Factors to Consider When Choosing a Beach House For Vacation

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There are several factors to consider when choosing a beach house for your vacation. These include location, size, amenities, and price. The right beach vacation rental can make your vacation a fun experience for the whole family. Read on to learn more about these factors and make a more informed decision.

Location

Location is an important factor when choosing beach houses in North Carolina. Consider the activities you'll be doing during your stay, including access to beachfront restaurants and grocery stores. You'll also need to find a beach house near piers and fishing spots. Check out Google Maps and consider traffic conditions before you make your decision.

Buying or renting a beach house may be a good investment, but it's important to consider your personal needs and goals. A beach house should be within your price range and meet your expectations. For example, consider where they'll be using the restrooms if you have children.

Size

Size is an important consideration when choosing the right beach house for vacation. If you intend to stay at the beach frequently and want several bedrooms, you may choose a large beach house. You will also want to choose a beach house with a view. Larger homes have many features that make them attractive to vacationers. For instance, they might have a tiki bar, oceanfront views, or a private walkway to the beach.

Beach vacation homes can be rented out or kept for personal use. Although beachfront properties are usually the most sought-after, smaller homes can be highly profitable if located in the right location. In addition, many beachfront properties offer outdoor amenities, so your guests can easily get out and enjoy nearby activities.

Amenities

Beach house accommodations should offer some conveniences for guests. They should include beach towels, beach umbrellas, and a cooler box. They should also provide folding chairs and an outdoor couch. Some beach rentals also have inflatables and bodyboards available to rent. Some beach rentals even have gazebos that provide shade for guests.

Guests should also bring their toiletries, such as hand soap and paper products. Many rentals include kitchen items such as pots and pans, which make it convenient for guests to prepare meals. In addition, guests should bring essentials like salt, pepper, and coffee. Some beach houses may even provide beach equipment, including chairs, boogie boards, and snorkels. Make sure to check each property's amenities page for details.

Price

The price of a beach house for a vacation rental will depend on many factors. If you're in a popular beach town, you can expect property taxes to be more expensive than in other areas. This can include higher taxes associated with being close to the ocean, and the taxes will increase over time. Also, if you rent the house out to tourists, you'll need a good business plan to cover mortgage payments.

Another factor to consider is whether you're purchasing a vacation rental or keeping it for your use. Vacation rental properties can have a higher property tax bill than non-beachfront properties, and property insurance for beachfront properties can be more expensive. Additionally, some beaches charge tolls for access. Regardless of why you're purchasing a beach house, make sure you plan to get a good resale value and enjoy your vacation for years to come.

Taxes

There are many things to consider when choosing a vacation home. First, if you use your beach house as your primary residence, you'll want to pay the proper taxes. In some cases, you can deduct the costs of vacation rentals. However, there are restrictions regarding the tax benefits of using a vacation property as your primary residence. Therefore, you should develop a strategy and follow the rules and regulations.

In addition to the tax bill, you'll need to pay for marketing and advertising of your property. In addition, you'll want to pay for professional services to show off the house and attract tenants. You'll also have to deal with legal fees if you have a dispute with your tenant.

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Things to Do in Verona

 

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Although the Italian city of Verona certainly gets its share of tourists, it doesn't compare to cities like Florence and Venice when it comes to overseas visitors. That's partly because this town is a lot smaller than the major Italian cities and, therefore, has less to see and do.

However, Verona manages to pack a lot of great attractions into a small area. Plus, the more laid-back atmosphere of the town might be just what you are looking for in an Italian vacation. If you're considering a visit to Verona, you'll find plenty to do here. Plus, the city makes a great gateway to other destinations nearby.

Drop off your bags at a Verona luggage storage and check out some of these top attractions. It won't take long to see why Verona is often considered an underrated gem of Italian tourism.

Verona Arena

The first thing most visitors want to see in Verona is the famous arena. This Roman amphitheater was built over 2,000 years ago and is still in excellent condition.

Although it no longer hosts gladiator battles or public executions, the arena does host a major opera festival every summer. If you're visiting during this time, you might be able to snag tickets to a world-renowned performance.

If not, you can still explore the interior and exterior of this incredible ancient structure. It's free to enter, making it a great activity for budget travelers.

Ponte Scaligero

No visit to Verona would be complete without seeing the Ponte Scaligero, one of the town's most iconic landmarks.

