Exploring Colorado As A Couple: 6 Cities You Should Not Miss

BY  Sibashree Aug 22, 2025

Thanks to Kawasan Falls and its associated canoeing activities, the Government of Badian in the Philippines is expecting a 50% tourism boom. Earl Endab, the Badian Tourism Officer, has confirmed this in a conversation with The Freeman.  However, Kawasan Falls, the multi-tiered waterfall in Badlan, has always been the prime attraction of Cebu in the Philippines, and it played an important role in the Balan tourism industry, contributing P500 in 2024.  Now, what makes Kawasan Falls so special? Turquoise blue water, refreshing pools, and lush green tropical surroundings have made Kawasan Falls the ideal place for relaxing and swimming.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will discuss the following key areas about Kawasan Falls.  Table of contentsWhat Is Kawasan Falls Description? Know The Key Features Of The Waterfalls What Is The Kawasan Falls Location?How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City? 1. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City By Bus?2. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu By A Private Car?3. Take A Shared Van Ride From Cebu To Kawasan Falls Why Visit Kawasan Falls In Cebu? What is Kawasan Falls Known For?1. Canyoneering Adventure2. Swimming In The Natural Pools3. Bamboo Rafting4. Light Hiking To The Upper LevelsA Breakdown Of Kawasan Falls LevelsWhat Is The Perfect Kawasan Falls Itinerary? What Is The Best Time To Visit Kawasan Falls? What Are The Best Instagrammable Spots At Kawasan Falls?Kawasan Falls: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What Is Kawasan Falls Description? Know The Key Features Of The Waterfalls  Around 3 to 4 hours away from Cebu City, Kawasan Falls is at the foot of the Mantalongon Mountain Range. Due to the high amount of limestone deposits, the water of Kawasan Falls is deep turquoise in color. The height of Kawasan Falls is 40 feet.  Furthermore, as the multi-tiered waterfall falls down, the volcanic rock formations make a pool with a depth of 11 meters. You can take a bamboo raft and reach under the falling water for a delightful “Waterfall Massage.”  These waterfalls, as part of the Kawasan Falls, get their water from the Kabukalan Spring. Then, the water passes toward the Tanon Strait and Matutinao River through the Kawasan Gorge.  Moreover, Kawasan Falls are important for the overall ecotourism landscape of the Philippines. It offers the perfect blend of a unique ecosystem, adventure activities, and scenic beauty.  Here are the key features of Kawasan Falls. Key Features of Kawasan FallsDetailsMain FallsThe first tier consists of a 40-meter-high waterfall that cascades down the Kawasan Gorge and forms a deep pool. Swimming and bamboo rafting are popular activities here. Upper TiersYou can hike up the main waterfall, and there you will find many small waterfalls and different hiking spots. Canyoneering AdventureTake an adventurous canyoneering tour from Alegria to Badian. The activities on the way include:Cliff-jumpingTrekkingSwimming in the Matutinao RiverLush Green SurroundingsEnjoy an immersive experience here thanks to the lush green tropical surroundings filled with the delightful chirpings of birds. Easy AccessibilityYou can take a drive from Cebu City and reach Kawasan Falls within 3-4 hours. Then, you can take a walk of around 10-15 minutes along the river to reach the waterfall. Hours OpenEarly Morning to Late AfternoonKawasan Falls Entrance FeePHP 45 What Is The Kawasan Falls Location? Province: Cebu, Central Visayas, Philippines Town: Badian Barangay: Matutinao Located in South Cebu, the Kawasan Falls are nestled within the Barangay Matutinao Mountains. The nearest municipality to here is Moalboal. It only takes 30-40 minutes to reach Kawasan Falls from Moalboal.  Moalboal itself is known for the most vibrant marine life, with turtle sightings and a sardine run. Moreover, Panagsama Beach here is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City?  The distance between Cebu City and Kawasan Falls is close to 107 km. You can either take a bus or a private car to travel the distance. You can even opt for a shared van ride to reach Kawasan Falls.  1. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City By Bus? You will easily find buses run by Ceres, the largest bus company in the Phillipines. Take the bus bound for Bato via Barili.  After a 2-2.5 hours of ride in the bus, you will have to get off at Matutinao Church or the Sto. Tomas De Villanueva Parish. From there, you will have to take a walk for 15-20 minutes to reach the waterfall.  2. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu By A Private Car? When you book a private car, you will get transportation assistance along with guided activities. The journey by car takes around three to four hours.  The journey will cost 200 PHP per person. You can even take a motorcycle ride, available for 50 PHP per person.  3. Take A Shared Van Ride From Cebu To Kawasan Falls  You can take public vans for 120 PHP or shared vans from the GT Express Terminal in Cebu. Shared vans are available till Moalboal. From Moalboal, you can take any southbound bus to reach the gates of the Kawasan Falls. Why Visit Kawasan Falls In Cebu? What is Kawasan Falls Known For? Kawasan Falls is famous for its deep turquoise waters, pools, and it is a hotspot of canyoneering adventure and activities such as: Sliding down rocks Hiking Swimming Cliff jumping Due to the thrills and challenges of the canyoneering route, it is also known as the natural obstacle course.  Moreover, as you take the left side of the waterfall and walk through the path briefly, you will come across many small springs. Also, Mainit Hot Springs, at the stop of Malabuyoc (to be found on the route from Oslob to Kawasan Falls), is a popular nearby attraction.  Also, Kawasan Falls has always been crucial as an eco-tourism destination. Now, everyone talks about the canyoneering adventures, lush jungle settings, multi-tiered formations, etc.  However, there is more to it. Ecotourism means balancing the tourist activities with environmental benefits by following sustainable practices.  Furthermore, ecotourism can boost local conservation efforts by creating employment opportunities and helping local commercial establishments.  Top Things To Do At Kawasan Falls: Kawasan Falls Activities From enjoying a relaxed picnic to having the most adventurous canyoneering activities, Kawasan Falls offers you the most eclectic experience.  Here are the things to do at Kawasan Falls. 1. Canyoneering Adventure View this post on Instagram A post shared by camille (@camilleguiden) Tour And Travel Blog Tips Guided tours are a must for canyoneering adventures.  2. Swimming In The Natural Pools Cool down in the main basin of the first waterfall level. It is perfect for casual swimmers and families. Here, you will get life vests available for rent.  3. Bamboo Rafting View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pao Ponce (@opao.ph) Are you ready for the ultimate “Water Massage” experience? Rent a traditional bamboo raft and float directly to reach under the falls, and allow the mighty cascades of water to fall on you.  4. Light Hiking To The Upper Levels Once you are done with all the picnic fun and adventures at Kawasan Falls, you can go for a short hike for 10 to 15 minutes and spot the second and third waterfalls.  These places are ideal if you are looking for a less crowded and quieter experience.  5. Picnicking Tables and cottages are available for rent. Bring your own food or grab some local eats nearby. A Breakdown Of Kawasan Falls Levels LevelHeightActivitiesTour and Travel Blog CommentsKawasan Falls Level 140 Meters• Swimming• RaftingIt is crowded, especially on weekends. Level 220 Meters• Swimming• RelaxationThis is quieter.Level 310 Meters• Hiking• Spending Tranquil MomentsThis offers the most immersive experience.  What Is The Perfect Kawasan Falls Itinerary?  Kawasan Falls is one of the few places that offer a spontaneous travel experience. Nevertheless, your itinerary for a perfect day at Kawasan Falls will look like this.  