39. Featured Traveller
Keith Yuen
Manager : Travel Blogger & Photographer : Traveller
(Singapore, SINGAPORE)
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page”
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| Flag of Singapore |
When asked of his favourite destination, he did not give a direct answer, instead, he expressed his love of the diversity and uniqueness of each individual places.
Although the question seems tough and not easy for him to share, he sub-categorized some of the places that leave him unforgettable experiences.
Beach: Philippines, Greece and Thailand
Citylife: New York City, Singapore and Copenhagen & Stockholm
Landscape: Iceland, Norway and China
People Friendliness: Danish, Filipinos, Germans and Burmese
Road Trip: Australia, Canada and United States of America
Waterfall: Victoria Falls, Iguazu Falls* and Skogafoss
Wildlife: Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa
* Haven't visited Iguazu Falls. Next on his bucket list
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| A Glimpse of my journey in Foreign Land and Sea |
Keith is just one of our young featured travellers.
A long list of countries he has explored over the years is an inspiration to travellers his age and the young once as well. He opt not to mention one by one but rather invite you to visit his blog, travel inspiration 360 where you will discover the details of his journey. His blog is only four months on the web and have been receiving numerous positive feedback and encouragement since the very start.
His most viral article reaches over 70,000 readers covering the controversial stereotyped Filipino people. I admire him to the max for writing about the misconception about the Philippines.
I am so proud of Keith, not only because my origin is the Philippines, but for being honest and with an open mind and heart for the Filipinos. Read his article, it's truly an inspiration.
No wonder, it's viral!
A long list of countries he has explored over the years is an inspiration to travellers his age and the young once as well. He opt not to mention one by one but rather invite you to visit his blog, travel inspiration 360 where you will discover the details of his journey. His blog is only four months on the web and have been receiving numerous positive feedback and encouragement since the very start.
His most viral article reaches over 70,000 readers covering the controversial stereotyped Filipino people. I admire him to the max for writing about the misconception about the Philippines.
I am so proud of Keith, not only because my origin is the Philippines, but for being honest and with an open mind and heart for the Filipinos. Read his article, it's truly an inspiration.
No wonder, it's viral!
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| Favourite Friendliest Nationality |
Keith makes a documentary of his travels.
He captions his photographs with famous quotes and quotations he himself creates and shares with friends on his social networks (e.g. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and travel blog.
I have learned from Keith about travelling strategies ~ budgeting and saving before, during and after a trip. I have read and re-read most of his tips and experiences. It's really worth it.
Would you like to learn more about his budget travel tips?
Read on and discover some of Keith's travel secrets. If you want more interaction, go and visit him by clicking the link to his blog. He is waiting. He will be glad you did!
He captions his photographs with famous quotes and quotations he himself creates and shares with friends on his social networks (e.g. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and travel blog.
I have learned from Keith about travelling strategies ~ budgeting and saving before, during and after a trip. I have read and re-read most of his tips and experiences. It's really worth it.
Would you like to learn more about his budget travel tips?
Read on and discover some of Keith's travel secrets. If you want more interaction, go and visit him by clicking the link to his blog. He is waiting. He will be glad you did!
* * * * *
A lot of people asked me where I get my travel bug from. Some of them asked me whether I can get rid of the bug?
The truth is, I can never get this bug out of me because it was from my beloved father.
The truth is, I can never get this bug out of me because it was from my beloved father.
My dad is my life inspiration!
He inspired me to travel, meet people and understand their cultures. He inspired me to appreciate diversities, broaden up my mind and drop differences.
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| Uncanny Inspiration from My Beloved Father |
A shocking discovery!
An old album of him exploring the countries where I have been travelling. It is amazing to see him posing for photos in landmarks very similar to mine. I suddenly feel the sweet memories of him; his being receptive to kindness that made me understand that everyone equally deserves to see and enjoy the world.
Is it a mere coincidence?
I am sharing some of the photos here in memory of my beloved father ~ 12 July 2009
Singapore is where I was born and raised.
It is so tiny that resembles a red dot in a world map located in the middle of Southeast Asia.
Yes, I am from Singapore!
Boring as it may sound but I always try not to be as boring as the country where I came from. That must be the reason why I am becoming a passionate Singaporean travel writer and photographer.
It is so tiny that resembles a red dot in a world map located in the middle of Southeast Asia.
Yes, I am from Singapore!
Boring as it may sound but I always try not to be as boring as the country where I came from. That must be the reason why I am becoming a passionate Singaporean travel writer and photographer.
Travelling is the great true love of my life. I am loyal and constant in my love for travel. I know some people feel that travelling is challenging, tough, fearful and expensive, if not impossible.
If you are concerned about the economy outlook and still think that travelling is just a dream that you can never fulfill, then, you may be interested in what I am going to share on how you could better manage your travel budget, leveraging on hidden skills, or maybe some tips to create an affordable trip of a lifetime.
