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Best Island Destinations for Surfers in Pacific

Surfing has always been intrinsically connected to the Pacific because, even though the blood-pumping activity has spread around the world like wildfire, it has been invented by the indigenous people of its countless islands. If you’ve never tried your luck with this challenging yet addicting sport, you can climb the board and begin the balancing act on one of the designated surfing spots – and the best island destinations for surfers in the Pacific.

Oahu, Hawaii

Most “mainstream” travelers associate surfing with the coastline of Hawaii, and this is so for a good reason. Some of the most renowned surfing championships and personalities have used Hawaii waves as the backdrop for acrobatics and awe-inspiring skill. The long-board championships in the fifties put Oahu firmly on the surfing map of the world and it is an important destination for wave-riding pilgrims to this day.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is mostly renowned for its hectic nightlife, but it’s also a beloved surfing destination. Since the seventies, it has been the go-to place for the surfers who are captivated by the Hindu culture, incredible local cuisine and welcoming Balinese residents. The only problem with the location these days is related directly to its overwhelming popularity – its beaches tend to be overcrowded and rubbish maintenance is not the most efficient. In spite of this, it is still one of the most reliable spots for party animal surfers.

Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti is the biggest island of French Polynesia and the primary hub for the surfers and adventurers who flock here from every corner of the world. Along with Bora Bora, it is the most popular destination in the five archipelagos, and its capital Papeete is not only the biggest urbanity around but also a place where you’ll be able to find most necessary amenities for your ocean-bound adventures. This location is treasured among the surfers who like a bit of luxurious hedonism on the side with their wave-riding adventures. Why wouldn’t you take your pick from the irresistible list of incredible Sofitel hotels and bungalows that are spread across the islands and pamper yourself between the surfs?

Tavarua, Fiji

Tavarua is a bona fide surfer’s paradise – a small and irresistibly charming tropical island (only 29 acres) surrounded with pristine blue waters. Since it sits atop a captivating coral reef, it has sandy beaches that slide into the ocean under the gentlest angle. This opens an amazing window of opportunity for surfers to engage the waves. They can start rolling as far as a hundred meters away from the shore. The local people are extremely welcoming and if you start returning to this island year after year, they will welcome you as a member of their family.

North Island, New Zealand

New Zealand’s gargantuan landmass is an epic backdrop for unforgettable surfing sessions coupled with inland adventuring. The North Island is a perfect place for those who are never satisfied with only the adrenaline-inducing ocean riding and they want to trek across spellbinding mountain ranges and savannahs. Furthermore, New Zealand is also perfect for rookie adventurists and amateur surfers – due to its impressively long coastline, it is never too hard to find a spot that is not that challenging. The locals are notoriously welcoming and attentive, plus the entire island is well connected with an asphalt cobweb of reliable roads. It is as ideal as the Pacific surfing paradises can be.

People tend to think surfing is the hardest thing in the world and many don’t even try it out. This is really unfortunate because it can also be a casual hobby that gives you justification to travel around the world and spend as much time in the water as possible. It goes without saying that it also requires you to gain physical prowess and stay fit. If you ever visit one of these surfing hotspots in the Pacific, take a chance and give this sport a try.

GUEST POST AUTHOR

Marie Nieves is a lifestyle blogger who loves unusual trips, gadgets and creative ideas. On her travels she likes to read poetry and prose and surf the Internet. Her favourite writer is Tracy Chevalier and she always carries one of her books in her bag. She spends most of her free time at home walking her Labrador Retriever named Max. She is an avid lover of photography and a regular author at High Style Life. You can find Marie on Facebook or follow her on Twitter and Pinterest.

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bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Norway :: The Arctic Cathedral, Tromso: Why It Is A Good Thing To Visit at Sundown

The Arctic Cathedral in Tromso, Norway

Welcome to one of the nicest cathedral landmarks in Norway that you have to experience. You are guaranteed to take home the best of Tromso experience by discovering the amazing Arctic Cathedral, formerly known as the Romsdalen Church or Tromsøysund Church (Norwegian: Tromsdalen kirke or Tromsøysund kirke). Consecrated in 1965, this parish church is nicknamed as “The Cathedral of the Arctic Sea”. Braving the cold sundown winter weather, my troop and I decided to reach the church on foot. We walked from the city center, and crossed the iconic bridge connecting the other side of the city. I swear to you, despite the cold reverie, the beauty of the panoramic vista while crossing the bridge gives that drop dead godsmaking effect --- I could not take my eyes away from the picture-postcard vision. I had goosebumps writing about it now, even more so when I was there. It’s so beautiful!

