sacred attractions the cathedral in russia

11 Sacred Attractions Around the World

June 4, 2020/0 Comments/in Culture and Experience Travel, Americas, Asia, Europe, Travel Tips /

Some of the most popular places to visit around the globe are sacred attractions. Found in both popular cities as well as off the beaten path locations, these holy sites attract millions of visitors a year. Valued for being places of worship, and for their beauty and uniqueness, one can’t help but admire these structures. Some of these sites were even considered when choosing the new wonders of the world. We are here to share 11 of those sites with you and some things you may not know about each. Get your maps and travel wish lists ready.

Wat Rong Khun, Thailand

The White Temple, Wat Rong Khun is located in the Chiang Rai region in Thailand. At the end of the 20th century, the temple in this location was in complete ruins. Thai artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat, decided to completely recreate and rebuild the temple. He funded the project completely on his own and began working on it in 1997. While it is not completed and may not be for another 50 years, it is open to the public to visit and explore. When it is completed it will have a total of nine buildings. It is filled with Buddhist relics that tell ancient stories of the religion. It has become very a important part of Buddhist present-day culture. The temple also serves as a monastery for monks.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, The United Arab Emirates

The largest Islamic mosque in the UAE is the Sheikh Zayed Grand. This stunning mosque, located in Abu Dhabi, is world-renowned for its ornate decoration and design. It was commissioned by the late president of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and built from 1996 to 2007. He wanted a place where the Islamic culture could blend with the art and history of the modern world. The beautiful mosque can fit up to 40,000 people at one time. During Ramadan, the mosque welcomes millions of visitors. It is declared by many as one of the most important sacred attractions in the world.

La Sagrada Familia, Spain

One of the most revered places in Spain is La Sagrada Familia located in Barcelona. Construction on the Roman Catholic Basilica began in 1882, and to this day it is still not completely finished. In 1883, Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi took over as chief of the project and combined a mix of Gothic and Art Noveau forms. When he died in 1926 the building was no more than 25% complete. It is the most visited tourist site in Barcelona, and one of the most visited sacred attractions in Spain, with over 3 million visitors a year. It remains one of the most cherished works of art and architecture in the world.

Temple Mount, Israel

Located in the Old City of Jerusalem, Temple Mount is an integral structure and part of multiple world religions. It is a holy site for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and is one of the most visited sacred attractions in the city along with the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock. It is the holiest place in the world for the Jewish people, creating a lot of contention with the other faiths. Historically, the Jewish people are forbidden entry into Temple Mount due to Jewish law stating their people cannot enter Jewish holy grounds. Instead, to worship, they visit the Western Wall located at the bottom of the hill. Pro tip: spend a little extra time reading the updated policies before visiting. Those can be found, here.

St. Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of Moscow’s most famous structures and pieces of artwork. Not only is it important to the people of Moscow, but to all of Russia. The cathedral is located in the center of Red Square and is viewed as a symbol of Russia’s past, present, and future. Ivan the Terrible ordered its building in 1555. He wanted to celebrate defeating the last of the Mongol empire in Europe. After it was built, he was determined that the architect never build a cathedral as magnificent as this. While it is still a religious symbol for the Russian Orthodox Church, the cathedral now belongs to federal Russia and serves as both a Christian Church and a museum.

Paro Taktsang, Bhutan

The astounding Paro Taktsang Monastery clings to a cliff above Paro Valley, Bhutan. It is a cultural phenomenon and a very big part of the Buddhist Himalayan culture. While it appears impossible to access, visitors can arrive at the monastery by trekking paths along the mountain. This has created some difficulty in maintaining its structure over the years. It is also commonly named “Tigress lair” or “Tiger’s Nest” from the legend of Padmasambhava flying to the site on the back of a tiger. The temple offers one of the most beautiful views and one of the most unique experiences when visiting the Himalayas.

The Blue Mosque, Turkey

Located in Istanbul, Turkey, the Blue Mosque is an Islamic place of worship. It is originally named The Sultan Ahmet Mosque after the sultan who commissioned its construction in 1609. Although the mosque is not blue on the outside, its interior is adorned with 20,000 handmade Iznik ceramic tiles that create a blue color. Hence giving it its nickname. It was built to rival the Hagia Sophia which sits opposite the mosque no more than a four-minute walk away. Due to its similar design and structure, many tourists question if they are the same building. The builders made six minarets to match the most important mosque in Mecca.

