My sister and I finally planned our dream trip to Japan with Thrillophilia. It was a beautiful trip that I am sure we both will relish forever. I was going through our pictures in the gallery, which is when I decided to write this review of Japan tour with Thrillophilia.
Travelling In Asia: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews
We got to know about this company through a close friend who works there. He has always talked about how he has helped customers plan their perfect trip. So when it was our time to plan our trip to Japan, I knew where to look. He shared my contact with another representative of the company who looks after the Japan region.
Over the call, he explained to us the entire itinerary and even cleared any doubts that we had. Within 2 days, we decided everything and booked the ‘Best of Japan’ package for 9 days and 8 nights. Also, our package had some really great Japan trip reviews which made us even more confident with this package.
Travelling In Asia: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews
Now all that was left to do for us was to go shop some clothes and shoes, pack our bags and board the flight to our dream destination.
About our trip!
Our trip included 4 days in Tokyo and 5 days in Osaka, both of which are the top cities of Japan. From the beginning till the end, everything was perfectly arranged for us.
Travelling In Asia: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews
Our driver was always on time for our pick-up and drop. Our stays were absolutely stunning and I could not have asked for a better one. I loved the fact that our itinerary was not stuffed and we had some leisure time to explore on our own.
Talking about Japan, everything from its architecture to culture, hospitality, food and attractions were spell-binding. My only regret of this trip was that I had to leave this beautiful country and go back home.
Travelling In Asia: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews
During our 4 days in Tokyo, we explored a number of places such as Samurai Theatre, Yoyogi Park, Sumida Park, Mount Fuji, Owakudani Valley, Meiji Shrine and Skytree. My favourite part of the trip was when we enjoyed the fun cable car ride to Mount Fuji, during which we got to witness the best panoramic views of the beautiful Japan, exactly how it was mentioned in some of the Thrillophilia Japan trip reviews.
We spent our last day in Tokyo in Disneyland which has to be my favourite part of the trip.
Travelling In Asia: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews
Similarly, in Osaka we covered a number of well-known places like Osaka Museum, Den Den Town, Hozenji Yokocho, Umeda District and Dotonbori District. We also visited Universal Studios which is truly a fun place to spend your day. There we tried a number of thrilling rides, met some of the most popular characters and munched on our favourite snacks throughout the day.
Travelling In Asia: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews
In between, our itinerary included a short day trip to Kyoto and Nara. We spent a few hours in Kyoto exploring attractions such as Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Then we continued to Nara, where we visited places such as Nara park and Todai-ji Temple which is famous for having the largest statue of Buddha in Japan.
A memorable trip indeed!
It was almost impossible for me to even imagine a trip to Japan this soon. But I am glad I found out about Thrillophilia who helped me fulfil my dream with my sister. I am extremely grateful for the wonderful services that we have received. The itinerary was not only ideal but was also priced appropriately. This trip was totally worth every money that I spent and I cannot wait to plan another trip with this company.
Travelling In Asia: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews
With this Thrillophilia review of Japan trip I am hoping that it would help someone else to also make the right choice and fulfil their dream to go to Japan.
“Fly me down to capital city in the sun” – Noel Gallagher.
Inspired by Nomadic Backpacker Trevor Warman’s post on capital cities he skip-packed on his journeys, here is a list of capital cities that escaped me to date (as of September 2024). For whatever reason, I have visited all these countries below but I was never in their capital city at all – not even to change buses, buy a beer, transitpack or airport change (which I’ve done in Kuala Lumpur, London, Warszawa and Paris). I guess it’s not a bad record! As of September 2024, I have backpacked 229 countries and only missed the capital city in 20 of them!
Countries I Have Backpacked In But Skipped Their Capital City: Myanmar
Backpacking in Antarctica at Neko Harbour, Danco Peninsula but not McMurdo Base
Bolivia🇧🇴- Sucre
Bolivia was wild and to include it here in this list is red herringic as I was actually in lofty La Paz twice. However, La Paz is one of two official capital cities in Bolivia, therefore I still haven’t been to Sucre. With South Africa, I nabbed a hat-trick of capital cities by visiting Pretoria in 2011 and Bloemfontein and Cape Town in 2020. In Bolivia I visited a load of places including Oruru, Uyuni, La Paz, Colchani, Potosi, Incahuasi, Laguna Colorado, San Juan De Rosario and crossed a brace of land borders here too – to and from Chile or Peru.
Backpacking in La Paz, Bolivia: One of 2 Capital Cities
Brazil🇧🇷- Brasilia
Astonishingly I have been to Brazil 5 times yet have never been to Brasilia, or the Brazilian Amazon or even Salvador! That said it is a massive country and I’ve done a few repeats there with Iguazu twice and Sao Paulo thrice. In Brazil I have also backpacked Oiapoque, Macapa, Belem, Fortaleza, Belo Horizonte, Rio De Janeiro, Recife, Olinda and Juquitiba.
Standing in both hemispheres in Macapa, Brazil.
Canada 🇨🇦- Ottawa
I’ve been to Canada twice and indeed the city of Toronto was TWICE the inspiration for this travel blog, Don’t Stop Living. In 2001 in Toronto, I saw the words “Don’t Stop Living” graffitied onto a wall at a High School so I pinched it forevermore. On my second visit to Toronto in 2007, I met two travel bloggers, Lee and Mike which led to me starting Don’t Stop Living in Summer 2007! Despite all that, I still haven’t been to Ottawa!
Backpacking in Toronto, Canada but not Ottawa
Cheatzerland🇨🇭- Bern
It’s no irony that “Cheatzerland’s” flag emoji is the initials CH. The Cheatz won’t get much wordcount here but alas I only did Zurich and Basel and both times for Northern Ireland matches. We were unbeaten in both – suck that, Cheatz. I skip-packed Bern. Good riddance.
