel, located just a few meters away from the Airport Link Station. The rooms are clean, the staff is friendly, and the prices are affordable. Here's the link to their website! For my Filipino readers, PINOY po ang may-ari at ang nasa reception!
3. Don't be afraid to try local Street Vendors
When it comes to food, Thailand is unparalleled. Oh, how I love the culinary delights of this country! It's safe for foreigners to indulge in street food, as Thailand maintains high cleanliness standards. Of course, it's always a good idea to have necessary vaccinations before traveling.

Be sure to try "Sticky Rice," Pad Thai, and the fresh orange juice sold along the streets. It's a refreshingly delicious experience! There are countless other dishes to sample, though I must admit, I've forgotten the names of many due to their sheer variety. Just a heads up: you might gain a few pounds after your vacation!
4. Walk
Yes, you read that right - walk! In a city like Bangkok, even short distances can become costly due to traffic and tourist pricing. Walking not only saves money but also offers a unique perspective of the city's daily life. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes or flats before embarking on your walking adventure!
I hope you find these tips helpful for your upcoming trip to Bangkok! Stay tuned as I'll be updating with more tips and recommendations in the future. Safe travels and enjoy your time exploring this incredible city!
A comprehensive compilation of must - visit places in Ho chi minh.
1. Củ Chi tunnels
The tunnels of Củ Chi are an immense network of connecting underground tunnels located in the Củ Chi district of Ho Chi Minh City(Saigon), Vietnam, and are part of a much larger network of tunnels that underlie much of the country. The Củ Chi tunnels were the location of several military campaigns during the Vietnam War, and were the Viet Cong's base of operations for the Tết Offensive in 1968.
It is the ultimate destination you don't want to miss in Saigon!
It is the ultimate destination you don't want to miss in Saigon!


2. The War Remnants Museum
It is a war museum at 28 Vo Van Tan, in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam. It primarily contains exhibits relating to the Vietnam War, but also includes many exhibits relating to the first Indochina War involving the French colonialists.
It is a war museum at 28 Vo Van Tan, in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam. It primarily contains exhibits relating to the Vietnam War, but also includes many exhibits relating to the first Indochina War involving the French colonialists.
3. Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
It is a cathedral located in the downtown of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Established by French colonists, the cathedral was constructed between 1863 and 1880. It has two bell towers, reaching a height of 58 meters (190 feet).
It is a cathedral located in the downtown of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Established by French colonists, the cathedral was constructed between 1863 and 1880. It has two bell towers, reaching a height of 58 meters (190 feet).
.jpg)
4. The Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City known as Saigon Opera House (Vietnamese: Nhà hát lớn Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh; French: Opėra de Saigon), is an opera house in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It is an example of French Colonial architecture in Vietnam. Built in 1897 by French architect Eugène Ferret as the Opėra de Saigon, the 800 seat building was used as the home of the Lower House assembly of South Vietnam after 1956. It was not until 1975 that it was again used as a theatre, and restored in 1995.
5. Independence Palace (Dinh Độc Lập) also known as Reunification Palace (Vietnamese: Dinh Thống Nhất), built on the site of the former Norodom Palace, is a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It was designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụand was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. It was the site of the end of the Vietnam War during the Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its gates.President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. It was the site of the end of the Vietnam War during the Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its gates.

6. Phạm Ngũ Lão street located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, Vietnam. It was named after Phạm Ngũ Lão, the national hero. The intersection of Phạm Ngũ Lão and Đề Thám streets are referred to as the backpacker district of Saigon. This area is frequented by Ho Chi Minh city locals and tourist who flock to the area markets (both open air and indoors) to buy cheap clothes (some of which are counterfeit), DVDs, souvenirs, and war memorabilia. The many bars and cafes in this district are conveniently located near Saigon's city centre. In the Vietnamese language, this area is called "khu Tay ba lo" (Backpacker's area). The Phạm Ngũ Lão area is known for its affordable guest houses and mini-hotels as well as the availability of tourist agencies which primarily cater to budget tourists, similar to Khao San Road in Bangkok, Thailand.