Madonna Della Corona, Italy

Santuario Madonna Della Corona is one of the most stunning religious sanctuaries in Italy. It is tucked into the cliffs of Mount Baldo in the province of Verano. Visitors come to la Madonna for silence, worship, and meditation. The sanctuary also symbolizes a place between heaven and earth. The church was built in 1530 and appears as if it is almost hanging off the cliff rather than sitting in a cave. The structure was heavily renovated in the 1970s proceeding a visit by Pope John Paul II. The actual chapel can only be reached by foot, representing the path Jesus took during the Passion of the Christ.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. This Buddhist temple was originally constructed for the Hindu religion, during the first half of the 12th century. It is built across 400 acres and took over 40 years to construct. It served as the capital city for the Khmer empire until the second half of the 12th century when it was converted into a Buddhist temple. Its name directly translates to “city of temples.” It still remains an active place of worship for Buddhists, today. In 2019 it was recorded that over 2.6 million people visited the temple complex in 2018.

Notre-Dame, France

The Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the world’s best examples of medieval gothic architecture. Notre-Dame translates to “Our Lady” and was dedicated to the Virgin Mary by the Parisians. Located on the Île de la Cité in Paris, construction on the Notre-Dame began in 1163 and was completed in 1345. It is also believed that the cathedral was built on top of ruins from the ancient pagan city, Lutetia. Tragically, the Notre-Dame caught on fire in April 2019 which destroyed one of the spires. Before the fire, the cathedral welcomed more than 35,000 visitors a day. Although the renovation is currently on hold due to the pandemic, France has ensured that the restoration of the cathedral is a priority and will begin as soon as possible.

The Golden Temple Amritsar, India

The Golden Temple in Punjab, India is formally known as Sri Harmandir Sahib Amritsar. It serves as both a place of worship for the Sikh religion, as well as a symbol of community and equality for all of India. It is also considered to be the national Sikh temple of India and a Gurdwara which means “door to the guru.” Construction on this remarkable structure began in 1581 and was not completed until 8 years later in 1589. In 2017, the World Book of Records declared and verified that The Golden Temple was one of the most visited places in the world.

Have you visited any of these sacred attractions? Let us know in the comments. Stay tuned for more must-visit global sites this month on the CuddlyNest blog and social media channels.

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20 Countries Where You Can See the Japanese Cherry Blossoms

March 27, 2020/0 Comments/in Asia, Americas, Culture and Experience Travel, Europe, Holidays and Festivals Around the World, Travel Tips, World /

Spring has finally sprung, which means the arrival of the famous pink and white Japenese cherry blossoms. Known as sakura, in Japan, these delicate flowers are one of the most famous sights to see in Japan. But did you know you could also see them in other parts of the world, too? You may have even seen them and not known what they were. Don’t worry, we’ll break it down for you here.

Here are some fun facts about this popular flower:

According to the BBC, about 8.5 million tourists visited Japan during the cherry blossom season, (March-May), last year. This alone brought in roughly 650 billion yen.
The custom of the cherry blossom season is believed to have been started somewhere between 710-749, in the Nara Period.
The cherry blossoms symbolize clouds because they bloom in small bunches bundled together. They are also a symbol of the nature of life.
Cherry blossoms are now found in more than 20 countries around the world, apart from Japan.

Do you have cherry blossoms in your home country? Check the list below:

Austria:

If you want to visit the cherry blossoms in Vienna, you have to act fast. Due to the colder temperatures in this region, the cherry blossoms tend to make their arrival and departure rather quickly. Have no fear! You can still see them in between mid-March to mid-April throughout the city.

Australia:

After WWII, as a sign of peace and friendship, the Cowra Tourism Board offered to make a Japanese garden in its province. The garden was first built in 1979 and refurbished in 1989. The town of Cowra celebrates a cherry blossom festival every September.

Brazil:

São Paulo is home to one of the largest Japanese communities outside of Japan. After the Japanese began immigrating to Brazil, they brought many seedlings of the cherry blossoms with them. The trees can be found in the Botanical Garden of Curitiba. They are usually in full bloom in July.

Canada:

Admirers of the cherry blossom can find over 40,000 cherry trees in Vancouver, Canada. Brought in the 1930s as a gift from Japan, the arrival of cherry blossom season is celebrated every year with a festival in the springtime.

Take in the gorgeous views of the cherry trees in Vancouver, Canada.

China:

The oldest cherry blossoms in China can be found in Longwangtang Park. Originating from the WWII era, the arrival of the cherry blossoms illuminates the area in late April. They can also be found in parts of Beijing and Shanghai.

