Joe Journeys

Nilaveli - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Sat, 06 Feb 2016 10:03:00 +0000

Trincomalee - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 16:38:00 +0000

Anuradhapura and Sacred Bodhi Tree - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 09:45:00 +0000

Polonnaruwa - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 12:48:00 +0000

Sigiriya - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 14:51:00 +0000

Dambulla Cave Temple - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Sat, 14 Nov 2015 16:56:00 +0000

Adam's Peak - Sri Pada - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 17:33:00 +0000

Cinnamon Air - Sri Lanka domestic air taxi | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 13:01:00 +0000

Galle Fort - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 12:58:00 +0000

Train ride on Sri Lankan Railway | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 23 Oct 2015 15:49:00 +0000

Colombo - Sri Lanka | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 09:43:00 +0000

Bagan - Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 17 Apr 2015 11:04:00 +0000

Bagan - Joe Journeys

Nyaung U - Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 15:45:00 +0000

Nyaung-U is a town in the Mandalay Region of central Myanmar. It lies on the eastern bank of Ayeyarwaddy River. It is just 4 kilometers away from old Bagan, a popular tourist attraction.

Nyaung U is a good place to settle for exploring the the ancient temples of Bagan. It has modern hotels and a nice selection of eating establishments, many of which offer free wifi. The town isn’t particularly large, and getting around on foot or a rented bike is very easy.

The Shwezigon Pagoda or Shwezigon Paya is a Buddhist temple located in Nyaung U. It is a prototype of Burmese stupas, a mound-like or hemispherical structure containing Buddhist relics, typically the ashes of Buddhist monks, used by Buddhists as a place of meditation. It consists of a circular gold leaf-gilded stupa surrounded by smaller temples and shrines.

Construction of the Shwezigon Pagoda began during the reign of King Anawrahta and was completed in 1102 AD, during the reign of King Kyansittha of the Pagan Dynasty. The pagoda is believed to enshrine a bone and tooth of Gautama Buddha, whose teachings of Buddhism was founded. Within the compound of the Shwezigon Pagoda is a stone pillar containing Mon language inscriptions dedicated by King Kyansittha.

The riverbank is undeveloped but a nice place to visit. It remains untouched and free to anyone who manages to reach it. I used a pedal bike to get around the first day, along some busy roads, and down some side streets and alleys where locals live, to reach the river.

Nyaung U proximity to Bagan and the temples was very convenient for exploring the area. After my pedal bike experience, which only cost about 2$US a day, I upgraded for the electric motor bike for 5$US a day.

The question before arriving was, where to stay in Bagan? Nyaung U was ideal, it is close to the airport and within reach of the most important sites of Bagan, with many conveniences for the modern and adventurous traveller.

Nyaung U - Joe Journeys

The Great Wall - Mutianyu - China | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 11:38:00 +0000

Beijing - China | Joe Journeys

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 16:49:00 +0000

Joe Journeys is changing.

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Thu, 19 Sep 2013 20:28:00 +0000

I have been working hard to find a way to better deliver information and better organise my website, so hang in there while I update the content into the new and improved Joe Journeys.

You may notice in the next few days and weeks that pages will begin to look different, but this is all to improve things and better organise content. Joe Journeys blog is being retired, and instead and up-to-the-minute website is being built to prepare for the future.

Take a look at the new Joe Journeys, I would love to hear from you.

Why Hotel Lille - Review

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 23 Aug 2013 10:02:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

Finding the Best Western Premier Why Hotel in Lille is an easy walk from any of the train stations, the facade already hints your about to get into something unusual about a standard hotel, something it definitely is not.

The lobby and entrance is nothing to boast about, it has a restaurant on the main floor and outdoor terrace, a DJ with chill-out music suggests a trendy place to be, something the room interiors definitely deliver.

Oval windows, stylish rooms, big plush beds, LED mood lighting, flat screen TV, modern bathrooms with very unique deep bath and shower that requires a bit of a climb. There is room service available (handy when I discovered my fridge wasn't working and a bucket of ice was delivered). In room coffee maker with proper Nesspresso coffee that always delivers a punch of caffeine.

