To give you a glimpse of what I feel are some of the most beautiful islands in the world, I put together a few photographs on why you should go island hopping in the Philippines.

With islands scattered like flower petals from the North to South and in all directions, you will never run out of picture-perfect islands to chase. The islands of Batanes dishes a spectacular set of landscape consisting of rolling highlands, old towns, lush forests and almost deserted beach heads. Isolated, pristine and simply beautiful; what better way to start threading this archipelago nation than to start from this northern tip island.

The islands Batanes are situated in the northern tip of the Philippines © nomadicexperiences.com

Sandbars extended far and wide each time the tides lower during the day and adds a layer of allure in the many islands located all over the Philippines. One example of such is Kalanggaman Island which situates off the coast of Palompon, Leyte in the Visayas region.

Kalanggaman Island © nomadicexperiences.com

Lakes, lagoons, marine life, island life and what-haves are a common sighting in the island of Palawan. A month here is not enough because of the immense number of must-see places.

Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan © nomadicexperiences.com

Crystal clear waters everywhere you look © nomadicexperiences.com

Hop to other islands to pitch a tent under pine trees and over soft white sands. See the different characteristics of what Mother Nature can offer; the mangroves, the forests, the limestone karsts and the abundant underwater life.

A 2 hour boat ride over the Pacific Ocean brings you to Calaguas Island. Just one of the many barenaked islands in the country © nomadicexperiences.com

and while you’re at it – island hopping – taste some local cuisine featuring what the sea can offer such as big lobsters © nomadicexperiences.com

Over or under the water, the visual banquet never stops. The Philippines is a known scuba diver’s haven where one can find numerous diving spots all over the archipelago.

© Wowie Wong of Studio H20

Other than lounging by the beach all day; one can also experience all sorts of water-based activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, kite-surfing, surfing and partying.

A Russian tourist watches the kite-surfing action in Boracay Island © nomadicexperiences.com

Isolated coves that instantly hides you from the rest of the world such as this one from Calayan Island, North of Luzon © nomadicexperiences.com

and experience local island culture such as this festival held at Cobrador Island in Romblon © nomadicexperiences.com

The Philippines is a diverse country with some of the most remarkable beaches in the world, and these slices of paradise should be on every travel junkie’s bucket list.

Photo Credits: Nomadic Experiences and Studio H20

The post 10 Photos That Will Inspire You To Island Hop Through The Philippines appeared first on Resource Travel.

Riding an electric bike under the scorching sun of the summer month of March, I explored far and wide, capturing the magnificent images that I had envisioned before I left. I had a strong desire to show why I fell in love with Bagan to my friends and family back home. I marveled at the spectacular and timeless vibe that lingers in this city, inhabited by some of the friendliest and nicest people I’ve met, and it all amounted to yet another memorable collective incursion to this city.

The Bagan sunset takes into another level of visual pleasure as the towering pagodas and temples serves as a beautiful foreground to the fiery setting sun in the horizon. © Nomadic Experiences

Passing through off-the-beaten trails, I was able to visit some of the most obscure temples and pagodas and achieved covering more ground than on my first trip. Bagan is known as an ancient city situating in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar. The ruins that now lay scattered in its golden powdery plains are from the kingdoms that flourished during the 9th century until the 13th century when it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Pagan – the very first kingdom that consolidated all the regions in Myanmar under one rule. During the peak of this kingdom, more than 10,000 Buddhist pagodas, monasteries, and temples were built right on the vast Bagan plains. Today, over 2,200 pagodas and temples still stand as beautiful ruins and a stunning reminder of that wonderfully storied past.

Equally spellbinding is the sunrise that rises among the many high rise temples and pagodas. © Nomadic Experiences

Slowly opening up to tourists, the country of Myanmar has managed to put the Bagan Archeological Zone as its main visitor’s draw, and is now seen by many as comparable to the kind of attraction that Cambodia’s Angkor Wat complex is offering. As a self-described Bagan junkie, I can say this city can hold its candle on its own and dishes a unique appeal to travelers like me who desires of historic ruins and magnificent scenery to photograph.

To let the images speak for itself, here are some more photographs that best exemplify Bagan as a place of timeless beauty.

