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

BY  Abdul Aziz Aug 24, 2023

Traveling could be among the most rewarding experiences one can have, whether it's for leisure or business. The idea of discovering a new destination and wandering its streets is really exciting. However, before you embark on a fresh journey, have you ever thought of what might go wrong during your travel arrangements? Imagine arriving at your destination only to discover that your luggage is nowhere to be found. Consider the scenario where your flight unexpectedly gets canceled. The solution to these uncertainties is travel insurance. What Is A Travel Insurance?  Suppose you missed your early flight to America or forgot your bags in China- who is going to take responsibility?  Have you ever thought about the priceless money you will lose without a stable backup? Here is when the need for travel insurance kicks in.  Travel insurance refers to an insurance type that covers financial losses related to traveling. But it doesn’t end there. Insurance for traveling can also be helpful while getting protection for international or domestic travel. Other factors that might also affect travel are also covered under this, like injury, illness, accidents, etc.  Many travelers either forget to opt for travel insurance or purposely avoid purchasing it. In both these cases, you will have to bear the consequences. Regardless of whether you are traveling abroad or within your own country, travel insurance is an essential safeguard that offers multiple advantages. Why Do You Need This Insurance Right Away: 6 Key Reasons?  Imagine going on a fun tour with your friends or your loved one, and something unfortunate happens. Nobody would ever want that, right? This is why here are the top 6 reasons why travel insurance is important when you embark on any journey. Financial Security When Traveling Abroad Imagine a situation where you visit a foreign country for the first time and find your wallet or bags stolen. What could you do in this situation? This is where your travel insurance proves its worth. In cases of unexpected emergencies, such as thefts, your travel insurance company becomes your support system, providing the necessary financial assistance to address the situation. If you're uncertain about which service provider to choose from the many available, you can easily compare prices with Utility Saving Expert and find the cheapest and most appropriate cover for your travel needs. It Covers Medical Emergencies Every Travel Insurance policy includes coverage for medical treatment expenses up to a specified limit. These policies are inclusive and do not differentiate between various types of medical emergencies. Whether it's medical treatment or accident-related expenses, the insurance company will reimburse costs up to the predetermined limit. Moreover, insurance providers maintain a roster of network hospitals where you can receive the necessary treatment. If You Lose Luggage And Personal Belongings In case your luggage is lost or significantly delayed, whether due to your negligence or the airport authority, travel insurance offers you peace of mind. The policy will provide coverage for purchasing essential items temporarily while your baggage is located. While your personal belongings may be irreplaceable, your travel experience will remain unaffected thanks to this coverage. If the Trip Get Cancelled Travel insurance additionally safeguards you in cases where you might need to cancel your trip for valid reasons, such as illness, injuries, national emergencies, or natural disasters. With travel insurance, you can be reassured that you won't lose the entire sum you invested in the trip if it happens to get canceled. When You Miss A Connecting Flight When you encounter the unfortunate situation of missing a connecting flight, perhaps due to a delay in your first flight, travel insurance comes to your rescue. This coverage enables you to seek reimbursement for the expenses incurred as a result of the missed connecting flight. The policy would allow you to file a claim for the expenses you've had to incur due to missing the connecting flight. This reimbursement can cover various aspects, including the cost of rebooking your missed flight, arranging new transportation, and even adjusting your accommodations if necessary. Fraudulent Charges Imagine yourself losing your credit/debit card during a trip, and suddenly, you start getting texts that someone is using your credit or debit card. Scary, right? You are not only losing your money, but you are losing in an unfamiliar place where assistance might be hard to come by. However, with the safety net of travel insurance, you would not have to face this problem. Your insurance coverage will reimburse you for any monetary losses incurred due to stolen payment cards, even covering transactions up to 12 hours preceding your initial report of the incident. What Is Meant By Comprehensive Travel Insurance?  Another very popular type of insurance is comprehensive travel insurance which consists of various other coverage. They are generally grouped under a single plan. Very commonly, comprehensive insurance for travel consists of a 24-hour helpline for healthcare when some emergency arrives. Alternatively, you might be able to buy every coverage type separately.  Interruption Coverage & Trip Cancellation This particular insurance helps in reimbursing a traveler for all or some prepaid travel expenses. Under it come trip cancellations, travel delays, cancellations, and trip interruptions.  Baggage Loss and Damage Coverage A frequent travel problem is your personal belongings getting either lost, damaged, or stolen. It immediately sabotages your whole mood because you have to look for replacements. However, various travel insurance policies pay only for belongings after exhausting other claims.  Rental Insurance Thirdly, vacation rental insurance coverage includes accidental damage costs from a vacation rental property. Some of these plans might also provide trip interruption and cancellation that help in reimbursing travel costs, particularly when you cannot access your vacation rental.  Conclusion Whether you're preparing for a vacation within your own country or embarking on an international journey, it's crucial to consider obtaining travel insurance. This prudent step will help guarantee a vacation that is not only secure and trouble-free but also offers you peace of mind throughout your travels. Read Also: How To Apply For A Passport Online In This Pandemic, And Which Countries Allow You To Travel Now?

