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If you’re ever in Buenos Aires and have an extra day, a trip to Colonia, Uruguay can be a good idea.you’re ever in Buenos Aires and have an extra day, a trip to Colonia, Uruguay can be a good idea.

You can visit its UNESCO World Heritage Site old town and have a taste of Uruguay cuisine.

The Banque Bus ferry takes about an hour and a half and it is a pretty decent ship (spring for first class if you can). They sell food on the ferry and have very clean washrooms. It even has a duty free store.

The ferry costs about $90 round trip, and about $125 if you want to Include a walking tour.

From Colonia, there are beautiful, modern buses that can take you to Montevideo if you want to explore further.

Not gonna lie- you have to check in (takes 20 min) and stand in line at immigration (another 20 to 30 minutes or so) in both countries. I wish they can streamline this process.

Five hours At Colonia Uruguay should be plenty of time to walk around and enjoy a nice lunch by the ocean.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Iguazu Falls seems like a world away, and to be honest, it kinda is. But it is definitely worth the trip.

You can reach Iguazu via a 2 hour plane ride from Buenos Aires or an hour flight from Rio Brazil.

There are many tour groups available from either countries, but to be honest, you don’t really need to join a tour group. The town of Iguazu is very small and it is very easy to get around.

My friend Sarantos and I flew from Buenos Aires, his dream destination. But as soon as we landed in Iguazu, he quickly said “Iguazu is a lot more magical than Buenos Aires.” And it is true.

Many Argentinians don’t speak English (I speak a little Spanish). But we got lucky and our taxi driver Carlos, who drove us from the airport in Iguazu to our hotel, was so kind and friendly.

He was so kind, friendly and nice that we bonded immediately. I asked for his Instagram account and we asked him again to drive us into the town later that evening.

He was soooooo sweet, he showed us around the town and helped us run errands too.

He took us around several places which was great. Because the following day, we had to bolt out of Iguazu to go home to the Philippines for my mom. So it was great that we got to see quite a bit.

He drove us around to show us where the locals live, the other hotels, and to a park where the borders of Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina meets.

As a thank you, we took him to a nice restaurant. When the bill came, this 22 year old kid asked us how much his share was for his meal (it would have cost him his entire day’s wage). He was such a class act.
He was such an amazing kid- so nice, fun, trustworthy and well mannered. We will definitely stay in touch.

The following day, he drove us to the Iguazu park. It costs about $12 to get in. Wear hiking shoes because you will need to walk around the park through pathways, bridges and rocky paths to get around the park.

Tip- try to get to the park on weekdays, or exactly at 8 am when it opens! You will have the entire park to yourself!

There are two sides to the waterfall- the Argentina side or the Brazil side.

We planned on seeing both but due to a personal emergency, we had to leave right away. This gives me reason to come back!

 

I have always wanted to explore Southwest Utah and Arizona’s National Parks but never had the chance. Living in LA, it’s oddly difficult to convince friends to drive anywhere north of Las Vegas. Finally I was able to drag my friend John – a National Parks junkie to come along for the ride.

Our first stopover was at Zion National Park. We started our trip from Los Angeles and left midday. From LA, it’s an eight-hour drive passing through the endless miles of desert scenery (which is always easier to bear with a good playlist). Halfway through, we stopped in Vegas for an early dinner and to refuel, then headed directly to Zion, which was another three hours away. Note to self: Every guide book will tell you that summer is the best time to visit the parks. I think it’s far too hot. Temps can reach up to a humidity-free heat of 110 degrees. It is arduous to hike in such conditions. Visiting in spring is ideal for me; the weather was bearable and the wildflowers abundant.