The locals who often wear colorful traditional designed clothing while covered with thanaka on their faces make up for  great photography subjects. © Nomadic Experiences

Young monks can be seen walking around adorned with their bright red garb. Friendly, cheerful and already set for a life of devotion to their faith. © Nomadic Experiences

What better way to remind you of Bagan’s timelessness than the many remnants of its many temples, monasteries and pagodas that still stands as far as the eyes can see from the top. © Nomadic Experiences

Temples, pagodas and monasteries of all sizes dominate your view. I spent a number of afternoons parking my e-bike on a random spot and striding aimlessly until I discover obscure ruins where I will find a quiet time to be alone with my thoughts. © Nomadic Experiences

Horse drawn carriage is still widely used as a mode of transportation – giving passengers a glimpse to a era of motorized-less world that reigns in the ancient city of Bagan.
© Nomadic Experiences

The locals who trades in their age old art, culture and tradition, just like this young girl, who is selling sand painting, are so polite and courteous they don’t mean to bug visitors. Instead, they just want to engage you in a conversation to practice their English. Afterward she tells me “Nice talking to you, by the way you want to look at my sand painting?” – without a hint of annoyance. I ended up buying from her since the art she sells are really interesting and full of creativity and history.
© Nomadic Experiences

These are just some of the images I wanted people to see whenever they ask about my recent trip to Myanmar. After Bagan, I went to Mandalay and back to Yangon. Two weeks is a short time to fully embrace Bagan and the rest of this beautiful country, maybe after you read this article – you will be inspired to make your journey to Myanmar as well and pass through the timeless ancient city of Bagan.

All images courtesy of Nomadic Experiences

The post 8 Photos That Illustrate Why I Love Bagan, Myanmar appeared first on Resource Travel.

“Traveling brings not only positive moments, it also requires taking on difficulties” says Russian filmmaker Kokorev Konstantin in the fifth episode of his “Surf in Siberia” short film series. The film features himself and a few other adventurous travelers, as they set off the cold and harsh conditions of the Arctic Ocean in search of massive swells to surf. “All journeys are like dreams. Some flashbacks, some special memories are bits of the places I visited” he adds.  Describing his “Surf in Siberia” series, Kokorev writes on his Vimeo page  “The movie tells us about the Russian surfers riding in the severe conditions of The Far North. Only a few have tried surfing at this latitude, even fewer have tried it in Russia. The movie was shot over one year at different locations in the Murmansk region. The camera crew has filmed different seasons, conditions and moods of those sites. Having overcome all of the difficulties and having been inspired by the northern spirits, our heroes share their impressions about the places they’ve visited, the past of our country and their childhood.”

Apart from the breathtaking scenes of surfing in the Arctic Ocean, episode 5 also highlights Kokorev’s fascination with old school film cameras in documenting most of his travels. Watching and listening to him explain his passion for travel and photography instantly  desire to take up his hobbies and follow the trail he and his friends are blazing. It might not come in the similar punitive weather condition of Siberia – but definitely a new adventure awaits those who would heed Kokorev’s call to adventure.

Capturing the vast abandoned atmosphere of Siberia as they crawl their way through the Arctic Ocean – one can see the contrast of both the quiet beauty of the place and its unknown ruggedness characterized by extreme weather conditions. Only a few individuals armed with the zest for adventure would dare visit this place to surf its icy waters.

“Right now, Its a wasteland. No wonder. After all, we are talking about the far north, and here, it is far and severe. Indeed, living here is tough” Kokorev narrates on the video. By using deft camera work to produce fast-shifting scenes, kick-ass surfing sequences plus incorporating a pulsating soundtrack, Kokorev accurately captures the lonely yet charming vibe of the Arctic Ocean and the nearby towns in Siberia – compiling all of these moving images to create a short film that is sure to ignite our inner wanderlust. Despite the extreme and solitary environment, Kokorev and his crew shows us that by pushing the envelope to explore and do new things, amazing things are achieved.

Check out some stills from the video or better yet watch the whole short film.

The post Filmmaker Documents Surfing in the Harsh and Unforgiving Siberian Landscapes appeared first on Resource Travel.

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Iranian women sit along the shores of the #Caspian #Sea in #Babolsar, #Mazandaran Province, #Iran, on May 14, 2014. Instagraming for EDME (everyday middle east). For more information please visit the @everydaymiddleeast feed. #fotoistanbul2015 @fotoistanbultr

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on May 18, 2014 at 9:29pm PDT

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#Tehran #Iran #myfeatureshoot #streetphotography

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 22, 2016 at 10:12am PDT

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12:02pm #Tehran "The Cyclist" by @hanifshoaei as part of the #24hourproject #24hr16 #24hr16_Tehran #Iran to support @She_Has_Hope . For more information please visit @24hourproject #digikalamag_mps #myfeatureshoot #streetphotography

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 19, 2016 at 1:38am PDT

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11:17am #Tehran "Untitled" by @hanifshoaei as part of the #24hourproject #24hr16 #24hr16_Tehran #Iran to support @She_Has_Hope . For more information please visit @24hourproject #myfeatureshoot #streetphotography

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 19, 2016 at 1:04am PDT

Hanif’s Instagram feed peppers his more than 23,000 followers with normal scenes of families walking in the park, children going to school, women taking selfies against the scenic Caspian Sea, men reading newspapers and traders plying their crafts in the streets. The series of everyday images taken by Hanif are in stark contrast to what the rest of the world is told about Iran. Just recently, Iran culminated its celebration of the “Persian New Year” with a 13-day festival highlighting more great things to come. Hanif is hoping that through his photographs of his beloved country, more travelers will be enticed to visit in the future. Hanif tells Instagram blog: “Gestures of affection and thoughtfulness will ensure a full and happy year.”