Backpacking in Basel, Switzerland (Cheatzerland)
Democratic Republic Of The Congo🇨🇩- Kinshasa
I slipped in and out of the Democratic Republic Of The Congo at the same border point – Bukhava which goes to Cyangugu in Rwanda. We stayed in the Hotel Horizon and arranged a nuts gorilla tour which we later banned! It was wild! I later returned to Democratic Republic of The Congo at Lubumbashi. Yet both of those places are miles and miles from Kinshasa, which borders Republic of Congo on the west. Land border backpacking is a surefire way to avoid capitals.
Backpacking in The DROTC, but not Kinshasa
Eswatini / Swaziland🇸🇿- Mbabane
When I backpacked through Swaziland in 2011, it was called Swaziland. They have now changed the name to Eswatini. I saw the capital city Mbabane from a bus and indeed made a video of me passing it but alas I never stopped or went there. This didn’t in any way lowen the value of my time in Swaziland as I still toured Ezulwini, Malkerns Valley, Matsapha, Lobamba as well as the quirky House on Fire and Swazi Candles factory.
In Ezulwini Market in Swaziland in 2011.
Iraq🇮🇶- Baghdad
Even though I flew in and out of Iraq, it was into the Kurdish part – known as the Iraqi Kurdistan region. The capital city Baghdad is miles south and we also missed Basra and Babylon. However we did get to backpack through Dohuk, Sulaymaniyeh, Erbil/Hawler, Amadiya, Ainkawa and Sulav. I even wrote about my best bars in Iraq here. However, a trip to Saddam Hussein’s House of Horrors was one of my grimmest backpacking days.
My girlfriend and I enjoying our Kurdish feast in the town of Dohuk, Iraqi Kurdistan.
Mauritius🇲🇺- Port Louis
Mauritius is a small and tropical island and I included it on my MMMM tour in 2023. However, I wanted to backpack all 5 M countries nearby on that trip, but skipped Mayotte doing Mauritius, Madagascar, Mozambique and Malawi. I did enjoy Mauritius but I just wanted to laze on the beach, relax, write and bar pack through the area near my resort Explora Prestige at Blue Bay. I flew in and out of Mauritius from Reunion and the airport here is nowhere near the capital city. Sorry Port Louis – maybe next time.
Thirsty Thursdays: My Top 5 Bars In Blue Bay🔵🏝, Mauritius🇲🇺
Morocco🇲🇦- Rabat
I’ve had a load of airport stopovers in Morocco down the years on connections but even after all that – they were all in Marrakesh or Casablanca! The only two Moroccan cities I have properly seen and I stayed at the Kaktus Hostel, although I did buspack my way south to Western Sahara. This means Rabat is unbackpacked – I’ve never even been to the airport!
Backpacking in Morocco: Top Sights in Marrakesh
Mozambique🇲🇿- Maputo
Again with “The Beak” in 2023, I land bordered it from Dedza in Malawi into the town of Calomue, which was a quirky place. Mozambique’s capital city however is Maputo which is wild further south. Mozambique think that I have been to Maputo though as I made a fake reservation there and added it to my visa just to nab the beak visa and get in.
Arrival in Mozambique at Calomue! Maputo isn’t even on the sign.
Myanmar🇲🇲- Naypyidaw
Myanmar’s capital city Naypyidaw wasn’t even on my radar when I whackpacked my way through Mandalay, Bagan, Amapapura, Inwa, Sagaing and Yangon in 2013. Notably I did backpack Inwa, the old capital and Yangon which was also the capital at one point! If I ever do go back, I probably would prioritise Naypyidaw this time, although the country was hardly mind-blowing.
My Sainty V adventure in 2021 was a Noel Gallagher inspired journey where I went there to finish my book, chill out, pub crawl the east coast and snap the Pirates of The Caribbean filmset. That was enough for me. I had no desire to backpack Kingstown. If I ever go back there, it will be to Mustique and The Grenadines, not for the capital.
Pirates Of The Caribbean, Saint Vincent
Sint Maarten🇸🇽- Philipsburg
I loved Sint Maarten and Saint Martin – two countries on one small island in the Caribbean and home to the best beach bar in the world where aeroplanes fly over your head! I toured both countries and in the French side, I backpacked Marigot, but I skipped Philipsburg. Also great for nudist beaches, cocktails and babewatching.
Backpacking in Sint Maarten: Aeroplanes Flying Above Your Head At The Famous Sunset Bar on Maho Beach
Tanzania🇹🇿- Dodoma
I definitely want to go back to Tanzania to see Zanzibar on a Freddie Mercury tour but also because I completely skippacked the capital city Dodoma. Weirdly on my two visits to Tanzania I also completely skipped the previous capital too – Dar Es Salaam. Instead, I stayed in Arusha where I visited orphanages and schools and drank coffee before doing 4 safaris there with Shadows of Africa including The Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara. Those were glory days loyal.
On Safari in The Serengeti, Tanzania
United States Of America🇺🇸 – Washington District Of Columbia
Not a country I particularly like and one I barely recognise as a real country due to its gun laws, human rights records and continual promotion of serial killers and death movies. Still, I have been fivce there including Atlanta and Los Angeles but I’ve no desire whatsoever to whackpack Washington District Of Columbia. I did meet Obama when backpacking the Kong though.
I get so many e-mails and calls, I had to ask Barack Obama to use his office.
Zambia🇿🇲- Lusaka
The last two on this list are on it for the same selfish reason – I only went here to see Victoria Falls! I did a few hikes and rivers walks as well as seeing the rhinos at Mosi Oa Tunya National Park. But Lusaka was skipped in favour of sleeping at the lovely Fawlty Towers Hotel in Livingstone and wetting the willy in front of Victoria.
Nudepacking at Victoria Falls, Zambia but I skip-packed Lusaka
I think that’s covered them all. I guess it’s not a bad record! As of September 2024, I have backpacked 229 countries and only missed the capital city in 20 of them! Have you ever backpacked a country and skippacked the capital city?
It’s summer, and you’re longing for a nice change of pace. Why not visit Halong Bay to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most magnificent seascapes? And if you need some guidance, take a look at how I just had one of the best moments on the amazing Orchid Cruise.