Denmark:

Travelers come from far and wide to see the gorgeous cherry blossoms in Copenhagen. The most common place to find them in the capital city? Bispebjerg Cemetery and Langelinie Park in April.

France:

Flock to Parc de Sceaux, in Paris, to see the orchards of cherry trees, both in white and pink. Visitors can find them bloom in early April.

Germany:

Hamburg, Germany, hosts a full festival annually to welcome the return of the cherry blossoms, drawing in tens of thousands of spectators every spring. Every May a “Cherry Blossom Queen” is selected by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association. In German, the festival is known as “Kirschblütenfest.”

Cherry Blossoms in the Himalayas.

India:

In India, the cherry blossom is found mainly in the Himalayan states. The country holds an annual cherry blossom festival in the fall, between October and November. With their arrival, the blossoms can be seen covering the Himalayan foothills, a truly breathtaking scene.

Korea:

In Korea, cherry blossoms symbolize purity and beauty. In earlier tradition, monks used the wood from the cherry trees to make bows and roadblocks. The best place to enjoy cherry blossom season is in Seoul in late March, early April.

Myanmar:

The town of Pyin OO Lwin is known as “The Land of Cherries.” While some of the cherry trees had to be genetically modified to survive the

tropical weather, they are still very important in Myanmar.

The Netherlands:

The cherry blossom trees in the Netherlands were donated 20 years ago by the Japan Women’s Club. In total there are 400 trees. 200 of the trees have female Japanese names and 200 of them have female Dutch names.

New Zealand:

Most commonly found in the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, the trees are also found in Hagley Park in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy the open space under a blanket of cherry trees.

Spend the night in a hobbit house surrounded by cherry blossoms.

Spain:

Every March marks the arrival of the cherry blossoms in the Jerte Valley in Extremadura, Spain. The valley holds over two million cherry blossom trees and fills it with the beautiful pink and white colors.

Sweden:

April 28th is the official Day of the Cherry Blossom in Stockholm, although these flowers tend to make an earlier appearance in the spring. The Swedes and Japanese hold a festival during this time each year, which marks 150 years of friendship between Sweden and Japan.

Taiwan:

The cherry blossom festivities in Taiwan attract 50,000 visitors each year. The season typically starts as early as January and finishes in April. One of the most popular places to see the incredibly displace is at Tianyuan Temple.

Thailand:

Unlike many other areas, the typical season for cherry blossoms in Thailand is in the winter. The trees bloom mostly in Northern Thailand in cities including Chiang Mai.

Stroll down the streets of Chiang Mai under a blanket of cherry blossoms.

Turkey:

Typically due to arrive in spring, the cherry trees made an early arrival this year, blooming in early winter 2019. For one of Turkey’s orchard owners, the early arrival came as a big surprise. After 30 years of cultivating the land, he had never witnessed an early arrival.

The United Kingdom:

Travelers can find pink flowers all throughout the UK. The Gloucestershire region holds the national collections of Japanese villa cherries. London is also home to several parks and Japanese gardens where tourists can marvel at the cherry trees.

The United States:

From coast to coast, travelers can see the beautiful cherry blossoms in many states of the US. Most notably in the East Coast including Boston, Washington D.C., and Baltimore, visitors come to the University of Washington, Seattle Campus, every March to take pictures in the gorgeous liberal arts quad filled with cherry trees. To see the current bloom in Washington D.C., you can watch from the Bloom Cam.

Add a visit to the cherry blossoms in your home country to your bucket list.

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Plane passenger makes an 88-year old woman’s ‘dream’ come true: Be Kind During Your Travels in 2020

January 18, 2020/0 Comments/in World, Americas, Asia, Travel Tips /

Plane passenger gives first-class seat to 88-year-old woman, makes her 'dream' come true: 'No one asked him to'

However hard it may be to imagine, the new year – new you could become a new type of approach to travel. Make the world a better place and when possible choose the train over plane If you can’t avoid flying across oceans, you may as well be a better person by giving your seat to the elderly. Extra legroom, in the end, is not the reason why you travel to new places.

There are some tips you can take from viral acts of kindness. From heartwarming Christmas stories like “the passenger trading his upper-class cabin ticket with a traveler seated next to the economy toilets“, the “kindness of his own heart” articles have been overflowing the internet during the holiday season.”

However, as Roy T. Bennett once wrote, “Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness in people.” After all, life becomes easier not only for people but for the planet and peoples to come, as we live with the right attitude, respecting and choosing optimism for people around us.

Here are 3 simple tips on how to make your holiday more enjoyable not only for yourself but also for those around you.

