Top Luxury New Orleans Family Hotels | A Guide To Staying In New Orleans

BY  Abdul Aziz May 19, 2023

For avid travelers and investors, the Korean currency rate can be a fascinating topic of discussion. Understanding the fluctuations of the won against other currencies can give insights into its economy. Likewise, it could say much about Korea's political developments and investors' sentiment in the market. This article will explore everything about the Korean currency rate. As such, we will cover the basic conversion rates to the impact of major events on the Korean economy. History Of Korean Currency South Korean currency has rich historical data that dates back to the early dynasties of Korea. It all started with the use of cowry shells and pearls as currency. As time passed, metal coins and paper money became popular. The Japanese occupation of Korea introduced the Japanese yen as the official currency. Yet, in 1945, the Korean won was introduced and became the official currency. Interestingly, the won was initially divided into 100 jeon, but the jeon was eliminated in 1960. The won has undergone many transformations to ensure price stability and economic growth. In modern times, the South Korean won is the official currency used in South Korea. Today, the value of the South Korean won fluctuates with the global exchange rates. It’s one of the world’s top 20 currencies by value. Current South Korean Won Exchange Rate Knowing the latest exchange rate for the Korean won can be helpful in budgeting and forecasting your finances. As of January 2023, the exchange rate for Korean won is fluctuating depending on the global market and demand. Below are some of the latest conversion rates: 1 US dollar = 1,315.29 Korean won (USD to KRW) 1 Australian dollar = 893.35 Korean won (AUD to KRW) 1 Chinese yuan = 192.07 Korean won (CNY to KRW) 1 Japanese yen = 9.90 Korean won (JPY to KRW) However, exchange rates may vary depending on banks' locations and policies. Check exchange rates online through various currency converter websites to ease the currency conversion. Alternatively, download an exchange rate or currency calculator app. With these tools, you can convert your dollars to South Korean won (USD - KRW) or any other currency at the current rate. Banknotes And Coins Banknotes and coins in South Korea are not only used for daily transactions. Yet, they also hold significant cultural value. As such, these banknotes come in different denominations and colors. For instance, the 1,000-won note features a Confucian scholar. Then, the 10,000 won note features Admiral Yi Sun-sin, known for his naval victories against Japan. Meanwhile, the 50,000 won note features Shin Saimdang, a prominent female artist. Besides that, she was the mother of the famous Korean painter Yi I. These banknotes represent important historical figures and showcase various artistic designs. Similarly, Korean coins are equally fascinating, with 10, 50, 100, and 500 won denominations. Each coin features a different symbol that holds cultural significance. The 500-won coin features the portrait of King Sejong, who invented the Korean alphabet. Meanwhile, the 100-won coin features the image of a crane, symbolizing longevity and good fortune in Korean culture. When visiting South Korea, carry some local currency as most stores prefer cash transactions. Foreign exchange markets are available in major cities, but it is crucial to know exchange fees as they vary. Overall, banknotes and coins in South Korea hold monetary value and capture the country's cultural heritage. Visit the Bank of Korea to learn more about their banknotes and coins. Money-Handling And Etiquette As with any country, knowing the cultural norms when handling money in South Korea is good. As such, for Koreans, money is not just a means but a representation of energy. Below are some key points to note: Cleanliness is crucial. Many Koreans believe money represents energy and keep their bills and coins as clean as possible. Hence, you will rarely see crumpled or dirty bills in circulation. Besides that, many Koreans carry cash and coins in wallets and change purses. For them, it is not just a convenient way to have cash but a way to keep it clean and maintain the money's energy. Respectful giving and receiving. When giving or receiving money, using both hands for respect is customary. This act is particularly true when exchanging money with older people or of a higher status than you. No throwing or placing on the floor. Throwing money or putting it on the floor is considered disrespectful. If you drop a coin or bill, pick it up immediately. Likewise, people usually place money on a designated tray or hand it directly to the receiver. Cash vs. Card. Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. Yet, having some Korean won for small transactions or in areas that only accept cash is always good. Keep this Korean currency rate information. Doing so will allow you to navigate financial transactions in South Korea with ease and respect for the country's cultural norms. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food 7 Reasons Why Phuket, Thailand Attracts Travelers Worldwide Top Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room In Las Vegas – Travel Guide

