#newblog - Janel Has Wings

Boquete, Panamá

by janelhaswings | Mar 12, 2020 | tips, Travel, Uncategorized

One of the most popular destinations in Panamá is a small mountainous town of Boquete. Located about 7 hours away from Panama City (the capital) and roughly an hour away from Costa Rica, it makes for a perfect escape from city life and an opportunity to reconnect with nature. Some people refer to Boquete as the “Switzerland of Panamá,” and when you look at photos of the landscape, you can tell why people would give it this nickname. It is surrounded by mountains, a river that runs through the main town, and a luscious land that produces some of the world’s best coffee.

Not only is it a popular tourist destination, but it is also a hub for ex-pats. The reason being is that the climate is much more refreshing than the rest of the country. Although it does rain frequently, Boquete has a milder temperature as in 60 – 70 degrees Fahrenheit or about 15-22 degrees Celcius. The climate, in particular, appeals to ex-pats who look to not sweat to death in the tropics and a way to escape the crazy city life in the capital. Boquete is a win-win situation not only for tourists and ex-pats, but it is also an ideal getaway from Panamanians. Boquete is located about 7 hours away from the capital and is easily accessed via car or public transport (bus).

On my recent trip to Panamá, I was able to return to one of my favorite places, Boquete, and take in all of the waterfalls, nature trails, hummingbird and butterfly sightings, and delicious coffee that this beautiful town has to offer. Here are my suggestions on how to get there, where to stay and where to eat while visiting Boquete.

How to get to Boquete

Option #1- Take a bus from the city to David, Chiriquí.

The first option and the most economical is by bus. Buses leave the city from the Albrook Terminal. The regular bus takes around 8 hours because of the many stops it makes on the way, and it costs $15. The express bus leaves at night and arrives at David, the capital of the Chiriquí province, where Boquete is located at around 6 a.m. It takes 6 hours and costs $18. Personally, I prefer the express option. From David, you will have to take another bus to arrive at Boquete. It costs $1.50 and takes about 40 minutes. The schedule changes, so you must check once you arrive at the bus terminal in David.

Option #2- Fly from Panama City (Ciudad de Panamá) to David, Chiriquí.

Air Panama and Copa Airlines provide daily flights from the capital to David. They average around $180 round trip. It is the most expensive option but also the quickest. The flight takes around one hour from Panama City to David and the airport that you will use depends on who you decide to fly with. Copa leaves from Tocumen and Air Panama leaves from Albrook. Once you arrive in David, you will still need to arrange transportation from David to Boquete. A taxi can cost you between $20-$30 to take you directly to Boquete. You can also get a ride to the terminal and then take a bus from David to Boquete.

Option #3- Rent a car and drive to Boquete.

Renting a car in Panamá is similar to renting a car in the U.S. as far as the paperwork and processing. You can find excellent deals are car rentals with some rentals being as cheap as $20 a day. The downside to this option is that it takes around 7 hours to drive from the city to Boquete, this is including stops of gas and restroom breaks. Not only does it consume several hours of your day, but if you have never driven in Latin America or Miami, I wouldn’t suggest Panamá being your first experience. Between the insane traffic in the city, drivers who have absolutely no knowledge of necessary driving skills, and not the best road conditions, driving in Panamá isn’t for everyone. I have driven from the city to all different locations across Panamá, but that’s because I used to live in Mexico, and if I could drive there, then I could pretty much drive anywhere in the world.

Getting around while in Boquete- If you chose the bus option or flying and not renting a vehicle, then there are two options to get around in Boquete, one being taxi and the other walking. There are no Ubers in Boquete, so you can solely rely on taxis, which are pretty inexpensive compared to other parts of the country. I would never suggest using a taxi in the capital, but in Boquete, it is a safe and reliable option.

You can search for flights and rental cars on my favorite travel website Kayak.com. The bus times, availabilities and prices can be found at the Albrook Terminal.

Where to stay

Boquete has many options when it comes to lodging. It provides plenty of options for anyone between the penny-pinching traveler to the billionaire travelers like Beyoncé, who want a full-on luxurious experience. The following are options that go according to different travel budgets.

Option #1- Budget-friendly.

Hotel Central Boquete is an excellent option for anyone looking for a beautiful place to stay, but that doesn’t empty the bank account. The average nightly cost is $48 U.S.D. a night. What’s to love about Hotel Central Boquete? They have their own coffee shop, amazing views of the mountains, and there are hummingbirds continually flying around the back of the hotel. (That wins significant points for me, obviously.) Apart from that, the hotel is clean, decent beds, and it is not too far out of the main town.

https://hotelcentralboquete.com/

Option #2 – Moderate budget.

Hotel El Oasis. It is centrally located so you can walk from the hotel to anywhere in the main town with no issues. Your view is of the local river that flows through the town and the mountains that surround Boquete. The rooms are comfortable and are your average hotel style setup. The average nightly cost is $85 U.S.D., and the level of comfort and convenience validates the cost.

https://www.oasisboquete.com/?lang=en

Option #3- The Instagram worthy location.