Give the Seat to the Elderly

Next time you’re traveling with a priority train ticket through South East Asia via train and the next cabin over is overcrowded with rural vendor workers, switch your ticket with an elderly local and make their day! You’ll have a more authentic experience and might make friendly connections with the locals.

Always Ask before Taking Photographs – and then Send it Back

So, you just snapped a beautiful street portrait of a craftsman in a market – but what about taking it another step and sending him a digital version of it? You never know when it may become useful

Keep it to the Trains

We already wrote about it, but once again: choose train, or share a ride. Flying should always stay a last resort option for short-distance travel.

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Travel Destinations 2020 According to Your Zodiac Sign

December 31, 2019/0 Comments/in Asia, Europe, World /

Astrology is considered to be both an art and a science, just as travel is. While interpretation is necessary, the New Year makes people to wonder not only about new goals, new places to visit and draw up new bucket lists, there is always a science behind it.

Wanderlust stargazing and future telling can do wonders, but mathematics is necessary for a good interpretation. While Sixtus IV was the first Catholic pope to draw and interpret a horoscope, Leo X, born Giovanni di Lorenzo de’ Medici later relied on astrologers to rule the Florentine Republic since 16^th century.

While there is not a small kingdom in the middle of Mediterranean Sea for everyone to rule, and golden Florentines may be a wish rather than a reality for some of budget travelers, there is a perfect destination for everyone to list on the 2020 bucket list. From switching from the crowded destinations in Europe to visiting lesser-known Eastern European capitals.

If you are up for a bucket list added to your 2020 wish list, then astrology may give you a pointer to which direction to look at when booking your next trip. From zodiac signs traits, weaknesses and other characteristics, there is just the perfect destination for everyone, depending on the Sun and Moon, and the projection of planets at the moment of your birth.

Air Signs

Gemini, Libra and Aquarius, known as air signs, are all about philosophical conversations. They love conversations, giving advice, reading new books and socializing in social gatherings. Find them in old book stores or flea markets getting a new book wherever they go.

Fire Signs

Fire signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are all about social travelling. As rational and naturally talkative travelers, they are all about connecting to people wherever they go. Think about exploring and going on an adventure, and being passionate, dynamic and temperamental, they also can get quite dramatic when travelling in groups. From inspirational to passionate, they are all about leading the way t unexplored destinations.

Water Signs

Highly emotional and ultra-sensitive, water signs are intuitive and would go deeply into profound conversations. From Cancer to Scorpio and Pisces, those born in February, October and June are characterized by a willingness to explore the depths of the culture while travelling.

Earth Signs

Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are travelers which are known as highly skilled planners. Conservative and realistic, they are always there much before the museum closing time and would also be planning their tour well ahead.

Aries

The fire sign, ruled by Mars, is easily recognizable because of their energetic, assertive nature. Ruled by Mars, Aries people are passionate, confident and direct in their approach. Uncomplicated and often frustrated by unnecessary nuances, they will thrive when going on an independent and spontaneous hiking trip.

Best destinations? Go on a hiking journey to Argentina in Cerro Fitz Roy, or swim in Indonesia.

Taurus

Taurus, an earth sign, feel themselves the best both in hot and wet as well as cold and dry climates.

Best destinations? Go on to catch some spring air to the wet and hot Madagascar beaches in wintertime or seek the wintertime and Advent Christmas feel in the cold and dry Gulf of Boothia Sea.

Gemini

Gemini, as smart, sharp and speedy, will enjoy a trip to a somewhere where they can think, more than a feeling or doing.

Best destinations? Go to the breezy Koh Samui in Thailand and enjoy a thoughtful, yet refreshing trip in your 2020.

Cancer

Cancerian travelers are one of the most emotional and intense. To let their senses run free, destinations in the Southern hemisphere where people are naturally more laid back (and some would argue they are not) will be the best bet to discover new horizons in 2020.

Best destinations? Go to Siem Reap in Cambodia or Nha Trang in Vietnam to dip in the Southeast Asia spirits and enjoy the taste of Vietnamese egg coffee and more.

Leo

Leo signs are one of the most loveable – and as such, they will be a great and loyal travel companion for any other sign.

Best destinations? Be adaptable by choosing form European South: Florence, Santorini and Milan are good options to consider with your loved ones in 2020.

Virgo

Those born under the earth sign will enjoy the hot and dry summer destinations calling with their summer fire constellations and feel their best underwater sign in winter. Conservative yet realistic, the most suited destination for Virgo will be well known for every other traveler.

Best destinations? Learn from the best – see the true diligence and learn from the constant practice of monks in Pattaya and Chiang Mai, or Vietnam.