From the outside, this Tromsøysund parish, which is part of the Tromsø arch-deanery in the Diocese of Nord-Hålogaland looks like an opera house of Norway and is often likened to the famous Sydney Opera House of Australia. Although the Tromso Cathedral is better noted because it is the only wooden cathedral in Norway, the Arctic Cathedral is very famous because of its structural masterpiece and I have no doubt about that. As I approached the outside of this place of worship, I could feel the architectural dedication and style that was invested in this Evangelical Lutheran church. It looks like a sort-of-falling domino that is both divine and distinct. The surrounding snow filled area makes the photo taking even more enjoyable, so much so that a lot of people (locals and travelers alike) took a lot of time taking photos outside of the church, I wanted to pray for them to go inside, so that I can take a good photo as well. Lol.

Of course when I laid my eyes on the view from the inside, it was a whole new story of stupor. The church is built out cast-in-place aluminium-coated concrete panels, with a magnificent glass mosaic made by Victor Sparre, and an iconic Grönlunds Orgelbyggeri organ. I really liked the impression that the glass mosaic gave, especially how it depicts God’s hand with three rays of light, one through Jesus, a woman, and a man. It’s very symbolical and it’s a surprise to see such masterpiece in a far and cold place like Tromso. While we had the chance to see the whole area, I was drawn closer and longer to this part of the church. If you happen to get the chance to do so, please go nearer, so that you can see the beautiful details up close.

We were the last to go out of the parish church, and good thing we did so. It was a melodramatic sight, with all the oak pews and large prism chandeliers slowly saying goodbye as the lights slowly get dimmer. It’s definitely a place to experience for yourself and if you are lucky, you get to experience it’s peace and tranquility; considering that this is a busy church, wherein concerts are being held all year long, often involving the congregation’s five choirs.

Address: Hans Nielsens vei 41 9020 Tromsø, Norway

Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. Sun 1:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

Website: https://www.ishavskatedralen.no/en/the-arctic-cathedral/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Arctic-Cathedral/103178826402570?fref=mentions

bowdywanders.com Singapore Travel Blog Philippines Photo :: Singapore :: April 2018: 18 Nearby Cafes and Bars in Singapore That You Would Want To Visit More Than Once

Nearby Cafes and Bars in Singapore That You Would Want To Visit

So yes, Singapore has one official public holiday this April, and that only means one thing. It’s a chance for you to unlock any of the nearby best kept hangout spots where you can enjoy some of the best cappuccinos and brunch grubs around this metro. What I really like about Singapore is that despite the fact that there are so many food options, the rise of local food and drink scene still continues without any hesitancy. It seems to me that every week, new cafes and bars open, and each one offering a diverse range of picks and favorites.

It’s already April, which means that it is the official end of the northeast monsoon season, and it is time to usher in the beginning of spring with consistently warm temperatures. It’s also time for you and me to try out coffee dates and bar hangouts. On your next trip, check out these places, at least once, for some good food and really good coffee!

Cali Café Bar Restaurant

Address: 31 Rochester Drive, #01-01, Park Avenue Hotel, 138637

Opening Hours: Daily 24 Hours

Official Website: http://www.cali.sg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaliSingapore/

Nearest MRT: Expo

Nestled within Park Avenue Hotel at Rochester is a Californian style cafe called Cali Cafe. The cafe seems rather quiet on a Friday evening. Hidden away from the main dining scene of Rochester Park, it seems like a nice quiet place for a peaceful dinner. You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://www.sgfoodonfoot.com/2014/09/cali-cafe-park-avenue-hotel-rochester.html

O' Coffee Club

Address: 1 Jurong West Central 2, Jurong Point, JP1 #01-43/44/45, 648886

Opening Hours: Mon – Thu, Sun 7:30 A.M. – 10:00 P.M. Sat 7:30 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.