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Greece is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. If you are planning a trip to Greece, here are some tips to help make your travels more enjoyable:

1. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO? To get the best deals, the best time to visit are the months of April and May, or Sept and October. Hotels are more affordable, weather is also a bit cooler and beaches won’t be as packed. June through August are the peak months and hotels are more expensive. Greece is pretty much closed for business from mid October through mid March.
2. BOOK AHEAD. To avoid long lines and overcrowded attractions, plan your trip in advance and book your accommodations, flights, and tours ahead of time. It is hard to go wrong with hotels on the islands. Greek locals and hoteliers have great taste when it comes to accommodations. They love to entertain and are obsessed with cleanliness. Even inexpensive hotels are beautiful and clean.
3. DRESS AND PACK LIGHT. Greece can get very hot during the summer months, so be sure to dress in light, breathable clothing. However, remember to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, such as churches and monasteries, by covering your shoulders and legs. No need to bring special shoes – the official footwear in Greece are flip flops during the day and stylish sandals at night.
4. TRY THE LOCAL CUISINE. Greek cuisine is delicious and varied, so make sure to try as many local dishes as possible. From fresh seafood to souvlaki and tzatziki, the food in Greece is sure to delight your taste buds. Ask your hotel owner for suggestions. They know all the secret places that are good and inexpensive.
5. BRING CASH. While credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, it’s always a good idea to carry cash with you. Many small shops and restaurants only accept cash, and some rural areas may not have ATMs.
6. LEARN BASIC GREEK WORDS. While many Greeks speak English, it’s always appreciated when tourists make an effort to speak the local language. Learn some basic Greek phrases such as “hello” (yasou), “thank you” (efharisto), and “please” (parakalo).
7. BE KIND AND GENEROUS. The tipping practice, according to handbooks, is “just leave your change” after dinner. WRONG! The American tourists ruined this for everyone. Always leave at least 10% for the staff (15% if you’re REALLY happy with your meal and service).
8. BE RESPECTFUL OF CUSTOMS. Greece is a surprisingly a conservative country, especially when it comes to public behavior. Always be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. At the beach, you can wear whatever you want. But when going out at night, dress nice.
9. BEFRIEND THE LOCALS. If a local invites you to dinner at their home- don’t even think about it, say “YES”. Greek people are such kind, hospitable and loving people. Once they welcome you to their home, you are FAMILY to them. They would give their own bed for you! An amazing Greek friend’s family insisted I stay at their house for 2 weeks. They also fed me non stop and loaned me their car during the duration of my stay.
10. EXPLORE BEYOND. While Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos are popular tourist destinations, Greece has much more to offer. Consider exploring some of the lesser-known islands, such as Patmos, Ios, Antiparos, Naxos or Paros, or visiting some of the smaller towns and villages on the mainland.
11. PACK FOR COMFORT. Wear your most comfortable outfits. Remember that whatever you bring, you have to haul this around from one island to another. I have traveled to Greece for a month with one small suitcase. I generally wash my clothes and they dry easily. They also have inexpensive laundry services around the island.
12. BE STYLISH! The Greek islands are probably one of the most instagrammable countries in the world, so BRING FABULOUS outfits! You will be the envy of all your friends. Everyone looks like an influencer here. LOL.
13. THE ATHENS AIRPORT IS VERY FAR FROM TOWN. It is an expensive cab ride ($50 to $60). So plan your trip accordingly. If you’re visiting the islands, it may be faster, easier and cheaper to take a ferry.
14. USE THE FERRY. The inter-island ferries between islands is absolutely beautiful (and generally safe). They are almost never on time, but they are beautiful inside. If you have an option between a large or a small ferry, go with the larger one. The larger the boat, the more amenities it has. GET TO THE FERRY 15 MIN BEFORE DEPARTURE. Most passengers think that they have to be there 1 hour before your ferry schedule. Arrive about only 15 minutes before arrival. You will just be burning under the sun. Most likely, the ferry will be late anyway. LOL.
15. YOU CAN HAGGLE. If you visit during off season, you can haggle. I have done this at rental car companies. You can get as much as 20% to 25% off if you have bargaining skills. “Hi, the other rental car company only charges 40 Euros a day (they are not LOL), but they don’t have the type of car I want. Can you match it?” If they have 10 cars on their lot, they will match it.
16. VISIT SANTORINI ANYWAY. Yes, Santorini is insanely touristy. But you have to visit it at least once in your lifetime. Stay in Akrotiri, a less touristy part of the island.
17. AVOID THE CROWD. If you want to avoid the crowd, walk around Oia and Fira (or any touristy town) from 7:00 am to 10:00 am. That is before all the cruise ship people show up, or from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, when all the cruise ship crowd are gone. It will be just you and the local cats. LOL.
18. BUY A SIMM CARD. There are many kiosks that sell them for under 10 Euros and they are good for 1 month. It will keep you connected to the world.
19. PARTY FIRST! If Mykonos is on your itinerary, visit Mykonos FIRST. You would most likely party a lot. And it is best to get the partying out of the way, and you can recover in other islands after. You won’t want to fly back to the US with a massive hangover.
20. ATTEND THE LOCAL EVENTS. If you find yourself in Greece during Easter Sunday, that is their most celebrated holiday. You are in for a treat! You can partake in this local, festive tradition and you can party and dine with the locals. They have many other holidays and cultural events (like dance or concerts) that are geared for locals. Try to ask your hotel owner or locals if they know of any events in town.