Libra

Librans love to be loved, and they love to love as well. To travel further this year, Libras will choose destinations that are in tune with their realm and harmony. No chaos, please!

Best destinations? Keep away from chaos by going to Stockholm or discover the Alps and French countryside in 2020.

Scorpio

Scorpios, being one of the most vengeful, morbid yet strategic signs, will find their best travel bucket list items with an option to meditate or learn some martial arts.

Best destinations? Go to Guangzhou or Chengdu to learn basic Wushu.

Sagittarius

Honest, optimistic and adventurous, Sagittarians will feel their best among happy people.

Best destinations? Go to the countries known for happiness and find yourself in Stockholm, Aarhus, or Reykjavík this year!

Capricorn

Best destinations?

Go to Shenzhen in China or plan well before visiting Incheon in South Korea.

Aquarius

Aquarius, notable for their originality and independence, will feel their bets in places they can enjoy themselves and feel assertive and travel solo as they usually do.

Best destinations? Go and be independent in Wuhan, China, or visit Krabi in Thailand in your own way.

Pisces

Generous, positively natured people, Pisceans are also very easygoing and will be acting a great travel companion wherever they go.

Best destinations? Go to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and enjoy yourself in a group of friends sipping on iced kopi-o’s.

If you want to know more about Hindu astrology, or Chinese astrology, or other Oriental mythology types, please follow CuddlyNest on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

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Where You Should Go for Thai New Year: Pattaya vs Chiang Mai According to Your Personality

December 22, 2019/0 Comments/in Asia, Culture and Experience Travel, Food, Nature, South East Asia, SPA and Wellness /

From travelling to Thailand to visit Chiang Mia temples to going crazy with Thai food, the exotic travel destination offers everything for everyone. But where should you go to celebrate Thai New Year? Songkran 2020 in Thailand will start on Monday, April 13 and end on Wednesday, April 15, so you can pack in an adventurous and traditional vacation before or after celebrating Thai new year – completely according to your personality tastes and Myers-Briggs type. Do not get scared by the fact that Chiang Mia is located on the Northern Part of the country, and therefore is more prone to cold weather. You will stay warm, though, by getting some Thai tea!

Thailand Destinations Travel Inspiration

From Tha tropical beaches to royal palaces, to even ancient ruins, Thailand has a lot to offer to anyone looking for a vacation in South East Asia. Ancient ruins and temples are not just reserved for those looking for a spiritual journey, just as Thai beaches are not all rainbows and resorts – you can find wild and abandoned islands and get lost in the woods!

From those seeking to visit the most diverse types of Buddha figures, to those deriving inspiration from ultramodern city landscapes, or just to sip on Thai Cha Yen on the quite canalside in Wat Arun, Here we, however, look at what Thailand strikes the first-time visitors the most – its beautiful and wild beaches, all the way from Pattaya to Hua Hin. Are you fascinated with cities? Chiang Mai is only one of the potential choices.

Pattaya Travel Ideas

Pattaya is a bustling seaside town stretching 15 kilometres along the coast. Located just 150 kilometres from Bangkok, where Thai New Year celebrations take the stage on April 13 to April 15, Pattaya is one of the most popular destinations for those looking for a swim in Thailand.

What to do in Pattaya? Depending on whether you like to visit ancient monuments, temples, or rather choose to catch some adrenaline while shopping for groceries at Pattaya floating market, or want to improve your knowledge about the ocean by visiting Dolphin World, there is something to do for anyone.

7 Experiences You Cannot Miss in Pattaya:

Shop traditional crafts and produce at Pattaya Floating Market
Visit Sanctuary of Truth from Ayutthaya period
Look at the city from above at Pattaya View Point
Look at Thailand’s famous ladyboys at the Alcazar Cabaret
Lose yourself partying at Walking Street
Get your Adrenaline booming at the Coral Island
Immerse yourself in make-believe world at Tuxedo Illusion Hall

Chiang Mai Travel Ideas

Chiang Mai, on the other hand, is one of the most history-packed travel destinations you can possibly imagine when visiting South East Asia cities. Located in mountainous Northern Thailand, the city itself dates back over 800 years. Visiting the New City will expose you to traces left by since its earliest history of the Lan Na Kingdom ages, and later golden ages achieved by the proximity and importance of the Ping River trading route.

