travel pod

Welcome back to Wanderlust Adventures, the podcast where we take you on an audio journey of some of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations around the world. We're your hosts Fisher, Jay and Oli and today we're diving into a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture and warm hospitalities. Greetings everyone, I'm Jay. Today we are setting our sights on the land of the rising sun, Japan. From bustling metropolises like Tokyo to serene escapes like Mount Fuji, Japan offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, but before you book your flights and pack your kimonos, not really, but maybe a light jacket, let's delve into the legalities and travel updates you need to know. First things first, fantastic news for travellers. As of April 29th, 2023, Japan has lifted all COVID-related restrictions. This means you no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter. Woohoo! This is a big relief, especially for those who are hesitant to travel due to testing requirements. Excellent. Now, what about visas, Jay? Great question, Oli. Citizens of around 70 countries including the US, Canada and most of Europe can enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days. However, it's always best to double-check with your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for the latest information on visa requirements specific to your country. The process can vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Excellent advice. Now, once we're in Japan, are there any laws or regulations we should be aware of? Definitely. Here are a few key points. Age restrictions. The legal age in Japan, the legal drinking age in Japan is 20, so no sake or beer for teenagers. Driving under the influence. This is a strict no-no. Just like anywhere else, don't drink and drive and don't get in the car with someone who has to be drinking. Respecting public spaces. In Japan, cleanliness and quiet are highly valued. Be mindful of noise levels on public transportation and avoid littering. Using headphones on public transportation is a good way to ensure you're not disturbing others. Those are all very important points. Japan is known for its politeness, so it's good to be respectful of the culture. Absolutely. Now, let's talk about some interesting regulations that might surprise you. Did you know it's illegal to gamble in casinos unless you're at a racetrack or pachinko parlor? A kind of pinball slot machine game. And forget jaywalking, crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks can land you in hot water. Wow. I wouldn't have guessed those. Exactly. Knowing these things can help avoid any unnecessary trouble on your trip. Beyond legalities, here are some bonus tips for a smooth trip. Currency exchange. The Japanese yen is the local currency. Consider exchanging some money beforehand or using ATMs that accept foreign cards. Public transportation. Japan has an excellent public transportation system with efficient trains and subways. Yes, in a good travel pass to save money and navigate easily. Accommodation. From capsule hotels to traditional roya cans, there's a wide range of accommodation options in Japan. Consider your budget and desired experience when booking. Those are all fantastic tips, especially the public transportation advice. Japan is known for its efficient train network. Yes, Ola, that is true. But beyond legalities, why exactly should Japan be your next travel destination? Here are a few reasons. Immerse yourself in culture. Japan boasts a rich history and fascinating traditions. Explore ancient temples, serene gardens and bustling cities. Witness captivating performances like kaibuku, theater or a geisha tea ceremony. From melt-in-your-mouth sushi to steamy bowls of ramen, Japanese cuisine is a global phenomenon. Don't miss out the chance to savor regional specialties and explore lively food markets. Natural beauty. Japan's stunning landscapes offer something for everyone. Hike the slopes of Mount Fuji, soak in the serenity of a bamboo forest or relax on a picture-perfect beach. Experience cutting-edge technology and immerse yourself in the world of anime, manga and video games. From neon-lit streetlights to quirky character cafes, Japan offers a unique pop culture experience. Those are all fantastic reasons to visit Japan. Something for everyone from history buffs to foodies. And that's it for today's episode on traveling to Japan. I hope this information helps you plan a fantastic and culturally enriching trip. Next we have Ollie who will be telling us about Vietnam. Thank you for telling us about Japan, Jay. Welcome to our journey through Vietnam, a country rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Today we will dive into the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam, exploring its renowned cuisine, captivating sights, unique cultural norms and essential travel information. Very interesting, Ollie. I'm excited to hear what you have to say. Jay, I asked about the food in Vietnam. Vietnamese food is a mix of delicious flavors and textures with fresh herbs, spices and a balance of sweet, salty, sour and spicy tastes. Famous food includes dishes like Pho, Bar Mee and Bun Cha. Don't forget to try the famous egg coffee in Hanoi for a unique and delightful experience. That's nice, Ollie. But what places are we going to see if we visit Vietnam? As we travel through Vietnam, we discover captivating sights and