Tips For Planning Your Cosmetic Tourism Trip To Thailand

BY  Abdul Aziz Aug 30, 2023

If you're someone who finds pleasure in getting your heart rate up while exploring new terrains and cultures, then Malaysia might just be your ultimate vacation spot. Known for its exotic wildlife, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities, this Southeast Asian country offers a plethora of activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. And you never know! The adrenaline rush and natural abundance can motivate you to get Malays residency by seeking employment or making investments in the country. You can get the residence permit within 3 to 12 months of your application.  But planning an adventurous trip can often be overwhelming—what to do, where to go, what to see? That’s why we’ve created this listicle to guide you through your dream Malaysia adventure. From jungle treks to urban escapades, here are our top picks for an active and thrilling getaway. 1. Explore The Wonders Of Bako National Park If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, Bako National Park is your go-to destination. As the oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako is a stunning tapestry of mangroves, dipterocarp forests, and delicate ecosystems. And let's not forget its famous residents: the proboscis monkeys. Given the surge in trips to Malaysia 2023, it is advisable to book your park permits and accommodations well in advance. Once you’re in the park, don’t miss the various trekking opportunities. With 16 color-coded jungle trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes, Bako is a hiker's paradise. Each trail unveils a new aspect of Bako's diversity, whether it’s spotting the rare flora and fauna or navigating through the rocky cliffs. 2. Take The Challenge At Batu Caves An iconic symbol just outside of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves offer more than just a spiritual journey. This limestone hill is home to a series of caves and cave temples, but what catches the eye first is the towering, golden statue of Lord Murugan and the steep 272-step climb that leads to the cave's entrance. Many don't realize that Batu Caves is also a hotspot for rock climbing. With over 160 climbing routes on the towering limestone hills, it’s perfect for both beginners and experts. So, after you’ve soaked in the cultural vibe, strap on some climbing gear and go vertical! 3. Experience The Nightlife In Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur is not just a bustling metropolis during the day; it comes alive at night, offering countless experiences for the adventure-seeker. For those who love heights, the Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL) provides an open-air Sky Deck that lets you walk on a glass surface 300 meters above ground level. If you prefer speed to heights, why not try go-karting in the heart of the city? Tracks like City Karting offer a thrilling experience, allowing you to zoom around at speeds up to 50 mph. Just make sure to book in advance, especially on weekends. 4. Discover The Cultural Heritage Of Kuching Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, is a city that’s rich in history and local culture. But did you know that it’s also an excellent starting point for various adventure activities? Kayak down the Sarawak River, taking in views of the old palaces and modern skyscrapers. For cycling enthusiasts, a bike tour of Kuching provides an exhilarating way to explore the city. Cycle through the old streets, rich with colonial architecture, and make your way to local food markets where you can try exotic fruits and snacks. 6. Savor The Thrill Of Local Cuisine One often-overlooked avenue of adventure is the culinary landscape, and Malaysia doesn't disappoint in this regard. For the uninitiated, Malaysian cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, drawing influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures. This melting pot of culinary traditions offers a unique kind of adventure for your taste buds. Are you brave enough to try the pungent yet delicious Durian, often referred to as the "King of Fruits"? How about sampling "Sambal Belacan," a spicy shrimp paste that will give your senses a jolt? And let's not forget Malaysia's street food—perhaps nothing is more thrilling than navigating a busy food market, filled with unfamiliar but tantalizing aromas, each stall a new adventure waiting to happen. Conclusion Malaysia is a wonderland for adventurers, offering a smorgasbord of experiences that cater to all kinds of thrill-seekers. Whether it's the untamed beauty of Bako National Park, the vertical challenges of Batu Caves, the energetic pulse of Kuala Lumpur's nightlife, the cultural richness of Kuching, or the gastronomic adventures in local cuisine, each experience contributes to an unforgettable adventure. Your Malaysian escapade can be as diverse as you make it. It promises a rollercoaster of emotions, activities, and discoveries. So gear up, prepare your senses, and get ready to explore, taste, and feel your way through this extraordinary country. Read Also: Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers 8 Reasons To Spend Your Spring Vacation In Pigeon Forge Top Tips For A Terrific Vacation

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 27, 2024