Bambuda Castle. It wouldn’t be an actual travel blog post if I didn’t provide you with the spot to stay to make your Instagram feed as lit like a Christmas tree, now would it? I have not stayed in Bambuda Castle, but I have visited and what I can say is this, THEY HAVE HOBBIT ROOMS. That’s right—literal mini hobbit castles. You and a friend (or a lover or partner, no judgment) can stay the night and overlook the mountains while you reenact scenes from Lord of the Rings. I know, the influencer in all of us is just dying to stay there. The good news is that it is incredibly affordable. The average nightly cost is $79 U.S.D., which makes your hobbit dreams much more attainable. The downside? It’s pretty far outside of the main town, so if you didn’t bring a vehicle, you would probably end up spending a decent amount on taxis trying to get back and forth.

https://bambuda.net/boquete

Option #4- Luxury over expense.

Valle Escondido. If money isn’t an issue and you’re trying to experience what luxurious locations Boquete has to offer, then look no further than Valle Escondido. Valle Escondido (“Hidden Valley”) is a hidden resort that offers peace, solitude and nothing but the best in accommodations to all of its guests. It averages around $175 per night, and having stayed there myself, I can confirm that it is worth every single penny. It is comfort, beauty, and convenience all in one. Though it is hidden, it isn’t far from the main town, and while staying there, you don’t even feel the need to leave. There are flowers, streams, and cute gardens everywhere—plenty of places to get beautiful pictures, not just of the luscious landscape but also of the gorgeous resort.

Home

Option #5- Ball out ’til you fall out.

Hacienda Los Molinos- This is for the traveler who doesn’t know the word budget, or at least it is the very last of their concerns. Averaging at $275 U.S.D per night, Hacienda Los Molinos is the definition of luxury. You can rent a villa and say “Adios!” to the outside world, well at least until you run into one of the other hotel guests, but for the most part, it is pretty private and also provides are more intimate experience than the rest. It is also the destination of many Panamanian weddings so don’t be surprised if you just so happen to be there the same day as a wedding party.

https://losmolinoshotel.com/

Where to eat

Although Boquete is a tourist hotspot, it is still a pretty small town. With that in mind, the food options are limited, but there are plenty of good restaurants around. In this category, I have decided to select my top restaurants for different meals.

Breakfast- Sugar & Spice

It is one of the healthiest options for breakfast that you will find in Boquete. They offer items such as pancakes, omelets, breakfast burritos, and typical continental breakfast. You may be thinking, “That isn’t healthy.” Compared to the traditional Panamanian breakfast options, which tend to be fried, such as fried sausage, eggs, and hojaldre (fried dough). Not only is it a healthier option, but I have never been disappointed in a meal since I started going there. Their food is fresh, delicious, filling, and their prices are reasonable. My personal favorite thing to eat is their omelet, but there are no wrong choices here.

http://www.sugarandspiceboquete.com/

Lunch- Granito de Oro

This isn’t a healthy option, but if you want to try a delicious sandwich and strawberry milkshake, then you cannot skip out on Granito de Oro. It is located outside of the main town, going towards David. You can only reach it by car or taxi, but trust me, the ride is worth it. My favorite sandwich on their menu is their pork sandwich or “emparedado de pierna” even though I don’t eat pork often, there is no denying that this sandwich is beyond excellent. One of the main things that the Chiriquí province is known for, besides coffee, is strawberries. When visiting Boquete, you cannot skip out on trying “fresas con creama” or strawberries with whip cream, but at Granito de Oro, they don’t sell strawberries with cream. Instead, they sell the best strawberry milkshake that you will ever drink in Panamá. It is an obligatory stop anytime that I am in Boquete. Just be prepared to take half of your sandwich home with you because the portions are massive.

Location: Calle 4ta Noroeste, Alto Boquete, Panama

Dinner- Retrogusto

A lovely Italian restaurant that is t is on the fancier and more upscale level of dining in Boquete. Although it is on the pricier side, the food and service validate the price. The prices are also less than the costs of fine dining restaurants. My favorite plate is the gnocchi, but their pizza is fantastic as well. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a nice meal either by yourself or with the company of someone else.

Location: Avenida Central & Calle 1 Norte

https://ilretrogusto.com/

There you have it—my suggestions for transportation, lodging, and food while in Boquete. Be sure to look out for next week’s post when I discuss my favorite things to do in Boquete. Trust me; if you love adventure, then you won’t want to miss out on the next post.

The classic Boquete picture of the river that runs through the town.

A Year Without My Dad

by janelhaswings | Feb 13, 2020 | Life Experiences, Uncategorized

One year. Three hundred sixty-five days since I physically felt my heart shatter when I heard my mom say the words, “Your dad had a heart attack and passed away in his sleep.” Honestly, I never expected to listen to those words.

When someone tells you that a loved one has passed away, the very first thing that happens is disbelief. You refuse to believe what you just heard. Your brain hears the words, but it does not process them. A feeling of shock and disbelief sweep across your whole body, and the feeling in the moments that follow can be best described as hollow.