Today, Chiang Mai, enclosed by its Old City historical walls and moats, is bustling from both locals and tourists, who mingle to raise the spirits of Thai culture, cuisine and visit some of the most important temples, such as 14th century Wat Phra Singh and the later Wat Chedi Luang. However, temples and city history is just a part of what you can see in the destination. For those seeking adrenaline, there are options for kayaking or visiting caves, but those looking for a relaxing vacation to release stress and become more productive can opt for nuat phaen thai, a Thai massage including acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga.

7 Experiences You Cannot Miss in Chiang Mai:

Taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai
Eat kantoke dinner watching traditional Thai and Northern dances from a safe place at the dinner table
Go whitewater rafting at Mafeteng River
Eat the Khao Soi, a coconut and curry soup with yellow egg noodles. Sounds happy?
Get fancy fancy at the trendiest part ig Chiang Mai Nimmanhaemin Road
Take a Green Tour to Sticky Waterfalls and Navigate Circuit like Spiderman
Visit the granite grey Inthanon National Park with Shan Hills

Thailand Travel According to Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type

Precisely because each of us travels so differently, it is important to know exactly what are you expecting from your travel. From mingling with crowds and debate world issues with locals, to letting your senses go wild by trying all the exotic fruit cocktails in local markets, to quietly wander the streets and appreciate architectural wonders from past and present, there are millions of ways to discover a new destination every time you go on a vacation. CuddlyNest is all about giving people ideas – and today, we present Thai destinations, according to travel experiences you strive for.

The Inspector – ISTJ Personality

If you travel and seem to absorb each and every piece of information, placing it with your pre-developed logistician framework of world functioning, the history-packed excursion with a close friend will be just right for you.

INTJ in Pattaya: Visit Sanctuary of Truth from the Ayutthaya period, which was made entirely from wood Mai Daeng and teakwood. The unique design goes to Mr. Lek Viriyahphan. However, recent discoveries have shown the architecture being from Myanmar.

INTJ in Chiang Mai: Visit the ruins of Wat Chedi Luang, Temple of the Big Stupa. For those trying to get a glimpse of Thai culture and history, visiting the Emerald Buddha, the holiest religious object in all of Thailand is a must.

The Counselor – INFJ Personality

Certainly, travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living. –Miriam Beard

Can you relate? Taking travel slowly, counsellors are inquisitive thinkers and will go long lengths to understand the historical arrangements related to their travel.

Just as logisticians, they seek to educate themselves while taking a vacation and visiting a new country. Far from being all about museums, counsellors will find joy visiting conferences or diving into antique book stores.

INFJ in Pattaya: Rubber Land – a museum all about rubber production, from harvesting to your childhood rubber ball machine

INFJ in Chiang Mai: Visit Tribal Museum. Open on weekdays, the museum hosts a monthly handmade good market

The Mastermind – INTJ Personality

The masterminds or Architects will enjoy solitude. The most satisfied when on solo travel to some historical location, they will surely abide by learning and improving, and finding a friend – mentor to source a new knowledge from.

INTJ Pattaya: Buddhist art museum พิพิธภัณฑ์พุทธศิลปะ หนองปรือ

INTJ Chiang Mai: Museum of World Insects and Natural wonders

The Giver – ENFJ Personality

Protagonists or ENFJ givers are all about going offbeat places and taking their travel discovery seriously. People-focused and at the same time seeking new experiences, ideas and non-traditional approach, these travellers will strive in hostels and Couchsurfing gatherings when meeting locals on their solo trips and bars. After all, as Tim Cahill put it, ”A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.”

ENFJ Pattaya: Feel yourself a spider and hitchhike to the closest beach!

ENFJ Chiang Mai: Meet locals (and travelling musicians) at The North Gate Jazz Co-Op

The Craftsman – ISTP Personality

Craftsmen all about gaining hands-on cultural experience, these virtuosos will enjoy the experience given by opportunity to do and make, and cheer up others by their good-natured spirits.

ISTP Pattaya: Take a cooking class at Pattaya and learn to make Green Curry and Pad Thai

ISTP Chiang Mai: Visit Baan On-Tai Sustainable Village and Make Something Yourself

The Performer – ESFP Personality

Looking for a luxurious getaway? Make a great trip Thai resorts, and stay in the luxurious resort towns. Visit the best places in Thailand for beach holiday.

ESFP Pattaya: Relax at Sattahip District, Ravindra Beach

ESFP Chiang Mai: Enjoy ayurvedic therapies at Dhara Dheva

The Champion – ENFP Personality

Mingle with crowds in the bustling city and joys of discovering other people.