This bridge was built in the 13th century and spans the Adige River. It's a beautiful example of medieval architecture, with six arches and statues of lions on either side.

You can cross the bridge for free, making it the perfect spot to snap some photos of Verona's riverfront.

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Juliet's House

Romeo and Juliet may have been invented by the English writer William Shakespeare. But that hasn't stopped Verona, the setting of the famous play, from capitalizing on the story.

The house, the inspiration for where Juliet supposedly lived, is now a museum dedicated to the star-crossed lovers. You can explore Juliet's bedroom, balcony, and tomb, as well as see some interesting Shakespearean artifacts.

Even if you're not a huge fan of the play, this museum is worth a visit for the beautiful medieval building alone.

Castelvecchio Museum

If you're interested in seeing some of Verona's most important art and artifacts, head to the Castelvecchio Museum.

This museum is housed in a 14th-century castle that has been beautifully preserved. In addition to art, the museum contains weapons, armor, and other objects from Verona's history.

A visit to the Castelvecchio Museum is a great way to learn more about the city's past. Plus, the views from the castle are incredible.

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Torre dei Lamberti

For even more amazing views of Verona, climb to the top of the Torre dei Lamberti.

This tower is 84 meters tall and offers panoramic views of the city below. You can see all of Verona's major landmarks from the top, making it the perfect spot for photos. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the mountains beyond.

There is an elevator that goes to the top of the tower, but you can also choose to walk up the stairs for a small fee. Either way, it's a great activity for visitors of all ages.

Piazza Bra

No trip to Verona would be complete without spending some time in the city's main square, Piazza Bra.

This large piazza is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's the perfect place to people-watch or do some souvenir shopping.

If you're visiting on a Sunday, you'll also find a large open-air market in the square. You can browse for clothes, jewelry, and other local goods.

Verona Cathedral

The Verona Cathedral is one of the city's most important religious landmarks. This Gothic cathedral was built in the 14th century and contains many beautiful works of art. The ornate ceiling will have you craning your neck to see it all, yet you won’t want to avert your eyes from the intricate carvings and frescoes.

You can explore the interior of the cathedral for free, so that will help your euros stretch further.

If you're interested in learning more about the history of the cathedral, there is also a small museum inside.

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Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore

The Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore is another important religious landmark in Verona. This basilica was built between the 10th and 14th centuries and contains lots of beautiful art and impressive Romanesque architecture.

In line with the blurring of fiction and reality, this basilica is alleged to be the place where the real Romeo and Juliet got married. Whether that's true or not, this impressive church is worth visiting for its long history and the notable art inside.

Scaliger Tombs

The Scaliger Tombs are a must-see for history lovers visiting Verona. These 14th-century tombs are ornate and well-preserved. They're a great example of the city's medieval architecture.

The tombs are located in the courtyard of the Church of Santa Maria Antica. 

If you're interested in learning more about the history of the tombs, the church has lots of interesting information.

Conclusion

Although relatively small, Verona is rich in history, architecture, and historical interest. But it's also a fun and lively place to visit today, with lots of great food to enjoy. Although it still draws quite a few tourists, it will generally be less busy than the juggernauts like Rome and Florence, which can be a nice change if you’re on an extended Italian vacation. Drop off your bags at a Verona luggage storage, and you'll soon see just how much this small Italian city has to offer.

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Summer Vacation Must Haves

The temperature is getting hotter. This means that summer is already on its way.

Unlike in the past years, summer is not the same since we are still in the pandemic. COVID-19 is still around. Gather at some summer destinations are still prohibited especially now that there is a surge in the numbers of new COVID-19 cases daily.

However, there are still some tourist destinations that can be visited during summer. Just follow the minimum health protocols and have the required documents before going to the place you wanted to go.

But before heading to a place of your choice to spend the hot weather, here are some tips of things, aside from towels and swimwear like cute tankinis, that you may consider to put in your luggage. Oh wait, this Crayon Floral Racer-Back Tankini Top from Lime Ricki is love!

Crayon Floral Racer-Back Tankini Top

Camera

Of course, this is a must for taking selfies and documentations. Nowadays, there are already phones equipped with camera giving the best shots.

Cash

ATM or debit cards are already widely used in most establishments but there are times that machines or terminals went offline. Having cash is still better in cases of emergencies.

Sunscreen

We all know that sun’s rays can cause harm. A bottle of sunscreen is one wy to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Pick a higher number of SPF, the higher the better. Applying frequently is recommended especially when you get out of the water.

