Keshtravels PH

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Bangkok's Grand Palace firsthand, where I was captivated by the scorching heat, vibrant colors, and lavish displays of gold.

This iconic landmark is a testament to Thailand's rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance, leaving visitors yearning for more than just a single day to explore its grandeur.

Stepping into the Grand Palace, I was immediately enveloped by the intense heat, which added to the sense of adventure and excitement. The complex dazzled my senses with its vibrant colors, from the intricately painted murals to the glistening golden spires that adorned every corner. The opulence of the palace was truly breathtaking, with gold accents adorning every surface, reflecting the country's deep reverence for its royal history. As I wandered through the complex, I realized that a single day was simply not enough to fully appreciate the grandeur and intricacies of this architectural masterpiece.

Visiting Bangkok's Grand Palace is an immersive experience that transports you to a world of scorching heat, vibrant colors, and a dazzling display of gold.

The sheer magnitude of the palace's beauty and historical significance will leave you longing for more time to explore its wonders. Prepare to be enchanted by the rich cultural heritage on display and make sure to allocate ample time to truly immerse yourself in the grandeur of this iconic landmark.

DAY 2 21NOV22 | BANGKOK
Grand Palace
Bangkok City Tour
Kesh.Travels
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Tokyo Tower 🗼 hidden tips

1. Skip the lines: If you want to avoid the long lines at the ticket counter, you can purchase your tickets online in advance or at one of the ticket vending machines located on the first floor.

2. Visit at night: While the tower is impressive during the day, it's even more stunning at night when the tower is illuminated with colorful lights.

3. Try the Tokyo Tower's special menu: The Tokyo Tower has several restaurants and cafes where you can try unique dishes and drinks inspired by the tower, such as the Tokyo Tower parfait or the Tokyo Tower cocktail.

4. Take a guided tour: If you want to learn more about the history and significance of the Tokyo Tower, consider taking a guided tour. These tours are available in several languages and can be booked in advance.

5. Visit the FootTown complex: The Tokyo Tower also has a four-story building called FootTown, which includes a museum, aquarium, and several shops and restaurants.

6. Go to the lesser-known observatory: There is also a smaller, lesser-known observatory on the third floor that offers a unique perspective of the city. This observatory is often less crowded and can be a great spot for taking photos.

7. Know the photo spots: The Tokyo Tower can be photographed from different locations around the city. Know in advanced where the best spots are.

👕: IG
🩳: IG
🩴: IG
🌂: 7-11 Tokyo
💼:

DAY 28MAR23 | TOKYO
Tokyo Tower
Minato City Day
Kesh.Travels
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What are sakura and hanami? (They’re in full bloom!!! 🌸 Details below)

Sakura and hanami are related to the beautiful cherry blossom season in Japan.

"Sakura" refers to the cherry blossom tree itself, which is one of the most iconic symbols of Japan. The sakura tree blooms with beautiful pink and white flowers for a short period of time each spring, usually from late March to early May, depending on the location and climate.

"Hanami" is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the beauty of the cherry blossoms, usually by having a picnic or gathering under the blooming trees with family and friends. "Hana" means flower, and "mi" means viewing, so hanami literally means "flower viewing".

Both are integral parts of Japanese culture and are celebrated each year during the cherry blossom season.

👕: IG H&M
🧥: IG
🩳: IG Straightforward
🩴: IG adidas
💼: IG Lacoste

DAY 2 27MAR23 | TOKYO
Shinjuku Gyoen National Park
Shinjuku Day
Kesh.Travels
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How about a relaxing dip in these cascading ponds? (Details below) This is your new sign to go to Bali. 🌺

The Edge is not only about the famous infinity pool and fantastic cliff views. From their site -- "Nestled upon the Uluwatu cliff, our sophisticated OneEighty features a series of cascading ponds that spill over into a breathtaking glass-bottom sky pool that sits 160 meters above the ocean. Relax and enjoy our cliff-side VIP deck as you take in the sun or experience exquisite cuisine and cocktails at the restaurant. After 5 pm, a new life breathes through OneEighty as chilled music and lit-up palm trees accompany an array of cocktails made by our all-star mixology team."