Touring Halong Bay, Vietnam
How I chose Orchid Classic
As I chose a modern yacht for my previous cruise, I’m looking for a traditional junk this time for something new. When I search Halong Bay junk boat on Google, the website halongbayjunkboat.com shows up first, and it offers many great deals like 40% OFF, free bus, etc. After searching the web for a while, Orchid Classic Junk piqued my interest.
Orchid Classic Junk Boat with a pretty classic style
The ship meets all my requirements, from the not-too-big size (14 cabins) to the elegant traditional style and rather interesting route to both Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. Moreover, it had a Hot Summer 35% Off Deal then so I could book a fantastic 2-day trip for only US $183/pax (transportation excluded).
It’s my second trip to Halong Bay but with Orchid Classic’s exceptional service, it seems refreshing and distinct. Let’s follow me and find out why this cruise is one of the best choices for a memorable trip.
Cruising Halong Bay, Vietnam
The Boutique Junk Boat
After around 3 hours of traveling from Hanoi Old Quater to Tuan Chau International Marina, I reached the waiting lounge at Lot 32 (the transfer service can be booked for US $40/pax/roundtrip from the website). I checked in and then got on a transfer boat to Orchid Cruise.
This junk boat has 3 decks with three large sails on top. Incorporating charming oriental elements with orchid flower patterns as decoration, you can feel the essence of the classic while on board. The jacuzzi in the bow of the second deck is unquestionably the highlight, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and admiring the bay’s beauty.
Enjoy the magnificent view of Halong Bay from the jacuzzi
For entertainment, the Sky Bar on the top deck is a wonderful option. It was designed prettily with LEDs and offers fantastic drinks. What better than sipping cocktails and viewing the majestic scenery? Alternatively, guests can read books & magazines in the reception area or unwind at the spa on the first deck.
How It Feels Travelling On A Luxury Junk Boat With Orchid Cruise
Comfortable Cabin
Luckily, we were upgraded to the Premium Suite on the 2nd deck with a twin bed. With a size of 38 m2, it was a spacious room for two. The use of wood paneling and the warm color palette brings out a classic charm, cooperating with the plush bed to make our overnight stay better than ever.
Exquisite cabin with modern amenities equipped
Two things I like the most about the room are the large bathroom with a sea-view bathtub and the private balcony overlooking the spectacular bay. It also has a TV for entertainment, though the channels are limited. However, the bathroom area is separated by a blind, so it was not private enough for my taste.
Exquisite Meals
Orchid Cruise’s culinary selections vary from vegan alternatives to international delicacies, making it ideal for many passengers. And the service from the staff elevates the eating experience even more for me.
The lunch and brunch buffets include various tasty foods that do not overlap, ranging from Western to Eastern cuisine (I hope there are more Vietnamese dishes, though). The food was kept warm and did not run out during the meals. Personally, the seafood dishes are what I like the most, as they are fresh and well-seasoned.
Dinner makes the most impression on me. The staff decorated the dining area for two couples and it looked fantastic. It was a five-course meal, each dish was well-presented and tasted amazing. The best dishes for me are Beef & King Vegetable Salad and Grilled Sea Bass.
Beautifully decorated and tastefully cooked dishes for dinner
Delicious Vietnamese Food at Halong Bay
Engaging Activities
Orchid Cruise’s itinerary is pretty distinctive as it visits both Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island in the 2-day tour (most cruises visit Cat Ba for their 3-day tour only). Therefore, I can discover the bay so much in such a short time. The highlight activities for me were kayaking in Dark & Bright Cave and touring Trung Trang Cave.
I chose to kayak to Dark & Bright Cave and it’s pretty funny that we can’t sail straight at all and it takes so long to get to the cave’s entrance. Once inside, it was dark but cool, you could see the huge stalactites right above your head and hear the bat’s sound. Passing through, the whole spectacular sea valley will astound you, surrounded by majestic mountains and lustful flora, creating magnificent scenery.
Trung Trang Cave’s excursion on the second day is equally memorable. It’s a dry cave on Cat Ba Island, well hidden among the abundant Cat Ba National Park. This cave’s structure is truly unique: long and narrow, with intriguing stalactites & stalagmites. Trust me, the vista here is well worth shooting several photos of.
The majestic stalactites inside Trung Trag Cave
Cave tour in Vietnam
Top-class Service
Finally, I want to compliment the staff on this cruise. They are extremely friendly and helpful. Shout out to the staff who always pull the chair for me when I get up from the table, which I highly appreciate. The manager strikes a balance between professionalism and enjoyment.
It’s fascinating how this cruise offers two Happy Hours, one during sunset and one at night during my stay. They also serve free water during meals. You may think this is normal but it is not; usually, there should be just one Happy Hour and free water inside the cabin only. So, kudos to the staff for these small details.
How It Feels Travelling On A Luxury Junk Boat With Orchid Cruise
Final Word
All in all, this cruise left a great impression on me. It was one of the most wonderful trips I’ve had. Thank you to all the staff for your amazing service. If this article sparks your interest, you can surf for the best junk boat in Halong Bay to experience the inspiring traditional cruise and create your dream trip!!
Here is a full list of My Printed Book Anthology By Jonny Blair (1980 – 2024)
Backpacking Centurion Series – A Northern Irishman’s Journey Through 100 Countries
My first book series is Backpacking Centurion which covers my journey from country 1 (Northern Ireland) to country 100 (Tunisia), from 1980 until 2015. This series of four books were written on the road and were finally released from 2020 – 2023. The first COVID lockdown (March to June 2020) was the time when most of the editing and formatting was done.
Backpacking Centurion Volume 1 – Don’t Look Back In BangorBackpacking Centurion – Volume 2 – Lands Down UnderBackpacking Centurion – Volume 3 – Taints And HonoursBackpacking Centurion: Volume 4 – The Black Volume
This Is The Next Century – A Northern Irishman’s Journey To 100 MORE Countries
My second book series “This Is The Next Century” covers my journey from country 100 (Tunisia) to country 200 (British Virgin Islands/Tortola) from 2015 until 2021. This series of four books were written on the road and were finally released from 2024.