Lipbalm to prevent your lips from sunburn is also recommended as added protection.

Extra Clothes

A couple of extra clothes will not make your bags heavier. It will save you from emergencies in case you wanted to stay longer in the resort. Having an excess is better that running out of what to wear.

Insect Repellent

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We never knew what awaits us in our destination. Most summer activities are on open shore around bonfire.  Having a small bottle of insect repellent will save you from possible disease like dengue.

Medicine and First Aid Kit

Food and drinks is always around and your body may react negatively to these. Essential medicines like paracetamol, loperamide, anti-histamine, and antacids is a good choice to bring.

Whistle

For parent, this small item is a must to avoid losing your kids. Just keep them informed that once they get lost, trace where the sound of the whistle is coming from to get them back in your place.

These small items will not make your bags heavier by pounds but it will help you save from possible disaster in your vacation. Again, stay safe and Enjoy your vacation

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Paradizoo Educational Field Trip 2019

After the Tagaytay Picnic Grove quick trip, we went to Paradizoo.

Paradizoo Theme Farm is a 10 hectare rolling terrain land which boast of different areas like farm animals, vegetable and flower garden and a lot more. 

Paradizoo is a combination of zoo and themepark making it the only themefarm concept in Metro Tagaytay. It offers a variety of educational, outdoor and group outing programs for nature, flowers and animal lovers.

It's a great escape to our city life.

You will see lots of greens around. 

Trees, plants, flowers and vegetables are everywhere.

My son actually loves it.

It is so rare that we see nature abundance like these. Different colorful flowers everywehere.

By the way, they are selling vegetables and fruits at a very low price. Like lettuce for just 50 pesos per kilo.

Also, if you love taking photos, everywhere here is so Instagrammable. Haha!

While the little boy was busy,  we took some couple photos.

 Another photo of us. And if only it was not starting to rain we will took more photos pa.

This one was taken by our little boy.

Look at that smile. So contagious!

Paradizoo has many farm animals too. There are pigs, monkeys, goats and a lot more. Yun lang kasi it was raining and we needed to move quick to find a shelter for us and the kids.

After the rain stop, we proceed to see the other animals. Feeding the rabbits is I think the most enjoyed activity of the kids here. You need to buy carrots for 20 pesos then you can feed the rabbits inside their home.

And oh there's a camel there too and you can also feed them.

Sharing this short video of clip of what you can see at Paradizoo. Please don't forget to subscribe at my Youtube Channel.

So that's our quick trip at Paradizoo.  Next destination is Reptiland.

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Paradizoo Theme Park
Location address: Km. 63 Panungyan Mendez Cavite
Contact: (046) 413-1244 ; (02) 847-0413
Operation hours: Open daily from Monday-Sunday; 8:00 am - 5pm

Rates:  P199/ adult

            P149 / child 3ft-4ft

            Free of Charge 3 ft below

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Why do People Choose Palawan?

There are 7,107 islands in the Philippines alone, depending on whether the seas around it are in experiencing the high tide or low tide. Palawan is but one of those many, many islands. And yet, it is the one hundreds if not thousands of people flock to every day to visit. Why do most people choose it, anyway?

It will be easy to say that tourists from all over the world choose to go to Palawan simply because of its pristine beaches. However, it is a lot more than just that. Allow us to break it down for you. Here is why everyone—both foreigners and local tourists alike—chooses to go to Palawan over and over again.

1. People

Palawan is the Palawan we know now because of its people. They are the greatest mix of locals and migrants around. It was as though the people here were called by nature, and they have since gone above and beyond its call.

Palaweños used to be made up of only local Palawans and Tagbanwa peoples. Once upon a time, the languages spoken here were just Cuyonon and Tagbanua. Now, it is a melting pot of persons and cultures.

It feels almost unreal how everyone here seems to understand each other. Palaweños as a people are so welcoming, it’s infectious. With everyone here always ready to lend a helping hand, anyone who comes across them is somehow moved to do the same.

We saw it for ourselves in our latest Lumambong Beach Conversation clean-up just earlier this year when locals and business came together to clean large swaths of beach in the Barangay Binga even though the beach is barely ever seen by anyone. When in Palawan, there are no strangers. Only family and friends who have come together on this island.

2. Nature

Let’s get this out of the way. When any regular person living in this modern world thinks about the island of Palawan, they think of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. They think about its endlessly colorful flora and fauna, both above sea level and below it.