DAY 5 21FEB23 | BALI
The Edge
Kesh.Travels
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Day clubbing in Bali? Which one is the best? (The Edge, for me! 🙋🏻‍♂️ Details below.)

Bali has several popular day clubs where visitors can enjoy a day of poolside relaxation, drinks, and music. Some of the most popular day clubs in Bali include:

• Cretya by Alas Harum
Features a multi-tiered pool with a built-in bar, live DJs, and a cafe with 360-degree views overlooking a private rice terrace.

• The Edge
Located on the cliffs of Uluwatu, this has the iconic edge infinity pool, VIP lounges, and great food.

• Mrs. Sippy Bali
Located in Seminyak & known for its massive saltwater pool, diving platforms, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

• Finn's Beach Club
Beachfront club in Canggu, which features multiple pools, daybeds, and cabanas, as well as an on-site spa and restaurant.

• Potato Head Beach Club
Iconic club in Seminyak with a beachfront location, a stunning infinity pool, and an extensive list of cocktails and mocktails.

• Omnia Dayclub Bali
Located on the cliffs of Uluwatu, this features a massive pool, VIP cabanas, and stunning ocean views.

• Sundays Beach Club
Nestled on a private beach in Uluwatu, this offers crystal clear waters, water sports, and a delicious menu of seafood and cocktails.

These are just a few of the popular day clubs in Bali, but there are many more to choose from, depending on your location and preferences.

DAY 5 21FEB23 | BALI
The Edge
Kesh.Travels
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Finally, the island's poster boy. Does it look like a T-Rex? 🦖 Really?

Kelingking Beach, also known as Karang Dawa Beach, is located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida, an island southeast of Bali, Indonesia. What makes Kelingking Beach unique and popular is its stunning natural scenery and rock formation that resembles the shape of a T-Rex dinosaur.

The beach features a towering limestone cliff that juts out over the turquoise waters, providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike down a steep and challenging trail to reach the secluded sandy cove below, where they can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.

In addition to the stunning beach and cliff formations, Kelingking Beach is surrounded by lush greenery and tropical forests, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including exotic birds, reptiles, and marine life, adding to the beach's natural beauty and unique character.

We didn't go down because of the lack of time. But I definitely will next time. I'd also want to stay on the island for more than just a day tour.

DAY 4 20FEB23 | BALI
Kelingking Beach
Nusa Penida Tour
Kesh.Travels
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How many viewing decks are there in Nusa Penida? Many! 😅

Nusa Penida is a beautiful island off the southeast coast of Bali, Indonesia, famous for its limestone cliffs. Several scenic viewpoints and viewing decks on the island offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and seascapes.

Some popular viewing decks in Nusa Penida include Kelingking Beach viewpoint (VP), Atuh Beach VP, Broken Beach VP, Angel's Billabong VP, and Banah Cliff VP.

This is Molenteng Hill viewpoint, and it's famous for its stations of Instagrammable spots, including the Tree House. It's on the other side of Diamond Hill, and although there are stairs, it's a very steep hike going down and up the cliffs.

Several other viewpoints and observation decks in Nusa Penida offer breathtaking views of the island's rugged coastline, limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush greenery. However, the exact number of viewing decks in Nusa Penida is difficult to determine as new ones may be created and named over time.

👕: IG Makethaman Clothing
🩳: IG Straightforward
🩴: IG Birkenstock Philippines
📿: IG Kultura Filipino
🌬️: Sari Amerta

DAY 4 20FEB23 | BALI
Molenteng Hill Viewpoint
Nusa Penida Tour
Kesh.Travels
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Is it really dangerous in Nusa Penida? (Kind of. 😳)

The views are majestic!!! Like this one of Diamond Beach.