How can you accept that someone that you love is no longer here? Especially when you just saw that person two days prior. People try to console you with words of condolence and encouragement, but mentally and physically, you are numb. A tornado could have come and swept me off of the ground I was standing on, and I wouldn’t have felt a thing. That is how numb and lost I was. Physically, I was on Earth; internally, I was in a black hole of numbness and disbelief.

The initial numbness doesn’t wear off within a few days, like most of us would like or want to believe would happen. Sometimes it doesn’t even hit at first. It comes in waves. And instead of allowing ourselves time to process the information and emotions that come along with the passing of a loved one, we immediately occupy ourselves. There are services to be arranged, flowers to be bought, and making the decision on how the family shall say their final farewell. What follows the time of death is days of constant planning and preparing that keeps your mind occupied and unavailable to focus on your feelings. We don’t allow ourselves the time to process what has just happened, so leading up to the funeral or service, bottle your grief up and place it on a shelf to the side so you can take care of things. It only subdues the grief and pain temporarily. Once the funeral process is over, you truly begin to feel the loss.

The dust settles, and family and friends return to their routines and daily lives, and you sit and wonder how you could live the same life that you did before you lost your love one. You are there, alone, left with the task of gathering the broken pieces of your heart and piecing them back together slowly. No one can prepare you for the mental spiral that is to come — the questioning of what you could have done differently. I asked myself how I could have been a better daughter. I had a good relationship with my dad, and I never thought that I would question if I was present enough in his life or if I spent enough time with him. After he died, I began to replay every single missed opportunity that I could have spent with him and even blamed myself for having a social life and not dedicating more time to my family. I felt guilty for creating a life for myself that didn’t include seeing or talking to him daily.

If being filled with these thoughts while I was awake wasn’t enough, my dreams were also about my dad. One dream in particular that I had almost every night after he passed was him wearing a black tuxedo, and we were standing outside of a concrete building with a red door. He flicked his cigarette out and took a look at me with his bright blue eyes and said, “Let’s do this.” Then he wrapped his arm around my shoulder, kissed me on the forehead, and we started walking towards the door. I had hoped that my dreams would be of something else, something that wouldn’t reflect my sadness, but there was no escaping it, not even in my dreams. I was trapped within my mind, and there was no way out.

Honestly, I never thought that losing my dad would be so painful or throw me into a spiral of intense grief and depression. I had dealt with death and grief previously. When I was 17 years old, my biological father passed away from cancer the morning after my high school graduation. With his passing, I was catapulted into dealing with grief while also transitioning from high school into “the real world” which gave me something to look forward to and place my focus on instead of centering my thoughts on my grief and loss. I’m not saying that I avoided my feelings; I just was able to process them quicker. It seems that because I had so much to look forward to, my mind just pushed me to continue forward. Then jump to 2019 when my stepdad dies, and I’ve already graduated college, done a considerable amount of traveling, moved to another country, and seemed to be starting to create a new life for myself and BAM. My world crumbled right in front of my eyes. This time I didn’t have anything significant to look forward to. I wasn’t dating anyone, not planning on having children anytime soon, and didn’t have any exotic travel plans. What was the next stage in my life that I could put my focus on?

My mind kept telling me to buy a plane ticket and get away and just be alone, but my heart told me to move back home and be with my family. For once in my life, I listened to my heart. The months following my dad’s passing were filled with tears, questioning, soul searching, connecting with friends who were experiencing the same pain that I was, and trying to find my life path. I allowed myself to sit with my grief and truly feel it. Allow it to wash over me, and I gave myself space to be sad, which, if you know me, you know that I have the unhealthy habit of avoiding being sad. I faced the rawest and ugliest emotions that surfaced, and instead of suppressing them, I allowed them and myself just to be. I allowed myself to feel. I made space for the negative. I realized that the more I allowed myself to be washed over with emotions and let myself be vulnerable, the more I began to feel like myself again.

I’m not going to say that allowing yourself to feel these emotions of heartache, incredible sadness, and uncontrollable grief is an easy task. That is a lie. It is extremely tough. It is opening old wounds and new ones and allowing life to dump salt all over them and endure the pain in order to heal your heart. There are days when you just want to feel no longer, and you would pay someone to deplete you of all emotions and feelings. Then there are days that you beg that the sadness and numbness will go away, and your heart will be filled with joy again. You almost feel guilty for wanting to be happy because you want to honor your loved one and the hole in your heart that they left behind, but at the same time, you know that they would want you to feel bliss again and to live your life to the fullest and fill that hole with new memories.

If I were to sit here and tell you that during this past year, I never experience joy or happiness, I would be a liar. There were moments when I experienced joy. There were days when my heart didn’t hurt as much. I had moments that made me smile and made me think, “Finally, I’m getting better.” But as anyone who has dealt with grief will tell you, there is no timeline to grief. You may feel on top of the world one day, and the next day you have this overwhelming sadness sweep over you and feels as though you took 20 steps backward. On days when I would feel this extreme sadness and emptiness, I would blame myself for not feeling better, for not being “better” with processing my dad’s death. I would tell my mom that I was so mad at myself for not being where I thought I should be in the process. I naturally put a lot of pressure on myself to be “strong” and to get over things quickly, but it doesn’t matter how much you want your sadness to go away, your heart doesn’t go according to your timeline, it creates its own.