Volume 1 – Aftershot (2024)
Volume 2 – Starogard Girl (2024)
Volume 3 – Average Inhabitant (EST 2025)
Volume 4 – Untitled (Possibly “Fool Circle”, “Timeful” or “Take Care My Friend”) (EST 2025)
This Is The Next Century: Volume 1 – AFTERSHOTThis Is The Next Century: Volume 2 – Starogard Girl
Untitled Series – A Northern Irishman’s Journey To The 220 Plus Club
After New Year’s Eve 2021, I worked out that British Virgin Islands was my 200th country and therefore the third series will be my country count from 200 onwards until the journey ends. This is very much in the early days with no exact titles for books yet.
Thirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North Korea
While North Korea is hardly world renowned as a wacaday “party country” or somewhere to get ridiculously drunk and go on pub crawls, of course there are bars and restaurants there that are open to foreigners. Anyone who believes the biased western media excrement is stupid – the country has bars and they know their stuff here, plus it has a few breweries and wineries. Again – if you haven’t backpacked North Korea, you don’t have a clue. I loved backpacking in North Korea and although I covered my best bars in Pyongyang before, now it’s time for my best bars in the whole country, on the whole trip. We flew into Pyongyang then backpacked through Kaesong and the DMZ and all the way back up north before boarding the party train to Dandong, China.
Backpacking in North Korea: downtown PyongyangBackpacking in North Korea: Kaesong Away
I was on tour with Young Pioneer Tours (you can get 5% off future tours if you tell them you saw them through Don’t Stop Living). YPT took us to a load of cool bars and restaurants while in Pyongyang and also while backpacking Kaesong. Unless things change, you’ll be accompanied to these bars at all times by your guides, but that makes partying in Pyongyang a unique experience. Here are my favourite bars in North Korea…MY top 12 from my visit, of course I don’t know the country inside out as I was merely scratching the surface in a 6 day trip, but when Thirsty Thursdays comes round, I’m up for a North Korean beer!
Thirsty Thursdays: Cheers! Loving my beer in North Korea’s capital city, Pyongyang.
1.Revolving Restaurant, Pyongyang
When you are backpacking in North Korea (at least when I was there), you are accompanied by tour companies, the best of which is Young Pioneer Tours of course. This means they usually organise your accommodation for you and there are only a small choice of hotels here. There are not really any backpacker hostels in evidence and we ended up in the swanky 5 star Yanggakdo Hotel.
Revolving Restaurant, Pyongyang, North KoreaRevolving Restaurant, Pyongyang, North Korea
The top floor of the Yanggakdo Hotel has a magnificent revolving restaurant. This offers commanding views over Pyongyang city. We had a buffet lunch here and of course a North Korean beer!
Thirsty Thursdays: Cheers! Loving my beer in North Korea’s capital city, Pyongyang.Revolving Restaurant, Pyongyang, North Korea
2.Taedonggang Diplomatic Club (“The Diplo”), Pyongyang
Taedonggang Diplomatic Club, nicknamed “The Diplo” is an ice cool swanky, state of the art venue which seems to mix a leisure centre with a nightclub with a sports centre. It’s a meeting place for foreigners, ex-pats and a few local richer North Koreans. This was the only nightclub I was in in North Korea and what a cool place.
Top 5 Bars in Pyongyang – Taedonggang Diplomatic Club, “The Diplo”
If you can get this on your tour as an option, take it. It’s all a bit surreal. There I was playing pool with a North Korean guy (and I beat him) in a posh bar in downtown Pyongyang. The weird thing is they serve a load of foreign products and not local ones. You can get Heineken beer, Baileys Irish Cream and Johnnie Walker Whiskey. All this while R.E.M. hit “The One I Love” pumps out, followed by Madonna’s “Like A Virgin”.
Thirsty Thursdays: Top Bars in Pyongyang, playing pool at the Diplo
You can talk to locals freely here, and some of them will speak English. We also met an expatriate from Pakistan who was chilling out there. English is used on some of the signs within the club which is unusual. Swimming, games room and karaoke are also options. I loved it. It was the nearest thing we got to a “nightclub in Pyongyang”. Plus there are a lot of bars here in one complex! Let your hair down, it ain’t strict here.
The Nightclub in “The Diplo” in Pyongyang.The Nightclub in “The Diplo” in Pyongyang.The Nightclub in “The Diplo” in Pyongyang.At one of many bars inside “The Diplo” in Pyongyang.
3.Chilson Restaurant, Pyongyang
We attend North Korea’s annual parade on National Day (9/9) and what a magnificent parade it was! Nearby we pass an ice cream shop and a pizzeria, but our choice for lunch is the trendy Chilson Restaurant.
Chilson Restaurant, Pyongyang, North Korea
Lunch here was the only time we had non-Korean food in North Korea. It was chicken wings, sausages and chips! I also had a local beer on tap in here, a really top spot The Chilson!
Chilson Restaurant, Pyongyang, North KoreaChilson Restaurant, Pyongyang, North KoreaChilson Restaurant, Pyongyang, North Korea
4.Cold Noodles Restaurant, Pyongyang
They say you haven’t really backpacked in North Korea if you haven’t tried cold noodles. We headed to the Cold Noodles restaurant in Pyongyang and it was served in a silver bowl. I had one beer in here, but even though I am smiling, neither the beer or the cold noodles were my favourite dish from my time in North Korea.
Cold Noodles Restaurant, Pyongyang, North KoreaCold Noodles Restaurant, Pyongyang, North KoreaCold Noodles Restaurant, Pyongyang, North KoreaCold Noodles Restaurant, Pyongyang, North Korea
5.Koryo Restaurant, Kaesong
After touring the DMZ, the sights of Kaesong and the post office (where I was able to buy stamps and post postcards), we went to the Koryo Restaurant for lunch. I was surprised to find a bar in here for my only ever beer in Kaesong! I was able to take one away for the bus as well. Food was a range of Korean small silver dishes which included kimchi and vegetables.
After checking out of our hotel, The Yanggakdo Hotel, we head to Pyongyang Central Train Station. From here, we will take the long train ride north towards the China border. It must be stressed that you NEED a double entry visa for China when backpacking North Korea. The reason is – you enter North Korea and leave it via China.