ENFP Pattaya: play some bar games at Hot Tuna Bar

ENFP Chiang Mai: Visit Saturday Night Market Chiangmai

The Doer – ESTP Personality

Adrenaline, mountain climbing, adventure? You will get enough of when in Thailand.

ESTP Pattaya: Catch some sun while flyboarding in the river

ESTP Chiang Mai: Feel yourself like a Spiderman in red climbing up to the fluffy clouds for waterfall! You may also stick around for lunch and eat some

The Provider – ESFJ Personality

The consul – or provider – the ESFJ is all about the picture-perfect travel. From the curiosity of living of locals, to knocking on doors and getting to know the differences of people, provider will strive for a picture-perfect destination.

ESFJ Pattaya: Get the perfect Instagram shot from the sea while canoeing along with the stalactite caves.

ESFJ Chiang Mai: The topmost photo-worthy, Instagrammable spots in the country- and indeed in Chiang Mai has the most beautiful temples you can imagine. Travel to White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai for a one-of-a-lifetime-experience.

The Idealist – INFP Personality

Mediators will look for the idealistic ad value a creative and inspiring getaway with couple of friends or family.

INFP Pattaya: Volunteer At Pattaya Orphanage

INFP Chiang Mai: Get creative at Bor Sang Village crafting an umbrella by yourself

The Supervisor – ESTJ Personality

A social city trip with a big group of friends, anybody?

ESTJ Pattaya: Club Insomnia must be on your list

ESTJ Chiang Mai: Enjoy one of the Japanese inspired localities of the city, and go for a shopping trip, like Maya Shopping Mall, and One Nimman!

The Commander – ENTJ Personality

Backpacking journeys, crazy places and late-night conversations to discover the other side of the city? Make sure to enjoy the best of the backpacker life with great sunsets and crazy backpacking trips to traditional neighbourhoods.

ENTJ Pattaya: Visit the Hard Rock Cafe – or, do not go that hard and Rock Around the Clock!

ENTJ Chiang Mai: Cabbages and Condoms restaurant. Crazy name and wonderful sunsets, anyone?

The Thinker – INTP Personality

Logicians will find their best when travelling to a secluded nature retreat.

INTP Pattaya: Go to Jomtien Beach for a long beach and water sports and great food

INTP Chiang Mai: Go to Doi Suthep–Pui National Park and see Bhubing Palace, wildlife, waterfalls and everything else

The Nurturer – ISFJ Personality

Defender, go on an organized camping trip!

ISFJ Pattaya: Go on an organized botanical garden visit to Asian Spicy Garden

ISFJ Chiang Mai: Go to Taboo Club on the main Walking Street

The Visionary – ENTP Personality

Debaters there – go on a lively city trip and chat with both locals and other travelers.

ENTP Pattaya: Go to The Marquee – Lambretta cafe (don’t worry, no French or Thai language skills needed)

ENTP Chiang Mai: Chat with monks at Wat Dok Suthep temple on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1pm-3pm to exchange views and discuss the religious and cultural practices

The Composer – ISFP Personality

Go on a road trip, and enjoy an adventure with friends!

ISFP Pattaya: Go Ziplining At Flight Of The Gibbon

ISFP Chiang Mai: Visit the Wat Phra Yai Temple features an 18m-tall golden Buddha

Pattaya or Chiang Mai New Year, anyone?
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The Philippines on Budget: Travel to Chocolate Hills Where Sterling Pound is Strong

November 22, 2019/2 Comments/in Asia, South East Asia /

Phillipines: 7,641 islands with sunshine, birds and Chocolate hills. What not to like?

What to See in Phillippines

Visit Magellan’s Cross

Magellan’ s Cross, originally believed to have miraculous healing powers, was planted in 1521 in Cebu. The original cross, however, chipped away.

Chocolate Hills Travel Advice

Chocolate Hills are one of the main attractions for tourists visiting the Philippines.

Dive into Palengke

Palengke markets are Philippino speciality. From farms to crafts, you can find anything here.

Visit a Butterfly Farm

Butterfly farms in the Philippines are a thing. Go and visit one in

Go Tarsier-watching

Tasier-watching can become one of the best experiences you will ever have. Tarsius syrichta species can only be found within forests, and going to one of the islands of Bohol, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao will make you come back for sure.

Learn Diving

Diving in the Philippines is a must. Have you tried yet? The best places to go diving in the Philippines are Barracuda Lake in Coron Island and Puerto Galera in Mindoro.

Try Halo-halo

The sweet dessert – ice cream you that is so common to the Asian world of ice creams, can be tasted on almost any corner shop of your choice. From ice shavings to condensed milk with small chunks of sweet boiled kidney beans, to coconut gel, and tapioca, the dessert is not only sweet and refreshing but also extremely budget-friendly.