So, you've decided to take the plunge and trade the grey skies of Britain for the sun-drenched beaches of Australia? Congratulations! Making the move Down Under can be an exhilarating adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges and uncertainties. Fear not, though, because I'm here to guide you through the process every step of the way. 1. Visa Essentials: Crossing The First Hurdle Understanding Visa Options Before you start packing your bags, you'll need to navigate the often perplexing world of Australian visas. Here's a brief rundown of some common visa options for Brits: Skilled Visas - If you possess skills that are in demand in Australia, you may be eligible for a skilled visa. Working Holiday Visa - Ideal for young Brits looking to explore Australia while also working part-time. Family Visas - If you have family members in Australia, you might be able to obtain a family visa. Seek Professional Advice Navigating the Australian visa system can be a daunting task, so don't hesitate to seek professional advice. Immigration consultants or migration agents can help you understand your options and guide you through the application process. And don't forget, once you're in Australia, you'll need to renew your passport every 10 years still. Good news; there are experts to help you renew a British Passport in Australia too! 2. Financial Planning: Budgeting For Your Big Move Cost Of Living Australia isn't exactly known for being a budget-friendly destination, so it's essential to crunch the numbers and budget accordingly. Keep in mind factors such as accommodation costs, transportation expenses, and healthcare costs when planning your budget. Exchange Rates And Currency Conversion With the pound sterling being stronger than the Australian dollar, you'll want to keep a close eye on exchange rates and factor in currency conversion fees when transferring money between accounts. 3. Finding Your Dream Home Down Under Researching Different Suburbs Australia is a vast and diverse country, with each city boasting its unique vibe and culture. Take the time to research different suburbs and neighborhoods to find the perfect place to call home. Renting Vs. Buying Deciding whether to rent or buy a property in Australia is a big decision that depends on various factors such as your budget, long-term plans, and lifestyle preferences. Navigating The Rental Market If you're planning to rent, be prepared for stiff competition in Australia's rental market, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Start your search early, and be ready to act fast when you find a property you like. 4. Healthcare Matters: Staying Healthy Down Under Understanding The Healthcare System Australia boasts a world-class healthcare system, but it operates differently from the NHS in the UK. Familiarize yourself with the Australian healthcare system and consider taking out private health insurance for added peace of mind. Medicare: Australia's Public Health Insurance As a permanent resident or eligible visa holder, you may be entitled to access Medicare, Australia's public health insurance scheme. Medicare provides coverage for essential medical services, but you may still need private health insurance for additional benefits and services. 5. Embracing The Aussie Lifestyle: Tips For Settling In Embracing The Outdoors With its stunning natural landscapes and year-round sunshine, Australia is the perfect place to embrace the great outdoors. Take advantage of the countless beaches, national parks, and outdoor activities on offer. Getting Involved In The Community One of the best ways to settle into your new life in Australia is by getting involved in the local community. Whether it's joining a sports team, volunteering, or attending community events, making connections with fellow Aussies can help you feel at home. Cultivating Work-Life Balance Australians are known for their laid-back attitude and emphasis on work-life balance. Take a cue from your Aussie counterparts and prioritize leisure time and relaxation alongside your professional pursuits. 6. Dealing With Homesickness: Coping Strategies For Brits Abroad Stay Connected With Loved Ones Moving to the other side of the world can be tough, but thanks to modern technology, staying connected with friends and family back home has never been easier. Schedule regular video calls, send care packages, and plan visits to help ease feelings of homesickness. Explore Your New Surroundings Combat homesickness by immersing yourself in your new surroundings and embracing all that Australia has to offer. Whether it's exploring a new city, trying out local cuisine, or embarking on weekend getaways, there's always something new to discover Down Under. Seek Support When Needed If feelings of homesickness become overwhelming, don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Remember that it's entirely normal to feel homesick when adjusting to life in a new country, and there's no shame in asking for help when you need it. Conclusion: Your Australian Adventure Awaits! Making the move from Britain to Australia is a thrilling and life-changing experience, but it's essential to approach it with careful planning and preparation. By understanding the visa requirements, budgeting wisely, and embracing the Aussie lifestyle, you'll be well on your way to making a smooth transition to your new home Down Under. So, what are you waiting for? Your Australian adventure awaits! Read Also: Unique Pigeon Forge Activities For The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush 9 Fun Activities You Should Add To Your Pigeon Forge Bucket List