To see more of Hanif’s photographs of everyday living in Iran and other places he visits, please follow him @hanifshoaei on Instagram or his website.

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10:02am #Tehran "Colorful Stairs" by @hanifshoaei as part of the #24hourproject #24hr16 #24hr16_Tehran #Iran to support @She_Has_Hope . For more information please visit @24hourproject

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 18, 2016 at 11:36pm PDT

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#Tehran

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 12, 2016 at 10:03pm PST

See below some of Hanif’s candid shots of everyday life in Iran;

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Last days of #winter in #Tehran.

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 5, 2016 at 2:06am PST

https://www.instagram.com/p/BDIuAtfp-d5/

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#Tehran #Iran

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 22, 2016 at 11:01pm PDT

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An Iranian girl makes #selfie on the beach of Caspian sea in north of #Iran on July 18, 2015. #everydaymiddleeast #everydayeverywhere #picturesofpeopletakingpictures

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Jul 18, 2015 at 8:49am PDT

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People read #newspaper front pages a day after the #nuclear #agreements between #Iran and 5+1 group ( #China, #France, #Russia, the #United_Kingdom and the #Unites_States, plus #Germany) was announced at a newsstand in #Tehran on July 15, 2015.

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Jul 14, 2015 at 10:08pm PDT

https://www.instagram.com/p/4kCdiRJ-cF/

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A general view of Northern #Tehran city from Tabi'at (Nature) bridge during #Nowrouz holidays on March 26, 2015. #everydaymiddleeast #everydayeverywhere #formatevidence #mpnselects #gettyreportage #reportagespotlight #featureshoot #burndiary #everydayiran #gettyimagesinstagramgrant#picturesofpeopletakingpictures #LensCultureStreets @lensculture #fotoistanbul2015 @fotoistanbultr

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 30, 2015 at 4:30am PDT

https://www.instagram.com/p/fh8tVeJ-VP/

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#Tehran, #Iran

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Apr 2, 2016 at 9:15pm PDT

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Seen in #bazaar of #Tabriz

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Apr 2, 2016 at 5:42am PDT

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#Tabriz bazaar

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 27, 2016 at 3:16am PDT

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April 22, 2016, marks the 13th Worldwide Instameet (#WWIM13). We, in #Tehran, #Iran are celebrating the beauty of our planet together on #EarthDay (#LifeOnEarthWWIM13); to join us and for more photos visit @Instameet_Tehran #WWIM13THR #Instameet_Tehran

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Apr 22, 2016 at 12:15am PDT

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#Tehran #hipstamatic #oggl #hartcollective #hikaricreative

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Dec 12, 2014 at 11:19am PST

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A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Mar 26, 2014 at 8:45pm PDT

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Iranians attend the 36th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in Tehran's Azadi square on February 11, 2015. #tehran #iran #تهران #ایران #آزادی #راهپیمایی

A post shared by Hanif Shoaei (@hanifshoaei) on Feb 11, 2015 at 11:06am PST

The post Photographer Documents Life in Iran Beyond the Headlines appeared first on Resource Travel.

Crossing the backpacker haven of Thailand, travel filmmaker Oriol Colomar Morera documented every step of his friend Júlia López Romero, a wide-eyed traveler captivated by the sights and sounds of the country in South East Asia. With a fast paced sequencing of shots, Romero is seen trying out various activities as she makes her way from the city of Bangkok towards the famed islands of Thailand. From sampling the popular local dish Pad Thai at Khao San Road, riding a tuk-tuk and exploring the spectacular landscape of the countryside en route to the white sandy beaches of Krabi and Ko Phi Phi, Morera shot and edited a wanderlust-enticing 3-minute video that is sure to bring out the day dreamer in all of us.

The video perfectly captures all the highs of traveling as one is introduced to the great unknown at every turn of a new location, in this case the culturally-rich nation of Thailand. Our travel muse Romero leads us to the joyful feeling of discovering unfamiliar environments as she portrays the curious and free-spirited wanderer in front of the camera. Indulging herself to an array of wonderful experiences, she takes us along with he on her journey, making us feel like we’re walking with her through the crowded Bangkok streets and into the solitary vibe of the highlands, farmlands and the islands of Krabi. The creative camera work of Morera guided her splendidly to express the kind of freedom one feels while on the road and shows the viewers all the thrills of exploring a new country.