Kawasan Falls ActivitiesTimeThings to DoDepart from Cebu City4:30 AM• Arrive Early• Avoid TrafficStop for Breakfast at Carcar or Barili6:30 AM• Try Local Delicacies Such as Puto and Lechon. Arrive at Badian/Register8 AM• Register and Meet Your Guide. Start Canyoneering Adventure8:30 AM• Follow the Safety Briefing• Get Ready with the GearCliff Jumping, Sliding, and Trekking9 AM to 12 PM• Finally, Jump into Kawasan Falls. Lunch12:30 PM• You can choose a Tour Where Meals are included. Swimming or Bamboo Rafting1:30 PM• Relax at Kawasan Falls Level 1. Hike to the 2nd and 3rd Level2:30 PM• Enjoy an Immersive Experience at a Less Crowded Place. Freshen Up3:30 PM• Freshen Up at Basic Showers and Changing Areas. Leave from Kawasan Falls for Moalboal Beach4 PM• Enjoy the Local Marine World and Spot Marine Animals. Arrive in Cebu City from Moalboal Beach7:30-8 PM• Expect heavy traffic.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Kawasan Falls?  The dry season from December to May is the best time to visit Kawasan Falls. Moderate temperatures and clear skies make these months ideal for swimming and canyoneering.  On the other hand, the wet season from June to November impacts water safety.  Also, early morning is the best time of the day for visiting Kawasan Falls. If you visit the waterfalls before 8 AM, you will enjoy better lighting, fewer crowds, and great photography opportunities.  Budget And Expenses Of Visiting Kawasan Falls The budget and expenses of visiting Kawasan Falls will depend on the mode of transport, the food you have, the group strength, etc.  Nevertheless, roughly your budget for visiting Kawasan Falls will look like this.  ItemEstimated Cost Per PersonBus Fare (Round Trip)₱ 300-400Entry Fee₱ 45Canyoneering Tour (Including Gear and Guide)₱ 2000Lunch and Snacks₱ 200-300Locker and Cottage Rental₱ 100-300Total Estimated Cost ₱2645-3045 Where To Stay Near Kawasan Falls? Badian is the closest to Kawasan Halls. This place has many basic hotels and homestays. However, Moalboat, at a distance of 30 minutes, has the more luxurious beaches.  Also, Alegria will be the right place to find an accommodation if you are going on a canyoneering adventure.  What Are The Best Instagrammable Spots At Kawasan Falls? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Guide to the Philippines (@guidetothephilippines) The top of the bamboo raft below the first fall is the best Instagrammable spot at Kawasan Falls. Some other Instagrammable spots here are: Mid-jump during canyoneering Poolside at the second level Jungle trail bridges leading to the falls Drone shot above all three levels (with permission) Conservation And Responsible Tourism At Kawasan Waterfalls Cebu is projected to produce the highest amount of solid waste in 2025 in the Philippines. Plastic bottles, scattered sachets, and plastic bags constitute the highest amount of waste produced in the region.  A rise in the number of foreign tourist footfall here has led to the mounting wastage. In this context, ecotourism can be a great alternative to mass tourism.  Kawasan Falls is a part of the 248 protected areas of the country. Due to over-tourism, the site was temporarily closed in 2022 for rehabilitation. Since reopening, visitor caps and strict regulations have been enforced. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles when you visit Kawsan Falls.  Don’t pick plants or disturb wildlife. Avoid loud music. Bring your own trash back. Stay on marked paths. Travel Tips For Visiting Kawasan Falls Wear aqua shoes or trekking sandals as the trails can be slippery.  Use waterproof bags/cases to protect your electronics.  Follow local guides’ instructions as a safety-first approach.  Pack out your trash and respect nature. Kawasan Falls: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Kawasan Falls.  1. Can Kids Visit Kawasan Falls?  Yes. Kids can visit the first-level pool of the Kawasan Falls. However, canyoneering is only recommended for ages 12 and above. 2. How Long Does The Canyoneering Tour Take? On average, the tour lasts 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and the weather. The tour starts from the Matutinao River.  3. What To Wear For Visiting Kawasan Falls?  You must wear quick-dry clothes and water shoes or sandals with a good grip. Furthermore, you will need a rash guard for sun and rock protection. Wear swimwear underneath if swimming is on the itinerary list.  4. What Is The Weight Limit For Ziplining At Kawasan Falls?  The weight limit for ziplining at Kawasan Falls is 100 kg. If you exceed this mark, you will have to trek to the starting point.