The “Party Train Bar” Pyongyang To Dandong
After leaving Pyongyang behind, we find out there is an actual bar and restaurant on this train, as well as a local lad who is selling some beer. I prefer the local beer to the dreaded Heineken, but we all dive in, grab some food and beer and it is time for a party as we leave behind the farms and fields of North Korea.
Rowan and I In The “Party Train Bar” Pyongyang To DandongOur Group In The “Party Train Bar” Pyongyang To DandongWindow Beer In The “Party Train Bar” Pyongyang To DandongFood In The “Party Train Bar” Pyongyang To DandongNorthern Ireland flag In The “Party Train Bar” Pyongyang To Dandong
7.The Brewery Bar, Yanggakdo Hotel, Yanggak Island, Pyongyang
Yes, there is a brewery in a hotel in Pyongyang that brews their own beer. And shock horror, it’s good!! I love knocking back a cold pint of “Yanggakdo Beer”. There were two varieties – a lager and an ale so I tried both. I was there in 2013 so I’d imagine there is a bigger selection now.
Thirsty Thursdays: Top 5 Bars in Pyongyang – the Brewery Bar
Live sports is also shown on the television there. This is on Floor 2/By the reception of the Yanggakdo Hotel, where we stayed in Pyongyang. Beers are standard price of 22 RMB ($3 US Dollars, £3). North Korean Won is officially not allowed to be used by foreigners while in the country.
Buying the locally brewed beer in the Brewery Bar, Pyongyang.Buying the locally brewed beer in the Brewery, Pyongyang.Buying the locally brewed beer in the Brewery, Pyongyang.
8. Barbecued Lamb Restaurant and Bar, Pyongyang
The Barbecued Lamb Restaurant and bar is an odd place. At the front entrance, you arrive at a “local bar” with what looks like a load of hard working locals sipping cold beer and eating after a long day of work. It has the feel of a pub! You can talk to them no problem, and language may be the only barrier.
Thirsty Thursdays – the front bar at the Lamb Barbecue Restaurant in Pyongyang
Meanwhile out the back, live music is accompanied by dancing. You are readily encouraged to join in while you get barbecued lamb, squid and duck. I asked our guide Chen if the restaurant had a name and the reply was “Barbecued Lamb Restaurant“, so we’ll go with that. I’m sure that’s not the real name of the bar and restaurant.
Thirsty Thursdays: Dancing in the Lamb Barbecue Restaurant in Pyongyang
And also – we had barbecued lamb in here and it was good! You cook it yourself at your table on a barbecue.
Thirsty Thursdays: The Lamb Barbecue Restaurant in PyongyangThirsty Thursdays: The Lamb Barbecue Restaurant in PyongyangThirsty Thursdays: The Lamb Barbecue Restaurant in PyongyangThirsty Thursdays: The Lamb Barbecue Restaurant in Pyongyang
9. Karaoke Bar, Yanggakdo Hotel, Yanggak Island, Pyongyang
North Korean people, like their nearby Asian counterparts love karaoke, it was also a thing for me when backpacking Taiwan and South Korea. North Korea offers a load of places to sing, but our tour was action packed from 7 a.m. until midnight each day we were busy! If you run out of time, you can get your group together and simply sing karaoke in your hotel. Both the Koryo Hotel and Yanggakdo Hotel have karaoke bars. I got up and did a rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Black or White”. It completed a double for me, as I had sang it in South Korea in a Noraebang in 2011. Beers are as cheap as 10 RMB by the way ($1.50 US Dollars / £1 Northern Irish pound) and they have a full English list of songs which came as a surprise. Especially when I got up and sang Common People by Pulp. Epic.
Thirsty Thursdays: Get a karaoke bar on your list – local beer and English songs!Thirsty Thursdays: Get a karaoke bar on your list – local beer and English songs!
10.Pyongyang Casino Bar, Pyongyang
The casino doesn’t allow photography inside, like most casinos the world over but I nabbed a quick photo at the door and on the pokies/fruities which was quiet and permitted. The beer was sold in the bar opposite and was also as cheap as 10 RMB ($1.50 US Dollars / £1 Northern Irish pound).
Pyongyang Casino Bar, PyongyangPyongyang Casino Bar, Pyongyang
11.Barbecued Duck Restaurant, Pyongyang
You might think I was getting greedy here backpacking through the barbecue bars of the Yang, but it’s because the tours include ALL the food so you might as well take it, plus we were generally eating and drinking in different restaurants and bars each time (except for breakfast which was always in the hotel).
The barbecued duck restaurant was quite sociable and we had some shots of North Korean Soju here as well as the local beer. We cooked all the duck ourselves on the barbecue.
12. Bowling Bar, Yanggakdo Hotel, Yanggak Island, Pyongyang
The first beer I paid for in North Korea was actually in the Bowling Bar in the Yanggakdo Hotel. We had previously got a beer included as part of our lunch in a downtown restaurant, but here at the bowling bar they have a good range of beers and spirits – mostly local. It was only 8RMB for a beer here, and served cold from the fridge. This was my cheapest beer in the country at $1 US Dollar (80 pence). You’ll also have the option of going ten pin bowling. We were so busy on this trip that we turned it down, in fact that’s the only thing we turned down, and it was because I wanted to get my travel blog up to date and relax with a beer.
Thirsty Thursdays: this is the bowling bar on the bottom floor of the Yanggakdo Hotel.The Bowling Bar, Pyongyang, North KoreaThe Bowling Bar, Pyongyang, North Korea
There is currently no Irish Bar or British Bar in Pyongyang however…I invented one…
13.Pyongyang Ulster Irish Pub
Are you kidding me? There’s an Ulster Irish Pub in Pyongyang??? Yes, there is but it’s very much a DIY type bar. You simply bring a few tins of Guinness into the country and burst the beer open in your hotel room…I also had a mini bottle of Bushmills Irish Honey with me. I also had a Guinness at the North Korea to South Korea border at the DMZ. I brought in 8 cans of Guinness to North Korea – 1 I drank in my hotel room, 1 I drank at the border with my mate Robert from Republic of Ireland. The other six cans I gave to my North Korean guides – they were loving it!