This fascinating look at the world of travel should further amplify our quest to see more of the world we live in. Watch this wanderlust filled film and be inspired you to pack your backpack pronto!

The post “Road to Thailand” Follows a Young Woman’s Experience in Southeast Asia appeared first on Resource Travel.

The team behind the film are setting off for a long term globe-trotting adventure, and as a parting tribute to their home country, they created this video so travelers from all over the world would consider paying Poland a well-deserved visit. “We’re planning to hit the road for quite a long time and do the round the world trip. But before leaving we felt like we need to make a tribute to our beloved homeland. This is it. A film showing the immense beauty of Poland.”

While watching, viewers feel as if they are flying over the charming brick towns adorned by watchtowers standing neatly along river banks and onto the tranquil lakes and port areas before finishing the tour in the endless fields and lakeside towns of Poland. After watching, I now know that Poland is a real haven for nature lovers.

Teeming with a rich history and colorful culture, the gregarious landscape of Poland along with its friendly citizens is definitely making a strong bid to be included on my travel bucket list. And it has achieved just that because I am now putting the country near the top of my must-visit places. Current Facebook status: “Fervently wishing to find myself on a plane to Poland in the near future”. What about you?

The post Aerial Film Shows Why Poland is One of the Most Beautiful Countries In Europe appeared first on Resource Travel.

This video may have a short 1 minute running time, but the fast paced video sliced together by Will Mayer succeeded in condensing all the highs and euphoria of traveling on the road. Culminating with a festive tomato throwing party in the streets of Bunol, Spain – the friends finally found what they have journeyed for. Along with thousands of people, they took turns hurling more than 100,000 pounds of tomatoes until exhaustion sets in and completing a unique experience.

To read Will’s complete quirky narrative of their trip, head out to his travel blog.

Below are some of our favorite screenshots from the film:

How about you? share to us some of your most memorable road trips in the comment section.

The post From London to La Tomatina in One Minute appeared first on Resource Travel.

Nicaragua is shaking off a notorious reputation and embracing its new status as a hot spot for adventure, natural beauty and culture. As the tides change for the country, tourism has emerged as the second biggest industry. Filmmaker Alex Carigan shows us a glimpse of what it is like journeying through Nicaragua with his beautifully shot and edited footage showcasing the scenic countryside and the happy people he met along the way while hopping from one quaint town to the next. Just by clicking the play button we are provided with a peek at what waits in Nicaragua.

Alex documented every step of his way exploring this Central American nation known as the “the land of lakes and volcanoes”. From romping over glistening white beaches to sand boarding at a caldera of a volcano to breaking swells aboard a surfboard and submerging with the lovable creatures of the underwater, Alex travels to small charming towns in between to the embrace of the smiling locals. The motion scenes he captures presents us with a picturesque evidence at how Nicaragua grants us travelers – a new destination to experience new and wonderful things on the road. All the highs of his cross-country journey were all captured on his camera and documented perfectly on this three-minute video.

Below are some of our favourite screenshots from the film:

According to Alex’ Vimeo he used these equipment in the shoot: “Panasonic Lumix GH4 en C4k profil V-Log L. Avec 12-35mm f2.8, 35-100mm f2.8, 25mm f1.4, Laing P-04s, Benro Aero 2 and ProMaster ND Filter. Edited in FCP X and graded with FilmConvert Pro 2.”

The post Into the Great Outdoors and Small Towns of Nicaragua appeared first on Resource Travel.

Imagine my delight at being chosen as one of the 29 travel writers and photographers from all corners of the globe to participate in a Kerala Tourism-sponsored two-week jaunt across the state of Kerala. The experience let me learn so much about the local life, culture, tradition and landscape.

© Nomadic Experiences

Wildlife gets right up close, as you can see be our interactins with these lovable creatures at the Kappukadu Elephant Rehabilitation Centre in Kottur. My friend Roja seems delighted by her encounter with this gentle giant.

© Nomadic Experiences

These Chinese fishing nets that dots the shoreline of Kochi makes for a magnificent viewing at sunset. These unusual fixed land installations used for fishing are mostly found in Kollam and Kochi in Kerala.

© Nomadic Experiences

While strolling along the beach one morning I met these football players, “Angel Boys” as their coach told me. “My name is Angel and these are the Angel Boys” the curly haired woman in black stripes proudly tells me. A game of football by the beach is the perfect way to start the day in Kovalam, Kerala.

© Nomadic Experiences

Tea plantations appear like green cotton balls laid out as far as one can see in the cold highlands of Munnar, the ‘Tea Country’ of Kerala.