Overall, Greece is a beautiful and fascinating country that offers something for every type of traveler. With a little preparation and an open mind, your trip to Greece is sure to be a memorable one.

If you need a travel agent to help plan your trip- my friend Mina’s travel agency is one of the most reputable Greek travel agencies. Visit their website at: https://www.travelive.com/ or call 1-888-377-5483. They can help you in planning the most perfect itinerary that fits your budget. PLEASE TELL THEM THAT EDWIN REFERRED YOU! You will get an extra special attention!

I don’t know a single a person who went to Greece and did not have an amazing time.

 

My Greek posse in Paros! They are all so amazingly kind, generous and thoughtful. Top – Christos, Giannis and Nikos. Bottom row – Vasilis and Sarantos.

My two Greek BFFs who I met in Paros. I met Sarantos (right) one evening when he found my wallet at the restaurant he works at. I was island hopping during COVID and felt lonely halfway through the trip. “Come back here to Paros,” he said, “You have friends here.” So I came back and he introduced me to his family and friends (who later became my friends too). They have visited me in LA twice, and I have visited them in Greece twice.

 

The whole posse during my good bye dinner in Greece.

 

My Greek posse in Paros! They are all so amazingly kind, generous and thoughtful. Top – Christos, Giannis and Nikos. Bottom row – Vasilis and Sarantos.

My two Greek BFFs who I met in Paros. I met Sarantos (right) one evening when he found my wallet at the restaurant he works at. I was island hopping during COVID and felt lonely halfway through the trip. “Come back here to Paros,” he said, “You have friends here.” So I came back and he introduced me to his family and friends (who later became my friends too). They have visited me in LA twice, and I have visited them in Greece twice.

 

The whole posse during my good bye dinner in Greece.

As I was driving from Calgary to Lake Louise over the weekend, I had my Volvo blasting with Michael Buble’s Christmas Album. What could be better? The best Christmas album, sung by my favorite Canadian singer (Sorry Celine), as you drive across the most beautiful part of the Canadian Rockies. It was such a phenomenal experience.

It’s supposed to be springtime in Alberta, but they’re still getting tons of snow, which is something my local friends are not pleased with,

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I’m While I love Italian food, it kinda got too much after 3 days. In Sicily, the food selection is kinda limited- pizza, pasta, and panini at every corner.

So when I learned that there is a Filipino restaurant a mile away, I was determined to go despite the rain and my exhaustion. I took the Bird (rental scooter) in the rain, and drove on cobblestones just to go buy pancit, sisig and menudo with rice. My sister was like “Please don’t hurt yourself”.

Thankfully, I got back safely and we devoured it in our hotel room! Yummmm! It was definitely worth risking my life for .