Thirsty Thursdays – The Guinness Ulster Irish Pub in Pyongyang – OK so I brought the beer myself and drank it on my own…Bushmills Honey at the DMZTin Of Guinness at the DMZTin Of Guinness at the DMZ with RobertTin Of Guinness at the DMZ on the North Korea sideGuinness in my Hotel Room in PyongyangThirsty Thursdays: My Top 5 Bars When Backpacking In North Korea
Backpacking in Pyongyang is special and different for many reasons – I especially loved the lack of external advertising, very few imports and how it is much more authentically Korean than the southern part (South Korea). South Korea is drenched in imports, globalisation and western propaganda like Ratsbux and DickMonalds from USA. North Korea rises stronger than all of that. Here are a few other photos of bars and drinks in North Korea.
Thirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North KoreaThirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North KoreaThirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North KoreaThirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North KoreaThirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North KoreaThirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North KoreaThirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North KoreaThirsty Thursdays: My Top 12 Bars When Backpacking In North Korea
Drinking in Pyongyang and North Korea offers a lot less variety than some other capital cities, but trust me, that’s a good thing. Enjoy your nights out in Pyongyang. Try the local beer, chat to a few locals and savour the spirit of a self proud country which has kept the communist dream alive a century after it all began. Share your beer and party the night away. Pyongyang will shock you. Get your North Korea visa, fly into Pyongyang and enjoy yourself!
Here are some of my videos from the bars of North Korea:
Top 5 Bars in Pyongyang, Bowling Bar:
Top 5 Bars in Pyongyang, Barbecued Lamb Restaurant:
Top 5 Bars in Pyongyang, The Diplo:
Top 5 Bars in Pyongyang, Karaoke Bar:
Thirsty Thursdays is an ongoing regular feature on Don’t Stop Living – a lifestyle of travel. If you have a bar, pub, drink, restaurant, brand or idea that you would like featured on Thirsty Thursdays, please get in touch via my contacts page or my advertising page. I’d love to hear from you, and I’d also love a free North Korean blueberry wine or a beer! Slainte!
It’s December 2023 and as always at the end of the year we start to think about the cool places we can visit in the new year. 2024 is coming and it’s a good time to plan ahead. With the pandemic hopefully long in the past, less restrictions and of course, an easy e-visa system for Sri Lanka, why not start thinking about heading to this magical island off the coast of India?
Backpacking in Galle, Sri Lanka.
There are plenty of options for you when it comes to Sri Lanka. There is the option of solo backpacking or booking Sri Lanka tours. Many people would simply Google Sri Lanka holidays, check the flights and options for accommodation and off they go. For those into decent planning, it’s a good idea to research what Sri Lanka tour packages are available and then get them book. As it’s an oval shaped island, travelling around and to multiple places is the key to enjoying the best that Sri Lanka has to offer. I did that, and in this post I will show a few of those magnificent places I visited. This is proof that Sri Lanka round tours are the easiest and most flexible way of enjoying the magic on display here. Get them booked and off you go. Here are a few places I visited for starters.
Backpacking in Galle – Northern Ireland flag next to a Sri Lanka one.
Adams Peak (Sri Pada)
On a miserable wet day, in the early hours of the morning, we headed on the Adam’s Peak hike. This is a spiritual and sacred hike that takes us up winding stairs in the high valleys to the place where Adam left earth from heaven, allegedly. My Dad and I made it and he was 64 at the time, some achivement though the views when we backpacked Adam’s Peak were not great in the cloudy drizzle.
Staring down at the world from the top of Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka.All smiles for me and my Dad almost at the top of Adam’s Peak/Sri Pada in Sri Lanka.
Colombo
Sri Lanka’s capital is highly under-rated. Whether it’s touring the temples, browsing the markets or watching the sun sink by the beach over a cold beer, the city is a manic gem.
Admiring the Colombo sunset with my Dad. Extra special to have a beer with him here in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Dambatenne Tea Factory
Tea is synonympus with Sri Lanka so get a tea plantation tour booked as there are so many options for this. We headed into the valleys and checked out the brilliant Dambatenne Tea Factory, and of course had a cup of the Earl.
Relaxing in the tea plantations in Haputale near the Dambatenne Tea Factory in Sri LankaVisiting Dambatenne Tea Factory in the mountains at Haputale, Sri Lanka
Galle
The seaside city of Galle came as a surprise with its old fort, poky little markets and the views out to the Indian Ocean. It’s a magnificent spot to chill out in and I enjoyed writing about the inspiring Galle Fort.
Backpacking in Sri Lanka with Mum and Dad – Galle Fort
Kandy
Calm Kandy is on most people’s Sri Lanka hitlist and I loved the vibe of this central city. There’s a trainline you can get out of it too and some truly excellent temples.
Sightseeing in Kandy, Sri Lanka
Backpacking a train in Sri Lanka
Kurunegala
If it’s an off the wall, off the beaten track, off the wheaten craic gem you seek, look no further than less ventured Kurunegala. We backpacked the lake here as well as hiking the Big Meditation Buddha that overlooks the city in epic fashion. You have to say this is a special place, but watch out for the monkeys!
Enjoying the view and the freedom from the Samade Buddha meditation statue in Kurunegala, Sri LankaThe Meditation Buddha looks down on Kurunegala in Sri Lanka
Pinnawala
Elephants are a big thing in Sri Lanka and you can visit the special elephant home in the town of Pinnawala, where the staff look after the elephants and you can too. We were able to feed them, wash them and get a short walk whilst on their backs.
After watching the elephants have their own thirsty Thursday, I wanted a beer in Pinnawala, Sri Lanka
Sigiriya
Last but not least is the huge rock in the middle of nowhere! This place is known as Sigiriya and is a hike up to the top of a lost city on the top of a rock. The views are truly stunning and this is a place you won’t forget.
Checking out the ancient lost city at the top of Sigiriya Lion Rock in Sri Lanka.Monkeys on the walls on the walk up to the ancient city on the rock of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka.