© Nomadic Experiences

On a random stop en route to Wayanad,  I chanced upon this man preparing to serve “Adicha Chaya” (One meter tea) to a local. I ordered one and truly enjoyed this chai tea prepared in a unique method of stretching both hands (at a distance of one meter) while pouring the chai tea into two cups apart. This practice produces a potent concoction of the tea’s mixture, a frothier texture and improved taste.

© Nomadic Experiences

On my first morning in Kerala I was welcomed by this image of mundu clad fisherman about to wander into the vast sea. Their chiseled sunburnt bodies against the fine golden sands and blue water reminds me of a painting depicting a normal day at the beach of Kovalam.

© Nomadic Experiences

© Nomadic Experiences

Your travel to Kerala will never be complete unless you spend a night a the famed backwaters aboard one of its iconic houseboats. This was taken at Alappuzha, where we watched a spectacular sunset slowly crash into the horizon. It was a surreal moment that made me feel like I was one of the characters in God of Small Things.

© Nomadic Experiences

On a cruise along the waters of Periyar Lake, we spotted a variety of wild animals and bird species on the edges of a  lush forest, such as Sambar deers, Kingfisher birds and black monkeys.

© Nomadic Experiences

We watched the students at Kerala Kalamandalam Deemed University for Arts & Culture perform cultural dances and theater acts for us. They study various courses in classical dance and theatrical forms in order to guarantee the continuation of Kerala’s culture and traditions.

© Nomadic Experiences

The Food. Even a simple looking plate such as this one packs a wallop of rich and sumptuous tastes brought upon by an assortment of spices and meticulous cooking and preparation. I think I gained 10 lbs in my two-weeks stay at Kerala.

© Nomadic Experiences

The People. Everywhere we went we were always greeted by locals with a ready smile and eagerness to engage in a short conversations. Much like the rest of India, the people of Kerala takes hospitality to another level.

I can definitely add more to this photo narrative but will leave it for you to discover and experience when you finally visit the state of Kerala in India. Until then, I hope this piece further enrich your appetite to explore more of the world around us. And don’t forget to document it with your camera!

The post A Vivid Photographic Journey into Kerala, India appeared first on Resource Travel.

Whilst documenting the rugged beauty of the region, the filmmaker dived into all that Palawan has to offer with activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, swimming and frolicking in pristine beaches. Who wouldn’t be enticed to pack their backpacks and go?

From long stretches of white sand bars, coral reef, shipwrecks, magnificent sunsets and a glimpse of island living while hopping from one island to another, this drone video captured it all. Even though I’ve been to Palawan numerous times in the past, I can’t help but plan another trip back after watching this amazing video. So who is up for a 5-day adventure in Palawan? I feel myself raising my right hand. My guess is, you wanted to join as well.

The post Breathtaking Video of Palawan, Philippines from the Air appeared first on Resource Travel.

To capture humpback whales playing underneath a spectacular aurora borealis? Patience, skills and just about a miracle.

For photographer Harald Albrigtsen, documenting the delightful humpback whales flipping their fins under an aurora borealis was all in an evening’s work. Albrigtsen was working off the coast of Tromso in Norway for NRK, the Norwegian state broadcasting company when he captured the footage.  The clip has gone viral and is a powerful reminder of the spectacular beauty of nature and the importance of preserving wildlife. The beauty of humpback whales, coupled with the magnificence of the aurora borealis, should amplify our awareness and passion in safeguarding our planet.

“On my journey, I suddenly came across a group of humpback whales that were playing in the Northern Lights. I went back the next day to see if I could come closer,” Albrigtsen tells The Local. “After a few hours I had almost given up, but then they showed up again.”

“It was a great feeling when I saw that I had managed to capture the whales under the Northern Lights for two days in a row,” he said. “Many may be getting tired of standard Northern Lights photography. Now, there is an opportunity to capture living beings under the Northern Lights. The possibilities for creating new images are greater.”

The bar has certainly been raised.

The post Watch Humpback Whales Play Under an Aurora Borealis appeared first on Resource Travel.

Unbelievably clear waters surround thousands of deserted white islands, and they all welcome you as you hop off the boat. The Philippines, while lagging behind Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia in tourist arrivals, provides rich beauty and exciting exploration opportunities for the few travelers who stray from the famous South East Asia ‘banana pancake trail’. Travelers in the Philippines can’t help but extend their stay, and some never leave. The Philippines becomes home.

Here are eight reasons why you should visit us here in The Philippines in 2016.

The Rock Formations

Stunning rock formations litter the Philippines’ coastline, formed over thousands of years by the relentless waves of the furious Philippine Sea.  This rock formation from Biri Island is one of five gigantic natural attractions surrounded by natural pools with crystal clear waters and soft hills, perfect for camping.