BY  Sibashree Dec 1, 2025

Everything great is happening in Valletta's tourism industry these days. 2025 has been a year of growth and recognition for Valletta, the small capital city of Malta, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  In the forest quarter of 2025 itself, Malta received more than 693,000 visitors according to the Tour and Travel World. It was an 18.9% rise from the same period in 2024. Furthermore, in the same period, the tourist spending reached €508.5 million.  This means tourism continues to offer opportunities for local and foreign entrepreneurs who come to set up companies in Malta, with the help of local specialists from BridgWest.  In addition, the World Travel $ Tourism Council has chosen Malta as the venue for the WTTC Global Summit, 2026. The 26th edition of the summit will take place in collaboration with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs & Tourism and the Government of Malta.  The prominent landmarks of Valletta, such as the Grand Harbour and St. John's Co-Cathedral, and activities such as exploring Victoria's Gate and trying some brilliant craft beer, and cultural richness, have helped Valletta enjoy such growth in numbers and global recognition.  I have been to Malta, and starting from exploring the fortified walls of Valletta to enjoying the serene charm of Valletta Grand Harbour Waterfront, the free things to do in Valletta were the highlights for me. On such a shoestring budget, I was able to enjoy the essence of a city, which even enjoyed the status of the European Capital of Culture 2018.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will, of course, talk about the free activities and other fun and interesting things to do in Valletta.  What Are The Things To Do In Valletta? As I started exploring the city of Valletta, I noticed the signature "Pointed Cross" of the Knights protecting this ancient city from everything evil.  If this is something really spiritual, on the other hand, you will see history becoming alive with the post boxes, telephone booths, and British colonial architecture.  Nevertheless, these are the things to do in Valletta. 1. Visiting The St. John's Co-Cathedral Address: Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:15 PM (Monday to Saturday) Entry Fee: Adults: €15, Seniors: €12, Students: €12, Children (Under 12): Free when accompanied by an adult, €5 Extra for a Belfray Tour, Audio Tour Included View this post on Instagram A post shared by St John's Co-Cathedral (@stjohnscocathedral) The St. John's Co-Cathedral is the most prominent example of the Baroque-style architecture of Valletta. The Knights of the St. John built this conventional church for the order in the late 16th century.  You will know about the life of St. John the Baptist from the paintings by Mattia Preti on the ceiling of this cathedral.  Furthermore, there are eight chapels, dedicated to various languages, tapestries, marble floors, and gilded carvings. However, the main focus for me was the painting called "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist." This dramatic work, one of the few artworks signed by Caravaggio, is in the Oratory. 2. Exploring Fort St. Elmo And The National War Museum Address: Mediterranean Street, Valletta, Malta Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: Adults - €10.00, Senior Citizens (60+) and Youths (12-17 Years) - €7.50, Students - €7.50, Children (5-11 Years) - €5.00, Below 5 Years - Free Fort St. Elmo stands as a witness to the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. It has military paraphernalia and many artefacts.  However, the major appeal of the fort is intangible, and it lies in the fact of how it became a refuge for the people of Malta during the attack of the Ottoman Empire under the leadership of Suleiman the Magnificent.  The Knights, only around 500 in numbers, defeated the 6000 strong army of the Ottoman Emperor. Furthermore, the National War Museum inside the fort, spanning over seven sections, celebrates the 7000-year-old history of Malta. Some of the exhibits here date back to the Bronze Age (2,500 BC).  You can even request a guided tour of the museum.  Insider Tip: 2025 marked the 900th year of the Great Siege of Malta. A docu-drama called The Great Siege of Malta 1565 was released in 2025. This 45-minute docu-drama celebrates the bravery of the "Hospitalier Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem."  3. Visiting The Grand Master's Palace Address: St George's Square, Valletta Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: €12 for Adults, €10 for Children Aged 12 to 17 Years and Seniors, Children (6-11): €8, Infants (1-5): Free The Grand Master of the Order of St. John used to rule Valletta from the Grand Master's Palace. The armory here is the main attraction, and it has the accessories and outfits of the Knights.  Furthermore, the symbol of power, with its history of 450 years, is once again in the news with its recent renovation work.  It was also the "seat of the first constitutional parliament of Malta in 1921," and now it is the "Seat of the Office of the President of Malta." 