So what are you waiting for? 2024, head to Sri Lanka, you will love it!
In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the outsourcing advantage has taken center stage, with a particular focus on maximizing potential through remote staff in the Philippines. This comprehensive guide explores the myriad benefits, considerations, and strategic approaches for businesses embracing this transformative trend.
The Outsourcing Advantage: Maximizing Potential with Remote Staff in the Philippines
Unleashing the Power of Remote Staff
The Rise of Remote Workers
The rise of remote workers, including virtual assistants (VAs) and executive assistants, has become a global phenomenon. Explore the role of remote staff in reshaping work dynamics and contributing to the paradigm shift towards virtual workspaces.
The Business Case for Remote Work
Dive into the business case for remote work, uncovering how Filipino workers are contributing to revenue growth, achieving work-life balance, and delivering outsourced quality that aligns with above-stated business goals.
Embracing Remote Talent: Key Considerations
Recruitment Process for Remote Workers:
Navigate the recruitment process for remote workers, emphasizing the importance of English-speaking skills, work-life balance, and a recruitment partner to secure top talent.
Legal Entities and Local Labor Laws:
Ensure compliance with legal entities and local labor laws when hiring remote staff in the Philippines. Understand the nuances of full-time employment, income taxes, and after-hire support.
Remote Contractors and Administrative Tasks:
Explore the advantages of hiring remote contractors for specific job titles and administrative tasks. Understand the legal and operational considerations associated with this approach.
Building a Remote Workforce: Strategies for Success
Leveraging Similar Technologies
Explore how businesses can leverage similar technologies to enhance collaboration and communication within their remote workforce. Discover meta products and other tools that facilitate seamless remote work.
Establishing a Strong Virtual Presence
Learn the importance of establishing a strong virtual presence, whether through remote employees or virtual assistants. Understand the role of social media in promoting a positive image for businesses with remote talents.
Navigating the Unique Aspects of Remote Jobs
Remote Job Titles and Income Taxes:
Delve into the unique aspects of remote job titles and the implications of income taxes. Understand the considerations for both businesses and remote workers in managing tax-related matters.
Remote Talents and Long-Term Commitments:
Explore the potential for long-term commitments with remote talents. Uncover strategies to foster loyalty, job satisfaction, and sustained productivity within a remote workforce.
Beyond Boundaries: Remote Staff and Global Collaboration
The Global Scope of Remote Work
Understand the global scope of remote work and how businesses, especially in the United States, can benefit from a diverse pool of talent sourced from the Philippines. Explore the advantages of working with the same client across borders.
Operational Excellence with Remote Employees
Discover how businesses can achieve operational excellence with remote employees, including executive assistants, customer support professionals, and other key roles. Uncover the potential for increased productivity and efficiency.
Key Employee Benefits for Remote Workers
Thirteenth-Month Pay and Employee Benefits:
Explore thirteenth-month pay and other employee benefits, understanding the tax-exempt fringe benefits and the impact of payroll deductions on remote workers.
Pag-IBIG and Social Security System:
Navigate the intricacies of Pag-IBIG and the Social Security System, ensuring that remote workers receive the necessary benefits and contributions in compliance with local labor laws.
FAQs: Demystifying Remote Staff in the Philippines
FAQ 1: How can businesses ensure work-life balance for remote staff in the Philippines?
Ensuring work-life balance involves setting clear expectations, providing support services, and leveraging technologies that promote flexible working hours and employee well-being.
FAQ 2: What are the key legal considerations for businesses hiring remote contractors in the Philippines?
Legal considerations for hiring remote contractors include compliance with local labor laws, understanding tax implications, and providing after-hire support to ensure a seamless working relationship.
FAQ 3: How does the Philippines contribute to revenue growth for businesses with remote staff?
The Philippines contributes to revenue growth through its skilled remote workforce, English-speaking capabilities, and the ability to deliver outsourced quality aligned with business goals.
FAQ 4: What role does social media play in building a positive image for businesses with remote talents?
Social media plays a crucial role in building a positive image for businesses with remote talents by showcasing a strong virtual presence, highlighting achievements, and fostering a sense of community.
FAQ 5: How can businesses foster long-term commitments and job satisfaction among remote talents?
Fostering long-term commitments involves offering competitive employee benefits, creating a positive work environment, and implementing strategies that prioritize job satisfaction and professional development.
Transformative Possibilities with Remote Staff in the Philippines
In conclusion, the outsourcing advantage presented by remote staff in the Philippines offers transformative possibilities for businesses worldwide. By strategically navigating the recruitment process, embracing modern technologies, and understanding the unique aspects of remote jobs, organizations can unlock the full potential of a remote workforce.
“Alone on the beach, on my own, out of reach and you just passed me by” – Noel Gallagher.
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
Before this trip to Pakistan (my final Stan), I got my Pakistan visa online (not exactly an easy visa to secure) and arranged to fly into Lahore and out of Karachi. From Lahore, I’d also visit Wagah for the famous India-Pakistan border ceremony and Shadarah Bagh. This way, I could see four main places in Pakistan and be flying in and out of different airports, so no doubling back and for once, no overland train journey. Maybe memories of the train crash from Bangladesh came back to me. The night I could have died, and didn’t. I stuck Karachi on the list. Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan and apparently the 12th largest in the world, with an estimated population of over 20 million, wow. This was another Chongqing! I was expecting it to be the second busisest city I had ever seen, but actually it wasn’t. At times, it felt way too quiet and relaxed to be the frantic 20 million metropolis it advertised. Where are these 20 million people?
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
Not The Capital
Okay so Karachi used to be the capital city, but now Islamabad holds that title. However, Karachi is still the largest city in Pakistan and the 12th largest in the world, with a population of over 20 million. It is also interestingly dubbed “City of Peace” and to an extent I could get that…
Karachi – City of PeaceKarachi – City of Peace
It is situated at the southern tip of the country along the Arabian Sea coast, kind of Indian Ocean to me but I don’t think the locals want to hear that. I had a luxury stay here, where I was based at the Hotel Mehran. It is also dubbed “The Heart of Pakistan”, but this time I couldn’t feel that moniker’s relevance. Lahore felt more of the heart to me. Plus here, the exchange places were a nightmare. I had to visit 20 different currency exchange places just to be able to change US Dollars!