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  Arnab Jun 9, 2023

Avid travel enthusiasts know the importance of finding the best flight and hotel deals. Spending profusely on accommodation and flights means you will be left with less money for recreation, fun activities, delicious meals, and shopping. Have you considered using VPN for booking flights and hotels? No? This guide tells you how VPN is ideal for helping you find out the best flight and accommodation deals. You can use this travel hack on your next trip. Doesn’t Incognito Mode Work to Lower the Prices? You may see using incognito mode as the number one travel hack. But, in reality, it is only great for hiding your browsing history from other people on the device. You cannot change the IP address in this mode, which is what most hotel, flight, and travel booking sites track. Therefore, to be completely anonymous, you must use a VPN. How VPN Helps in Lowering Flights & Hotel Prices? Airline ticket and hotel booking prices greatly vary depending on where you are booking from. Travel and airlines booking websites use a dynamic pricing model, which means the prices change according to factors such as your purchase history, IP address, ZIP code, browsing habits, demand as well as supply, the Wi-Fi network you are connected to, etc. You can save hundreds of dollars on your next trip by using VPN. You can switch your IP address using a VPN to an altogether different location, which means the websites may appear at different prices according to that location. By changing the IP address, you can receive a cheaper price on hotels and flights if the new destination consists of lower demands and is a low-income country. Furthermore, you can even avail of special discounts for the country from which you are connecting. Discounts might be offered because of country-specific holidays or for seasonal reasons. The plus point is that you can also optimize VPN to search for lower prices on car rentals. Also, using a VPN is a straightforward process. Simply choose a provider and click VPN software download. Then, follow the instructions. More information on how you can use VPN to lower flights and hotel prices is given below. A Comprehensive Guide to Using a VPN Here’s a bit-by-bit guide to learning how to optimize VPN to get cheaper flights and hotel deals on your upcoming trip. Select a premium VPN provider Choosing a reliable and safe VPN provider is the most significant step in successfully executing this travel hack. However, since they are not built in the same manner, you must be careful during a VPN selection. An ideal VPN offers server locations in several other countries, ensuring fast and stable connections. Also, it offers 256-AES encryption and other security protocols like OpenVPN and Wizard Guard. Other standout features include a no-logs policy and an automatic kill switch. A kill switch is essential as it safeguards users’ information if the VPN connection accidentally drops. A no-logs policy is a clear indication that the VPN operator does not keep records of your activities online. So, there’s no record of the IP addresses used by you or the websites you browse to plan your trip. Another essential feature is knowledgeable and responsive customer support, ready to address all your needs 24/7. Position the VPN program After selecting a premium VPN provider, the initial step is downloading and installing the software on your gadget. After that, you can visit the website of your VPN provider and select the best strategy that meets your needs. Then, follow the download and installation instructions. Most VPN providers offer a 30-day trial period with a money-back guarantee. So, you can try the top VPNs before settling for one. Connect to a server of your chosen country Connecting to a server located in a country of your choice is the next step. This step intimidates a lot of people, but it is incredibly simple. Use your VPN to connect to the server country where you wish to visit just like you are browsing the web. For instance, if you wish to book a flight or hotel while appearing as if you are in the Philippines, you need a VPN to a server located in the Philippines. This will make it seem like you are in the Philippines while you are in another country. With most premium VPN services, all it takes is a single click to connect to a server. Then, you can start browsing and find those amazingly affordable deals for your trip. If you are wondering which is the most affordable country to change your VPN server location to, there’s no firm answer. It will depend on your destination and departure date. But some destinations that have proved to be lucky are India, Argentina, Peru, Mexico, Singapore, Australia, the Philippines, etc. So, you may have to play a little by changing locations and then see what lands you the cheapest hotel and flights. Search for flights and hotels Start searching for your flights or hotels after you have connected to your desired country’s server. First, you can try searching on a travel booking site, as this will provide you with multiple flight and hotel options to choose from. Then, try the airline or hotel website directly, as sometimes the prices may differ when you’re booking through a travel site and directly from an airline or hotel website. If you do not find a reasonable price, change the VPN’s country again. Compare prices before booking After you have searched for hotels or flights, you must compare the prices before booking. It would be best if you compared the prices with other travel booking websites to guarantee you get the best detail. If you find the most affordable deal, book it immediately, as the prices may quickly change. Change the location of the VPN to your home country If you have finished booking your flights and accommodation, change the VPN location back to your country. Or, you can continue browsing, choosing any server you want. The Bottom Line If you are up for saving money, try this travel hack for your next trip.  Read Also: Use These Resources When Planning A Big Trip Kiwi Flights Review – Login, Services, And Travel Experiences The Ultimate Guide To Finding Cheap Flights To Chicago Using Google Flights