One of the main concerns when visiting Nusa Penida is the island's rugged terrain and lack of infrastructure. The roads can be VERY narrow and winding, and there may not be adequate signage or lighting. You'll pass through forests when going from one spot to another. This can make driving challenging, especially for the experienced. Additionally, some of the popular tourist destinations, such as Kelingking Beach, involve VERY steep and potentially treacherous hikes.

Another concern when visiting Nusa Penida is the presence of strong currents and rough waters around the island's coastline. While this can make for some amazing surfing and diving experiences, it also means that swimming and water-based activities can be dangerous. It's important to be aware of the conditions and to only enter the water in areas where it is safe to do so. Our boat ride going back to the main island of Bali stopped in the middle of the ocean because of VERY strong and big waves.

As with any travel destination, there is always a risk of crime, scams, and other safety issues. Travelers should be cautious and aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.

Overall, Nusa Penida can be a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers, but it's important to take appropriate precautions and be aware of the potential risks. And oh, don't forget your sunscreen.

👕: IG Makethaman Clothing
🩳: IG Straightforward
🩴: IG Birkenstock Philippines
📿: IG Kultura Filipino
🌬️: Sari Amerta Batik Sariamerta Bali

DAY 4 20FEB23 | BALI
Diamond Beach
Nusa Penida Tour
Kesh.Travels
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Is it better to get a villa in Bali or a hotel? (Villa!!! 🏠🤭)

The decision depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Budget: Villas in Bali can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, so it's important to determine how much you are willing to spend.

2. Location: Bali has many different areas with varying vibes, so it's important to choose a location that suits your needs and preferences. Do you want to be close to the beach, in the heart of the action, or in a quieter area?

3. Amenities: Villas in Bali often come with amenities such as private pools, gardens, and staff, so it's important to decide which amenities are important to you.

4. Length of stay: If you are planning on staying in Bali for an extended period of time, a villa might be a more comfortable and cost-effective option than a hotel.

Overall, if you value privacy and space, a villa in Bali might be a better option than a hotel. However, if you prefer the convenience and amenities of a hotel, then a hotel might be a better choice.

We enjoyed our villa because we have our own kitchen, it's near a convenience store, it has a pool, the rooms are very spacious, and more importantly, it's near the nightlife area. After exhausting ourselves in La Favela, it was just a short 3-minute drunk walk.

DAY 3 19FEB23 | BALI
Seminyak, Kuta
Kesh.Travels
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Is it really a "virgin" beach? Yes! 🌊

The sand is not that white, but the water is definitely crystal clear. Despite its stunning beauty, Virgin Beach is relatively unknown to most tourists, making it a peaceful and tranquil escape from the crowds of Bali's more popular beaches. There are several small warungs (local food stalls) and restaurants along the beach where visitors can enjoy traditional Balinese food and fresh seafood while taking in the beautiful views.

It is secluded, and access to the beach involves descending a steep hill on foot or the back of a motorbike. The hike down can be a bit challenging, but the reward of reaching this hidden gem is definitely worth the effort. I just realized the hike to and from this beach was just an intro to the more hikes we'll do the next day (in Nusa Penida). This was a perfect way to end our East Bali tour.

DAY 3 19FEB23 | BALI
Virgin Beach at Karangasem
East Bali Tour
Kesh.Travels
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What can you do in Bali's water palaces? (Swim, of course! 🏊🏽‍♂️ Details below)

Bali is home to several water palaces or "Taman Air" built by the Balinese royalty as places for relaxation, meditation, and connecting with the gods. Here are a few other water palaces in Bali that you might want to visit:
1. Taman Ujung: With gardens, ponds, and pavilions overlooking the sea.
2. Taman Ayun: Surrounded by a moat, and features a beautiful garden, water features, and several shrines.
3. Puri Taman Saraswati: Features a beautiful lotus pond and traditional Balinese architecture.
4. Tirta Empul: Holy water temple that is an important site for Balinese purification rituals.
5. Gunung Kawi Sebatu: Complex with several temples, pools, and fountains.