It wasn’t voted as the world’s best island again and again for nothing. Palawan has the receipts to back the title that was given to it. From the otherwordly coral reefs of the Tubbataha in the island province’s south to the majestic limestone cliffs of the town of El Nido in its north, Palawan is a natural paradise. It is as simple as that. The Philippines calls it its last frontier because of this very fact.

Palawan remains untouched for the most part. There are no large factories on its miles and miles of land, no skyscrapers. Only mountain ranges and beaches that will gladly take you in should you need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a place where everyone from the birds and the bees roams free. It is a tropical version of heaven right here on earth.

3. Location

Another reason why Palawan is considered as the Philippines’ last frontier is because of its location. Palawan is the westernmost province of this archipelagic country. There are no large masses of land to its left for a few thousand miles.

Thousands of years ago, the floors under the now-West Philippine Sea and the Sulu Sea converged and decided that this was the perfect place to create an island. The waves are never rough here. There are no fault lines that will suddenly cause earthquakes. There is nothing here but peace.

Palawan is a blessed island, to say the least. Its weather is always fair, and the sun is always sure to shine. With a calm sea wrapped around it, no one here will ever go hungry. You can feel it in the way the wind blows, in the warmth of its people. It exudes a magnetic pull to anyone who has ever been here or has even heard of it. And so, if you haven’t, you are missing out on a lot.

4. History

As a country, the Philippines itself has been around since the 16th century. Palawan has been considered as one of its many provinces as far back as the year 1818. However, we all know that this island’s history dates much, much farther back than that.

Some of the earliest known Filipinos to walk this earth have left marks on the caves of Tabon in Southern Palawan. Their descendants, the Tagbanwa people, live on the island up to this day.

In between, Palawan has seen Spaniards, Americans, Japanese, and even Vietnamese foreigners settle on its fields and even on the foothills of its mountains. Christianity has been on this island for over 400 years. People have come and gone. Thanks to its beauty, so many choose to stay.

This rich history has allowed Palawan to thrive into the almost utopian paradise it is now. Every year, the Baragatan festival celebrates how the north, the south, and the islands in between and around them came together to form this beautiful province.

5. Accessibility

There was a time when it was impossible to go from the north of this island to the south. When this island was nothing but rugged terrain, that was the case. Now, though, Palawan is but one province, and moving from one point to another has never been easier.

Flights arrive daily at the Puerto Princesa International Airport. Foreigners from neighboring countries can skip dropping by Manila first, and go straight to business. The town of El Nido is now a host to its own airport as well. And so is the town of San Vicente and the islands of Coron up north and Cuyo to the east.

Buses now plow through the province’s National Highway. Vans are at an excess of supply for anyone who would like to travel Palawan with a little more convenience. The roads are long and smooth, and the drives are always scenic.

It wasn’t always like this, for sure. That is why no matter how beautiful Palawan is, not a lot was aware of it until recently. Tourism here only really boomed a few years back. With how things look in Palawan, there is no way to go from here but up.

Conclusion

With Palawan so popular, you might find yourself reluctant to spend too long among the crowds at El Nido or Port Barton. We recommend a stay at Binga Beach Resort just north of San Vicente located halfway between those two tourist hot spots. Located on the gorgeous Lumambong beach in the Barangay Binga, it features huge glamping cabins with big porches and cogan grass rooves, all right on the beachfront.

People undoubtedly choose Palawan because it is a place that is truly unlike anywhere else in the world. Like, have you seen it? It is the very definition of majestic, beautiful, and utterly breathtaking. In the years to come, it will remain this way. If we have anything to say about it, that is. We are absolutely going to make sure of it.

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Tagaytay Picnic Grove Trip 2019

Hello! Have you read the Lucky Me! Noodle Factory Field Trip 2019? That is the first destination of my son's school annual educational field trip.

For the second destination, we went to Tagaytay. But before we reached Tagaytay Picnic Grove, we had a stop over in a store selling pasalubong and souvenirs. The tour guide told us we can already buy pasalubong and souvenirs there because according to them there will no stores that we can pass by after.

So we bought some pasalubong there. Medyo mas mahal sya so hindi kami masyado namili. Which is good because in Tagaytay Picnic Grove there are so many shops selling cheaper souvenirs and pasalubong. Look!