We have a cousin who lives in Palermo and we have not seen her in over 30 years. I asked the restaurant owner if she knows her since there are only 1,000 Filipinos in Palermo. By coincidence- they know each other and she even called her for me. So we got to facetime each other and got caught up. The owner of the restaurant and her son were so incredibly kind and friendly.

Tsibog is at Via Ugo Basi 41, Palermo. When you visit, please order their Bihon. It is absolutely out of this world!

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I have stayed at several hotels in Germany and so far, Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof is the best hotel I’ve ever stayed at in the country. My room was very spacious, nicely fitted and luxurious. The bed was so big and comfortable, I was tempted to stay there all day. The bathroom had very beautiful fixtures, Egyptian towels, marble flooring, robes and a great choice of toiletries.

It is located in the heart of the city within walking distance to the shopping district, financial district and the old town. Everything is within walking distance including the train station and the scenic river two blocks away. If you choose to hire a limo or a cab, the airport is only within 12-15 minute drive. If you’re a foodie, you don’t need to go far. They have a Michelin-starred restaurant right in the hotel.

When I made the reservation, I requested for a room on the lower floor. Upon arrival, I was assigned a room on the 2^nd floor. I was very impressed. This sounds like a simple request, but you have no idea how many times a hotel doesn’t read their notes.

The following afternoon, the front desk offered to take my shopping bags up to my room when they found out that I was running late to my next appointment.

The turndown service came on time every single night and replaced all our used towels and straightened our bed. The staff at the spa were also so accommodating and friendly. If you have time, make sure you try their tea service at the lobby – IT IS DECADENT (and surprisingly inexpensive).

All 261 rooms and 42 suites, enjoy an ambiance of luxury and first-class service. If you’re looking for an amazing (and luxurious) place to stay at – Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof is THE place.

 

Koufonesia is a very peaceful and quaint island. Unlike Mykonos, there is no Fendi store here, no big parties, €100 cabanas, papparazzis or €400/person dinners. Unlike Santorini, the cruise ships does not stop here, and there are no tourist buses. There arent even rental car companies on the island. Instead, there are bike rental shops and water taxis that can take you from one beach to another. People also walk from one beach to another.

I travelled with my Greek friend Vasilis from neighboring island Paros. The ferry took an hour and 45 minutes and cost €45 each way (around $52 USD). The ferry boats in Greece are fairly big and comfortable. You can buy your ferry tickets at ferryscanner.com.

If you go to a restaurant here, you can see Grand ma in the kitchen and the grand children serving dishes. The fish of the day was caught by their close friends or cousins who are fishermen. This is how I remember Mykonos when I first visited 14 years ago.

This was kinda how Boracay was when I first went there in 1998- before Jollibee, Mcdonalds and Starbucks opened.

I didn’t bring my DSLR Yes, I regret it. The place is insane stunning. I have not seen acqua blue waters like what I see here.

Because the island is quaint, you don’t have a lot of hotel choices. I was unusually picky this time because I wanted to splurge on this trip and check off all the boxes- proximity to the beach, pool, access to the town and port, and nicely updated bathrooms. We found Paradise Hotel after a long search.  And the hotel did not disappoint. The minute we got to the property, my jaw dropped! It definitely has the island vibe I was looking for.

The staff picked us up at the port for free, and our room was incredibly gorgeous. The rooms are updated and immaculately clean. The staff were also beyond friendly and helpful. We appreciate their kindness and flexibility with our requests. Great hotel and I highly recommend it!

If you visit- make sure you have cocktails at Milos Koufonesia and eat at Capt Nico.

I hope that the island keeps its charm. The only way to do this is to keep is a secret. So promise me not to tell anyone. Okay?

A long time ago, when I planned a trip to Egypt, my friends said I was gonna die there (Yes, they actually said that).  Then I went to Cambodia and they said I’ll die there too. Then I went to Iceland, a friend said “Are you crazy? you’ll freeze to death there.” 