4. A Guided Tour Of Casa Rocca Piccola Address: 74 Republic Street, Valletta, Malta Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM Audio Tours: From 10 AM Guided Tours: From 10 AM to 4 PM (On An Hourly Basis) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Casa Rocca Piccola (@casaroccapiccola) Do you know that the 9th Marquis de Piro still lives in this 16th-century palace? Join the audio tours or the guided tours to see the swanky furniture and unique staircases.  However, for me, the Bomb Shelters were the main attraction. These are not dark tourism spots. These are the living history of World War II.  When 15 air raids took place in 1942, the people of Valletta saved their lives by hiding in these chambers. These shelters were part of the quarry of the 400-year-old house, and they were made from a solid rock foundation.  5. Know The WWII Stories Of Malta At Lascaris War Rooms Address: Lascaris Ditch, Valletta VLT 2000, Malta Hours: 10 AM to 4:30 PM Entry Fee - Adults: €20, Seniors: €19, 5-15 Years Old: €7, Family: €35, Children below 5 Years: Free I love history, and even if you don't, you cannot avoid knowing about WW1 and WW2. These two wars changed the course of human civilization.  At Lascaris War Rooms, you don't just see the exhibits. You live through the moments of war as you explore the tunnels and labyrinths used as protection from the Italian and German attacks during World War 2.  It's like getting transported to the 1940s within a minute.  Insider Tip: I found the War Rooms more fascinating than the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Did you know that these War Rooms were used as the headquarters for the Invasion of Sicily or Operation Husky? 6. Visiting The National Museum Of Archaeology Address: Auberge de Provençe, Republic Street, Valletta, Malta Hours: 8 AM to 7 PM (Admission Closes at 6:30 PM) Entry Fee: €5 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Heritage Malta (@heritagemalta) I was at a loss for words at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. It has everything you need to know about the prehistoric days of Malta.  Once I entered, the first room had exhibits showing how the earliest people settled here, even before the temple establishment period. It had "Red Skorba ornaments" and some "tools" they used in their everyday lives.  I also got to see exhibits from the Ghar Dalam phase (5200 BC), Tarxien phase (2500 BC), and Bronze Age.  Then, I reached the main hall of the museum. It had the Sleeping Lady and other astonishing sculptures and temple carvings.  Among the collectibles from the Temple Period, the Obsidian Core was the most impressive. It was a headless sculpture, in a seated posture.  Housed inside a Baroque building, this museum is now the main attraction of Auberge de Provençe, which was earlier the home of the Knights of the St. John. Insider Tip: If you are traveling from any other town in Malta, take a bus to the Valetta Bus Terminal. From there, it is a short distance on foot.  7. Visiting The Upper Barrakka Gardens Address: 292 Triq Sant'Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM Entry Fee: Free Home to the Siege Bell War Memorial, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer amazing views of the harbor and the three neighboring cities.  This 16th-century garden was built in the 16th century, and the Knights of the Saint John once used it as a private garden.  Once you are done strolling the Castille Square, you will find the Upper Barrakka Gardens nearby.  Insider Tip: It's great to relax at the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens and have a sip of your favorite drink. However, at 12 PM and 4 PM, the officials of the Malta Heritage Society get dressed in military uniforms and fire the cannons at the Upper Barakka Gardens.  Now, I had a cup of hot coffee in my hand, and I was not ready for it. So, it fell out of my hand, and it was a mess.  Nevertheless, this tradition has been continued for more than 100 years, and once you attend it, you will know why it is worth it.  Also, you must use the Barakka Lift to travel between the upper and lower Barakka Gardens quickly.  8. Plan A Visit To The Lower Barrakka Gardens Address: Lvant, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM Entry Fee: Free I know people do not talk much about the Lower Barrakka Gardens. However, that's a blessing in disguise. It is way less crowded than the Upper Barrakka Garden.  Now, despite having the name as "Gardens," it is actually a small-scale garden with a few minutes taken to complete the stroll.  However, there is a fort and a waterfront with Greek-style arches overlooking them. You can relax here, have your moments, and make the most of the photo ops. 9. Enjoying The Waterfront The Baroque houses, surrounding the waterfront of Valletta, were earlier used for storing the essentials of the Grand Master. Now, they are bars and restaurants.  I found the promenade the perfect place to relax and cherish a drink with my eyes set on the ships cruising. The place is more magical after sundown, but there is a trick! You have to find a cafe or restaurant that is not crowded by tourists. Find yourself a quiet corner. 10. Watching A Performance At The Manoel Theatre Address: Old Theatre Street, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta Capacity: 623 Opened In: 1732 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Teatru Manoel (@teatru.manoel) At Manoel Theatre, as a performer of elocution and audio theater for the longest time, I had goosebumps. I was standing at the oldest working theater in Europe.  