7. Saigon Central Post Office (Vietnamese: Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn, French: Poste centrale de Saïgon) is a post office in the downtown Ho Chi Minh City, near Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, the city's cathedral. The building was constructed when Vietnam was part of French Indochina in the late 19th century. It counts with Gothic, Renaissance and French influences. It was constructed between 1886-1891 and is now a tourist attraction. It was designed by Auguste Henri Vildieu and Alfred Foulhoux, as well as Gustave Eiffel. Inside the Saigon Central Post office of special note are two painted maps that were created just after the post office was built, the first one located on the left side of the building is a map of Southern Vietnam and Cambodia titled Lignes telegraphiques du Sud Vietnam et Cambodge 1892 which translates to "Telegraphic lines of Southern Vietnam and Cambodia 1892". The second map of greater Saigon is titled Saigon et ses environs 1892 translating to "Sai Gon and its environment 1892".
Most people travel to see the other side of the world, me, mostly to renew my visa
I started travelling last 2013. Then the next travel was this year and this time, it is to permanently move to a new city where I got no relatives, just few friends. A long story why I ended up being in Hanoi. No matter what the reason is, I love the people, food and the culture.
I have to leave the country for almost every 6 months for visa renewal. This favors me a lot because I need to save up so I can go out of the country then. 🙂
Day 01 & Day 02:
The journey was a very long 20 – 24 hours land trip. We were just six in the bus, 2 Asian and 4 Westerners. We felt so happy getting inside the bus. We felt like we one the whole sleeper bus not knowing that it will later load tons of goods. Those things didn’t bother me at all because it’s common in Asia but the other guys were surprised. But nonetheless, it was a fun journey. If you don’t mind long trips, then I suggest you take bus. A great chance of meeting fellow travelers and it’s relatively cheap. But mind that it’s not gonna be a luxury ride. We left Hanoi 7pm and arrived the next day 5pm.
All of us didn’t know where to stay in Vientiane, luckily I got a recommendation from a friend to stay in Dream Home Hostel and it was just oh so perfect! With private pool, bar and billiard tables. A perfect place for people who wants to chill – out. Everyone decided to stay in the same hostel with me.
Later that day me and another lovely traveler named Alice who I will write about on my next blog; stroll around the Night Market of Vientiane. Bought some souvenir, had dinner and went home to sleep. The prices of goods there are relatively cheap. Some will charge you for tourist price, but a little bit of haggling won’t hurt.
Day 03:
Woke up so early, showered and enjoyed the free breakfast in the hostel. Today I will be visiting the famous Buddha Park, Buddha Park (aka Xieng Khuan) a famous sculpture park with more than 200 religious statues including a huge 40-metre high reclining Buddha image. This one is a must – visit so I decided to just go. The best way to get there is by motorbike. You can get a motorbike for as low as 5-7dollars a day. Driving a motorbike in Vientiane is far too different in Hanoi. Watch out for my blog about bikibg experience in Hanoi!
Woke up so early, showered and enjoyed the free breakfast in the hostel. Today I will be visiting the famous Buddha Park, Buddha Park (aka Xieng Khuan) a famous sculpture park with more than 200 religious statues including a huge 40-metre high reclining Buddha image. This one is a must – visit so I decided to just go. The best way to get there is by motorbike. You can get a motorbike for as low as 5-7dollars a day. Driving a motorbike in Vientiane is far too different in Hanoi. Watch out for my blog about bikibg experience in Hanoi!
There’s really nothing much to do in Vientiane. What I like most about the place is the slow-paced kind of living. So different from the bustling city of Hanoi. A must visit of you want to relax and just don’t do anything.
Budget
- Bus – 25 USD
- Hostel – 6USD
- Motorbike – 5 USD
- Transfers – 10USD
- Plane Ticket – 88USD
- Food – 15 USD


