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| I Love Singapore! |
Contrary to what most of my friends are asking me, one doesn't have to be rich to be able to travel ~ because I'm not.
I cannot blame them but to people who know me, am not rich and was not born with a silver spoon. To be honest, I am just a traveller making a humble living and believe in budget travelling. I save on my daily expenses and find various ways to cut my travelling budget as low as possible.
I cannot blame them but to people who know me, am not rich and was not born with a silver spoon. To be honest, I am just a traveller making a humble living and believe in budget travelling. I save on my daily expenses and find various ways to cut my travelling budget as low as possible.
If you are ready to travel with me and if you are as adventurous, spontaneous and tough like me, then we can go places while keeping the budget lower than the promotional price online.
Does it sounds great to you?
If it is, then, let's go ahead and hit the road.
Do the three P's when calling the airline.
Politeness - Patience - Praises.
These are the three important attributes to remember.
A true story: While planning for a trip to Iceland and United Kingdom, I used the search engine for cheap airfare. The ticket ranges between 2000 and 5000 Singapore dollars which is too expensive. Called several airlines directly and found one with a SGD$1300 quote for a round trip from Singapore to London via Dubai. Though it was a good deal, I still try my luck if my return city is Dublin, instead of London so I ask. I was skeptical and pretty doubtful that she can give me lower than SGD$1300 but keep my politeness and patience and praises her being very accommodating.
After waiting for ten minutes, guess what she told me?
"Because you are nice and patient with me, I managed to keep the fare to SGD$1100", she jokingly explained.
Whether it's a joke or just pure luck, who knows?
Booking cheaper flights.
The earlier the booking, the cheaper.
Though I don't deny or challenge this theory, I still believe that planning in advance and checking good deals on the discounted travel websites is a no-brainer. Look out for coupons or promotional codes online where you can find additional 5%-20%. Non-direct flights can save you thousand of dollars. The longer the connecting time, the cheaper it gets.
Can you endure a long wait at the airport?
Eating with the locals.
Do what the locals do and eat what the locals eat.
I am a vegetarian but I do splurge occasionally on food. There is always a good reason why locals eat in a crowded eateries. It is either the resto serves mouth-watering food or you pay the value for money. Eating with the locals will give you the real taste of the country, opportunities to mingle with the locals and get more insider travelling tips. There is no way to 'donate' big sum of money to the up-scale tourist trap restaurants.
You don't want to do that, do you?
If it is, then, let's go ahead and hit the road.
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| Some countries I have visited |
Politeness - Patience - Praises.
These are the three important attributes to remember.
A true story: While planning for a trip to Iceland and United Kingdom, I used the search engine for cheap airfare. The ticket ranges between 2000 and 5000 Singapore dollars which is too expensive. Called several airlines directly and found one with a SGD$1300 quote for a round trip from Singapore to London via Dubai. Though it was a good deal, I still try my luck if my return city is Dublin, instead of London so I ask. I was skeptical and pretty doubtful that she can give me lower than SGD$1300 but keep my politeness and patience and praises her being very accommodating.
After waiting for ten minutes, guess what she told me?
"Because you are nice and patient with me, I managed to keep the fare to SGD$1100", she jokingly explained.
Whether it's a joke or just pure luck, who knows?
Booking cheaper flights.
The earlier the booking, the cheaper.
Though I don't deny or challenge this theory, I still believe that planning in advance and checking good deals on the discounted travel websites is a no-brainer. Look out for coupons or promotional codes online where you can find additional 5%-20%. Non-direct flights can save you thousand of dollars. The longer the connecting time, the cheaper it gets.
Can you endure a long wait at the airport?
Eating with the locals.
Do what the locals do and eat what the locals eat.
I am a vegetarian but I do splurge occasionally on food. There is always a good reason why locals eat in a crowded eateries. It is either the resto serves mouth-watering food or you pay the value for money. Eating with the locals will give you the real taste of the country, opportunities to mingle with the locals and get more insider travelling tips. There is no way to 'donate' big sum of money to the up-scale tourist trap restaurants.
You don't want to do that, do you?
Avoid breakfast in a hotel.
I don't normally take breakfast in my hotel to avoid paying the incredibly overpriced meal.
Although there are some hotels that serve good meals, more often hotels cater for the usual boring 'continental' breakfast. I choose to have a good brunch elsewhere in the area so I can try the local food and explore for local delicacies.
Would you like to join me and try it, at least for once?
Take public transport.
Many cities in the developed countries have expensive private transport.
Using cheap but efficient public transport system is a must to cut cost. Take a train instead of calling a taxi because the traffic in developed cities usually are congested especially during peak hours.
So, if you want to save money, I would recommend the public transport.
If you are travelling across the country, between cities or in rural areas, you may rent a car because it is always fun and exciting to do road trips in foreign land. It also give you freedom and surprises on what you see on the road.
You may want to see new things just like everyone else, right?
Take overnight train or flight.
An overnight train is the best option to save time and money.