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

The best time to visit the Maldives is between December and March. This small group of islands in the Arabian Sea is probably one of the most beautiful holiday destinations for both honeymooners as well as families. These tropical islands are hot and full of sunny weather. The heat stays between 23 degrees to 31 degrees, however, given the year-round sunny weather and the absence of winters in the Maldives, the best time to visit Maldives is anytime. Maldives In Dry Season The dry seasons in Maldives have a temperature of 31 degrees Celsius in the day and 24 degrees Celsius in the night. It is probably the best time suited to visit the islands of Maldives. You can enjoy cultural activities, sightseeing, try the local cuisine, and water sports. You can swim in the blue expanse where the average temperature of the water is 30 degrees. During these months, you can witness the Maldives at its best. The overall vibe of the islands is festive, and the crowd is thicker than usual. The weather and the beauty all around make the dry seasons ideal for visiting. Little to no rain and warm temperatures allow the seaside experience to become even more top-notch. With no precipitation, the visibility is crystal clear, making the picturesque island become even more vibrant. There are beautiful beaches, gorgeous lagoons, and colorful coral reefs to enjoy while you are here, which you won't get bored of. The country does get crowded during the peak season, but an individual resort inhabits each island, so it does not get too crowded. It will be reasonable for you to check before you plan a trip about the crowd and availability of a more personal experience. Some of the most popular locations in the Maldives are Nalaguraidhoo Island, Banana Reef, South Ari Atoll, and North Mal-Atoll. Another well-rated tourist spot is the HP Reef. This is a protected marine ecosystem that harbors rich marine life. Maldives: A Cultural Hub The major festival celebrated in November is the birth of Prophet Muhammad or Mawlid. It is the most well-known festival celebrated in a grand carnival style for two days. Street processions and elaborate mosque decorations dot the island. During peak season, the cost of staying at a hotel rises manifold, so if you are looking for more budget-friendly options, you can choose to visit in April. This marks the end of the peak times, and the tourism industry here enters the lean months. Maldives has become one of the top hotspots for Indian tourists not only because of its beauty but also its food options all around the world. The traditional cuisine of the Maldives is a plethora of fish, coconuts, and starches. Some of the common foods that come under seafood are local cuisine which includes yellowfin tuna, wahoo, skipjack tuna, and frigate tuna. With its geographical proximity to India, there is a lot of culinary influence that is evident in its spices, flavors, and curries. The laws here are very strict, so you must beware of carrying alcohol, pork, religious books, and tobacco products. And don’t forget to check the seasonal price hikes when booking water activities. Why Visit The Maldives? Now that you know when is the best time to visit the Maldives and you are still not sure what you could do there, we have all the answers for you. Keep reading to know what you can expect from a visit to the Maldives. Bioluminescent Water Under The Stars Visit the Vaadhoo Island in Raa Atoll, where the stars float in the water– the phytoplankton dinoflagellates that emit luminescent toxins. The small starry lights are emitted as a defense mechanism to keep other predatory fish and creatures away. You can walk through the planktons and create more stars that will be etched in your memory for the rest of your life. Maldivian Culture Along with all the natural beauty, Maldives also boasts a vibrant culture. If you want to become more aware of the culture, you must witness the Bodu Beru dance that takes place on the beach in the evenings. You can tape the moments on your camera or try dancing to the tune along with the dancers. The Maldivian boat Dhoni can also be another way you can get to know the local people and their stories. Swim With The Sharks The enormous whale sharks glide along the coral atolls, followed by smaller-sized reef sharks. They also swim around in the nearby lagoons around the resorts. This is not a matter of high alarm, as people can easily swim with these sharks, albeit with supervision. Maaya Thila, Baa, and Ari Tolls are known for shark spotting. You can encounter them at an up-close level or enjoy watching them come by daily at their feeding time near some resorts where they are given food. Best Places To Visit Here are a couple of the best places you can consider when planning to visit the Maldives. There are too many to enlist, we have brought two of the best you cannot remove from your to-do list. Alimatha Island If you are attracted by those pictures, you saw of small, single-residence villas standing in the sea and want to visit the Maldives, this is the name of the place. Instagram-worthy and absolutely breathtaking, this island is a must-visit. Tripadvisor Review “The island is wonderful. If you love peace, beauty, nature, snorkeling, diving, fishing, it's simply the place to go. Villaggio Bravo is perfect for families with kids, the miniclub organizes plenty of activities for them. The food is delicious: the buffet ha many choices. I was surprised to find mainly italians (it's an italian village) and so few foreigners. Maybe it should be better advertised abroad.” - Lushangyin Banana Reef Considered to be the home of the best reef in the Maldives, this beach makes your sunny dreams come alive. Tripadvisor Review “This is by far the best snorkeling I have ever experienced. The amount of marine life, the colors, the coral, the temperature of the water was amazing. I saw Moray Eels, Blowfish, Giant Clams and so much more. On the way out I dozens of dolphins escorted us and jumped out of the water...amazing. There is a very strong current and it is in the middles of the ocean. An absolute must tough if you can get there.” - Avery D Wrapping Up Are you planning a trip to the Maldives and want to know when is the best time to visit Maldives we hope you now know that it really is always a good idea to visit this heaven on earth. The peak season, though, is the dry months. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Thailand Travel Guide: This Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand! The Stairway To Heaven Hawaii: Hiking Adventure’s Hidden Gem This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas!

