Wild Honey – I think this is a midpoint on the spending scale, and it is worth every penny. We tried their brunch and the pancakes were heavenly.
Jumbo Seafood – if you really wanna ball out! But I think about this special fried rice often, it was a serious something. 10s across the board. I highly recommend.
Hawker Markets; the biggest one is Chinatown Market. Delicious food options, drink options and on the cheaper side
Eating out in SIN is expensive but the flavours are phenomenal. There are supermarkets so you can do some cooking of your own if you feel too and much cheaper prices restaurants, just check online.
OK, so hold your horses! Bali isn’t open just yet as you can see from our previous blog post, but we wanted to give you some tips on what to do so you’re prepared for when it does!
Indonesia made it relatively easy for tourists to travel into the country (pre-pandemic) and we can assume that once the easing of restrictions are allowed, things will hopefully return to exactly as before.
There are over 160 nationalities (including those from Britain/USA/Australia/South Africa) that do not require a visa and are permitted to enter Indonesia for FREE on arrival. However, this method of entry does notallow you to extend your stay more than 30 days.
Visas on arrival is voluntary and costs around £25 ($35) and allow you entry into the country for 30 days (the same as the free visa). We would advise you to get this option if you are uncertain of how long you want to stay as it can be extended once, without you having to leave the country for a further 30 days, giving you a total of 60 days in Indonesia.
You’ll need to ensure that your passport has more than 6 months left before expiry!
There are 11 countries that are exempt from VoA, this includes travellers from Nigeria. If you are travelling from one of these countries, you’ll need to apply for a visa abroad at an Indonesian embassy or consulate AND you’ll need sponsor letter from and Indonesian citizen.
Bali has a small population of around 4.2million and as of 12th April there were around 42,000 cases of COVID reported and a recovery rate of 93%, however this could be due to asymptomatic. Cases and a low testing rate
So in essence it is potentially safe for you to travel to Bali as long as proper hygiene and social distancing measures are being adhered to in line with guidance from WHO!
Can I travel into Bali right now?
Travel into Bali has been restricted for international tourists since March 2020 and visas on arrival have been halted for many, with exceptions made for those listed below:
• Indonesian citizens (WNI) from abroad
• Holders of valid Visa or Residence Permits
• Holders of Official Visa, Diplomatic Visa, Visit Visa, Temporary Stay Visa, Official Residence Permit, Diplomatic Residence Permit, Temporary Stay Permit (ITAS) and Permanent Stay Permit (ITAP)
• Transport crew members
• Medical, food, and humanitarian aid workers
• Holders of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and Business Travel Card (ABTC)
• Holders of Traditional Border Crossing card
Howeverrr! It’s not ideal, but if you’re desperate to travel, international travellers wishing to make the trip can do so by applying for a B-211 visa. It’s NOT a tourist visa and requires you to be there in an industrial or business-related capacity. It usually requires sponsorship from a company, but some visa agents can arrange this for you.
The visa is valid for 6 months and can be extended up to 4 times (with each extension allowing a maximum of 30 days before renewal is required).
I’m planning to travel during the “pandemonium”, what do I do?
Bali relies heavily on tourism and their local economy has been hugely impacted by the pandemic.
• First things first – Get a negative PCR-based swab test issued within 2 days prior to departure via land or sea. You can check out http://www.gov.uk for guidance on your local test centres if you’re from the UK and remember NHS tests are no longer valid for use when travelling so it’ll have to be done privately. Some airlines are offering discounts when you book with their affiliated companies. Sorry friends.
• Next up, you’ve got to fill out an electronic-Health Alert Card (e-HAC)
• You’ve got to have your test certificate to hand and this has to be renewed every 14 days.
When will I be allowed to travel into Bali?
Tourism into Bali was initially slated to return in March 2022, with trial runs (whereby, travellers from countries where the infection rate was low, would be allowed to form travel corridors with Indonesia, but only allowed to visit Ubud, Sanur and Nusa Dua) being held in the Summer of 2021, but a recent video release by the Indonesian president said that Bali could begin reopening to tourists from as early as June 2021 if conditions remain favourable.
Is anything even open in Bali?
Most popular destinations are still closed off to the public and tourists such as:
• Lovina Beach
• Besakih Temple
• Wisnu Kencana
Some beaches in Bali and Kuta have reopened to residents and domestic tourists, but strict new normal measures are being enforced which means only a limited amount of people at one time will be permitted entry L
We like to give some quick fire tips for visiting destinations we have visited, so here’s Beijing’s!