The Best Western Premier Why Hotel is chic and stylish. The location is ideal, butLille is small anyway, getting around on foot is the best way to see the town. Nearby pedestrian shopping areas and restaurants, and just a short walk from main sites.

Best Western Premier Why Hotel - Booking.com
Best Western Premier Why Hotel - Tripadvisor
Best Western Premier Why Hotel

Pride Azores to celebrate 2nd Gay Pride event

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Thu, 15 Aug 2013 10:27:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

A second Azores Pride Festival will be held from 25 to 31 August 2013 in Ponta Delgada, after having a successful first gay pride event on the island in 2012, and what is hoped to become an annual event.

More than 2000 people participated in the first-ever Pride Azores event on September 1, 2012, a success considering the islands isolation and hidden attitudes towards LGBT, which are more open on the content of Portugal, the event highlights the Azores are not exempt from having gay residents too.

This years theme is titled "Do not blend into the landscape", encouraging the 20,000 inhabitants to come out and celebrate who they are and stop hiding.

The highlight of the event, the LGBT Pride Parade is scheduled for Saturday, August 31, at 18h, taking the route between the City Gates and the Gates of Sea of Ponta Delgada, the largest city of the Azores A fairly new area that is used to dock some of the worlds major cruise ships that pass by the picturesque island of São Miguel on cross Atlantic routes.

The Festival, organized by the LGBT Pride Azores, is open to anyone and not limited to individuals of LGBT but also with the participation and collaboration of heterosexual supporters. Details of the week long program are found on the Pride Azores website, with events and schedules throughout the week.

The organization Pride Azores will now continue it´s work on all 9 islands of the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, with workshops in schools, libraries, and other special events throughout the year supporting the over 20,000 citizens that are mostly in the closet. The Azores has a population of approximately 250,000, but there are many more Azoreans living in the areas of Toronto, Canada and California, USA, amongst other parts of the world.

The Association aims to support and social integration of the population lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people and their families in the Azores, through educational programs, social and cultural. The motto of the Association is to educate, liberate and celebrate.

Pride Azores
Gay Travel: First Pride Azores

BA fly A380 with flights to/from Frankfurt

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Sat, 03 Aug 2013 12:11:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

Happy to post this on behalf of a passenger and follower of Joe Journeys that was lucky enough to fly British Airways on day 1 of operation, 4th commercial BA 380 flight from Frankfurt to London Heathrow.

The new A380 is now being deployed on short-haul flights in order to give cabin crew and ground handlers experience of the jet - starting with BA902 to Germany's financial centre.

Instead of an old Boeing 767, passengers stepped aboard the Airbus A380, British Airways newest plane, for the 90-minute flight. Frankfurt was chosen because it is a high-frequency destination from Heathrow, and the airport is already well accustomed to handling the A380.

All passengers were accommodated on the lower deck; those carrying Club Europe tickets were able to enjoy lie-flat business-class beds on the short flight.

"The crew was visibly new, so all pretty excited and service wasn't routine yet" said the flyer who regularly does this route.

"Economy cabin looked like the normal long haul product with Business the same (2-4-2 layout with some back facing seats)" commented the frequent flyer who wants to remain anonymous, "First Class and Upper Deck was sealed off and I wasn't allowed to get in there. They seemed to have installed a few blue mood-lights (a bit like in new first), but apart from that the most striking difference was that the cabin was proper clean. Service was standard Club Europe, nothing exciting. though there were 23 crew members for what usually would have been an A319 load. The bird itself is fairly quiet and moves pretty softly" he said, "the engines move a lot, especially when there is a little wind. I'd imagine that to look scary during turbulence."