destinations. From the ancient charm of Hoi An's old town to the stunning limestone cast as you cruise through Ha Long Bay. With the ancient cultural city of Hanoi and the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City, every part of Vietnam has a unique story to tell. Don't miss exploring the Mekong Delta for a taste of rustic charm and lively river scenes showing a different aspect on how the Vietnamese live in more rural areas and trekking through Sapa's terraced rice fields for a glimpse of nature in real life. What are some of the cultural norms in Vietnam? In Vietnam, cultural norms emphasize tradition and respect. When visiting religious sites such as temples, it is customary to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering as a sign of reverence. Greeting locals with a smile and a nod is a simple but meaningful gesture that shows goodwill and is greatly appreciated. Furthermore, when giving or receiving objects, it is respectful to use both hands when receiving. Embracing these cultural norms will enhance your experience and foster meaningful connections with the warm-hearted people of Vietnam. So what about visas, Ollie? Before going to Vietnam, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned stay. Most visitors need a visa, which you can get from the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. Stay updated on travel restrictions and entry requirements, especially given the current global situation. Plan ahead to have a great trip in Vietnam, as you would not want to get stuck. Thank you for listening to the information about Vietnam. Hopefully you can all have good experiences over there and let it change your perspective on other countries. Thanks, Ollie. That was great. Let's move on to Fisher, who is telling us about the Philippines. Thank you. Now I'm going to talk about the Philippines. Before you start packing your bags, let's cover some essential travel information, starting with passport, visa, and travel restrictions. For most visitors, a passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay is required. Visitors from many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European nations can enter the Philippines without a visa for stays for up to 30 days. However, if you plan to stay longer, you'll need to apply for a visa extension at the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines. Always check for the latest travel advisories and restrictions, as these can change frequently due to health or safety security concerns. That's interesting, Fisher. Could you tell us about cultural norms? Okay, Ollie. Maintaining cultural norms and expectations is crucial for any traveler. Filipinos are known for their warmth and hospitality, so you'll likely be greeted with smiles wherever you go. It's polite to use po or opo when addressing elders, which are expressions of respect. When visiting someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, so it's best to keep it discreet. Always remember to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, and avoid pointing with your fingers. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. That's interesting, Fish. Could you tell us about some of the tourist attractions in the Philippines? Okay, Jay. Now let's talk about some major tourist attractions you won't want to miss. Starting with the bustling capital, Manila, the historic, enormous, or walled city offers a glimpse into the Spanish colonial past with its preserved buildings and churches. Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is a must-see, featuring the iconic Rizal monument dedicated to the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. For a beautiful sunset view, head to Manila Bay, where you can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront. Moving beyond Manila, Palawan is a paradise for nature lovers. El Nido and Coron are famous for their limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Island-hopping tours are a popular way to explore hidden lagoons and pristine beaches. Boracay, known for its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, is another top destination for beach lovers. And there's Bohol, famous for chocolate hills, a geological formation over 1,000 unique mound-shaped hills. Bohol is also home to the tiny Tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates, and the beautiful Pangalo Island, with its white sand beaches and dive spots. That's interesting, Fish. Could you tell us about travel within the Philippines and also to the Philippines? Traveling within the Philippines is an adventure itself. The country is well-connected by air, with domestic flights linking major islands. Suburban Pacific and Philippine Airlines offer extensive routes and frequent flights. Ferries and boats are also common for island-hopping, with companies like Tugo Travel providing regular services between major islands. In cities, jeepneys and tricycles are popular and inexpensive modes of transport. Jeepneys are brightly decorated and follow fixed routes, making them a quintessential part of the Filipino travel experience. Tricycles and motorcycles with a sidecar are ideal for short distances or less accessible areas. Thanks, Fish. This was very informational. Thank you very much. That's okay, Jay. That's all for today's episode on our travel experiences. I hope we've all inspired you to add these beautiful countries to your travel bucket list. Thank you. Bye-bye.