Author: Igor

  • The Hidden Gems in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

    Photo by: Lindbergh Paimalan on unsplash.com


    While it’s no secret that the Philippines is home to great many tourist destinations, from pristine, white sand beaches, to gorgeous hills, there is one, in particular, that’s been catching the eyes of tourists from far and wide. Vigan, Ilocos Sur is one of the top destinations you don’t want to miss. Sights such as Calle Crisologo and Vigan Heritage Site are all found in Vigan City. Before you drive out to explore the city of Vigan, be sure you have an IDP when
    driving in the Philippines to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey in this Ilocos Sur city. 

    The thought of all the fantastic destinations you’ll encounter when you explore the city of Vigan can sound a bit overwhelming, especially when it’s your first time in the city. Situated in the North, Vigan is home to many hidden gems that you don’t want to bypass when you visit. Apart from the super-popular Calle Crisologo, you have to visit other equally impressive tourist destinations when you explore the city of Vigan.

    National Museum of the Philippines

    The best way to better appreciate your destination is through knowing the history of the place. The National Museum of the Philippines, situated in Vigan City, can offer you a one-of-a-kind trip back in time through the artifacts it holds and the architecture it presents. The National Museum of the Philippines contains historical items and sections such as Padre Burgos’ House, now home to his belongings, and President Quirino’s museum that houses the former president’s memorabilia.

    Make your Vigan trip memorable and hassle-free by obtaining an IDP from the International Driver’s Association. Having one makes driving in the Philippines so much smoother, faster, and safer. 

    Bantay Church Bell Tower

    No visit to Vigan would be complete with a visit to the Bantay Church Bell Tower, an ages-old brick belfry with a staircase you can climb to reach the top and get the best view of the horizon. For a bit of a background regarding the Bantay Church Bell Tower, this bell tower was once a vantage point during wars, allowing native forces to watch and anticipate the enemies. Nowadays, it’s a fun destination if you’re looking to take pictures of the scenery.

    When you explore the city of Vigan, be sure to have an IDP with you. Driving in the Philippines can be daunting for any tourist, but with an IDP, you’re sure to have a grand time as it makes your journey legal, safe, and convenient. Get one now!

    Photo by Chin Villanueva on unsplash.com 

    Pagburnayan Jar Factory

    Visit the Pagburnayan Jar Factory when you explore the city of Vigan and see first-hand how this jar factory makes some of the best jars in the nation, not to mention one of the very few factories left. Perhaps what makes the Pagburnayan Jar Factory special is it gives tourists a hands-on experience in pottery, which will develop a heightened appreciation for the pottery craft and flex those artistic muscles while learning about the culture at the same time.

    Marvel at the products and enjoy the process at Pagburnayan Jar Factory. Drive to this destination and more with an IDP and experience convenient driving unlike any other!

    Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone

    The name says it all-Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone is the zone for adventurous types and thrill-seekers. A 15-minute drive from the city, Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone offers thrilling outdoor activities such as a zip line that passes by the towns of Santa and Bantay. Other activities in this area include kayaking and rock climbing.

    Don’t miss out on all the enjoyment and excitement when you explore the city of Vigan! Have an IDP secured when driving in the Philippines for a more convenient and spontaneous getaway in Vigan City? 


    Photo by: Rhea Claire Gomez on unsplash.com 

    Explore all the tourist spots Vigan has to offer and experience a culture unlike any other! A city such as this, with rich history, vibrant culture, and astounding natural sights, is worth visiting. Make plenty of memories in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur by obtaining an IDP from the International Driver’s Association and freely exploring this unique city!

    References

    Top 13 Vigan City Tourist Spots Including Calle Crisologo and Churches

    https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/what-to-experience/vigan-ilocos-tourist-spots

    Author’s BIO:

    John Michael Wilson is an aspiring writer and is not afraid to learn new things to improve, he loves challenges and solves problems together with the International Drivers Association.

  • Greece: A Land Of Culture, Ancient Wisdom And Outdoor Pursuits

    Greece: A Land Of Culture, Ancient Wisdom And Outdoor Pursuits

    In the UK, we like to think that we have a long and illustrious history, stretching all the way back to the semi-mythical character of King Arthur and Camelot. But what we have here is nothing compared to Greece. In that country, the culture stretches back nearly a thousand years before the birth of Christ, making it one of the cradles of modern civilisation.

    Greece isn’t really like any other European country. On the mainland, you’ll find places like Thessaloniki and Corinth. But the country is also a series of islands too, each of which has a fantastic history of its own. They’re all unique too. The type of experience you’ll have on Kos is entirely different from Santorini.

    Getting around Greece is a lot of fun and usually requires a lot of travelling by sea. But that doesn’t mean you have to stick with convention. Why not go on a self-guided motorcycle tour of the country? The option is available if you want it.

    Unsplash – CC0 License

    Western Philosophy

    Greece is the home of western philosophy. It’s the main reason we have freedom, justice and democracy today. If the Greeks hadn’t introduced these progressive ideas, we might still be stuck in the Roman world – a culture that didn’t have the same level of intellectual flourishing.