Tirta Gangga is also one of them. It is located in the village of Ababi in Karangasem regency, east Bali, and was built as a place of relaxation and recreation for the royal family.

The palace is famous for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and pools fed by natural springs. You can enjoy the stunning scenery, feed the fish, walk across the stepping stones in the ponds, and dip in the freshwater pools. It is considered one of Bali's most beautiful water palaces and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Since it was so hot during our tour, we stayed here a bit and ate some Balinese bananas. Their banana was slightly different, like a cross between saba and lakatan.

Overall, Bali is home to several beautiful water palaces worth visiting to experience the island's rich history and culture.

DAY 3 19FEB23 | BALI
Tirta Gangga Royal Water Garden
East Bali Tour
Kesh.Travels
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Is it OK to drink the water in Tirta Empul? (I drank a little. 🤭 Details below)

The water in Tirta Empul is considered holy and is used for purification rituals by the Balinese Hindus. While the water is generally safe to drink, it is not recommended for visitors to drink the water from the pools or the springs.

The water from the springs is untreated and may contain bacteria and other contaminants that could cause illness, especially for those who are not used to the local water. Additionally, there are often offerings and other items in the water, so it's best to avoid drinking the water and stick to bottled or purified water.

If you want to experience the spiritual and cultural significance of Tirta Empul, it's best to participate in the purification ritual where you can cleanse yourself by dipping in the water and following the traditional steps guided by a local priest or guide.

"3 times drink 3 times wash face" is a phrase commonly associated with the purification ritual in Tirta Empul, which involves dipping in and out of the 13 fountains while following the traditional steps guided by a local priest or guide.

During the ritual, after dipping in each of the fountains three times, visitors should cup their hands and take a drink of the water three times. After drinking the water, visitors should then splash the water onto their face three times, as a symbol of cleansing and purification. This process is repeated for each of the 13 fountains, following the traditional steps guided by the priest or guide.

The ritual is believed to have spiritual and healing properties, and it is an important part of Balinese Hindu culture.

Visitors are expected to bring offerings of flowers and incense as a sign of respect to the gods.

These are the 13 fountains: Tirta Empul (first fountain and is believed to have healing properties for physical and emotional ailments), Youth, Purification, Enlightenment, Blessings, Harmony, Love, Prosperity, Health, Abundance, Knowledge, Joy, and Purity.

We felt light, blessed, and purified after the visit.

DAY 2 18FEB23 | BALI
Pura Tirta Empul
Ubud/Central Bali Tour
Kesh.Travels
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Our new monkey friend took our group selfie 🙊 📸

The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is always a must-see and one of the several monkey sanctuaries on the island. The monkeys here are not as aggressive, and the area is peaceful. If your Ubud itinerary is not packed, or you have a day to spare, you can chill here for half a day.

In this particular sanctuary, there are several areas to explore. These areas will allow you to observe these cute primates in their habitat. They’re mostly eating, chasing each other, and looking for items to sn**ch from tourists. There are also three Hindu temples in the area (Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, Pura Beji, and Pura Prajapati)

Watch out for cute baby monkeys with their mommies. Have a selfie taken by one of the monkeys (trick shot). And oh, in this place, the monkeys usually take the water bottles.

👕: IG Makethaman Clothing
🩳: IG Straightforward
🩴: IG Birkenstock Philippines
📿: IG Kultura Filipino
💼: tote IG

DAY 2 18FEB23 | BALI
Mandala Suci Wenara Wana
Ubud/Central Bali Tour
Kesh.Travels
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The kalachuchi of Bali: Why do boys put a flower behind their ears?
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👕: IG Makethaman Clothing
🩳: IG Straightforward
🩴: IG Birkenstock Philippines
📿: IG Kultura Filipino
💼: tote

In some cultures, like The Philippines, flowers are considered feminine, especially when put behind the ear. But in Bali and Balinese Hinduism, the kalachuchi or frangipani brings enlightenment and goodness. In the white/yellow variant, white is a symbol of worshiping Hyang Widhi as Iswara, and the yellow color is a symbol of worshiping Hyang Widhi as Mahadewa or Lord Shiva, which has the power of Nagapasa which emits yellow rays (kinopya ko lang sa google, of course 🤭).