Death creates an end and a beginning in the life timelines of those left behind. For me, my dad dying also marked the departure of who I was before. The person who I believed myself to be was no longer. I would stand in front of the mirror and not recognize the person looking back. I felt like a shell of the person I once was. I thought I died with him, except I was still physically here. What I didn’t realize is that although part of me ceased to exist on that day, a new piece of me was being born.

Although this new beginning started with sadness and grief from my dad’s death, it has also been filled with soul searching, healing, self-discovery, and self-love. It has sent me on a spiritual journey that, to be honest, if my dad wouldn’t have died, I probably would have never embarked on it. I began to rediscover passions that I felt like I had lost, such as writing. I am constantly evolving and discovering who I am. This isn’t to say that I no longer experience moments of sadness or grief.

02/02/2020 marked exactly one year since my dad died. The weeks leading up to that date felt so dreadful to me. I didn’t want to experience it, and I tried to avoid it at all costs. I was in Panamá, traveling around the country, and visiting friends and one thing that I knew was that day I didn’t want to spend it in the city. I wanted to be on a beach. I tried to convince a friend to come along, but I ended up going alone.

On the morning of his death anniversary, I woke up and looked at pictures of my dad, and instead of crying, I said thank you. Thank you for being with me during this past year. Thank you for pushing me to keep moving forward. Thank you for the signs that you send me that you are with me. Thank you for taking care of me. Thank you for helping me rediscover my passions. Then I thanked him for making it possible for me to take that day and spend it on an island in the middle of the Caribbean.

The island that I escaped to is remote and two hours away from the city, and the best part is that there is no cellphone signal. The only other people on the island were a couple visiting from Chile. I was able to be alone and cut off from the outside world so that I could be with my thoughts and my emotions. I had been avoiding this day for weeks because I kept fearing the extreme sadness I would feel, but on that day, I didn’t feel sad. I didn’t feel empty. Instead, I felt grateful and happy for having my dad be a part of my life for so many years. I enjoyed my own company, and I reflected on how far I had come in the past year.

Being on that beach reminded me of what it is like to feel alive. The waves crashing against the shore and the sand between my toes created a sensation of overwhelming happiness. My heart felt what it hadn’t in the past twelve months. It felt full. For a moment, I felt almost guilty for not being sad the entire day, and that’s when I saw a hummingbird in the palm tree where I was sitting. Hummingbirds and butterflies are my signs from my dad. I knew that it was my dad reassuring me that it was alright to be happy and that he was with me.

Reflecting on that day and this past year as a whole, I can confidently say that it has been a whirlwind of emotions and endless self-questioning. I know that there will be days in the future in which I will cry because I miss him telling me that it is all going to work out or simply because I want him here to share in my happiness. My dad may not physically be here, but he is with me every single second of the day. On my darkest days, when I feel like I need him the most, my reoccurring dream almost comes true, I can feel a weight around my shoulder, and there is a voice in my head that says, “Let’s do this.” And here I am, doing it, one day at a time.

This post is dedicated to the memory of my stepdad, Barry Glenn Gernert. He showed me that being a father isn’t by blood; it is based on the love that you have for your children, and he loved us more than anything. I love you Dad.

Top 5 Luxury Destinations for 2020

by janelhaswings | Dec 12, 2019 | #travel, tips, Uncategorized

Although I know how to stretch a dollar when it comes to traveling, I also know when to indulge on pricier destinations. I’m no foreigner to the concept of “making it rain” when the amount of money that I plan to spend is worth the experience I plan to have. When it comes to traveling, it is essential to know when to break your piggy bank and when to leave it alone. These 5 destinations are all destinations that I have traveled to myself that were worth every single dollar, even though they are more expensive than your typical destination.

The following are My Top 5 Luxury Destinations for 2020 that are worth every last dime, part of your 401k, and your tax return.

1.The Maldives- Paradise on earth. Seriously, there is a reason why people obsess over these islands. The lavish water bungalows, the impeccable hospitality, and the turquoise color waters of the Maldives leave an outstanding impression on anyone. Maldives is a paradise because there is an option for everyone. One of my favorite things about the Maldives wasn’t the fantastic bungalow over the water, that’s obvious, but it was swimming with sharks. I had no clue that the reef sharks there would get extremely close to you while you were in the water. Reef sharks are not aggressive, and for the most part, they are generally pretty small, so there is no need to worry about Jaws attacking you in the middle of a paradisiac island but prepare yourself to see one or two fins swimming by.

Why is it expensive? Considering the Maldives is made of 26 atolls that are all spread out, getting from one island to another can only be done by boat or charter plane. Also, it is in the middle of the Indian ocean, so everything must be brought in from other countries. Combine these factors along with the luxurious hotels, and you’ve got a recipe for one of the more expensive destinations to visit.

The average daily cost of food and accommodation: Food will depending on the resort menu prices which can range from $20 all the way $100 a day; A night in a 4-star resort will range anywhere from $250-$1,500 + depending on the type of room and the resort.

2. Sydney, Australia- Ah! The Land Down Under. Let’s be honest, most of us have a burning desire to go to Australia just so we can see a crocodile and let our inner Steve Irwin (R.I.P.) shine as we yell, “By crikey, it’s a crocodile!” Ok, maybe that is just me, but Australia is appealing to any traveler because it is typically on the opposite side of the globe. When you think of an exotic destination that is far away, more than likely, you are going to think of Australia. Sydney isn’t Australia’s capital, but it is the most popular destination. When we see images of Australia the first one that typically pops up is the Sydney Opera House being plastered all over postcards and Instagram pages not only show the beauty of the city, but it appeals to all travelers.

Why is it expensive? The first part is how far it is for most people. Apart from the distance, it is secluded, so it makes goods more expensive. It is also a massive continent, so if you want to see as much as possible on a 14-day trip, be prepared to fly from one destination to another. Australia isn’t quite as big as the U.S., but it is still enormous. The best transportation mode if you are crunched on time and want to see the most is flying, therefore, be prepared to buy plane tickets from one destination to the other.

The average daily cost of food and accommodation: Food will cost you between $30-$50. A 4-start hotel in Sydney will set you back between $150-$300 USD per night.

The Sydney Harbor and Sydney Opera House.

3. Lausanne, Switzerland- Welcome to the land of divine chocolates and cheeses. Oh, and don’t forget a landscape that is something Monet could only dream of replicating. Pictures of Switzerland just don’t do it justice. It is a country that you have to experience for yourself to understand the true beauty of it. I have yet to see a video or photograph that clearly embodies how stunning it is. Lausanne, in particular, is a breathtaking city because it is on the shores of Lake Genova, which ensures not only spectacular views but all of the Instagram opportunities that you can imagine. An hour away from Lausanne is the cute town where one of the most renown cheese brands is located, Gruyères. If cheese isn’t your thing and you prefer more of an adventure, a three-hour drive east of Lausanne will land you right in the middle of the Swiss Alps. I hear people talk about how expensive it is all the time, and it is true, but if you have the finances to afford a trip to Lausanne, Switzerland, book it now.

Why is it expensive? It is well known amongst travelers that Switzerland is a destination that requires spending a lot. Why? They use a different currency than members of the European Union. The Swiss Franc is overvalued, and therefore prices are higher. Is there a sticker shock when you first arrive? Yes, but once you see the Swiss Alps with your own eyes, you no longer care about food prices.

The average daily cost of food and accommodation: Food will cost you between $50-$80. A 4-star hotel in Lausanne will run you between $150 – $250 dollars a night.

4. Reykjavík, Iceland- If you haven’t heard of Iceland by now, then your internet services are probably limited where you live. Ten years ago, a patron at the bar that I worked at told me that he was from Iceland and was working in the U.S. temporarily. First, I was shocked that someone from Iceland was in Louisville, KY, but once the shock factor wore off, we began talking about the tourist attractions that Iceland has to offer. As soon as he mentioned the Northern Lights, I was sold, but I was also curious to know why I hadn’t heard much about Iceland before. Flash forward a few years, and everyone and half of their families are planning trips to Iceland. Why? The possibility of seeing the Northern Lights while visiting is good, and with tours that allow you to climb glaciers, why wouldn’t you want to go? Plus, let’s not forget the famous Blue Lagoon that floods Instagram feeds because it is such a popular spot. Iceland is an adventure-lovers dream, and if you don’t like to live on the wild side, but you enjoy nature, then you have no problem finding something to do while you are there.

Why is it expensive? Iceland is another secluded island that has to import most of its goods. Being secluded and the cost of living combine to make higher prices than the average country.

The average daily cost of food and accommodation: A nice meal in a restaurant in Reykjavík will set you back around $40-$60 per person, not including drinks, and a 4-star hotel will cost between $150 -$250 USD.

Letting my inner figure skater shine through on top of a glacier in Iceland.

5. Dubai, U.A.E.- Whoever says that everything is better in Texas, clearly, has never been to Dubai. Do you want to see the tallest building in the world? The Burj Khalifa can be found in Dubai. You can also see the world’s biggest water fountain from above when you visit the Burj Khalifa. The truth is, whatever already exists in the world, Dubai has said, “We will make it bigger and better.” Not only have they delivered on their idea, but they have quickly become a popular destination amongst travelers. Dubai is appealing to travelers because although it is located in the middle of a desert, there is so much to see in the city. Want to visit the world’s largest aquarium? Take a ride over to the Dubai Mall, and while you are there, make sure you check out the indoor ski slopes, as well. If you work up a sweat from all of the shopping that you do while in Dubai, then you can head over to the beach and cool down. If you are looking more for an adventure, then I suggest going on a desert safari. It ended up being the one thing that I enjoyed the most while in U.A.E. Riding in a Jeep and feeling like it was going to flip at any moment was precisely the thrill rush that I needed.

Why is it so expensive? Dubai is located right in the middle of the desert, and although it’s location factors into the expense, it is also a city built off of oil money. If you factor that in along with the number of billionaires who call Dubai home, and you can figure out why it is expensive.

The average daily cost of food and accommodation: Food will run you between $30 – $50 USD and 4-star hotel accommodations will cost between $250 – $350.

Sitting in the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

And there you have it. These are my Top 5 Luxury Destinations for 2020. What better way to bring in the New Year than booking a trip to a luxurious foreign land with priceless views.

Top 10 Budget-Friendly Destinations for 2020

by janelhaswings | Dec 5, 2019 | #travel, Life Experiences, Uncategorized

With 2020 right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking of all of the beautiful places that the year can take you. I typically start planning trips six months ahead of time, but when the new year approaches, I begin to get more realistic about where exactly I want to go. The other thing that I start to get realistic about is my budget for my future travel plans. The following destinations are all places that I have been and have been kind to my backpacker’s budget. In a lot of cases, the most expensive part of traveling to each destination is going to be the airfare to get there. I’ve also taken the liberty to include some of my contacts for each location. If you are looking to book an affordable trip or tour and don’t know where to start, then feel free to contact them. I asked their permission before posting this.

The following are My Top 10 Budget-Friendly Destinations for 2020 for anyone wanderlust addict.

1. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena was on my bucket list for a long time, and finally, I went for my 30th birthday. The only thing that I didn’t like about it was that I had never been to before. Cartagena is an excellent mix of Caribbean and Colonial vibes. Known for its beautiful blue beaches and the famous Ciudad Murallada (Walled city). With horse led carriages traveling down brick streets, Cartagena takes you back in time when the Spanish first landed in South America. The modern Caribbean flair comes from the bright colored homes and the very Caribbean attitude of the locals. It is a must-see for any traveler. Cartagena is the most expensive destination in Colombia, but it is still relatively cheap, considering it’s a popular place to visit and the number of tourists that arrive daily. A hostel will set you back around $20 a night and food will cost you around $10-$20 a day depending on where and what you eat.

Walking through the beautiful streets of the Getsemani neighborhood in Cartagena.

2. Bali, Indonesia

There is a reason why this Indonesian island is a hot spot for backpackers, bloggers, and professional travelers. It’s one of the happiest islands you can imagine. Bali was my first real introduction to Asia, and it left such a great impression on me that I always tell people that they have to go to Bali at least once in their life. It’s also an excellent destination for solo female travelers to meet other travelers like themselves. Depending on what corner of the world you live, the most expensive part about your visit to Bali is going to be your plane ticket. Besides that, welcome to the island of $2 meals and $4 alcoholic beverages. A hotel (not hostel) will cost around $20 per night, and they are really nice considering the price. One of the reasons that my Bali experience is so memorable is the tour guide that I had, Widy. He asked me what I wanted to see in Bali and also suggested places that not many tourists get to see. He went above and beyond to ensure that my experience in Bali was enjoyable and that I left satisfied knowing that I saw what I intended to see plus some. If you are dying to see Bali and have no idea where to start, then feel free to contact Widy on WhatsApp. +62-813-3726-4922.

Visiting the famous rice paddies in Tegallalang, Ubud, Bali.

3. Havana, Cuba

If you haven’t heard that traveling to Havana is like going back to the ’50s, then where have you been hiding? Havana is more than a trip to the past. It’s old colorful buildings, clothes hanging on laundry lines between homes, old people sitting on their balconies “chismeando” to each other (gossiping), young people dancing cubatón (Cuba’s version of reggaetón) in the streets and the home of smiling faces everywhere. Cuba has been on many people in the U.S.’s bucket list, and recently the doors to Cuba were opened, and cruise ships filled with tourists filled the streets. Unfortunately, policies have changed, and getting to Cuba isn’t as easy anymore, nor is it as cheap as it once was. The good news is that when there is a will, there is a way and this way is a very budget-friendly one. I have the perfect contact for anyone looking to tour the island, not just Havana. My friend Marissa leads tours around Cuba and even takes them to her family’s home in Pinar del Río. Not only do you experience the natural beauty of the island, but you get to experience what it is honestly like for Cubans. Anyone interested in seeing Cuba and having an authentic Cuban experience, you can book her tours on her site below.

https://www.facebook.com/MariMundoTours/

Holding the Cuba flag in Varadero, Cuba.

4. Barcelona, Spain

A great European country that is easy on the wallet but filled with fun cultural experiences is Spain. The country is big enough to travel around the different regions and feel like you are taking multiple trips in one, but also small enough to not be overwhelming to the novice travel planner. My personal favorite city to see in Spain is Barcelona. The gastronomy is to die for, the Mediterranean coast is picturesque, the culture is unique, and in case you haven’t heard yet, Spaniards love a good fiesta. If you are looking for things to do while in Barcelona then make sure to read my post “The Perfect Day in Barcelona.” If it is your first trip to Europe and you are trying to find the best city to start with then put Barcelona at the top of your list. A hostel will cost you around $30-$40 per night and food will run between $20-$30 per day. Barcelona is one of the most affordable popular Western European destinations.

Standing in front of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

I could never understand why my Italian grandfather decided to live in Buenos Aires for 13 years until I decided to go, and I finally discovered why for myself. Buenos Aires is the perfect mix of European architecture with Spanish and Italian culture and a South American flare. Buenos Aires is a city filled with vibrant hipster neighborhoods such as Palermo and La Boca, and magnificent architectural finds such as the Teatro Colón. One of the other architectural wonders of Buenos Aires is its famous cemetery, La Recoleta. I know suggesting visiting a cemetery sounds morbid, but it was my favorite part of Buenos Aires. Apart from the mausoleums being extremely ornate, there are tons of famous Argentinians buried in La Recoleta, the most renowned being Evita Perón. Apart from these great spots to see, there is a tastier reason to visit Buenos Aires. Argentine steak and Malbec wine. Argentina is known for its great beef, and an excellently prepared steak and a glass of Malbec will only set you back a few dollars. The most expensive steak meal that I paid for in Buenos Aires cost $12. Accommodation in Buenos Aires ranges in price, and it depends on the area of the city that you want to stay. I stayed in an area that was close to La Recoleta and Palermo. It cost me $42 per night, but it is one of the best hostels that I’ve ever stayed in. It is called Benita Hostel and can be found on Booking.com.

At Evita Perón’s mausoleum in La Recoleta.

6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

White sand, blue water, and so much Mama Juana (their version of moonshine) that I can almost taste it while I’m writing this. The Dominican Republic is a terrific island to travel to if you’ve never been out of the country, if you are on a budget or if you are looking for a getaway that guarantees a fabulous time. Dominican Republic is a hot spot for U.S. tourists because you can get great all-inclusive deals for one of their best-known destinations, Punta Cana. If you are like me and you want to see more than a resorts pool bar, then I highly suggest touring other parts of the island, especially the capital, Santo Domingo. The Dominican Republic is easily accessible for budget travelers because so many Dominican resorts offer all-inclusive deals that include accommodation, food, and alcohol and sometimes flights as well. If you haven’t been outside of the U.S. are you aren’t quite sure about seeing a different country on your own, then an all-inclusive deal is a great way to get your feet wet in the world of travel. It’s also a terrific way to plan a group trip that is affordable for most budgets. An all-inclusive offer for Punta Cana for four days can run anywhere between $1,000 all the way to $2,000. It depends on the kind of resort and what is included in the package. The packages do not include any activities outside of the resort, so if you are looking to see more of the Dominican Republic, keep in mind that you will have to pay for all off-resort activities separately.

7. Katmandu, Nepal

Nepal is often a country that is often overlooked because not many people know what a gem it is. Nepal is known for one significant natural beauty, Mt. Everest, but what people don’t know is that Nepal is much more than Everest. While planning our trip to India, my friend and I decided to include Nepal, and it ended up being our favorite part of the journey. Part of the reason was that Katmandu isn’t nearly as busy or hectic as India, and the locals were extremely friendly to tourists. Apart from being less hectic, Katmandu is also filled with UNESCO World Heritage sites, which contain gorgeous Buddhist and Hindu temples. Although the devastating earthquake that hit Nepal in April of 2015 did a lot of structural damage, many of the UNESCO World Heritage sites are still intact. Apart from the cultural sites, the natural beauty of Katmandu is that the Himalayas surround it. The sheer beauty of Katmandu is breathtaking. Although the devastating earthquake that hit Nepal in April of 2015 did a lot of structural damage, there are still plenty of beautiful sites to see. You can expect to spend around $5 per day on food while in Nepal, and accommodations can range between an extremely budget-friendly $15 per day all the way to $40. Depending on how you choose to travel. If you plan on visiting Nepal then I suggest contacting my tour guide, Raveen Shrestha. He is a local that speaks excellent English and goes above and beyond to ensure that you have an amazing experience. I plan to visit Nepal again and I will be contacting him to take me to other sites in the country. You can contact Raveen directly on WhatsApp. +9779803478328.

Watching the sunrise over the Himalayas in Nepal. A moment that I will never forget.

8. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a gorgeous city on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. It’s home to one of UNESCO’s world heritage sites, known as it’s Old Town, which is a medieval city that you can explore in just a couple of hours. Apart from the Old Town, Dubrovnik also is a great place to relax and get some sun. During the summer the beaches are filled with tourists from all over the world. One thing that tourists typically look for while traveling is a great place to party. Dubrovnik’s nightlife lives up to most tourist’s expectations. Dubrovnik is a great place to relax during the day and rage at night. My only suggestion while staying in Dubrovnik is to make sure that you don’t stay at a place at the top of the cliffside as I did. Trust me; your legs will thank you for not putting them through a CrossFit style work out just trying to get to your room. Although Dubrovnik isn’t the cheapest Croatian city, it is still extremely budget-friendly. A decent hostel will cost you around $20 a night and three meals a day average between $20-$30 depending on what you choose.

The wonderful Dubrovnik steps that I have very fond memories of. Still smiling after walking up and down 10,000 steps for the third time in one day.