British Airways

Emirates celebrates 5 years flying the A380 - Google streetview gives a look inside

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Sat, 03 Aug 2013 11:04:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

The Gulf carrier, Emirates, unveiled its first, long-awaited A380 in July 2008 and now celebrates five years of flying the A380. Emirates has 35 A380 aircraft in its fleet and a further 55 on order, making it — by far — the airline most committed to the Airbus superjumbo.

It was five years ago, on August 1, 2008, that Emirates flew the superjumbo on its debut flight to New York, which remains its longest non-stop route. The full list of A380 destinations is: Dubai, Amsterdam, Auckland, Bangkok Beijing, Hong Kong Jeddah, Kuala Lumpur, London Heathrow, Manchester, Melbourne, Moscow Munich, New York JFK, Paris, Rome Seoul, Singapore, Shanghai, Sydney and Toronto. New routes are set to extend to Los Angeles, Mauritius and Zurich.

The A380s carry up to 517 passengers, with 14 in First Class, 76 in Business and the remaining 399+ in Economy. First and Business are on the upper deck, while economy is on the main lower deck. On the upper deck is the Onboard Lounge, where First and Business passengers can enjoy a drink with mini-pod lie-flat seats in Business Class and the sanctuary of Private Suites in First Class with access to two Onboard Shower Spas. All of the airline's A380s are fitted with wifi.

The world's first purpose-built facility dedicated for the A380 was opened in January 2013 at Concourse A at Dubai International.

Coinciding with the 5th anniversary milestone, Emirates has partnered with Google to launch the world’s first Street View of an A380, the world’s largest commercial jet aircraft. Explore online the Emirates A380’s luxurious First Class Private Suites, expansive Business Class cabin, Onboard Lounges, Shower Spas, cockpit and more on Street View. You can take a stunning, 360-degree virtual journey of the iconic double-decker.

Business Class of A380 on Emirates

First Class Lounge of A380 on Emirates

Economy Class of A380 on Emirates

Five years of the Emirates’ A380 - quirky facts*

Bread rolls loaded: 14,000,000
Fresh fruit baskets: 22,438
Fresh flower displays: 157,062
Caviar tins (30 grammes): 210,477 (6,314 kilogrammes)
Shaving kits: 224,414
Toothbrushes: 1,009,767
Cornflake packs: 516,061
Coffee packs: 2,153,988
Teabags: 4,375,237
Sugar packs: 6,731,580
Baby food jars: 538,500
*Figures refer to items loaded aboard Emirates’ A380s departing Dubai only. This does not include items loaded overseas.

Source:
Emirates A380 Cruises into 5th Anniversary

Hotel Galeon Sitges

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Tue, 09 Jul 2013 09:32:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

Having returned year on year to Sitges for my annual holiday from holidays, the Hotel Sitges group offers a selection of hotels in various classes, one of which is Hotel Galeon which at one time was a budget hotel, but now delivers a much more upscale experience, and a reason why I always choose to book here first when I return to Sitges.

When I first stayed in Hotel Galeon the rooms were basic but clean, it delivered excellent value back then, and since renovations and upgrades rooms are now delightfully decorated, comfortable beds, wooden floors and modernised bathrooms, even air conditioning is installed in the rooms for individual control for those that just can't stand the heat.

What I really like is the late breakfasts which are served until 12pm, unheard of in almost any hotel elsewhere. A choice of pillow from soft to firm, and even beach towels and umbrellas are available free (with deposit), saving you valuable luggage space and weight.

Hotel Galeon is my number one choice when I return to Sitges it delivers and is an excellent product conveniently located in the heart of Sitges.

Hotel Galeon - Booking.com
Hotel Galeon - Tripadvisor
Hotel Sitges

Dreamliner to Toronto on BA

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Thu, 27 Jun 2013 10:53:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

British Airways announces arrival of the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner with routes to Toronto and Newark from September 2013. Though the BA website does have my scheduled flight listed as an operational flight, they cannot guarantee the aircraft I will be traveling on, but keeping my fingers crossed.

The new Boeing 787 Dreamliner cabin interior have been designed nose to tail. A new 'smooth ride technology' is said to provide a calmer journey. There are larger windows and new ambient lighting. The aircraft is also quieter, lighter and more fuel efficient.