So you want to visit Beijing/mainland China 🇨🇳, here are some things to consider:
Check your route works with the transit visa, you don’t need to go through the costly Chinese visa process if you’re not in China for an extended time period. Luckily there has been a new 24/144 hour transit visa introduced; there are a few rules you and your itinerary need to follow to be eligible but all in all – it’s really straightforward 😁
Download a VPN. Download a VPN. Download a VPN. I think you get what you need to do…
Don’t be alarmed if you see bears sat a restaurant table – someone didn’t forget their teddy. The bears are put there so you don’t feel lonely if you’re sitting alone.
Learn a few phrases, hello or thank you.
Stay photo ready – if you’re black or have distinct features, local people will stop you for pictures and videos. Sometimes without your permission (!)
Be prepared for whatever season you’re going. Beijing is very open air, so when it’s hot – you feel all the heat and its quite dry. Same way when its cold, you’ll feel all the cold.
You can use your travel card to make purchases and get around. Taking out cash isn’t necessary.
Watch your step. It’s quite common for local people to spit on the ground, so depending on the area you’re in, just look out.
If you’ve been to Beijing/China, what was something you had to bear in mind?
Save and share this if you found it useful. As always, keep up to date with us on @trippinwithsj x
Exploring the Great Wall was the main draw to visiting Beijing, because we love a UNESCO site and a world wonder; okay!
Visiting the attraction doesn’t have to be arduous or unattainable; keep reading for our tips.
Why was the Great Wall built?
The primary function of the wall was for protection from invasion by Mongolian and Manchu armies from the North.
How far is the Great Wall from Beijing:
Badaling is approximately 1.5 hours by car or about 2.5 hours by tour bus.
Mutianyu is about 2 hours by car.
When to visit: Autumn or Spring
Autumn brings a different variety of colours to the leaves and greenery around the wall which makes for a pretty sight.
Spring brings awesome weather and less people.
Summer is still nice but it does get super hot.
Winter brings frost-covered scenes but the cold air will feel even colder due to the wind.
Do’s:
There is more than one entrance up to the Great Wall, so depending on what you’d like to see and how long you have – this could be a full day excursion.
We visited the Mutianyu part of the wall – it’s the most restored section of the wall and offers the best picturesque views.
You can hike to the top or you can get a cable car up and down.
If you are feeling adventurous – get a toboggan down!
Remember there is no shade for the majority of the walk; so sunscreen, water and flannel.
Be prepared for the elements in whichever season you go.
Book a tour guide with reviews online; they can offer you further insight into the history.
Try some local cuisine in the Great Wall park.
Top Tip: Avoid the Great Wall during Chinese holidays, or you may get caught up in the crowds.
Don’ts:
Don’t wear open-toed shoes; there are loose pieces of rock and insects. There have been sightings of snakes in the bush around!
Plan/try to camp on the wall.
Take pictures in precarious positions – it’s an ancient structure.
Be a litter bug!
Forget tissue if you’d like to use the toilet.
Run or walk too fast; seriously – there is loose rock everywhere.
Don’t climb on the windows of watchtowers, especially unrestored ones that might collapse.
We hope this answers some starter questions you have about visiting the Great Wall.
You didn’t do Rome if you don’t visit the Fontana di Trevi, or Trevi Fountain. The Trevi Fountain is known as one of the most stunning fountains in the world. But there’s more to it than it’s beauty.
It was one of 1,352 fountains in 4th century Rome, but the Trevi Fountain always stood out from the rest.
Some fun facts about the the fountain:
The Trevi Fountain is one of the oldest water sources in Rome – the fountain was built at the end point of the aqueduct, at the junction of three roads. These three streets (tre vie) give the Trevi Fountain its name, the Three Street Fountain.
It’s made from the same material as the Colosseum – the fountain is mostly built from travertine stone, a name that means “from the Tiber” in Latin.
The fountain uses A LOT of water – the Trevi Fountain stands a massive 85 feet tall and is almost 65 feet wide. Water pumps out of multiple sources and the large pool in front, the fountain spills about 2,824,800 cubic feet of water every day! Environment gang I hear you gasping! but don’t worry, these days the water is recycled (meaning unlike the ancient Romans you’ll have to drink from the nearby drinking fountains instead!)
The fountain is charitable – during its operating hours roughly €3,000 is thrown into it every day as people follow the tradition of throwing coins over their shoulders. Legend has it that a coin thrown into the fountain will ensure a return to Rome. This tradition also dates back to the ancient Romans who often threw coins in water to make the gods of water favour their journey or help them get back home safely. (Throw in a second coin if you’re seeking love – even a third for wedding bells!) What many don’t know is that the coins are collected every night and given to an Italian charity called Caritas. Caritas, in turn, use the money for a supermarket program giving rechargeable cards to Rome’s needy to help them get groceries.