The wrap-around gallery was the highlight of the building, and I attended an opera performance by none other than Joseph Calleja.  Also, if you want to explore the grand architecture of Manoel Theatre, you can do so every Tuesday. During the summer months, the tours are conducted between 10:30 AM and 12 PM, and during the winter months, these tours continue from 11 AM to 3 PM. Tickets are available at 20.00 €.  11. Trying Local Food  Many people call Maltese ftira a "type of pizza." However, very few people know that it is a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, with a history dating back to the 16th century, when it was first prepared in the ovens of the Knights of St. John.  Furthermore, it is a chosen food because of its versatile fillings and its role as an identity of Valletta and, by extension, of Malta. I also loved the coffee here. It was my best companion while taking a stroll across the roads. Furthermore, if you are in Valletta, don't miss the Lampuki Pie or the signature fish pie.  How To Reach And Move Around Valletta? Valletta is well-connected to the world through the Malta International Airport. It is around 9 km away from Valletta, and the short drive took me close to 20 minutes. I took the bus to the City Centre.  You can also book a shuttle in advance or take a taxi.  The city has a well-connected bus route, and it is a small city that you can cover on foot. However, the transport options are island-specific. You can take a Talinja Card or Flex Card for exploring Valletta and Malta.  Also, you can take a ferry service to the Grand Harbour of Valletta to and from Gozo and the Three Cities. You will even get a ferry service from Sliema to St. Paul's in Valletta. Insider Tip:  I picked the "Gozo Standard Add-On" card for my day trip. I didn't have the time for so many trips. But you can use this add-on to enjoy unlimited tours to Gozo Island.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Valletta? March to May and September to early November are the best seasons to visit Valletta. Valletta has so many historic landmarks and outdoor spaces. The temperature in the early 20s in these months offers you the ideal chance to explore Valletta.  Also, the crowd is quite manageable in these months.  Valletta, At A Glance: Why Does Valletta Offer Such A Rich Experience? The best thing about Valletta is how compact it is! By compact, I mean it has a big heart, accommodating the best museums, well-preserved Baroque architecture, the Grand Harbour, stone walls, and stories.  From the stories of a 16th-century ghost to being the backdrop of many spy thrillers, such as "The Secrets of Malta" by Cecily Blench, and historical novels such as "The Hidden Palace" by Dinah Jefferies, have added stories to each key attraction of the city.  Also, the stories of the city's sustenance during World War II and the Great Siege by the Ottoman Turks in 1565 tell us about human resilience.  Location-wise, this Fortress City, with a soft honey hue, stands on the ocean. It is also the dream of a photographer with the Baroque architecture reaching the sky.  Despite being only 1 kilometer long and 600 meters wide, the city of Valletta is very compact, housing many museums, cobblestones, and architecture, and it became the "European Cultural Capital in 2018.  Valletta is very close to the famous Three Cities. These cities are Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa. The Grand Harbour separates these cities from Valletta.  Valletta was built by the Knights of St. John in 1565 after the Great Siege of Malta. It was one of the best fortified cities in Europe and was built in a very short span. The city got its name from Jean Parisot de La Valette, who was the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John. Where To Stay In Valletta? When in Valletta, you must choose a hotel with an amazing rooftop view. The Embassy Valletta Hotel and Palazzo Ignazio are some of the best options to stay in.  The best areas for finding a hotel are the Valletta City Centre, Floriana, The Three Cities, etc.  The hotel charges will be around 300-500 Euros.  Is Valletta Really Worth It? An Honest Confession About The City  Yes, Valletta is a European Capital City with so many historic, religious, and cultural elements. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also has many stories, like the Great Siege of Malta or the attacks of World WW2.  However, the remnants of the British Colonial Rule, like the telephone booths and post boxes, were sore to my eyes and they are a mismatch with the beautiful Baroque architecture and century-old buildings.  Also, it is hard to find a quiet place in Valletta. So, that can be a problem for a solo traveler. Still, the great food and historic thrill of the city make it really worth it! Even if you are in the city for one day, you can enjoy a stroll around the City Square and at least explore the St. John's Co-Cathedral to enjoy a slice of Maltese life. Read Also: A Kotor Montenegro Travel Itinerary For 3 Days: How To Travel Kotor Montenegro On A Budget? “Winter Is Coming!” Where Is Hot In October? Explore Places To Visit In Europe Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Couples Get Ready!