    If you want to explore the beginnings of Western philosophy, Athens is arguably the first place to start. Usually, you’ll begin at the Acropolis where both Plato and Socrates are known to have visited. 

    After that you’ll want to head over to the Ancient Agora – an ancient cultural landmark.

    Still in Athens, you’ll want to check out the Erechtheion – an old temple dedicated to Poseidon and Athena, and the temple of Athena Nike, meaning “victory and wisdom.”

    Tours will also take you to the Parthenon which is an ancient archaeological site to the north of the Acropolis.

    Tours will then usually proceed to the famed city of Corinth, known best for the letters than Paul sent to the early Christian church there.

    Corinth is home to some UNESCO world heritage sites, including the Asklepieion, the birthplace of modern medicine, and Epidaurus the Theatre where you can listen to live shows with beautiful acoustics. 

    Tours also pay a visit to Mycenae and Tiryns. Mycenae is the birthplace of the Mycenaens – an ancient civilisation who appeared to have provided the intellectual stimulation that gave the ancient Greeks their profound wisdom. Here you will find the remains of beautiful cities and temples, complete with stunning murals from as far back as 1,200 BC.

    Outdoor Pursuits

    Unsplash – CC0 License

    Greece is also a stunning location for the adventurous at heart. Thanks to the weather and landscape, there are so many opportunities to have fun here it can sometimes make your head spin!

    If hiking is your thing, you’ll want to pay a visit to Krikelopotamos in Evritania. Here you’ll find multi-coloured rocks and a giant gorge the locals call Panta Vrechei. Along the length of the landscape feature, you’ll find a strange waterfall that seems to crash from the rock above like a curtain down to the valley below. The area is so beautiful, many companies provide guided tours, including a 4×4 taxi service to bring you to and from the destination. 

    If you’re looking for something a little less conventional, you might want to try your hand at truffle hunting in an area of Greece called Kalambaka. Here you’ll find a Natural History Museum that organises truffle-hunting tours for keen tourists looking to bag themselves a delicacy. More than 300 different truffle species grow in the region, providing ample opportunities to unearth something uniquely delicious.

    If you like spectacular landscapes, you might want to check out Mount Dirfys. This peak is quite high by Greek standards – at more than 1,000 metres in elevation – and provides opportunities for all types of outdoor pursuits. Mountain biking and rock climbing are big activities here. Then, when you’re done, you can go for a walk in the forests around the mountain or have a picnic by the river below.

    Wine lovers will want to check out the Jeep safaris up Mount OIympus. This area of Greece is famous for its special grape varieties that only seem to grow on the slopes of the peak between 200 and 800 metres above sea level. Nearby to the wine tasting areas is the famous church of Agioi Theodoroi close to the Museum of Wine and Vine.

    Cultural Sites

    Unsplash – CC0 License

    When it comes to cultural sites in Greece, the country spoils you for choice. You could spend months here exploring everything that it has to offer. We’ve already mentioned some of the sites in the country, but there are so many others. To keep the discussion short, we will limit the discussion to UNESCO World Heritage sites only (though there are many others).

    The Temple of Apollo at Delphi is perhaps the most famous of all of the Greek landmarks, aside from the Acropolis of Athens, designated world heritage status in 1987. According to legend, people came to see the oracle at the temple from all across the eastern Mediterranean, seeking light and justice. 

    If you head on over to Epidaurus in eastern Peloponnese, you’ll find the Sanctuary of Asclepius, a critical place of healing in the ancient world. If you had something wrong with you, you’d go there for treatment. Sometimes, the owners of the site would run spiritual events, attracting families from many miles around.

    If you like going to historic cities, you’ll want to check out medieval Rhodes – one of the most beautiful cities in the region.

    Rhodes isn’t as old as many people imagine. It’s not an ancient city by any stretch. In fact, the Knight Order of Saint John set it up between the fourteen and sixteen centuries. It was later occupied by the Italians and then the Ottomans. Many parts of the city are now World Heritage Sites, including the baths, mosquest and Great Hospital.

    In short, Greece is a fantastic place to visit on vacation and somewhere you’ll want to put on your bucket list.

  • For Busy Entrepreneurs: How to Bond With Your Teenage Kids

    As a self-starting professional, entrepreneurial growth exacts a heavy toll on your available time – a tough balance to manage when you have a family at home. It is all-too-easy to find that pursuing professional growth has whisked you away from family, and personal growth with your children. With your kids approaching adolescence, it can seem as if they’re getting old enough to handle themselves more independently – but they still need nurturing, and without your direction could find themselves going off the deep end.

    But there is a way to do both. By simply putting a little time aside each week with the purpose of spending it with your children, you can give them the parental ear they still need and bolster a mature relationship with them as they continue to grow. What follow are some simple suggestions for approaches and activities you can try with your kids, in order to build a positive relationship even during times of intense professional demand.

    Teach Them How to Drive

    Driving is a life skill that can hugely benefit your children going into adulthood, and an excellent opportunity for bonding. Sorting out learner driver insurance and scheduling some time each week to head out to a quiet industrial estate or car park is a brilliant way to engage with your children. With a simple and clear goal in mind for all concerned, this activity can be an incredibly focusing one – and by that same virtue, can provide a safe space in which to explore other aspects of your relationship.

    Cook Together

    In a similar vein, setting out to cook regular meals together can be a unifying experience, but all the more impactful by virtue of its regularity. In scheduling one or two nights a week to cook with your kids, you are making a promise to be present that evening, away from your work and cooking and eating with them. This can be revolutionary to your relationship, and provide valuable time for catching up – as well as a golden opportunity to teach life skills for their future independence.

    Establish Trust

    Usually, the burden is on the parent to demonstrate that their children can trust them. You are their foundation and guiding light all at the same time, especially through the tumult of early adolescence. But less explored is the other side of the coin, which becomes all the more prescient as your kids get older: your trust in them. 

    Where spending a lot of time growing your business may have removed you from their lives a little, this can be made a positive experience; by letting it be known to your children that you trust them, their time away from you can become a learning experience in maturity and growth. 

  • Home Office Ideas Regardless of the Size of Your Space

    1. So many people across the country had to adjust to working from home last year. From using the kitchen table as a desk to commuting to the lounge – people had to work with what they had. It’s so important to have a dedicated area for working in your home, as it helps keep your personal and professional life separate. No matter the size of your space, there’s plenty you can do to create a home office.

    Get Creative 

    The less space you have, the more creative you have to get. Don’t think of it as a hindrance, think of it as a challenge. You know you’re home better than anyone, so you’ll know what will and won’t work. You could use an old cupboard or dressing table as a desk. Make the most of your wardrobe storage and slot in some office supplies. Use space under the stairs and set up a workstation. Look at any available space you have, could you utilise it in a different way?

    Comfort

    When creating your home office, you want to ensure you’re comfortable. You don’t want to spend your whole working day cramped by a desk. Just because you have a small space, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Getting the right office chair will make a huge difference. If you’re super short on space – or funds – you could look into lumbar support cushions.

    Personal Touches 

    Another way you can feel more comfortable in your office space is to add some personal touches. Even though the space you’re creating is for work, it doesn’t have to be completely void of your personality. Small additions can make a big difference to your room. Think photos, plants, or art. Even something as simple as changing the lighting can create a better working environment. 

    Declutter

    Throughout a working week, it’s easy for your desk to fill up. Whether it’s cups of tea, email print-outs, post-it notes or surplus toner buyer. The last thing you want when you’re already short for space is to clutter it with things you don’t need. It’s important to regularly de-clutter your workspace. Not only does this keep your makeshift office space neat and functional, but it will also keep you organised.

    Even if it’s something as simple as reserving a certain table space to act as your office, you need to create an environment where you feel comfortable working in. Do you have any tips for creating a home office?

  • The True Costs Behind Streaming App Development Costs

    The video streaming technology gained a lot of popularity over the past few years completely overshadowing the television industry. Many companies are willing to hop on and build a streaming platform, however, the first question that arises is how much does it cost to create a streaming app

    The answer is quite a bit, to be honest. Although, as we have said, streaming skyrocketed in popularity, and it is predicted that it will become even more widespread in the coming years, so it still promises to bring hefty profits. It’s simply very convenient for the users, you can pretty much watch whatever you want, wherever you want, whenever you want.

    With that being said, let’s dive in and see what some of the potential costs of developing such an app could be.

    Image via Unsplash

    1. Video Streaming Development Services

    Building a video streaming app is no easy task. It’s very difficult, if not impossible to do it all by yourself. It would be best to pass the development process down to companies that are specialized in building apps.

    However, we all know that going to a restaurant will always be more expensive than cooking your own food. Same goes here, in most countries development companies charge around 100$ an hour, give or take.

    But, if you’re looking to cut your costs a bit there’s the option of working with a company that’s located in a third-world country. They ask for around 50$ or less, and you are going to end up with the same if not better quality than first-world countries will provide you.

    2. After Launch Expenses

    After you’ve got the main application, fresh from the oven, you’ll now need people to market it, run it and maintain it. Professionals like designers, QA specialists or project managers are a must when it comes to pretty much any app developer.

    A big team means a lot of money to be spent. However, if you’re looking to save some cash and time, you might take into consideration outsourcing. There two different ways to outsource: partnering up with an outsourcing agency, or looking for people to hire through all sorts of freelance sites.

    I’d personally opt for working with an outsourcing agency. It basically saves you a lot of time by not having to search and select potential employees.

    3. Development Time

    If you actually choose to not collaborate with a video streaming development company and decide to gather a team and create your own project from top to bottom, you’ll most likely be able to save a bit of money, but it will consume you a lot of time.

    The whole process of developing an app, including things like product design, project management, backend development, Android/iOS development, and quality assurance will most likely set you back $100.000.

    Conclusion

    When you think about it, developing a streaming app is actually worth it. It’s only going to rise up in popularity, so it might be able to end up with hefty profits in a long run. Just make sure to bring something unique to the market.