9. Prague, Czech Republic

Most college students and backpackers will say the following words when you ask them about Prague, “The beer is cheaper than water.” Although this is a fact, another fact about Prague is that it is also a beautiful city that gives travelers a great taste of Eastern Europe. A must-see spot in Prague is the Charles Bridge, which allows pedestrians to cross the Vltava River while going from the Prague Castle to the Old Town or vice-versa. The bridge is lined with gorgeous statues on both sides. Apart from Charles Bridge, the Lennon Wall is another popular spot that many tourists visit to leave messages of inspiration for others or to get a classic photo for Instagram. A decent hostel in Prague will cost you around $15 per night, and food will run about $20 per day, depending on what you choose. The portion sizes in Prague are pleasantly big, so if you don’t eat a lot, you might find that one decent meal a day is enough to hold you over.

Standing on the Charles Bridge over the Vltava River.

10. Agra, India

Who would have guessed that visiting one of the seven wonders of the world would be inexpensive? Well, it is. Apart from being home to the Taj Mahal, Agra is a great way to get acclimated to India before exploring the more populated cities like New Delhi and Mumbai. The Taj Mahal isn’t the only attraction in Agra. There are several other attractions built by the Mughals and just as magnificent as the Taj, one being Agra Fort. In general, India is extremely affordable for backpackers and travelers alike. One thing is that you also have to be willing to haggle prices with locals in order to get the best prices. When I traveled to India at the end of 2018/beginning of 2019, I traveled around the country by using a tour company. I typically don’t book tour companies, but India is a big country with a massive population, and just the thought of booking everything on my own was overwhelming. I paid more than what someone would typically pay for two weeks in India, but I don’t regret it. I paid $1,400, which included hotels, meals, entrances to all of the museums, historical sites, and temples and also included private transportation, and it covered my four days in Nepal as well. The truth is, I could have spent much less if I would have booked it myself, but at the time, I was a busy school teacher in Panamá, and the price that I paid was worth avoiding the headache of coordinating everything by myself.

The Taj Mahal. One of my bucket list dreams that came true in 2018.

And there you have it. These are my Top 10 Budget-Friendly destinations for 2020. As I mentioned before, with the majority of these destinations the most expensive part is going to be the flight getting there. These 10 destinations aren’t the only budget-friendly locations, but they are ones that I have visited and can confidently say that they are worth every penny. If you’ve been to any of the places listed above or if you have any other cities that you would recommend to check out that are budget-friendly, feel free to comment below.

The Beauty of Bali

by janelhaswings | Nov 14, 2019 | #travel, Uncategorized

What is it about Bali that makes it so unique for everyone who visits? I’ve tried to come up with the best way to describe Bali to the world, and quite honestly, finding the words to describe such a magical island is almost impossible. My personal experience in Bali felt as if I were soul searching and looking for answers to questions that I didn’t even know that I had. Bali was my first official “Asian” experience seeing how I had only visited the Asian side of Turkey before going to Bali. What I found in Bali were smiles, peaceful landscapes, and a sense of belonging.

Bali feels like if you found your very own magical stone, and of course you don’t want to share it with the world because you are afraid it may lose it’s magic. The sad news is that anyone who has ever browsed the travel section of Instagram has seen all of the photos of Bali, so everyone knows where to find your secret stone.

The true essence of Bali isn’t only in its landscapes but in its people. The people of Bali are so welcoming, and they want you to enjoy their island just as much as you do. I found that every restaurant, temple, and small shop that I went to the owner or the person working there greeted me with a big smile and a positive attitude. At some points during my visit, I would ask a stranger for help finding a particular place, and if they didn’t understand me, they would hand signal for me to wait, and they would come back with someone who spoke English. It is one of the very few places that I have seen strangers go above and beyond to help tourists. The majority of the population on the island are practicing Hindu’s who believe in karma which is something that I also believe it. People there believe that what you put out into the universe is what you will eventually receive. I believe that is one of the factors that makes the vibe there feel so positive.

If you’ve been to Bali and you are reading this and laughing because you know that the traffic on the island is insane and it’s almost terrifying to watch as motorcycles, buses, and cars maneuver around each other, know that I’m not oblivious to the chaos on the island. If you’ve been on Canggu beach, then you know that not only is it riddled with trash and plastic everywhere, but it is also filled with drunk tourists at night. For a lot of people, especially environmentally conscious people like myself, it is off-putting to see the amount of trash around the island. It also makes me sad to see the number of tourists who use it as their playground to get wasted, but can you can’t blame Bali for the irresponsibility of tourists. Even though these things harm the image of Bali, they will only ruin your visit if you allow them to. Besides, what better way to give back to an island that fills your heart with so much joy than picking up any piece of trash that you see lying around. The hoards of drunk tourists and the plastic on the beaches shouldn’t keep you from visiting the island and experiencing the joy that is Bali.

When I think of Bali, I think of beauty, peace, and happiness. It sounds cliché to hear someone say, “I went to Bali and found myself.” but this tends to be an overwhelming sentiment amongst travelers who have experienced Bali for themselves. It’s hard to describe a place so dear to my heart, but the best way that I can is by using the word magical. It was a foreign land that made me feel like I was home, and not every place that you visit feels like home. I only hope that anyone who decides to visit Bali experiences the same sense of calm and peace that came over me when I visited.