Official Website: http://www.ocoffeeclub.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OCoffeeClub.Singapore/

Nearest MRT: Boon Lay

The focus today is on O’Coffee Club’s new all-day breakfast menu. We started on classics like Eggs Benedict ($10.90), where a pair of perfectly poached eggs sits atop your choice of protein (smoked salmon, ham or Mangalica bacon), on a ciabatta bread base. There’s a good and proportionate coat of creamy hollandaise sauce going on, following a sprinkle of dill for aromatic hints. You may go ahead and read the full review here:http://madamechewy.com/2016/06/18/ocoffee-club-launches-new-all-day-breakfast-menu/

Coffeesmith

Address: #01-09/09A, Gateway, 277 Orchard Rd, 238858

Opening Hours: Daily 24 Hours

Official Website: http://www.coffeesmith.com.sg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoffeesmithSG/

Nearest MRT: Somerset

The name coffeesmith is derived from the English suffix “-smith”, and their drinks are “crafted” carefully by blending 5 kinds of quality Arabica coffeebean. On its menu include Café Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, Caramel Macchiato, Vienna, Mocha, Vanilla Latte, priced from $5.00 to $7.00 for a regular cup, $5.50 to $7.50 for a large. You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://danielfooddiary.com/2017/08/02/coffeesmithsingapore/

Little Part I Café

Address: 15 Jasmine Rd, Singapore 576584

Opening Hours: Tue – Fri 12:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. 5:30 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. Sat 12:00 P.M. 12:00 A.M. Sun 12:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

Official Website: http://www.littlepart1cafe.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/littlepart1cafe/

Nearest MRT: Marymount

My boss eyes laterally sparkles each time we suggest a new place for lunch. But having worked at Caldecott Hill for a while, we are fast running out of interesting options. That’s when one of my colleague suggested checking out this well-hidden Little Part 1 Cafe located near Thomson Plaza. While looking at the cafe’s logo on one of its white walls, I wondered the rationale behind ‘Little Part 1’, is there a Part 2 or Part 3 cafe hiding in some secluded corner in Singapore? You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://www.aspirantsg.com/is-there-a-sequel-to-the-little-part-1-cafe/

Nesuto

Address: 53 Tras St Singapore 078992 Tras Street, 078992

Opening Hours: Mon – Thu 12:00 P.M. – 9:30 P.M. Fri – Sat 12:00 P.M. – 10:30 P.M. Sun 12:00 P.M. – 5:30 P.M.

Official Website: https://www.dear-nesuto.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dear.nesuto/

Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar

Following the success of their phenomenal choux puffs back in SHUU by KOKI Tamagoyaki, pastry chef Alicia Wong desired the creation of a series of dessert mused by her choux puffs. With the birth of Nesuto, the talented pastry chef finally realized her dream of having a home built to house some of her finest Japanese-French inspired desserts. You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://www.misstamchiak.com/nesuto/

Parallel Specialty Coffee

Address: 1 Raffles Place, B1-34, Singapore 048616

Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 7:30 A.M. – 9:30 P.M.

Official Website: https://www.burpple.com/parallel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parallelsingapore/

Nearest MRT: Raffles Place

Going for the Superstar Bowl, it is also one of the more basic variants of acai bowls here that would be a crowd pleaser as it comes with bananas, blueberries, granola, sunflower seeds and chia seeds. Unlike some other places serving up acai bowls, the various nut butter available comes as an add-on at $1 extra rather than being included by default with the acai bowl. The acai bowl here is notably not overly sweet; possibly due to the exclusion of nut butter and focuses more on the flavors of the acai berry with a noticeable tinge of mellow flavor at the end. The other items all created some contrast; the banana adding a bit of sweetness, blueberries carried a light tartness and the seeds and granola provided the crunch amidst the smooth, blended acai that came without icy bits — definitely had a variety of texture and flavors going on. You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://jiaksimipng.wordpress.com/2017/08/07/parallel-one-raffles-place/

Salted Caramel Artisan Ice Cream

Address: 246F Upper Thomson Rd, 574370

Opening Hours: Sun – Thu 12:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M. Fri – Sat 12:00 P.M. – 2:00 A.M.