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 28, 2023

Salt Lake City has an incredible amount of amazing things to do. The capital of the Beehive State has plenty to see and do, From Temple Square to its vibrant LGBTQ community, from its rows of top-notch restaurants to its snow that is actually truly flag-bearing. If you are looking for the best hotels in Salt Lake City, this article is it. SLC offers a fantastic array of lodging choices for all types of visitors. It includes boutique hotels, historic inns, five-star resorts, and unusual B&Bs. However, wherever you choose to book, remember that Salt Lake 101 is charming, unique, and reasonably priced. These are our top 11 hotels in Salt Lake City with friendly service, unique décor, and incredibly low rates. Best Hotels In Salt Lake City If you want to make your overall experience wholesome, then lodging at a good hotel is a priority. Here are some of the most amazing hotels that you can check out. It will help you make the most of your trip to Salt Lake City. The Cliff Lodge At Snowbird Who said that lodging for skiers had only to have rustic, mountain-style buildings? With its spectacular Brutalist concrete exterior and modern, bright rooms, the Cliff Lodge defies convention. This contemporary lodge offers ski-in/ski-out access to some of Utah's most challenging and excellent terrain. It is tucked away in Little Cottonwood Canyon, less than 45 minutes from Salt Lake. Winter isn't the only season to visit Snowbird. Miles of hiking and biking trails appear when the snow melts. Additionally, Snowbird hosts Oktoberfest, complete with live music and steins brimming with beer, from mid-August through most of October. Inn On The Hill Bed And Breakfast This Renaissance Revival-style home stands atop Capitol Hill and offers expansive views of the city below. The 1906-built Inn served as both a residence and a law office before converting to a B&B in the late 1990s. Every room has its own décor and is named after a Utah landmark, such as Arches or Sundance. The Carriage House is also available for rent from The Inn on the Hill. It has a cozy two-story cottage with a kitchenette and gas fireplace. It's a perfect place for family vacations or quiet getaways. The Peery Hotel The Peery is a museum and lodging combined, thanks to the building's rich history and the various works of art all throughout the grounds. Operating since 1910, it is a member of the Ascent Collection of independent boutique hotels. The interior features a retro Art Deco feel from the 1920s. The aesthetic is evident in both Carnegie's Public House and the sleek rooms. You can get to Pioneer Park and the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art quickly by foot from the Peery, which is in the downtown area. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City The Monaco, another of the best hotels in Salt Lake City, is actually regarded as one of the greatest in Salt Lake and Utah. Its historic bank building and its contemporary, lively rooms add character. Hotel Monaco is ideally in the heart of the city, close to theaters, eateries, and other attractions. In and of itself, the hotel restaurant Bambara is a dining destination. A meal here is a must, with a chef who has been at it for more than 20 years and a dedication to fresh, local cuisine that is evident in the All Local Cheese Board. The Grand America Hotel The flagship property of the Little America Hotel family, The Grand America, knows how to lull guests into relaxation with its signature afternoon tea and tranquil Grand Spa. Step-out balconies are a feature of Suites and Premier Rooms, perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. The Grand, Salt Lake City's only AAA Five-Diamond hotel, combines elegance and family-friendliness with features like cribs and a babysitter concierge service. There are tons of amazing eating options within. But make sure to save room for one or two macaron options from La Bonne Vie's pastel rainbow. Ellerbeck Mansion Bed & Breakfast Ellerbeck is a little piece of Victorian history. It is one of the best hotels in Salt