It’s illegal to fish out coins from the fountain – in the past it was common for gangs of thieves to sweep the coins out of the fountain at night. In fact, three were caught by a T.V. show using a hidden camera in 2011. The most famous raider, however, was known by his nickname, d’Artagnan. He stole the coins from the fountain for 34 years before he was caught in the summer of 2002! (A true scammer!)
Insider tip: Like all popular sites, to maximise your photo taking opportunities you should get there early! To help me with this, I actually monitored it on this website: Live Cam Trevi Fountain – Rome. You’re welcome.
I remember being in primary school and singing a song about Zanzibar, something about the ships going down there…whilst I don’t remember the song well (obviously). The impression Zanzibar left it my mind never faded, so being next door in Nairobi – I had to make my way to this place that had lived in my imagination for so long.
My 1st stop was Stone Town, it’s the old part of Zanzibar. The architecture mostly dates back to the 19th century, and reflects the diverse influences of the Swahili culture. There are a unique mixture of Arab, Persian, Indian and European elements and for this reason, the town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. We love a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Before slavery was abolished in Tanzania black people weren’t allowed to live within the city walls (go figure), but in the 21st century any and everyone is free to live here – in true Hakuna Matata fashion.
Exploring Stone town you find different doors which other than offering a cheeky photo op; they show a history of the demographic within the city. The gold on the doors is a symbol for protection from elephant attacks (there aren’t elephants native to this part of Tanzania) so it is indeed a nod to the Indian influence that is part of Stone Town blood.
Walking around and exploring the deep depths of Stone Town, doesn’t require much pre-planning as you can find a guide in the square who has a wealth of knowledge to offer for a small price.
It was awesome to spend time exploring Stone Town.
Here’s our list of top things to do, places to see and eat in Stone Town:
Forodhani Gardens – much like Drake, Forodhani comes alive in the nightime! It’s set right on the seafront and whether you are veggie, pesci or a serious meat-eater – there is indeed an option for you. Food is a huge part of any culture, and visiting Forodhani is a must do.
Visit the ‘House of Wonders’ – it was originally opened in 1883. It is the tallest and largest building in Stone Town.
Make an International Call at Jaws Corner – it works.
Buy souvenirs – you’ll find something to take back for someone (any excuse, I know)
The Swahili House – provided awesome rooftop views, delicious food. If you’d like to spend time in Stone Town you can also lodge here. this seafood platter that consisted of a whole lobster, calamari, shrimps, mashed potatoes and a cup of tea ☕️ was a mere £20 🥺🥺
Join the Fish Auction at the Darajani Markets. There are a variety of fresh seafood options and you have to get stuck in if you want a chance to win.
Take a Spice Tour – every spice you can think of is available. Freshhh! Take some home for your friends, your flatmate, your colleague.
Buy some coffee – everything is so fresh and pure 🥺 buy it all.
Prison Island – another excursion you don’t have to neccesarily pre-book. See the Giant Tortoise and learn how prison island was built with the intention of housing prisoners; but was repurposed to help contain the bubonic plague epidemic that government officials feared would make its way on ships coming in from Egypt and Mumbai.
Visit the Slave Museum – if you fancy it (I opted not to, it’s not everyday relive trauma).
Visit Freddy Mercury‘s house! – arguably Tanzania’s most popular export.
Mombasa is Kenya’s oldest and second-largest city. It sits along the coastline, so you’ll have access to fresh seafood! And beautiful coastline views.
Mombasa was one of those places that I found via Instagram, I love visiting as many places as possible in one trip. I love walking around old towns and learning all their old history, you see the things that were left behind and the parts that have been included into the present day-to-day life.
Places to visit:
Fort Jesus. Mombasa offers a blend of cultures; due to the colonial past the mark of each group can be seen in the city walls. Fort Jesus which was built by the Portuguese – (well it was physically built by Kenyan slaves under the instruction of the Portuguese but I digress 👀). My guide explained how the Portuguese came very arrogantly, but their only motive was to trade. The British came and spread Christianity ✝️, the Omanis spread Islam ☪️ causing great divide amongst the coastal Kenyan people. It’s weird because a building that was used to oppress now offers a livelihood for so many in Old Town.