Official Website: https://www.saltedcaramel.sg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltedcaramelsg/

Nearest MRT: Marymount

“Salted Caramel”, what comes to your mind when these words come to mind? ICE CREAM! Since opening its doors in 2011, Salted Caramel Artisan Ice Cream has been drawing quite a crowd to their unpretentious parlor located along Upper Thomson Road. Why? Simply because of the large array of flavours and affordable pricing! You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://lepakwithyaops.com/salted-caramel-artisan-ice-cream-at-upper-thomson-road-sin-ming/

Seven & Ate Kitchen and Bar

Address: 78 Horne Rd, Singapore 209078

Opening Hours: Tue – Thu, Sun 11:00 A.M. – 10:30 P.M. Fri – Sat 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 A.M.

Official Website: https://www.burpple.com/seven-ate

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sevenate.sg/

Nearest MRT: Lavender

Joining the culinary scene in Jalan Besar is Seven & Ate, a gastropub along Horne Road. This quaint gastropub serves up humble café fare, from sandwiches to quinoa bowls. They also offer a good variety of craft beers, such as Mac’s Three Wolves ($10) and Peroni ($10.50). Besides craft beers and wines, the gastropub also serves freshly brewed coffee, such as Iced Black/White ($5/$6), as well as Hot or Iced Nutella ($6/$7.50). You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://www.misstamchiak.com/seven-ate/

Sunset Bar - One Farrer Hotel & Spa

Address: 1 Farrer Park Station Rd, 217562

Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.

Official Website: http://www.onefarrer.com/en/dining/sunset-bar.html

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onefarrerhotel/

Nearest MRT: Farrer Park

If you have friends over, invite them up to the Sunset Bar and grab a drink together while waiting for the sun to set. The Sunset Bar is truly an idyllic area for you to laze a beautiful afternoon away. You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://theshutterwhale.com/blog/2014/12/26/hotel-review-one-farrer-hotel-spa-skyline-studio

Tea Tree Café

Address: 1B Stadium Walk, Singapore 397690

Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 11:00 A.M. – 9:30 P.M. Sat – Sun 10:30 A.M. – 9:30 P.M.

Official Website: https://tea-tree-cafe.com.sg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teatreecafesg/

Nearest MRT: Stadium

Have you ever imagined the fertile plant soil is edible for us and have delicious taste? This soil is fertile enough to grow from the seeds to a small leaf. I try eating it before and I agree that the taste is delicious. Do you believe me? You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://dannylovetoeat.blogspot.sg/2014/06/tea-tree-cafe.html

Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview: The Best Brew

Address: 382 Havelock Road, Robertson Quay, 169629

Opening Hours: Sun – Thu 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 A.M. Fri – Sat 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 A.M.

Official Website: http://www.bestbrewsingapore.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fourpointssingapore/

Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay

There are other beer brews and bites promotion available every fortnight, offering a range of international brews and delicious snacks and bar bites. The Kirin Beer + Yakitori Chicken Balls, Max Beer + Korean Grilled Pork with Homemade Kimchi and Tall Tale Pale Ale + Chicken Rice Ball are priced at $15-16++ each pairing! The Australian Brewery Pilsner/Pale Ale + Beef Sliders / Panko Crusted Soft Shell Crab / Spicy Buffalo Wings are offered on a rotational basis at $40.80++ You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://www.thefoodjournal.com.sg/2016/08/best-brew-four-points-sheraton/

The Café by The Cake Shop

Address: 8 Somapah Rd, Singapore 486041

Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 9:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.

Official Website: https://www.thecakeshop.com.sg/the-cafe/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecakeshop.com.sg/

Nearest MRT: Expo

A place for yummilicious fare! Be smitten with our tantalising light bites with sweet and savoury options. Choose from our finger-licking comfort food, irresistible local delights and healthy alternatives depending on your mood which to embrace! You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://www.thecakeshop.com.sg/the-cafe/

The Club Street Social

Address: 5 Gemmill Ln, Singapore 069261

Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 A.M. – Sat 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 A.M. Sun 11:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

Official Website: https://www.clubstreetsocial.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clubstreetsocial/

Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer

The Club Street Social cafe is technically not on Club Street. I guess “Gemmill Lane Social” does not sound as snappy. It is however close enough to be visible from the Club Street, taking up a corner shop space near the open air car park. There is nothing ostentatious about the place. In fact, some parts of the industrial styled interior are quite spartan. But there is a certain air of carefree-ness about Club Street Social, both in its external appearance and interior, which makes it attractive. You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://ordinarypatrons.com/2016/12/19/club-street-social-review/

The Dark Gallery

Address: 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-K5 Millenia Walk, 039596

Opening Hours: 11:00 A.M. – 9:30 P.M.

Official Website: https://thedarkgallery.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/discoverthedark/

Nearest MRT: Esplanade

The Dark Gallery presents a treasury of discoveries on the canvas of chocolate. A journey around the world Connecting with the purest origins Preserving the quality of the craft To unravel the finest cocoa. We carefully compose chocolate Inspiring a rhapsody of desserts. A glossary of dark indulgences. An anthology of delicious secrets. The Dark Gallery invites you to Open your senses. Discover the Dark. You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://thirtythree.com.sg/brand-darkgallery.html

The Prodigal Son Café

Address: 625 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 9, #01-112, 560625

Opening Hours: Thu – Tue 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

Official Website: https://www.prodigalroasters.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prodigalroasters/

Nearest MRT: Tai Seng

The not-so-good news, the second outlet is as ulu as their sister outlet, some 10-ish minutes of walking time from the nearest Tai Seng MRT station. “Is it located within some industrial building?”, that’s the first thing that came across my mind when I saw their location on Google Maps. It turned out that they had taken over the space once occupied by My Sister Bakes (that’s the name of a cafe by the way), in the old housing estate. You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://danielfooddiary.com/2018/02/23/prodigalcafe/

The Tuckshop

Address: 403 Guillemard Rd, Singapore 399795

Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 5:00 P.M. – 12:00 P.M. Sat – Sun 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

Official Website: http://www.thetuckshop.com.sg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thetuckshopsingapore/

Nearest MRT: Dakota

There really is something for everyone here; for beer-lovers, five locally brewed Archipelago craft beers on draught ($12 a pint), bottled artisan beers from Italy ($13 to $24) and bottled beers from around the world ($13 to $24) including Badger Golden Champion 500ml ($16). There are flavoured English and Swedish ciders as well as more traditional ones like Aspall Premier Cru 500ml ($18). The wines, mostly Italian, are exclusive to The Tuckshop and are excellent value at around $50 to $70 a bottle. We tried the house Prosecco and the house red, La Casetta Rossa (both $11 a glass, $50 a bottle). There are 18 whiskies plus other spirits on the menu, and cocktails ($18) such as the nutty Chendolicious – a mix of rum, gula melaka syrup and coconut milk. You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://expatliving.sg/bar-review-the-tuckshop-in-geylang-singapore/

Tolido’s Espresso Nook

Address: #01-63, Crawford Ln, Block 462, 190462

Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 8:00 A.M. – 6:30 P.M. Sat – Sun 9:00 A.M. – 6:30 P.M.

Official Website: https://www.burpple.com/tolidos-espresso-nook

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tolidosnook/

Nearest MRT: Lavender

Tolido's Espresso Nook is a casual and cosy café serving great artisan coffee paired with fresh food ranging from all-day breakfast to pasta and much more. They strongly believe in their food and drinks to be made with the love, passion and attention they deserve. Everything is individually prepared and nothing is instant with frills or pretense. You may go ahead and read the full review here: https://www.theentertainerme.com/outlets/tolido-s-espresso-nook/detail?m=6823&o=11926&savings=

Two Wheels Good Cafe

Address: 61 Jurong West Central 3, 648330

Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.

Official Website: https://www.jurongpoint.com.sg/store/132/two-wheels-good

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Two-Wheels-Cafe/1802641386667680

Nearest MRT: Boon Lay

If you are staying in the West, especially around Jurong Point, you are so fortunate! Two Wheels Good is a new bicycle-themed café (just outside Boon Lay Station) that serves an extensive range of affordable local food. Also, they have really cheap beers for you to pair with your food. Why weren’t they around when I was still in NTU? It’s really very student-friendly (Students can afford a decent meal here – less than five bucks). So, if you are having a major craving for local eats, Two Wheels Good is the place to get your cravings fixed. You may go ahead and read the full review here: http://sgcafehopping.blogspot.sg/2017/09/new-two-wheels-good-bicycle-themed-cafe.html