The bracelets with free name plate are much cheaper here. If I remember it right it's only 3 pieces for 50 pesos versus 25 pesos each doon sa stop over store. Same with the key chains too.

It's been more than 20 years since the last time we went to Tagaytay Picnic Grove. This is how it looks before Taal volcano erupt. 

It was a cloudy day. Medyo umaambon pa and konti lang ang tourists. If I remember right naka-alert level 1 na ang Taal volcano noon. By the way, those cottages are not free to use ha. May bayad po sya.

Look at our little boy. I don't know what he was shouting there.

And he posed for a photo.

Of course, this trip will not be complete without our family photos.

Daddy A asked for a solo photo.

Nakigaya na din ako kaya lang it started to rain kaya ganyan na lang nakuha, haha.

It was just a short and quick trip here in Tagaytay Picnic Grove. The long walk was so tiring but worth it because we made this boy really happy.

Here's a quick video I uploaded in Youtube. Please don't forget to subscribe. Thank you!

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Lucky Me! Noodle Factory Field Trip 2019

Last November, our son's school had their annual educational field trip. Of course, daddy A and I went with him. Minsan lang naman ito sa isang tao so we really reserve a day for this.

It was a very early trip kasi our destination was south, in Laguna and Tagaytay.

Our first destination was Lucky Me! Noodle Factory

We were welcomed and greeted by no less than Lucky M.

Kids were so happy seeing Lucky M for the first time. Giant noodles ba naman e.

Before going to the production area, the tour guide presented a video clip about Lucky Me.

The kids were engrossed and very interested.

After that we headed to the noodle production area. Taking photos are not allowed in that area so no photos there. To just give an idea, we were shown how our favorite Lucky Me! pancit canton and noodles are made or produce. From mixing of ingredients to make the noodles, to cutting, to quick frying, and to packaging. Like any other food companies, their quality control is tight.

Before leaving, the tour guide taught the kid how to make noodles by just using their imagination. And guess who volunteered to help in the demo?

Yes, our little boy raised his hands and volunteered without any hesitation. Here's the whole video of that fan noodle making.

First destination palang ng field trip ha and the kids had so mcuh fan na. We had 4 more destinations to go. So stay tune for the next destination: Tagaytay Picnic Grove.

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Our Stay at Best Western Plus Lex Cebu 2019

Before the year ends, let me share our stay at Best Western Plus Lex Cebu during the 34th Philippine Chemistry Congress that we attended last May. Yes, last May pa. This post has been sitting in my draft folder for months na, haha.

Sorry na po, busy lang talaga. Thought of not sharing it but I changed my mind because this post might help someone who is looking for a place to stay in Cebu City.

Before that, let me share these photos of us from the 34th Philippine Chemistry Congress that was held in Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Cebu City.

So let start with the main topic, shall we? As I was saying, we were booked at Best Western Plus Lex Cebu. 

Best Western Plus Lex Cebu is located in the city’s uptown district with close proximity to government offices, medical centers, international hospital, known universities and colleges, shopping centers, IT parks and the city’s prime financial districts. It is just 12 kilometers away or approximately a 30-minute drive from the Mactan Cebu International Airport.

We got the Superior Room.

The Superior Room is about 25 sqm and is good na for a couple with 1 child, I think. 

It has a king size bed or you may also request for the twin bed.

Room amenities include 32-inch satellite TV and coffee and tea set

There's also a working desk with lamp.

It has a big mirror also at its small hall way.

You can also use the safety deposit box and hairdryer. Also available is flat iron and its "pakabayo".

This is the bathroom. No bathtub though.

Their grooming kit includes dental kit, shampoo, conditioner, bath gel, soap, shower cap, lotion, comb, shaving kit, cotton, and sewing kit too.

So those are the room amenities. Superior Room also includes free WIFI and breakfast for two.

Here are some of the breakfast that we had.

Aside from the main dishes, they have dessert corner too.

And breads too.

That's our stay at Best Western Plus Lex Cebu. If you will ask me how will a rate it, I will give our stay there a 4/5. The only thing I didn't like is that it's not walking distance to the event venue so we needed to take taxi everyday, which is magastos. Also, there's no nice view from the hotel room because it's in the city so when you open your window curtain, you will only see the nearby buildings and the street.

But overall, I love our stay there. I just failed to take photos of the front or entrance and lobby of the hotel pala. You can visit Best Western Plus Lex Cebu website to see more of the hotel's amenities.

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