2. Haller Park offers some more animal lovin’! It is the transformation of a quarry wasteland into an ecological area. Kenyans are serious about their nature conservation, (aside from it obviously making up for a significant amount of their GDP) they feel it’s their job to keep the animals and earth safe. Haller Park is a true marvel to me and one of the many things we LOVE to see. If you time your arrival well you’ll be able to see various animals at their feeding times – giraffes 🦒(not as phenomenal as the Giraffe Centre), crocodiles 🐊 , hippos 🦛 and some elderly buffalos 🐃 too.
It’s a fun day out and can be tied on to the back end of your exploration of Mombasa. Insider tip: listen out for the story of the Haller millipedes.
3. Spice Market – spices, herbs, coffee or tea leaves. It would be silly to not grab a bag of something and bring it back home with you. I see it as extending your holiday ever so slightly, the Kenyan coffee and tea is the truth!
4. Moi Avenue – is known for two pairs of giant aluminium elephant tusks. The tusks were commissioned in the 50s for Queen Elizabeths visit to Kenya, they also serve as a reminder to Kenyan trade poachers that elephants should never be paoched for the ivory trade.
Places to eat: Cafesserie Mombasa
It’s also worth mentioning that if you are safari’d out, Mombasa is a great gateway to other areas of Kenya that allow you to experience some hiking and/or cycling. I genuinely think there’s something to do for every type of traveller in Kenya.
Nairobi will most likely be your first stop in Kenya if you’re flying in. Nairobi is amazing as it offers quite a few wildlife activities right in the heart of the city. Nairobi National Park is the only national park in the world to be in a capital city – on its savannah plains you can see rhinos, lions, giraffes with the city skyline as a backdrop.
There are bars and restaurants like you would expect from any capital city and the easiest way I found to get around was uber.
I spent my first night going for dinner at Carnivore, which is an open-air restaurant. Carnivore’s specialty is meat, and features an all-you-can-eat meat buffet – they offer a range of unusual meats; alligator, ostrich etc. The atmosphere was lovely, complete with a live band performance.
An 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Cancun lies Tulum. I’d seen Tulum on the ‘gram and I would say it’s the ‘IT’ girl. Tulum has a rustic and chill vibe to it, but the time to turn up is still very much there.
Like most places there is a main ‘strip’ where all the action happens; in Tulum it’s also the Zona Hotelera. There are countless hotels, beach clubs and restaurants – not to forget the signs along the road that give you a dose of self love. I think Tulum is going for ‘eat, pray, love’ vibes and I’m not mad at it.
You get adequate doses of beach, food and views – one of the servers from a hotel on the strip told us their minimum spend was so high because you are getting the views. I appreciated the honesty, but it still didn’t justify spending so much for me.
Photo op on the beach
Where to stay:
Zona Hotelera
Centro
You don’t have to stay at a super expensive hotel, as everything is quite close to each other. Save your coin friends!
I stayed at the Mayan Monkey, as I am really glad I did. It’s a hostel with private rooms, they have a range of activities and its a great way to meet other travellers.
Getting around:
Regardless of how close your destination is in Tulum, you will pay $20 for the ride. So, getting around Tulum you will see people on bikes, quads, walking or driving – I’m a strong advocate for hiring a car as you have more freedom to do things. Something to note: parking on the main strip isn’t the easiest feat, so here are a few tips:
You may have to (or be better off parking) park further down and walking down.
You will have to pay for a parking spot each time you move, so find a central(ish) location to park and move from there.
The road to Zona Hotelera is small, there are many construction projects going on. So you can get caught up in some serious traffic as the day goes on.
Park by Coco Beach Tulum – it’s free parking!
The roads in Tulum are not the smoothest – so slow down.
Tulum sign (there’s a massage parlour right by this sign)
Beach views
Restaurant views
Places to visit:
RAW LOVE – the open arm sculpture you are bound to have seen.
Mia Restaurant – a chill vibe and a lovely photo op that makes you feel like you’re in Bali.
The beach itself! – Go early to almost have it to yourself.
Bagatelle – if you’d like something super boujie to do.
La Eufemia – for a cheap and delicious eat on the strip. It’s a walk from the main sites
Mistico – Restaurant and Shisha bar
Chichen Itza – not exactly in Tulum, but close? enough.
Tulum Ruins
Countless cenotes, Tulum is located perfectly for exploration.
Tacos in central Tulum
Tacos from La Eufemia
Mia restaurant
There are supermarkets all around or if you are willing, you could go into the local community and buy some of their produce – an amazing way to give back! So whether you’re in an airbnb or hotel, you are covered.
I had amazing time in Tulum, and to think I was almost put off going! (Crazy)
Trippin’ with SJ 