Biri Island © Nomadic Experiences

The Islands

You could spend a lifetime island-hopping in the Philippines, and you’d still never see them all. Off-the-grid islands, such as Calaguas Island, tempt travelers and locals alike. Walk along blindingly white, clean sand and listen to the hissing of the waves.

Calaguas Island, Daet Camarines Norte © Nomadic Experiences

White Island, Camiguin © Nomadic Experiences

Palawan

More than 1700 islands and islets surround the island province of Palawan. The province is renowned as one of the best island destinations in the world and is blanketed in virgin forest and dramatic mountain chains. Adventurous travelers will discover limestone caves, hot springs, majestic lakes and white, sandy beaches. A full-range of activities from mountain climbing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and beach bumming awaits.

View from the way to Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan © Nomadic Experiences 

Grab a beer and enjoy the isolated Nacpan Beach in El Nido, Palawan © Nomadic Experiences

The Highlands

When you’ve had enough beaches and are tired of the island life, you can cool off in the highlands. Snaking mountain ranges offer views of the lush forests teeming with wildlife, volcanoes, waterfalls, lakes and rolling hills as far as the eyes can see.

in the northernmost part of the Philippines, the rolling hills of Batanes presents a never-ending beautiful scenery © Nomadic Experiences

Tinuy-an Waterfalls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur © Nomadic Experiences

Tinago Falls in Iligan Province © Nomadic Experiences

Mayon Volcano in Legazpi, Albay is known for its almost perfect cone-shaped peak © Nomadic Experiences

Mount Pinatubo crater lake in the southern part of Luzon is a popular hiking destination © Nomadic Experiences

The Charming Towns and Local Delicacies

If you travel across the Philippines, you’ll pass through countless charming towns, offering a glimpse of the simple life in the countrysides and the legendary hospitality of the Filipino people. Indulge in the many colorful traditions and cultures by immersing yourself in local life.  Sample home-cooked delicacies and party at the numerous festivals celebrated throughout the country all year long.

The ‘Dinagyang Festival‘ is celebrated in Iloilo City every January © Nomadic Experiences

Visit Philippines Again © Nomadic Experiences

The People

The Filipino people are known to be among the most hospitable bunch in the world. With a smile on their faces ready to greet you “Mabuhay” (long live), you will never feel out of place in the many islands all over this archipelago. Each encounter will surely make your trip more memorable. As you trudge along the many regions in the country, you will live out a different travel experience thanks to the many people, languages, set of cultures and traditions and local cuisines that will surely satisfy all your senses.

‘Sinulog’ Festival celebrated every January in Cebu City is highlighted by its fun street parties at night © Nomadic Experiences

The Marine Life

The Philippines is a marine biodiversity hotspot, making it a favorite destination for keen SCUBA divers – don’t forget your underwater camera!

Nagsasa Cove in Zambales is just one of the hundreds of white sand beaches where you can pitch your tent and camp © Nomadic Experiences

Sunset and Sunrise

End your day by appreciating the splendor of your surroundings, highlighted by the stunning backdrop of the rising and setting sun. Watch the sunset from afar while drinking an ice cold beer in the many paradise-like settings of the Philippines.

Grab a beer and toast the heavens for the good life traveling around the Philippines © Nomadic Experiences

Visit the Philippines and see it for yourself. Be ready to extend your stay, most travelers find it hard to leave.

The post 8 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Philippines in 2016…And Bring Your Camera appeared first on Resource Travel.

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Gatekeeper of the void | Safest in emptiness #cairosaturdaywalks

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Nov 1, 2015 at 11:05am PST

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Eyes full of stories | Walls made of ocean

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After living for a couple of years in Spain and France, Nour Kamel was introduced to a new culture and a more diverse group of people. Coming home to Egypt with a new set of perspective, she made it a passion to re-discover her own city with a probing eye and through her camera lens, she is able to re-introduce herself and vice versa to her home city which is populated by around 11 million souls. “I suddenly started to notice the bits that are unique to us — the colors, the windows, how we hang our laundry,” she tells Instagram blog.

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Walls of remembrance | Resilience @yazzyvanselow on my mind

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Aug 29, 2015 at 11:55am PDT

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City of color | City of Celebration #cairosaturdaywalks #streetphotography

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Jul 8, 2015 at 1:54pm PDT

Documenting the hidden gems of the cities as opposed to the usual sights one is accustomed to in a city like Cairo, Nour peppers her Instagram feed with images that screams of an intimate setting – meeting the residents at the doorsteps of their own homes, taking their portraits and composing painting-like images of house facades that glitters with colors and unusual patterns which all point to the real scenario of living in Cairo.  “I like to find the sense of serenity that still exists,” she says. “I want people to see the Cairo that is least known to the world. That means a Cairo that is apolitical, a Cairo that lives in peace — where day-to-day activities happen smoothly, where there is charm and kindness and an extreme sense of home and hospitality.”