Precious time is wasted commuting during the day that can be better use in exploring. You can also avoid an overnight stay in a hotel which can help reduce your travel budget. On the other hand, an overnight flight is way more cheaper than day flights. Taking the red-eye flight will keep your budget low. This can save you money and will earn you an extra day in either European country, East Asia or Oceania that will get to your destination on a fresh new day.
My strategy to save money and time!
Checking in at luxurious hostel.
You do need to pamper yourself or energize a bit after a long trip or some tiring activities.
Instead of staying in a luxury hotel, a luxurious hostel will be good choice. I have stayed at some high-end hostels who offered me nice, clean and comfortable individual room ~ a privacy that I badly need after a long period of travelling.
It is obvious.
You will enjoy cheaper rates, privacy and more opportunities to meet and mingle with fellow international travellers.
Does luxury hostel sounds a good deal to you?
Asking for more during low season.
Yes, it's low season and you will get cheaper airfares, cheaper and better quality rooms, and more importantly less time in a queue.
You probably want to know how to do this, right?
Simply ask for more.
All you need is a polite greeting, charming smile, simply open your mouth and ASK. Airline companies, hotels and hostels are willing to provide you upgrades free of charge to make you happy and satisfied with their services.
Do they know that you will tell the world about a pleasant experience with them?
Maybe not.
Shopping at local convenience stores.
This is a no-brainer.
It is obvious that big shops and branded luxury stores are costly. Street stalls and local souvenir shops is a good catch. They have great deals that you have to check ~ unique and local items are cheaper options. Though big department stores offer low price for foodies such as chocolates and local delicacies. Flea markets have special products and prices that are negotiable.
You can haggle, can't you?
Walking tours with a student guide.
Walking tour with students is becoming popular these days in many countries.
What made it a sought-after tour service?
Yes, you are right, it is FREE.
Local schools encourage students to gain valuable experience in showing foreigners around their city. They like to share the beauty of their country and at the same time further their knowledge and improve their social skills by interacting with international guests. One thing I am sure is that the student guide will make you comfortable and pleased. A cash tip will definitely go a long way. For sure, they will appreciate and remember you and will do more as they go along.
I hope you liked my personal tips that I have shared. If you find them useful or if you can add more suggestions, feel free to comment below.
* * * * *
To our valuable readers and fellow travellers: This is the first time (as far as we can remember) that we published a featured traveller during the busy time of the year when everyone is in holiday mood.
Keith and I would like to take this opportunity to join hands with you and celebrate the New Year.
Let there be peace on earth and let it begin right here, right now!
More Photos on Favourite Destinations
We opt to publish some more of the beautiful photos of Keith with no intention of bragging his travels, rather inspire the young men and women whose passion and dream is to travel.
His humble beginnings and his numerous travels is a clear indication that you too deserve to see the world no matter what is your status in life.
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| My favourite Beach destination |
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| My Favourite City destination |
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| My Favourite Landscape destination |
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| My Favourite Road Trip destination |
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| My Favourite Waterfalls destination |
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| My Favourite Wildlife destination |
From the desk of:
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Freddie Miranda
A blogger and a Canada-based freelance writer. He shares the value of his travel experiences and discoveries with his friends and fellow travellers. Share your passion, join and visit him. Send him a message if you will @ fromatravellersdesk(at)gmail.(dot)com.
Watch for these blogs!
They all have been travelling for many years and I can guarantee that all of them have travel tips that all of us can learn and benefit from. I have to thank all other fellow travellers who have responded to my invite. I will definitely publish your stories as soon as I have completed the details.
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Featured Traveller #5 Marie from Sydney AUSTRALIA
Featured Traveller #6 ChrisKo from Vienna AUSTRIA
Featured Traveller #7 Jeff from Winnipeg Manitoba CANADA
Featured Traveller #8 Noreen from Cologne GERMANY
Featured Traveller #9 Armie from Manila PHILIPPINES
Featured Traveller #10 Nelieta from Cordoba ARGENTINA
Featured Traveller #11 Bojo from Quezon City PHILIPPINES
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Featured Traveller #13 Cris from Valenzuela City PHILIPPINES
Featured Traveller #14 Jeroen from Hoogeveen The NETHERLANDS
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Featured Traveller #17 Kwan from Bangkok THAILAND
Featured Traveller #18 Jørn Eriksson from Oslo NORWAY
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Featured Traveller #20 Marysia from Warsaw POLAND
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Featured Traveller #22 Wesam from Baghdad IRAQ
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Featured Traveller #29 Anje from Knysna SOUTH AFRICA
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Are you a traveller who would like to share your travel story with our blog and our readers? Then, I'd love to hear from you!
Please email me at fromatravellersdesk@gmail.com
nice sharing...i love your blog..
ReplyDeleteHi Muhammad Khairuddin Lim,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your support and encouragement. Hope you continue to support Freddie too, he is a great guy! :-)
Thanks Freddie for featuring me again. My honour to work with you. :-)
Regards
Keith Yuen