In Hinduism, frangipani flowers have two important roles. The first is as a symbol of Lord Shiva. Flowers are placed on the tip of the palm when worshiping. Then, the flower is usually tucked in the hair or ears. The second is as a means of prayer. Flowers are used to fill offerings for God or the holy spirit of the ancestors. (Kopya ulet; yes! 🤭)

These pics were taken in some random restaurant in Ubud. Our tour’s lunch stop was supposed to be overlooking the terraces of Tegallalang, but we were soo hungry. This place did not disappoint. I had Beef Rendang, a must-try in Indonesia.

Place: Zemar Kuning Restaurant
Jl. A.A. Gde Rai Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Just landed in the middle of the gates of Lumpuyang Temple 🇮🇩

The Gates of Heaven is one of the most photographed spots in Bali. It is situated in the Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang on top of the Lempuyang Mountain in Karangasem.

We left Kota at 2:30 am to be there at 5:30 am. The temple opens at 6:00 am, and there’s a steep zigzag going to the top. There’s a shuttle that will take you there, and aside from paying for this ride, you also need to pay for the temple entrance (this comes with a sarong rent and a photographer who will use your phone to take the “reflection” trick shot).

The temple complex is huge, and aside from the famous split gate, you can also climb two of the three paduraksa portals.

👕: IG Makethaman Clothing
👖: IG Straightforward
🩴: IG Birkenstock Philippines
📿: IG Kultura Filipino
💼: Karen Tribe market 🇹🇭
Sarong: temple’s

DAY 3 19FEB23 | BALI
Heaven's Gate at Lempuyang Temple
East Bali Tour
Kesh.Travels

Bauang, La Union is around 20 minutes away from the hip San Juan. If you're into super RnR, this is the area for you. You'll get the same gorgeous sunset but a quieter area. You're near the grape-picking/vineyards, and you can always rush to San Juan for some surfing, partying, and trendy eats.

Tip: La Faayette's food is yum! You can get their Bilao set if you're a group. They have very spacious suites. And you can use your drone.

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Blaming it on 7-11’s Carlo Rossi Pink Moscatos (part 2/3)

Tip: Bumubula ‘yung bath gel nila, kahit makalimutan mong magdala ng bubble bath 😉

📺 Coming up on (part 3/3) — tatayo na ako 🙊 chr

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Blaming it on 7-11’s Carlo Rossi Pink Moscatos (part 1/3)

📺 Coming up on (part 2/3) — nasa tub 🛁 😶‍🌫️na ako! chr 🙊

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There’s a kid-friendly pool at the Coral Wing of the hotel.

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One drink only 🍹 🤣 And oh, always thankful for my baby hairs hahaha

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Gimme some sun ☀️

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Guarding my . What do you think is its element? Grass? Wind? 😅

It’s like a -- that’s my first impression of this “secret” pool. What a way to have fun before having that relaxing at The Retreat Spa. And the relieving is a plus, together with the excellent service the attendants offered us.

“It’s very VIP.” — Anna Delvey

What to do here? Take your photography to the next level, as if you traveled to another country. Smell the relaxing aroma of the area. Listen and relax to the sounds of the fountain and flowing water. Watch the sun go down and imagine a desert outside. Play with the giant floating bean bags. Sip your ginger tea while munching some nuts, dried fruits, and bread. Be pampered by the great service of the attendants. Get free cold bottled water and fresh towels. Access the gym, sauna, and meditation rooms. All these are for free and included with your accommodation. And guys, this is just the outside “courtyard.”

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