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Fond memories | Intangible souvenirs #cairosaturdaywalks

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Oct 11, 2015 at 5:29am PDT

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Pray for those who can't | Love with all you have #cairosaturdaywalks

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Oct 25, 2015 at 1:58am PDT

Proving the headlines of mainstream media wrong, which cites cities such as Cairo being embroiled in violence following the Arab Sping revolt, the Instagram feed of Nour tells a different story where peace reigns and a varying set of people from different backgrounds and religions co-exists with harmony. Just by viewing her images, one is instantly jolted by a desire to grab the camera and hit the road to roam a random city, or better yet rediscover your own home city just like what Nour is doing right now.

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Find beauty | Make your own rainbows #notmypanni

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Oct 2, 2015 at 10:19am PDT

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Dark circles | Stolen childhoods #cairosaturdaywalks

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Oct 4, 2015 at 1:42pm PDT

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City lights | Sleepless nights #cairosaturdaywalks #Ramadan #RoamEgypt #ThisIsEgypt #portrait

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Jun 21, 2015 at 4:32pm PDT

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Laughter therapy | Scribbled stories #cairosaturdaywalks #cairosaturdaywalkers

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Nov 1, 2015 at 1:19am PST

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Head full of dreams | Soul full of light #cairosaturdaywalks

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Oct 14, 2015 at 11:59pm PDT

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Jeux de mains | Jeux de gamins #cairosaturdaywalks #streetphotography #games A shot inspired by @karimelhayawan's signature #k_hands

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Jun 15, 2015 at 1:31pm PDT

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Drowning in decay | Tales of sky and sand #cairosaturdaywalks #wallfilth #Cairo

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Apr 11, 2015 at 4:41am PDT

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Local little rascals | Community bonding #cairosaturdaywalks #portrait #people #cairo

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Mar 25, 2015 at 7:09am PDT

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On the greener side | Anticipating spring

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Jan 21, 2015 at 4:09am PST

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Plastic bag culture | OCD nightmare #filthyfacades

A post shared by Nour Kamel | نور كامل (@nourikam) on Feb 1, 2015 at 1:56am PST

To see more of Nour Kamel’s fascinating discoveries in her home city of Cairo, follow her @nourikam on Instagram.

The post Saturday Walks into the Hidden Gems of Cairo with Photographer Nour Kamel appeared first on Resource Travel.

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summer nights in #Gothenburg

A post shared by Cim Ek (@cimek) on Jun 23, 2015 at 6:27am PDT

https://instagram.com/p/3aw4mDHlyn/

Once she gets out of her door, Ek takes a stroll around her neighborhood and hunts for great coffee and pastries. “We have lots of Swedish specialties that one should try, especially the kanelbulle” she says, pointing out Sweden’s own version of the cinnamon roll. “We have a word in Swedish that means having a coffee and pastry, called fika. We have at least one fika a day here!” The rest of the city provides an abundance of subjects ranging from nature attractions to amazing architecture. “Here you have a little bit of everything! The cute cobble streets and old buildings of Haga; the newly built area with fantastic architecture in Lindholmen; the typical Gothenburg buildings called Landshövdingehus in Majorna. It’s also great that we have the canal running through the center of the city that connects to the ocean.”

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afternoon light. . . #strangersinmyfeed #redberget #chasinglight #igersgothenburg #westcoast_sweden #wu_sweden #visitsweden #enjoysweden #huntgramsweden #

A post shared by Cim Ek (@cimek) on May 14, 2015 at 11:08pm PDT

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Developing the discipline of photography and skills of spotting interesting subjects, Ek has also photographed most of her travels across Europe, creating her own unique inventiveness by documenting the relaxing vibe and beauty of the many cities she visited in the continent. Still, every time she travels to another country, she finds her way back to Gothenburg to continue documenting the way of life in the city she now calls home.

https://instagram.com/p/9HX5cIHl7A/

https://instagram.com/p/9EatChnly4/

Other than the many major European cities, Ek is proud to share her favorite spots to photograph in Gothenburg;

Röda Sten (The Red Rock) —“This is a spot I never get tired of. Here you have the beautiful Älvsborgs Bridge, art galleries and graffiti walls.”

Lindholmen — “For someone who likes architecture, this is the place to visit. One of the highlights is the Kuggen building. You can also enjoy a walk along the canal.”

Redbergsparken — “A small park with an amazing view. Redbergsparken is located so that one can see pretty much the whole city. It’s perfect for late sunsets, and for New Year’s and fireworks.”

Lake Delsjön — “There is a lot of nature and parks in and around Gothenburg. I really enjoy shooting in all the different seasons. One of my favorite areas is around Lake Delsjön.”

Götaplatsen — “This is the plaza where the Gothenburg Museum of Art is located, a beautiful building to shoot. I love the architecture and the lines and shapes of the pillars and stairs. Climb the stairs for a view of downtown of Gothenburg. The plaza is a perfect place to have a drink and enjoy the sunset in the summertime.”

https://instagram.com/p/85CUZZHl_N/

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take me back to #Norway.

A post shared by Cim Ek (@cimek) on May 27, 2015 at 7:54am PDT

Following her feed on Instagram gives viewers an immaculate view of what kind of life awaits one not only in Gothenburg, but in other parts of Europe.  A life that is surrounded by the beauty of nature, fine architecture and an overall vibe that gives a semblance of romance to every frame a travel photographer takes.

https://instagram.com/p/3GBjRknl16/

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take a moment. . . #latergram #parisjetaime #sunsethunter #sunsetoftheday #parisiloveyou #parismonamour #travelgram #strangersinmyfeed

A post shared by Cim Ek (@cimek) on Mar 6, 2015 at 10:56pm PST

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in jardin du luxembourg. . . #latergram #paris #parisjetaime #parisiloveyou #parismonamour #letsgosomewhere #bw #jardinduluxembourg #parisian #parislife #streetphoto #strangersinmyfeed

A post shared by Cim Ek (@cimek) on Mar 3, 2015 at 9:58pm PST

To view more of Cim Ek’s picturesque and relaxed photographs from Gothenburg and other European cities, follow her @cimek on Instagram, Facebook, and on her website. 

The post Cim Ek Shows the Relaxed Beauty of Europe appeared first on Resource Travel.

Diwali Festival in Delhi India by Michael Bonocore

Diwali Festival in Delhi India by Michael Bonocore

Diwali Festival in Delhi India by Michael Bonocore

Diwali Festival in Delhi India by Michael Bonocore

Diwali Festival in Delhi India by Michael Bonocore

Diwali Festival in Delhi India by Michael Bonocore

Since this festivity promotes the importance of keeping hope alive and embracing a bright outlook in life, houses all over India are adorned with candles, fairy lights and other intricately designed clay lamps shining collectively to symbolize the guiding light that shield each household from dark spirits and other forms of sadness.

The many facets of Diwali showcase a stunning visual feast consisting of images of locals all over India indulging in a variety of manner of revelry which includes lighting up of firecrackers, staging colorful cultural shows, all while adorned with artistic costumes mimicking other forms of merrymaking.

If you are a travel photographer whose interest greatly resides in documenting colorful cultures and traditions, then photographing the Diwali Festival should be included in the upper bracket of your bucket list.

Diwali is a joyful celebration of the victory of good over evil, of our spiritual qualities dominating our basic instincts, and of intellect conquering ego.
– Anonymous

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Kali Pooja in Kolkata Diwali is one of the biggest festivals in India and just preceding it is Kali Pooja in West Bengal which is celebrated with as much pomp and vigour if not more. This pic was taken during a "bhasan/visarjan" where the idol is taken to a water body preferably a ghat (river bank) and submerged amidst a lot of singing and dancing as a way to bid adieu to the Goddess.

A post shared by Rishabh & Nirali | Gypsycouple (@_gypsycouple) on Nov 19, 2015 at 12:47am PST

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https://instagram.com/p/-OwVY4LQPc/

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Diwali lights bokeh + classic head turn shot. #clarendon #diwalilights #diwali2015 #bokeh #headturn #photoshoot #portrait #fashionphotography #delhi #traditionalwear #pretty #like4like #likeforlike #instalove #tagsforlikes #photooftheday #followback

A post shared by Manas Vatsal (@therighteye.photos) on Nov 18, 2015 at 7:30pm PST

https://instagram.com/p/-PGoyemITF/

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Belated Diwali wishes everyone!! #lamps #diyas #happydiwali #diwali #celebrations #goodtimes #indian #festival #imumbai #instamumbai #mumbai #vsco #vscocam #vscogood #vscogrid #vscophile #light #festivaloflights #incredibleindia #maharashtra #maharashtra_maza #beingmumbaikar

A post shared by Bhushan (@bhushan_p) on Nov 18, 2015 at 6:15am PST

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#Diwali2015

A post shared by Maruf Wasbir Hassan (@maruf_wasbir) on Nov 19, 2015 at 12:23am PST

https://instagram.com/p/-OLmUOx9BY/

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Chatt Puja #festivaloflights #ganges #holiwater #holicity #varanasi

A post shared by Shridhar Mishra (@shridhar.m) on Nov 18, 2015 at 3:04am PST

https://instagram.com/p/-OPs8_to3H/

The post Photographing the Light and Joy of India’s Diwali Festival appeared first on Resource Travel.