Lake City. This 1892 mansion, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has marble columns, stained glass windows, and antique wood finishes that evoke a bygone era of opulence. This bed and breakfast in the Avenues neighborhood offers a range of reasonably priced rooms. You also have the option to reserve the entire property if you are traveling in a big group. Oh, and don't forget to enjoy the sumptuous free breakfast served every morning. Little America Hotel From a fitness center with the largest indoor/outdoor pool in the city to a plethora of dining options, this enormous hotel has it all. Little America is part of an old lodging custom that stretches back to the late 1800s. According to legend, a shepherd in Wyoming got lost in a snowstorm and dreamed of a cozy home stocked to the brim with food. A few decades later, he opened the first hotel called Little America after the United States base camp in Antarctica. Salt Lake's Little America, situated on Main Street in the city center, is a perfect starting point for exploring the area. Hansen House Bed & Breakfast There are many historic hotels in Salt Lake City, but this bed and breakfast takes you back in time. Constructed in 1887, the Victorian mansion features a formal dining area, a traditional library, and a sitting area furnished with a grand piano and chandelier. The Hansen House's outdoor areas, which include a charming garden surrounded by 100-year-old trees, a rock garden, and a cozy sitting area, are just as impressive as its interior. Every themed room has a whirlpool tub and a fireplace. Castle Creek Inn Fantasy lovers will simply swoon when they discover that this inn is actually housed inside a castle. Easily one of the best hotels in Salt Lake City, the goal of Castle Creek Inn is to combine the rustic atmosphere of a Scottish citadel with contemporary amenities. It offers quick Wi-Fi, movie streaming online, and a late-night snack bar. It's not just about the old-fashioned charm, though. Even though downtown Salt Lake is just fifteen minutes away, taking a soak in the two-person whirlpool tub surrounded by trees and natural rock will make you feel worlds away from the bustle of the city. Make sure the themed room you choose—from Romeo and Juliet to Canterbury—fits the occasion. Anniversary Inn Bed & Breakfast You need look no further if you've ever wanted to spend the night in either an Egyptian tomb or the Oval Office. That's something the Anniversary Inn can arrange. There are about fifty suites spread across its three locations in and around Salt Lake City. Each has a beautifully designed, distinct theme. Everybody can find a suitable motif, From families with children who love pirates to adventurous couples who want to go on safari. Breakfast, sparkling cider, and cheesecake are also complimentary with a stay. If you are staying here for your anniversary, then there are lots of extra amenities available. Like a romance spa package and a candlelit bath scented with rose petals. Silver Fork Lodge The Silver Fork is well-known among the locals for its restaurant. It boasts a 70-year-old sourdough starter that gives pancakes in their best-in-state breakfast dish a serious tang. It also has a smoker that produces some of the best barbecues in the city. Aside from food, the Silver Fork is the best place to stay for travelers who are addicted to log cabins. The sauna is a must-have feature of this historic inn, which is located minutes from skiing and less than an hour from the airport. The Wasatch-Cache National Forest surrounds it. Wrapping Up Here, we enlisted the best hotels in Salt Lake City. This should guide you to choose hip and trendy hotels as well as small boutique hotels. These hotels feel uber luxurious and yet romantic and unique. So much so that you may not want to leave your room. The hotels we have mentioned will also have coffee shops, restaurants, and even museums. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Houston Hospitality: The Top Hotels You Need To Experience Eternal Elegance: A Guide To The Best Hotels In Rome Luxe Living: The Best Hotels In Dallas