Backpacking In Pakistan: My Stay At The Hotel Mehran in Karachi
I did a bit of walking myself, especially on the beach and at the seafront but for the other sights, just take tuk tuks. It’s easy and cheap to get around on tuk tuks. Here in Karachi, they are yellow and on every corner of every street.
Tuk tuk loyal in Karachi, PakistanTuk tuk loyal in Karachi, Pakistan
These are some of the main sights I visited and enjoyed. I skipped Mosques here as sometimes I’ve just been to too many of them.
1.National Cricket Stadium
Pakistan wasn’t ever going to love me. For the second city in a row, I was banned from visiting a National Cricket Stadium! In Lahore, I had also been banned! Here in Karachi, I got right up to the gate, begging to be let in just to see it, but no chance. Maybe I had timed it badly as it was hosting the women’s cricket World Cup that month!
Chased out Of The National Cricket Stadium in Karachi, Pakistan
I was chased out of the stadium by unwelcoming security staff. They’re not big fans of tourists here!
Chased out Of The National Cricket Stadium in Karachi, Pakistan
2.The Pakistani Seaside And Beach
Being a seaside boy from the Northern Irish city of Bangor, of course I had to see the beach! There are many options but I went to the one at Clifton. It wasn’t very commercial but there are camel and horse rides available plus a lot of sellers – they sell drinks, snacks and ice cream.
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
There is a huge Pakistan flag by the beach and there is also a DickMonald’s/McDonald’s here, which seems oddly out of place!
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
I pondered about my life here and felt sad about a girl I once knew who left me in the sinking sand. Yet she would have loved this spot.
“I’d give you the world if you’d take my hand, but you left me alone in the sinking sand” – Noel Gallagher.
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In KarachiPakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In KarachiPakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
There was also a sandcastle competition here when I visited.
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
Also, I was the only white/foreign tourist on the beach. It was quite quiet but I still had some hassle from locals and sellers.
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
3.Frere Hall
As a writer, author, blogger and reader of course I had to see Frere Hall. Not only is this a library, but it’s a pretty building in a green park in downtown Karachi.
Frere Hall
It dates back to the early British colonial era in Sindh – the name of this southern Province. Frere Hotel was completed in 1865, and was originally intended to be Karachi’s town hall. It still looks the part, is well maintained and now serves as an exhibition space and library. Inside it’s like a step back in time and a bit “Ghostbusters-esque”.
Frere HallFrere HallFrere Hall
4.Mohatta Palace
Another main sight is the Mohatta Palace and this was well worth checking out. This place is not actually related to British Colonialisation. It was built in 1927 in the posh seaside locale of Clifton, which means it is near the beach that I backpacked. It was built as the summer home of Shivratan Mohatta, a Hindu Marwari businessman.However, Mohatta was from Rajasthan and therefore, his time here didn’t last long due to the partition of India.
Mohatta Palace, Karachi, Pakistan
It is 100 Rupees to enter but no photos are allowed inside. It’s worth seeing – the inside museum has a lot of information and art. The gardens outside are well maintained.
Mohatta Palace, Karachi, Pakistan
After Mohatta’s departure to India, the Government of Pakistan acquired the building and used it for government purposes. It has been used for various purposes down the years. It was the Ministry of Foreign Affairs initally in 1947 and then it was the residence of Fatima Jinnah, the sister of the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah (founder of Pakistan) from 1964. After 1980, it was closed and then renovated and converted into a museum.
Mohatta Palace, Karachi, Pakistan
5.Empress Market
Markets are everywhere and I noticed how cheap clothes were here, so I got a tuk tuk to Empress Market and toured the clothes stalls. I picked up a shirt and some undercrackers here. It was about $1 for a shirt.
Empress Market, Karachi, Pakistan
Plus the building is stunning looking, tracing its origins to the British Raj era, when it was first constructed. It is a marketplace situated in the Saddar Town district. The market has loads of stalls and you need to bargain hard for what you want.
I headed to the famous Mazar-e-Quaid, also known as the Mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Again, I had timed it badly or just been unlucky. There was a high security presence here and it was closed. I could only get up to the gate.
Pakpacking In Pakistan🇵🇰: Top 9 Sights In Karachi
This is the final resting place of the father of the nation, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, but at least I was able to see the front of it.
Mazar E Quaid, Karachi, PakistanMazar E Quaid, Karachi, Pakistan
7.I Love Karachi Sign
I actually saw two of these but here it somehow feels a bit more significant than the many of these that are in cities all over the world. The reason being Karachi was often known as an ugly, terrible or hated city. Even the sign has an ugly concrete pillar to the side of it. I pulled out my Northern Ireland flag and a local lad came over for a chat!
I Love Karachi SignI Love Karachi Sign
8.Teen Talwar (Three Swords) Monument
There are a few monuments in the city. I saw the Teen Talwar (Three Swords) monument which is in Clifton and on a roundabout. The three marble swords are inscribed with Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s creeds Unity, Faith and Discipline. It was commissioned by Pakistan’s former President and Prime Minister, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto back in 1973, and it’s a white pillar monument which was designed by Zoroastrian architect Minu Mistri.
, Karachi, Pakistan
9.Murals And Streetlife
I found Karachi to be a city of many colours and varieties with murals here and there. Certainly it was not the ugly city they told us about though it didn’t endear me either.
Murals and Streetlife in Karachi, PakistanMurals and Streetlife in Karachi, PakistanMurals and Streetlife in Karachi, PakistanMurals and Streetlife in Karachi, PakistanMurals and Streetlife in Karachi, PakistanMurals and Streetlife in Karachi, Pakistan
I enjoyed Karachi though it was also nice to visit quickly and then get out. It didn’t blow my mind and it definitely didn’t feel like there were 20 million people around me! Also the airport is pretty bad – there were no exchange places for money at all and the ones there were refused to change US Dollars and UAE Dirhams.
Here are some videos from my time touring Karachi in Pakistan:
