Costa Rica Travel - Millipedes in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

Can you help us identify what kind of millipede this is? We found it while walking through the Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica. We do our best to label our travel photos correctly.

Travel Photo - Uganda Beetles Mating

In this travel guest post for 2Backpackers.com, Andrea of the Butterflyist, shares a nature picture from Uganda in this travel photo of the day.

It was quite incredible to spot these two beautiful beetles while doing a nature walk around the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, in Uganda’s Kibale National Park. Such an intimate look into the lives of insects, going about their business in their tiny little world. It made me think about the many levels that our plant exists on, and how important it is that we protect our environment, to ensure that so many different lifeforms can continue their existence on earth.

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Enjoy the best off-the-beaten-path beach in Costa Rica through an HD adventure travel video from 2 Backpackers, Jason and Aracely Castellani, while visiting Sámara, Costa Rica.  In travel video episode #21, we film the flat, calm, white sand Samara Beach and it’s small island of Isla Chora. Enjoy the show!

Costa Rica Travel – Sámara

Samara is located on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast. Costa Rica is Central America’s most developed country and attracts the most tourists, allowing it to build an improved infrastructure attracting luxury beachfront resorts. As a budget traveler, this can be a challenge. You want to explore the wonderful beaches of Costa Rica, but you also have a travel budget to stick to.

Best Beach in Costa Rica

Have you ever envisioned a wonderful cove beach with subtle waves, endless reefs, nearby cliffs battered by the sea, horses running along the water’s edge, palm trees bending towards the horizon, reefs occasionally sun bathing and a small rock island that beckons you as you rest on the mainland?

Then you better get yourself to Samara Beach, the best off-the-beaten-path beach in all of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Travel - Samara Beach

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

The idea of Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a holiday was promoted by labor unions in contract negotiations. After King’s death, United States Representative John Conyers (a Democrat from Michigan) and United States Senator Edward Brooke (a Republican from Massachusetts) introduced a bill in Congress to make King’s birthday a national holiday. The bill first came to a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1979. However, it fell five votes short of the number needed for passage. Two of the main arguments mentioned by opponents were that a paid holiday for federal employees would be too expensive, and that a holiday to honor a private citizen would be contrary to longstanding tradition (King had never held public office). Only two other persons have national holidays in the United States honoring them: George Washington, the first President of the United States, and Christopher Columbus, the navigator, colonizer, and explorer from the Republic of Genoa, whose voyages across the Atlantic Ocean led to general European awareness of the American continents. – Wikipedia

Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Things to do in Washington D.C.

On August, 22, 2011, the Martin Luther King Memorial was opened. Located in Washington, D.C., southwest of the National Mall, it’s one of the most dramatic sculptures we have ever seen. It’s a large scale Martin Luther King, Jr. carved out of a rock, representing a piece from King’s famous speech.  If your looking for things to do in Washington D.C., this is a must!

The centerpiece for the memorial is based on a line from King’s “I Have A Dream” speech: “Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope.” A 30 feet (9.1 m)-high relief of King named the “Stone of Hope” stands past two other pieces of granite that symbolize the “mountain of despair.” Visitors literally “pass through” the Mountain of Despair on the way to the Stone of Hope, symbolically “moving through the struggle as Dr. King did during his life.” – Wikipedia

Martin Luther King Memorial Photos

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

A man who won’t die for something is not fit to live.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

A right delayed is a right denied.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missiles and misguided men.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Philanthropy is commendable, but it must not cause the philanthropist to overlook the circumstances of economic injustice which make philanthropy necessary.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

Rarely do we find men who willingly engage in hard, solid thinking. There is an almost universal quest for easy answers and half-baked solutions. Nothing pains some people more than having to think.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

The quality, not the longevity, of one’s life is what is important.

Aracely paying respects to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial

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Enjoy a boat tour of millionaire homes on Lake Nicaragua through an HD adventure travel video from 2 Backpackers, Jason and Aracely Castellani, while visiting Granada, Nicaragua.  In travel video episode #20, we tour Las Isletas and Monkey Island on Lake Nicaragua. Enjoy the show!

Nicaragua Travel – Granada

Granada’s colonial heritage is most notable in it’s architecture. The Cathedral stands out in the city above most buildings with it’s bright yellow color and it’s a good marker to make your way to the town’s center. In the center of town is Central Park (Parque Central) where you will find an abundance of vendors selling crafts and possibly a dozen hotdogs stands at any given time. Be prepared, because Nicaragua travel is very hot and humid year round.

• Nicaragua Travel – Volcano Boarding in León Travel Video
• Nicaragua Travel – Zip-Line in San Juan del Sur Travel Video
• Nicaragua Travel – Volcano El Hoyo Trek Travel Video

Nicaragua Travel - The Cathedral of Granada

Lake Nicaragua

Lake Nicaragua (Lago Cocibolca) is Central America’s largest lake and is a big tourist attraction for those visiting Granada. There are several tours available on the lake, but opt out of swimming, it’s still very polluted.

Nicaragua Travel - Lake Nicaragua Las Isletas

Granada Tours

• Mombacho Volcano
• Las Isletas de Granada (Granada Islands)
• Isla Ometepe
• Laguna de Apoyo

Las Isletas de Granada

This was our choice for a Granada tour, riding on a small boat through some of the 365 small islands in Lake Nicaragua.  Only 3 km from Granada, it’s can be  a short 1-2 hour tour.  Some of the islands are privately owned and include millionaire homes with yachts docked next to them.  There are also a few bars and restaurants where you can relax in a hammock and enjoy a drink on an island.  You can grab a boat ride down at the lake’s edge or book a tour in town.  There are always boats available, just be sure to negotiate your rate.  If you enjoy watching monkeys in the wild, you will love Monkey Island.

Nicaragua Travel - Lake Nicaragua Monkey Island

What to do in Granada Nicaragua

Granada is a happening town, with lots of bars, restaurants and a decent nightlife.  Our two favorite places to hang out include Calle La Calzada and Parque Central.  Parque Central (Central Park) is full of vendors, music, gazebos and small cafes for relaxing in the park.  Around the park there are usually activities going on to entertain tourists, making it an enjoyable hangout.  Calle La Calzada is the place to enjoy gringo bars, restaurants and street entertainment.  Expect to see lots of children begging for money, some asking to finish your meal or offering crafts they make.

Nicaragua Travel - Granada City Streets

Budget Travel Tips

Nicaragua, typically includes a 15% tax on everything in its tourist cities.  Granada, was no exception, and was one of the downsides to enjoying a meal in a decent restaurant.

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After traveling throughout Central America and South America, we have experienced our share of unique cultural norms in Latin America, one of which includes putting home speakers on your car and advertising loudly through the streets. This wasn’t an occasional site, it was a frequent site, often advertising for events, radio stations or products, and also for politicians. We see this in some parts of Miami too, which is not too strange considering Miami is primarily Latin. I’ll have to get some video of that to share. To see more unique cultural norms from Latin America, check out their tricked out custom chicken buses!

In this travel video clip #6, we share some creative advertising methods used in Latin America.

Travel Photo - Foggy Morning in the Mountains of Chiapas, Mexico

Jonathan is a regular travel photo contributor for 2Backpackers.com. For more information or to sign up for his newsletter visit LifePart2.com.

In late December I had the privilege to spend the night with a charming indigenous family in the tiny village of Nichnamtic; high in the mountains of Mexico’s southern state of Chiapas. This family had little to offer other than hospitality, welcoming smiles and a place for a sleeping bag but by opening their home they helped open my world. It was a clear cold morning and we started our hike before dawn. Roosters were crowing and the wild birds were just beginning to sing. The air was crisp and pine scented. Amazingly as we hike a bit we could see that the valleys were filled with fog and we descended into them. We reached the bottom of one valley right at sunrise and I was able to make what I think are some interesting travel photos of this little traveled part of the world.

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We celebrate fun Ecuador traditions on New Year’s Eve in this HD travel video from 2 Backpackers, Jason and Aracely Castellani, while visiting Chone, Ecuador during the Holidays.  In travel video episode #19, we join Aracely’s family in her hometown of Chone to experience the chaos that is New Year’s Eve in Ecuador. Enjoy the show!

Ecuador Travel - Año Viejo / Saying Goodbye to the Old Year

Año Viejo / Old Year

Ecuador traditions are wild on New Year’s Eve. More attention is given to saying goodbye to the old year instead of celebrating the new year. Ecuadorians build life-size dummies or dolls that typically represent negativity in the Old Year. Considerable effort is sometimes invested in building your doll, or you can buy them off the streets. Some will build wire frames, stuff them with fireworks and cover them with paper and plaster before finally painting them. Others build stuffed dummies and purchase a famous head or mask to complete their person.

In addition to the traditional aspect of burning a hated figure such as a politician, today’s Ecuadorians also burn characters such as Bart Simpson and Michael Jackson for fun.

• Ecuador Travel – Top Things To Do in Quito
• Ecuador Travel – More to Ecuador than Galapagos Islands
• Ecuador Travel – Otavalo Market
• Ecuador Travel – Discover Chone, My Hometown

Ecuador Travel - Fireworks during New Year

Fireworks, Dancing and Food in Ecuador

The burning of the dolls is the most unique New Year’s Eve tradition, but not the only one. Bonfires of dummies and dolls litter the streets while fireworks and music fill the air until daybreak. As is the case with any Latin holiday, Ecuadorians will dance the night away, only stopping to eat dinner after midnight.

Ecuador Travel - Young Boys Dressed as Widows on New Year

During the day most will parade their creations, the dolls and dummies, around town for everyone to appreciate before the midnight burning. Also, during the day, young boys will dress up as widows (made widows from the burning dolls) dancing in the streets for passing cars as they beg for money. Be careful on the highways, where they hold ropes across the street forcing cars to stop and acknowledge them.

If you looking for a unique, chaotic, loud, but fun experience, travel to Ecuador for New Year’s Eve.

A Special Thanks to Chone, Ecuador

We want to specifically thank Aracely’s family in Chone, Ecuador for hosting us during the Holidays and sharing their Ecuador traditions and homes with us. Being away from home during Christmas and New Year’s Eve when traveling around the world can be depressing, but having met new family made it a unique experience we will never forget. Thank you.

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An incredible display of Christmas lights / Los Alumbrados Medellín in this HD travel video from 2 Backpackers, Jason and Aracely Castellani, while visiting Medellín, Colombia during the Holidays.  In travel video episode #18, we brave the splashing fountains of water and follow our Couchsurfing friend, Claudia, to the Rio Medellín for some holiday season fun. Enjoy the show!

Colombia Travel - Christmas Lights in Medellín, Colombia

Consider Colombia Travel

Colombia was one of our favorite countries to visit during our travel in South America and we highly recommend it. If your still contemplating, read “Why Travel to Colombia“.

Colombia Travel - Christmas Lights in Medellín, Colombia

Christmas in Medellín Colombia

We arrived to Medellín in December, just before departing to Ecuador to spend the holidays with family. To our surprise Medellín has a lot to offer during the holiday season. Lights, lights and more lights!

The Christmas light display is heavily concentrated at the Rio Medellín near Puente de Guayaquil. At this location, tourists and locals flock to grab festival food, view artistic light displays and most importantly, jump around the colorful water fountains. The maze of water displays is incredible. Although crowded, everyone seems to take turns in an orderly fashion. Aracely was brave enough to crowd under one of the mushroom-like fountains.

• Colombia Travel – Beaches of Tayrona National Park
• Colombia Travel – Discover Cartagena
• Colombia Travel – Mud Bath in Volcano Totumo
• Colomiba Travel – Discover Salento

Colombia Travel - Christmas Lights in Medellín, Colombia

A Local Tour Guide

We were lucky to have met Claudia at a Couchsurfing gathering a few nights before and she offered to take us to the Christmas lights display down at the river. Claudia introduced us to salt and lime beer, basically a margarita beer, sweet popcorn, Aguardiente and some sweets that resembled taffy, but was made from cow bones. Very interesting and tasted quite good.

Colombia Travel - Pueblito Paisa in Medellín, Colombia

We know a lot of travel bloggers that are still living in Medellín, Colombia, and it’s doubtful they will be bored this time of season. The Christmas lights are usually on display from December to January.

Colliding Falls at the Umpqua River in an Oregon State Park

In this travel guest post for 2Backpackers.com, Andrea of the Butterflyist, shares a nature picture from an Oregon State Park in this travel photo of the day.

The more lichen that grows on a tree, the purer the air – and the trees around the beautiful Colliding Falls in Oregon’s historical Umpqua region were furry with the stuff. It’s a true example of nature being allowed to just ‘be’, rather than being polluted or ruined by humans. I loved breathing in the clean oxygen when I visited this amazing Oregon State Park and the Umpqua River in the Northwest USA.

Travel Tips - Land Border Crossing Items

1. Know the Exchange Rate

In Central America, currency exchange is very informal at the land borders.  There are men standing around with a wad of cash on hand waving a calculator.  The calculator is to calculate but also to imply that you should trust them.  Don’t be fooled.  Make sure that you know the fair exchange rate, know how much you need to exchange and how much you should receive.  The good thing about this is that there is room to negotiate.  Make sure that you do, but remember that this is how they earn a living so you should allow them a small commission.  In South America, currency exchange practices are more formal and conducted in banks and money exchange kiosks with no room for negotiations.  It’s a good practice to still be aware of the exchange rate so you can at least note how much money you’ve lost in the exchange and be sure to remember to document that in your expenses.

Looking for a Preparing to Travel To-Do List?

2. Have Passports and Documents Accessible

Have your passport and tourist card easily accessible and not stored away deep in your bag.  This may be obvious but it will help you expedite the process and possibly avoid stalling a bus inspection.  Also remember to store you immunization records with your passport.

3. Familiarize yourself with the Land Border Crossing Area

Do your research on the specific location of your border crossing.  Become familiar with the town or streets you will be traveling on, where your destination is and how you will get there.  Lonely Planet Guides and other travelers can be good sources of information. Border crossings can get very confusing in less developed countries and you should know where you are at all times.  Some borders are more isolated and dangerous than others.  If you know that to expect you can be more in control of the situation.

Travel Tips - Land Border Crossing: Ecuador to Peru

4. Know Immigration Fees and Visas ahead of time

Depending on what country you are from and what passport you hold certain fees and documents may be required.  Visas can sometimes be purchased at the immigration center, but research the requirements.  In South America, US citizens are required to purchase visas for Brazil and Bolivia, both of which require you to pay in either US cash or the local currency.  Some countries also require entrance or departing fees.  Have enough cash on hand to cover any border fees and visa costs.  When flying into a country, different fees may apply.  Visit the US Department of State website for detailed information on specific countries.

5. Plan your Transportation to and from Border

If you are crossing the border with a bus company in a developed country they will most likely arrange and assist you with the entire process, but don’t expect the same in developing countries such as those in Central America.  In South America it is part of the service the bus company provides.  If you are crossing from Guatemala to Honduras on a local school (chicken) bus you will likely be crossing the border on foot or cycle rickshaws.  Know how far it is to the other side and how long before you can pick up another bus.  You may have to hire a shuttle bus, taxi or local school bus.  At customs, expect to be approached by many taxi drivers offering you a ride.  Take your time to make a decision, don’t be afraid to tell them to give you some space and back off while you organize your things and thoughts.   Include transportation in your research of the border crossing.

Travel Tips - Land Border Crossing: Ecuador to Colombia

6. Avoid Offers From Non-Official Border Police

In Central America, where the process is less organized, sometimes common people will pass out custom forms to you while you are in line.  It’s not out of kindness; they will charge you.  Do not accept these forms which are usually outdated anyway.  Some other strange fees may arise.  Research what you should be paying for in advance.

Travel Tips - Land Border Crossing: Peru to Bolivia

7. Staying Safe at Land Borders

Border crossings in Central America and parts of South America can be sketchy.  Take precautions with your possessions.  Do not store things of importance in your pockets or walk around filming and snapping photos with your expensive camera.  Customs officers usually won’t like it and robbers will spot you.  Look confident, don’t pull out a map, and always spot customs or law officers.  Greet the officer and ask them questions on how to get to your destination and anything you should know about crossing the border. You may get some valuable safety information.  When possible, don’t cross a border alone find another traveler on the bus and cross with them.  Traveling with someone is always safer.

If you have additional travel tips or experiences please share them with us in the comments section.

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Surf lesson tips and a zip-lining canopy tour through an HD adventure travel video from 2 Backpackers, Jason and Aracely Castellani, while visiting San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.  In travel video episode #17, take our video camera high above the forest canopy to share some incredible views and fast flying zip-lines. Enjoy the show!

The Beach Cove in San Juan del Sur

Getting to San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua was on our list of must see beaches since we heard about it from other backpackers while traveling in El Salvador.  “This is where you go to surf,” they exclaimed.  From Grenada, we boarded a local bus to Rivas.  At the Rivas bus terminal, which is located in the market, we searched for a bus to San Juan del Sur.  In no time, we were on our way to the coastal town on the Pacific Ocean, in southwest Nicaragua.

Colorful Streets of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Hostels in San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur’s most popular hostel is Casa Oro, which is on the corner of the main street and the street that leads down towards the water.  It’s currently under construction, but still a hot spot for those seeking dorms.  As we exited Casa Oro Hostel, a women on the street asked us if we needed a place to stay.  We replied, “Si,” and she offered us a private room with bathroom around the corner for $20 USD a night.  Sounded perfect to us.  Rebecca’s Inn was clean and comfortable, but lacked a social environment.

Colorful Streets of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

After settling in, we quickly went out for a walk around town.  The town is well developed with lots of hostels, hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars and surfing shops.  Many tourist shops around town offer shuttle rides to the surrounding beaches for surfing. 

Bars and Restaurants on the Beach of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur isn’t a beach for surfing, but rather your base town for day excursions. The beach is flanked on both sides by mountains and bars and restaurants line the water’s edge, creating a picturesque night life. It’s still low season around here and the night life was lacking during our stay.

Volcano Boarding in León – Video Ep. 15

Trip Budgeting for Central America

Photo of Church of Guadalupe in Granada, Nicaragua

Photo of Sunset Over Los Maribios Volcano Chain

Bars and Restaurants on the Beach of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Nicaragua Travel Costs

Gradually, our expenses have been increasing, and shockingly, Nicaragua has been the most expensive country for us so far.  It was surprising to us considering it’s also the second poorest country in the Americas; Haiti being the first.  Nicaragua, typically includes a 15% tax on everything in its tourist cities.  San Juan del Sur, was no exception, and we struggled to find dinner for under $10 USD.

A Surfer Fixing His Board

Surfing Lessons in San Juan del Sur

We walked back to Casa Oro Hostel to book our surfing lessons for the next morning.  A surf board costs $7 to rent and the lessons were $25 each including transportation to Playa de Madera.  The morning drive to the beach was approximately 45 minutes on a muddy dirt filled road.  We arrived to Tres Hermanos Hostel which resides on the small isolated beach.  The beach itself was rather dirty, lined with piles of drift wood, seaweed and washed up trash.  Unfortunately, it makes the beach much less welcoming even though it is so remote.

A Surfer Working his board in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

The waves break in three stages, providing all sorts of options for surfers of differing skills.  As beginners, we stayed close to the shore, in whitewater waves only.  Initially, Aracely and I both thought surfing was going to be extremely challenging.  I figured it to be similar to snowboarding, which is very difficult to learn. Luckily, surfing is not that challenging.  More specifically, its not as challenging to get up on the board and balance yourself.  It will become much more challenging as we venture out into bigger waves, but Aracely and I aren’t anywhere near that stage yet.

San Juan del Sure Beach & Cove

Fredo, our surf instructor spent 2-3 hours with Aracely, Miguel and I.  The first hour was on the beach, learning where to lie on the board and finding out if we stood regular or goofy.  I always look goofy, but in regards to surfing, I am regular and Aracely is goofy.  Once we got into the water, in only 15 minutes Aracely was up on the board, surfing her way to shore.  She even impressed the teacher.  After we all got the hang of things, we each attempted to surf on our own for the remainder of the day.  At 4:00pm our ride back to San Juan del Sur arrived and we all jumped back in the Land Rover.

San Juan del Sur Beach Cove

After returning to our hostel, Aracely and I realized our ribs hurt and our knees burned.  Seems as if I rubbed the hairs off my knees a bit getting in the standing position.  It was a still a great time, and we can now officially say, “We surf!”

Canopy Tour in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

There are several beaches you can visit near San Juan del Sur for surfing.  If you are looking for something else, try renting a quad or bike on the beach, charter a fishing boat or go searching for turtles.  We booked a canopy tour on zip-lines with Da’ Flying Frog Tours the next day.  We had amazing views of the forest canopy and the coastline all for $30 a person, a fraction of what you will pay in Costa Rica.

Canopy Tour in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur Nightlife

Each evening we hung out at Barrio Cafe and continued to watch the World Series baseball games. Other places we enjoyed a drink or some food were Big Wave Dave’s, Iguana’s Beach Club and El Gato Negro Bookstore Cafe.

El Gato Negro Bookstore Cafe of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

An Overcrowded Bangkok Shopping Mall Shoe Stall

In this travel guest post for 2Backpackers.com, Andrea of the Butterflyist, shares her experience at a Bangkok shopping mall in this travel photo of the day.

This shoe stall in one of Bangkok’s indoor shopping malls unwittingly represents everything that Bangkok is, and why I adore the city! Brash, bright, cramped, colourful and eager to please. Even with its pollution and problems, I fell in love with Bangkok the minute I got there. It’s one city that I know I must go back to at some point.

Jade Johnston of OurOyster.com, shares her tips on travelling to the Perhentian Islands in Malaysia in this travel guest post for 2Backpackers.com.

Despite over five years of travel, and over thirty countries visited in that time, the Perhentian Islands marked two of my travel firsts. My first time travelling solo properly, and my first proper beach holiday. I know, shocking.

And like anyone, taking their first shaky steps onto new territory, I fell hard. I made a couple huge mistakes which can be easily avoided, but I also did a few things right.

Perhentian Islands. Malaysia by willposh, on Flickr

Perhentian Island Paradise

The Perhentian islands, although only taking up a page in Lonely Planet’s Malaysia book, are well known on the backpacker route. They are your typical island paradise, with long sunny days, beach parties at night, and great snorkeling and scuba diving activities. Which island you chose to stay on will depend on your budget and your travel lifestyle. Perhentian Besil, the big island, is popular with families and the typical accommodation includes resorts and hotels. Perhentian Kecil, the small island, is backpacker haven. Cheap guesthouses and dorm rooms abound, and a dorm can be obtained for as cheap as 12 ringgit a night. Thats 4 dollars!

The two islands are easily reachable from Kuala Besut by speedboat for 70 ringgit return. Kuala Besut is easily reachable from most main towns in Malaysia by bus, and I reached the town by overnight bus from Kuala Lumpur.

So below are my top 5 tips to make your visit to the Perhentian islands a memorable one. And do take these tips into consideration – as I learned several of them the hard way!

Perhentian Island by karma-police, on Flickr

Top 5 Tips for Travelling to Perhentian

1.  Arrive early to ensure you get a good room

Many of the hostels on Kecil are not available to book online, so most people search out a guest house when they arrive. This is definitely an “early bird gets the worm sort of situation,” and the decent budget rooms disappear quickly. So unless you want to sacrifice your wallet, or sacrifice the luxery of a semi decent toilet facility, try to get there early! I took the 7:30 am boat to Kecil and was lucky to therefore be the first in line for a dorm room in the cheap and very clean Tropicana Inn. Many others were waiting for a dorm room after me, but several ended up being turned away.

Top tip: take the overnight bus to Kuala Besut – that way it will be impossible for you to oversleep and miss the first ferry.

Perhentian Beach by karma-police, on Flickr

2.  Slip, Slop, Slap!

Now I know this is supposed to be common sense, but if you like me (no sense) and don’t want to end up looking like a lobster, then heed this advice. Slip on long sleeves, slop on some sunscreen, and slap on a hat. The sun on the Perhentian islands is extremely strong – and the atmosphere is extremely relaxing. A dangerous combination. Now I don’t ever need to wear sunscreen! I’m half Asian and never burn! Wrong! I ended up burnt to a crisp and having to spend the rest of my time on the Perhentian islands hiding from the sun with a book. The worst part of it – it peeled … making me paler when I got home than when I left.

Top tip – Try not to fall asleep in full sunlight in the mid afternoon!

3.  Snorkel or dive

The Perhentian islands are located in a marine reserve and the water is crystal clear and teeming with marine life. Just from standing on the pier, I was able to see several species of fish. I didn’t go snorkeling due to my having not followed tip #2, but others I spoke to raved about it. Apparently it is rather easy to see small sharks, sea turtles, sting rays, and dozens of brightly coloured fish.

Top tip – Every man, woman, and child seems to run their own diving and snorkelling excursions here, so make sure you spend some time shopping around to get the best deal.

Perhentian - Underwater by Anan Amri, on Flickr

4.  Coral bay

The main beach on Perhentian Kecil is long beach, and it is therefore lined with guest houses, shops, and restaurants. However, for a slightly less crowded beach and for cheaper eats, take the walking trail across the island (only about 500 meters) to Coral Bay. Also, be aware that the restaurants stop serving food around 7pm or 8pm, so make sure you get your dinner in before it’s too late. (Another mistake I made!)

Top tip – The restaurants in coral bay are almost half the price as those on the main beach.

5.  Bring bug spray

Since I spent most of my time in Malaysia in larger cities, I didn’t really encounter many mosquitoes or insects at all. (note: I wrote this before my last night in Malaysia – the night I got feasted upon by bed bugs!) However, in the Perhentian’s the mosquitoes are about the size of house cats – seriously! When one came at me, I had the same panic reaction as if a pigeon was swooping at my head.

Top tip – it’s better to stock up on your bug spray (and sunscreen as well) on the mainland, as prices are a bit inflated on the island.

Amazing Sunset on our last night on Besar by The Shifted Librarian, on Flickr

Well, those are my top 5 tips for travelling to the Perhentian Islands – most of them learned the hard way! It’s somewhere I definitely want to revisit – but next time with my sunscreen!

Have you been to the Perhentian islands? What are your greatest tips?

The Great Wall of China

In her first guest post for 2Backpackers.com, Unisse of Little Girl Travels, shares her trip to China with us in this travel photo of the day.

Having gone to a Filipino-Chinese school, I have had history lessons about China and the ever famous Great Wall of China. However, history doesn’t tell you how hard it is to climb the structure. Since the Great Wall was built by more than a million workers by hand over different time periods, the steps aren’t exactly leveled properly. Hold on to the railings for extra support to help you climb.

Blogger Feedback

1. Most bloggers know they can’t live off a blogging income

It seems that the majority of us know that blogging alone isn’t going to yield much money. That doesn’t mean we all don’t hope our blog takes off and we make some dollars, it just means we are sensible about what to expect in terms of income. The fact that we celebrate 1,000 visitors a day and $1,000 a month, speaks to itself.

2. Half of you believe you will succeed by doing what you love or are passionate about

We aren’t in sync on this issue, and honestly, there is no need to be. To state my opinion, I don’t believe that just by doing something you are passionate about you will find success. Running a business is more complicating than that. I also believe that the world is much more difficult than that.

3. We understand that blogging alone isn’t enough

If you want to make money, you need to do more than blogging. There has been enough bloggers sharing their steps to success for us to understand that there is always something more than just blogging. Some write freelance, operate a side business, do web development, have a completely different full-time job or speak publicly. Others sell ebooks, SEO services, hard books, photographs, subscriptions or magazines. Take the knowledge that the more experienced bloggers are offering and learn from it. Your blog is your audience; decide what product or service you are going to sell to them.

4. When a hobby becomes a job, things change

A hobby is something we enjoy, something we do purely for pleasure. There isn’t a requirement, a threshold nor a measure of success. When a hobby becomes a job, it changes. It’s a business now, and you must focus on the activity in order to achieve success. Success is no longer just about pleasure, it’s about income. If we enjoy something tremendously, be cautious when considering turning it into a job. You might lose the pleasure you original received from that activity forever.

5. The travel blogging community exists

The comments in the article, which was written for travel bloggers, displays an incredible interest of bloggers to share thoughts on a subject many of us can relate too. Many of you are thinking, “Of course we exist.” What I am trying to convey is that in this chaotic online world, which often seems fragmented, clicky, and self satisfying, we can come together for discussion that is relevant to our business. We won’t all comment on each article about a destination we write, and we shouldn’t. Those articles are written for non-travel bloggers. We do comment on articles that we can all relate to, that are a reflection of our industry and that we can learn from. It’s important to have that community, a sense of belonging, a support system, people we can gather honest feedback from. We all blog for different reasons and are on different levels of the business cycle, but we know each other well, if only by a twitter profile pic.

What have I been up to?

I haven’t stopped blogging, but I also haven’t found a job yet. It’s only been 3 weeks and the number of job opportunities in Miami for my skill-set is at a minimum, according to Monster.com. I have stopped my use of StumbleUpon, Digg and being on Twitter all day. That has freed up a tremendous amount of time. It’s amazing, and it feels great. I do feel a bit disconnected on Twitter, but I think I am doing the right thing. I check in occasionally and retweet an article or find an interesting discussion that is going on.

I redesigned this trave blog after 2.5 years of the same theme. It felt great to make that transition. My other sites aren’t getting as much attention, but I have that, “who cares feeling” when it comes to steady content on each site. I write when I have something to say, or I am getting paid to do it. I started a new YouTube account where I am uploading all my past travel videos and other videos I create from other blogs and our cat. I have very little followers, so please connect with me and I will reciprocate.

I focused on the website redesign because I want to get all the technical stuff fixed before I get a job. When I am working full-time I don’t want to have to worry about technical issues on my blogs. I want the SEO set up correctly, a minimum number of plugins and highly supported theme across all my blogs so I can focus on content only moving forward. I still have a lot of fixes to do, specifically with my video pages, but I am working on them aggressively. The new YouTube account is actually my old personal account. I have so many videos covering so many different topics that I wanted to get away from the name of 2 backpackers. I also have revenue sharing on my personal account. A big plus if anyone ever decides to watch our adventure travel videos. They are more likely to watch our cat videos, which is how we got the revenue sharing deal.

How has this impacted my traffic?

That’s the question you guys want answered. I am happy to say, traffic has… increased since I have stepped away from StumbleUpon, my old Facebook page of 3,000 fans and the hours I used to spend on Twitter. What does that mean? I have no idea, but it feels good. Of course, my traffic has shifted away from Twitter, but my StumbleUpon traffic has increased. Strange right? It’s about writing the right articles and getting those articles in front of the right people. My Google Search traffic has also increased, which is preferable to me. It tells me that I am improving my SEO and I still have 80% of my site to improve. When I have enough data to start showing a month over month comparison, I will share it with you. Expect to see some Google Analytic charts in the next update.

I mentioned we left our Facebook page of 3,000 fans. I did that because I wanted a Fan Page that encompassed both our travel blogs, CoupleTravelTips.com and 2Backpackers.com. The new page is called “Jason and Aracely Travel“. At 300 fans, it’s going to take a long time to build back up, but again, now is the time, since I am completely open to change and not thinking about short term gains or income. It’s our long-term plan to brand ourselves, our names, us as a traveling couple that matters most at this time.

What’s next?

I will continue job searching and improving the backend of our site. It will take me another week to redo all the old video posts and get them uploaded to the new YouTube account. I will continue updating old posts to improve keyword focus and correct the design and headings. When I find myself in a full-time job I am not sure how much time I will dedicate to the blogs, but I hope to post the occasional video. That’s my goal, to return blogging to a hobby. Focus on the aspects of blogging I enjoy most, while making enough money from whatever my full-time job will be.

Oh, by the way, I have already net $2,000USD this month. Go figure.

Traditional Indigenous Tzotzil Chamulan Worship Service in Nichnamtic Chiapas, Mexico

Jonathan is a regular contributor for 2Backpackers.com. For more information or to sign up for his newsletter visit LifePart2.com.

Recently the Indigenous Tzotzil people in the villages surrounding San Cristobal de las Casis, Chiapas, Mexico expelled the Catholic priests from their churches and now practice a religion that is a mixture of pagan ritual and Christianity. Brass bands play, homemade bottle rockets are fired and ritual dances are performed for a variety of saints. As witnessed through this travel photo, there are no pews and the floors are covered with pine needles and hundreds of candles. Smoke from pine scented copal incense fills the air sending smoke for food to the saints. The celebrants also consume quantities of cigarettes, Pox (pronounced – Posh – a liquor made from sugar cane) and Coca Cola. The latter presumably to create big belches that expel evil spirits from the body. It is all very beautiful, lively and fun.

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

Fleet Week San Francisco 2011

From our seats out on a small rocky pier at the Marina Green, we had the best views of all the planes. Actually, the people hanging out in their sailboats had the best view, but on the San Francisco Bay, it was a bit chilly. Here are more pictures including the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, USAF B-2 Stealth Bomber and the incredible aerobatic pilot, Sean D. Tucker.

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot, & Team Oracle

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

Sean D. Tucker, Aerobatic Pilot - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF B-2 Stealth Bomber

USAF B-2 Stealth Bomber - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF B-2 Stealth Bomber - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF B-2 Stealth Bomber - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF B-2 Stealth Bomber - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF B-2 Stealth Bomber - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team

The Royal Canadian Air Force’s 431 Air Demonstration Squadron.

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

RCAF Snowbirds Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

I hope you enjoyed the action pictures from Fleet Week in San Francisco. Part 3 of our Photo Essays is dedicated to the Blue Angles. Sit tight, that post will come soon.

This post is brought to you by InsureandGo, providers of great value annual travel insurance.

Alcatraz - A typical cell in the infamous Alcatraz in San Francisco Bay

While traveling in San Francisco, visiting my buddy Samit, we did many of the “Things to do in San Francisco.”  That included a visit to Alcatraz Island, home of notorious criminals Al Capone, Robert Franklin Stroud (the Birdman of Alcatraz), George “Machine Gun” Kelly and James “Whitey” Bulger. The cells are staged to take you back to a time where Alcatraz escapes made national news headlines. An audio tour guides you through some of Alcatraz greatest events as a federal penitentiary.

1962 Escape from Alcatraz

The most famous escape from Alcatraz occurred in 1962 when Frank Morris, John Anglin and Clarence Anglin expanded a concrete vent hole in their with the use of homemade chisels. They accessed a utility room between cell blocks which ultimately led to their freedom. The question of whether or not they actually lived has not been factually answered. They were never found, but a raft did show up on a nearby island that was clearly constructed by them. I believe they lived, it’s makes the story that much more interesting.

We highly encourage all visitors to San Francisco to visit Alcatraz Island as part of a tour. Learn more about our experience and our impressions of Alcatraz Tours.

This post is brought to you by CheapFlights.co.uk where you can search for the best deals on cheap flights.

Navy F-18 Super Hornet Breaking the Sound Barrier

Fleet Week San Francisco 2011

It was the best weather we could have asked for. Not only were we lucky, but it was the warmest string of clear days that San Francisco has had this year. My buddy, Samit, advised us to visit during Fleet Week, explaining that it was the greatest show of the year. He was correct in his statement. Enjoy this collection of photos from our first Fleet Week ever during our visit to San Francisco.

Fleet Week San Francisco 2011

The Patriots Jet Team

Civilian owned jet aerobatic team flying L-39s.

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

The Patriots Jet Team - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

Navy F-18 Super Hornet - Fleet Week San Francisco

USMC MV-22 Osprey

USMC MV-22 Osprey - Fleet Week San Francisco

USMC MV-22 Osprey - Fleet Week San Francisco

USMC MV-22 Osprey - Fleet Week San Francisco

USMC MV-22 Osprey - Fleet Week San Francisco

USMC MV-22 Osprey - Fleet Week San Francisco

USMC MV-22 Osprey - Fleet Week San Francisco

USMC MV-22 Osprey - Fleet Week San Francisco

United Airlines 747

Strange yes, but still cool.  United was a sponsor of the event.

United Airlines 747 - Fleet Week San Francisco

United Airlines 747 - Fleet Week San Francisco

United Airlines 747 - Fleet Week San Francisco

United Airlines 747 - Fleet Week San Francisco

United Airlines 747 - Fleet Week San Francisco

United Airlines 747 - Fleet Week San Francisco

United Airlines 747 - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

USAF F-15 Strike Eagle - Fleet Week San Francisco

A second collection of Fleet Week photos including pictures of the Blue Angels will be published soon. There are just too many cool photos for one post!

This post is brought to you by Travelsupermarket, who offer great deals on cheap holidays.