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  Sibashree Feb 4, 2026

Now, whenever it’s about the iconic destinations such as Rome or Paris, making a “things to do” list is exhaustive.  And the extortion shows in the guides I check on the internet. So, this time, I planned to create a guide on things do in Rome and it is something very personal. After three trips to Rome over the years, I can safely say that I have started to know the real pulse of the city. It’s beyond the Colosseum and Roman history.  We have a different guide on the main attractions in Rome if you only want to learn about the iconic attractions.  So, let me take you on a trip to Rome through my eyes.  Also, I am happy that combating overtourism in Rome has finally been taken up seriously. If you are a foreign tourist, you will have to pay €2 to visit the Trevi Fountain during the daytime from February 2026.  Nevertheless, here are my favorite things to do in Rome.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Rome?  Timeless, Rome has the power to add a new favorite shade to your list of favorites. Or, you can have a trip to the past at every corner you look!  It takes a lifetime to understand the true essence of Rome.  1. Rediscover The Shade Of Ocher  Ocher is the color you begin and end your day in Rome with. The street light, which plays the perfect complement to the Sun, also creates the same magic when bouncing off the buildings.  Especially during the winter months, when the sky of Rome is bright blue, the old buildings stand as the eternal witness. Guess their color? It’s ocher.  Also, if you ask me which city wears decay the best, it’s Rome for sure. 2. Exploring The Pantheon (Yes Again!) The Pantheon never gets old for me. A building that has been standing for 2000 years feels magical.  Also, one great thing I noticed last time was how they are managing the crowd. You have to pre-book it. So, you cannot just walk in.  You can even book your fast-track tickets for the Pantheon.  It’s an irony that this temple for all (Pan) gods (Theos) is not revered as the other architectural icons of the world. However, for me, it’s most cryptic and intriguing, even the Colosseum.  3. Visiting The Colosseum And Roman Forum (You Cannot Miss It, Right)?  I got inside the Flavian amphitheater last time. However, if you are a first-timer, you can make proper plans and book a ticket online in advance.  Also, with each ticket, you will get an entry to the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. However, if you want to explore the rare corners of the Colosseum, such as the attic or the underground, you will need to buy separate tickets.  Moreover, let’s make this clear to you! You will need an English-speaking guide. It does not matter how much you have read about the Colosseum. The anecdotes they share and the way they help to navigate have no match. Also, it is through their stories that you will see the Gladiators in Rome coming alive in front of your eyes.  4. Exploring The Vatican Museums  We all know that Vatican City is one of the countries near Italy, and it is an enclaved microstate.  The Vatican Museums are like miles of artwork. The museums have around 70000 artworks in their 24 different sections.  The gallery of maps was the most fascinating for me as a traveler and travel writer. It took around 3 years to get completed.  Also, the Bramante Staircase itself is an attraction, and I spent quite some time near it. However, the Vatican Museums need better crowd management. Also, please note that the museums are now open at 8 AM instead of 9 AM for better visitor management.  5. Making A Wish At Trevi Fountain  I have already mentioned the fee imposed for visiting the Trevi Fountain. And it was much-needed, as the last time I was in Rome, there were around 60000 people near the front basin of the fountain.  Still, you cannot miss the fountain during the sunrise. And a tourist staple?  To make a wish and throw the coin in the fountain water. These little cheesy things never get old.  6. Walking Up The Spanish Steps  Are you looking for free things to do in Rome? Just walk up the iconic Spanish steps.  These steps are picture-perfect and a favorite for tourists looking for Instagram snaps. The steps get their name from the Spanish Embassy at the bottom. However, a Frenchman built the stairs, and the French Church at the top offers you some moments of quietude.  The steps are also pretty close to Via del Corso, the main shopping street of Rome. Also, you will find different cobbled alleys and quaint piazzas. Any particular favorite?  Yes, Piazza del Popolo won my heart.  7. Taking A Walk Around Trastevere Rome is walkable, and it is the epicenter of various trendy neighborhoods. Trastevere was my favorite among them.  Transtevere has beautiful cobblestone streets, exuding the perfect dark academia vibes. Also, drinking an Aperol Spritz and watching people here are some of my favorite things to do in Rome.  I had my food at Tonnarello, and the chef’s kiss was the gelato I had while walking back to Centro Storico. In this context, you will find many of the best hotels in Rome in the Centro Storico area.  I prefer walking across the Ponte Sisto to reach Trastevere and explore its cobblestone streets.  8. Browsing The Borghese Gallery Borghese Gallery is a small building on the eastern edge of Villa Borghese. It is a sprawling park, spanning an area of 200 acres.  Now, here comes the catch! With the “small” word attached to it, you will think that you can just walk in. However, the gallery limits the number of visitors.  So, if you don’t prebook, the tickets can get sold out.  Enjoy the works of Raphael, Bernini, and Caravaggio at the Borghese Gallery.  9. Exploring The Lesser-Known Side Of Rome: The Southeast I took a scooter from the Centro Storico, and it was great to explore places like San Saba and Ripa. Away from the crowd, the first major encounter here was the Circus Maximus.  And it was a goosebump moment, without exaggerating a bit! It was the place where chariot races took place, and 25000 Romans were witnesses to them.  Then, I continued walking toward Roseto Comunale and reached Giardino degli Aranci. It is a garden of orange trees, and it has Terrazza Aventino, or the terrace from where you can enjoy amazing views.  The next destination was the Piramide di Caio Cestio. A pyramid in Rome? Yes, it is. Finally, I reached the Baths of Caracalla. The history of the bath goes back to 215 AD. The fun thing is that here you will get 4D goggles for a small fee and get a virtual tour of what the Bath looked like back then.  If you want to explore further southeast, you can visit the Aurelian Walls and the Appian Way. 10. And The Piazza's Time!  I don’t know how many people care to talk about piazzas when discussing the best things to do in Rome.  From the beautiful Piazza Navona to the Piazza del Popolo, every piazza has a page to add to the glorious history of Italy.  11. Trying Out The Best Italian Food  Milky gelatos, Neapolitan-style pizzas, and homemade pastas are the three main attractions for a foodie in Italy.  However, you must also try the gnocchi, cannoli, and tiramisu. Also, you cannot ignore the Peroni or Moretti, or even the Aperol Spritz.  Want to have the best food experience in Rome with your partners? Explore these best romantic restaurants in Rome.