I'll be watching to see if my flight is lucky enough to travel on this new aircraft, and if I do, I'll be sure to let you know what it was like.

British Airways

Cloister Inn Hotel Review - Prague

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Fri, 21 Jun 2013 14:42:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

A three star hotel perfectly located in Prague 1, just a few minutes walk from Old Town Prague and the famous Charles Bridge. For a hotel of this class I was impressed overall by the standards and service. Clean interiors, very good sized room, and free coffee and tea available in the lobby.

Classed as a budget hotel, rooms do not have a bathtub, but are equipped with a small fridge to keep food and drinks cold. All rooms have air conditioning units and climate control, which in summer is essential in Prague if you can't handle the heat.

Breakfast is simple with options of cereals, rolls, small selection of fruit, cold meats and cheeses, boiled eggs and sausage, which is enough to get you started for the day.

I would return to Cloister Inn simply for the location alone, and for being within budget.

Cloister Inn Hotel - Booking.com

Radisson Hotel Decapolis Review - Lima

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Thu, 23 May 2013 11:04:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

One usually has standards when staying at a chain hotel and Radisson Decapolis Hotel in the safe neigbourhood of Miraflores in Lima is a good option. There was always enough staff on hand to answer your questions, open the doors, or serve you your pisco sour.

The location is excellent, with shopping nearby, fine dining or just want to walk along the cliff top path toward the Locamar centre or Love Park, I found the Radisson Decapolis ideal, chic and stylish with plenty of in-house services to do all you want to do in Lima.

The rooftop patio/bar, with swimming pool and glass enclosed gymnasium is a nice space, and at night becomes a good place to start the night to sip your pisco sours. In the morning the breakfasts surpass many hotels in this class with specialty menu, try the ranchero or Decapolis Special eggs which will waken your taste buds from the start.

The rooms are of excellent size but are not as modern or chic as the entrance or lobby, with a CD clock radio, perhaps it may be due for slight update. However, in no way are the rooms uncomfortable, with enough space to put your luggage away. A large bathroom with shower and bathtub, which ultimately I craved after days of trekking, a good soak and rest. Wifi worked everywhere and TV channels with enough options to view.

Ultimately the Radisson Decapolis is more expensive than others nearby, but places you in a prime spot for getting to know Lima or for a simple stop-over before discovering Peru. The service was attentive and felt cared for, something you don't often get when staying in a hotel of this class.

Radisson Decapolis Hotel - Booking.com

Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel Review

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Mendonca) — Wed, 22 May 2013 11:02:00 +0000

A post by Joe Mendonca

Cusco is a charming city and being near the Plaza de Armas puts you within reach of all the most important places of interest, such is the case when staying at Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel. Its outdoor terrace offers a great view of the city and the hills which surround it. Booking at Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel means airport pick-up as well for those just arriving into Cusco.

Upon registering you'll be offered coca tea to help with the altitude sickness that can sometimes hit travellers just arriving, it slowly creeps up on you as it did with me and found myself asleep very early in the evening as my body adjusted to the the new height, but fully recovered and ready the next day.

Despite booking two different types of rooms, a single on the first stay and a double room on subsequent stay, both rooms were identical in size and style. The rooms are a good size however could be small considering there could be two in a room. Bathroom are modern and clean and two bottled waters are included.

Though all rooms have large windows, there is nothing to look out to, most rooms face into courtyards, and having your curtains drawn would mean disclosing everything inside. However most just pass through Cusco and a stay here is ideally located and comfortable, and staff ensure you get on your way on time and requested taxi bookings arrive on time and a price that is correct locally (be warned, taxi drivers will make you think they are offering a fair price, but in fact the actually cost is often less than 50% of what they quote you).

There are more upscale options to stay in Cusco but Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel is comfortable enough to enjoy and its location is ideal, considering the price too, its not a bad deal after all.

Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza Hotel - Booking.com