Budget Travel Tips

Budget travel tips to visit the Philippines on a budget are a must if you wish to enjoy the Southern Asian destination not breaking the bank. The British pound here is strong, and travelling here for US citizens does not require a visa, so one can surely say that budget travel is definitely an option – as soon as you get here!

Pack your Hammock

Sleeping in a hammock in the Philippines is allowed, and as long as you can find a beach (of which there is plenty of), there will be no problem with getting your body rested for the night under the starry night sky.

Hitchhike to Beach

Hitchhiking to the beach and back! What could be better than not missing out on meeting locals while taking on hitchhiking?

Avoid Manila Island

Manila island is probably one of the most expensive places you can possibly go to in the Philippines. Avoid the crowds and go for less touristy and posh places.

Eat Lumpias and Shop Local

Eating lumpias is probably one of the best ways to explore the Filipino islands. Make sure you do not overdo it, though!

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CuddlyNest Japanese Tea Ceremony in Kyoto 2020

All You Need to Know about Japanese Tea Traditions Before Travelling to Kyoto

November 20, 2019/0 Comments/in Asia, Culture and Experience Travel, Food /

Japanese Chanoyu, Sado or simply Ocha are important parts of Japanese traditional culture to understand the extraordinary culture of Japan. After all, Japanese is claimed to be one of the most intelligent nations, thus signalling the benefits of green tea.

Japanese Green Tea

While India is widely known for its long run tea-growing tradition, from Darjeeling to Dirlgiji tea, in Japan the presence of tea was first documented only in the 9th century. The tea tradition is process-focused, as brewing and serving of the tea are the two main variables.

However, the tea itself carries an important role here as well. Green tea contains not only caffeine but also an amino acid L-theanine, which makes it available to cross the blood-brain barrier, thus leading to healthy long-term development.

The key to a wholesome Japanese green tea flavour lies in its brewing. While you should definitely visit the Ippodo tea store in downtown Kyoto, we also recommend bringing some tea back home as a souvenir to your family and friends.

Celebrate with Tea: Breaking the Seal and Celebrating Light

Japanese tea ceremonies, just like songs and religious music, are varying from season to season. While some traditional ceremonies are held no matter the season, some are specific to the occasion, or time of the day. Kuchikiri-o-chaji 口切の茶事 tea ceremony, just as 暁の茶事 celebrates the new beginnings.

Kuchikiri-no-chaji

The first celebration is held in November. Green tea leaves are usually harvested in spring, and then safely stored in a cool place until late autumn. The tradition of breaking the jar on the first week of November, Ro is used to indicating the start of the winter. In November, when the new tea is plucked again, there is a breaking of the seal of the tea jar, in Japanese Kuchikiri.

To be a part of the celebration in November, head to the Kyoto chastise tea rooms to experience the Japanese tradition considered the most formal of all. For where to participate in tea ceremonies, head here.
With the new season, tea rooms also replace paper on their sliding doors and do all other repair work in order to celebrate the new season.

Winter Tea Ceremony Akatsuki-no-chaji

The latter, Akatsuki-no-chaji, or dawn tea ceremony, is held in early winter, to enjoy a light rising after a cold winter night. Albeit not commonly held in public tea rooms, the dawn tea ceremony has magic on its own.

Enjoy the Tea Ceremony in Kyoto

Since the day Buddhist monk Eichū brought green tea to Japan, and served sencha (underground Japanese green tea) to the emperor, tea has been one of the central traditions to Japanese nobles.

Today, you can participate in tea ceremonies in Japanese temples, like Jotokuji temple, or in tea rooms or Kyoto hotels.

Camellia Tea House

Camellia tea ceremony is held in English. Just in between the Ninen-zaka steps and the famous Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, the place s an oasis for peace and quiet, away from tourist crowds. Cuddlynest tips: order Uji matcha tea and wagashi for a sweet treat here.

Ran Hotel Kyoto

Ran Hotel in Kyoto is one of the best places to enjoy the tea ceremony if you are looking for a tatami tea room. Taisho Period art decor will accompany the ceremony, but you can just simply sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Chion-in Temple Tea Ceremony

Traditional tea, anyone? Hop into a metro and go to the geisha and entertainment district of Gion in Kyoto. In Chion-in Temple, you will be served tea by English speaking waitresses in kimonos. The simplicity and sheer natural taste of the green tea will make your Kyoto trip much more enjoyable.

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