The same people who warned me about the dangers of these countries asked me afterwards “So how do I get there?” Haha

It’s NOT enough that you travel- you have to be one of the first amongst many to go there. What’s the excitement of going to places where everyone’s been? There’s something exciting about being one of the first amongst your friends to see a place. Don’t be scared! Remember- we only remember the first 3 men who went to the moon. The rest, didn’t make the news anymore. 

I want to share these images of Doha, Qatar so the world can see its beauty. It’s so clean, people are friendly, and they have amazing architecture. Check out these photos and tell me what you think.

HOTEL I STAYED AT: St Regis Hotel (I highly recommend them). Amazing service, food and most of all – THE STAFF are amazing!

 

While popular tourist spots like Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos attract thousands of visitors each year, there are still hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Welcome to Koufonesia, a picturesque island tucked away in the Aegean Sea, offering an authentic Greek experience away from the crowds.

Koufonesia is so small, its full time residents is less than 500 people. There is no airport, hospital or car rental companies on the island. There are, however, bike rental companies.

Arriving in Koufonesia

To reach Koufonesia, you’ll need to take a ferry from the port of Piraeus (in Athens) or other neighboring islands such as Santorini, Naxos, Paros or Syros. As you approach the island, you’ll be mesmerized by its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and the scent of olive trees lingering in the air. Koufonesia may be lesser-known, but its beauty rivals that of any famous Greek island.

Idyllic Beaches

One of the main draws of Koufonesia is its pristine beaches, each with its own unique charm. Agios Sostis is a secluded sandy cove, perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility. For water sports enthusiasts, Fokos Beach offers excellent conditions for windsurfing and snorkeling. Don’t forget to visit Tsigrado Beach, accessible only by boat or a short hike, where you can bask in the sun and swim in the turquoise waters.

There is Peri Beach which is quite a trek- but definitely worth it! There is a heart=shaped natural pool there that is just absolutely beautiful/

Captivating Villages

The island’s villages are straight out of a postcard, boasting traditional Greek architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and vibrant bougainvillea adorning the white-washed houses. Wander through the alleys of Ano Meria, a charming village perched on a hilltop, and catch breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Embrace the laid-back atmosphere as you sip on a cup of Greek coffee at a local café and immerse yourself in the warmth of Koufonesia’s friendly residents. The past place to watch the sunset is at Milos Koufonesia – a traditional windmill that is now a chic lounge bar.

Delightful Gastronomy

Greek cuisine is renowned worldwide, and Koufonesia doesn’t disappoint. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes, fresh from the sea to your plate. Head to a taverna and savor the catch of the day, grilled to perfection and accompanied by a refreshing Greek salad and homemade tzatziki. Koufonesia is also famous for its locally produced olive oil, a staple ingredient in many dishes, adding a unique touch to every meal.

The best meal we had on the island was for dinner at Capt Nikos. It is a family-owned restaurant on top of the hill.

Exploring Historical Treasures

Despite its small size, Koufonesia is steeped in history. Visit the ancient ruins of Kastri, a prehistoric settlement, and imagine life on the island centuries ago. The Church of Panagia, with its intricate frescoes and panoramic views, is a testament to the island’s deep-rooted religious traditions. Explore the nearby archaeological sites and gain insight into Koufonesia’s fascinating past.

Sunset Magic

Sunset in Koufonesia is a magical experience. Find a spot along the coastline, whether it’s a quiet beach or a cliff-top viewpoint, and witness the sun painting the sky in a myriad of hues. As the day draws to a close, you’ll understand why this place is considered a hidden gem, a paradise for those who seek serenity and natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

If you’re yearning for an authentic Greek experience, away from the tourist crowds, Koufonesia is the answer. This hidden gem in the Aegean Sea invites you to embrace the simplicity and charm of island life. Explore idyllic beaches, captivating villages, and immerse yourself in Greek culture and history. Koufonesia is a treasure waiting to be discovered, offering an unforgettable journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, pack your bags and set sail to this enchanting island.