JOEJOURNEYS

December 7, 2012

PJ Hotel Review - Seoul, South Korea

Traveling with two friends and having to fit three in a room can be challenging when it comes to searching for a hotel, often it means two have to share a bed while one is lucky enough to have their own. With PJ Hotel they had arrangements and rooms which are perfectly suited for sharing, even when there is more than two of you.

I was highly impressed by the rooms which are large and spacious. Having three single beds meant we all could have our own sleeping space. In addition, there is a small entry hall to leave shoes or jackets, a large bathroom with separate glass shower and separate bathtub, and the obligatory electric toilet seats founds in most of Asia (I especially like the heated seat). Particularly nice is a small elevated living space with low table and chairs, an air cleaner, Nespresso coffee maker and coffee capsules, electric kettle and tea (though hot and cold water can also be obtained in the hall area just outside the rooms), safe, and a small fridge supplied with three bottles of water.

As well as a 32 inch HD flat screen TV in the bedroom, the living area also had a small 19 inch TV for separate entertainment. Wifi also enabled and ready to use throughout the hotel, free.

This four star hotel really did deliver comfort and quality, exceptionally well. I wouldn't hesitate to stay again as it is nicely located within walking distance of historic sites and attractions, as well as shopping and unique markets and streets founds near its steps.

Hotels

November 11, 2012

VIP Lounge Pisa Airport - Review

Access to a lounge before a flight can always enhance the experience of travel, however the VIP Lounge at Pisa airport isn't anything worth returning to, the decor dated, it reminded me of someones living room from sometime in the 1970s.

The seats were narrow and uncomfortable, something you wouldn't want to spend much time on. The plastic seats in the departure area were wider and flexible than those found in this VIP Lounge.

Snacks are limited but at least a good selection of drinks were available as well as excellent coffee for the boosting power of espresso to jolt you on your way.

Not the worst lounge I've been to (that prize goes to the one in Havana Airport), VIP Lounge at Pisa airport is at least a quiet place.

November 9, 2012

Nh Cavalieri Hotel Review - Pisa Italy

Steps from the main railway station and only 1km from Pisa airport, and a short walk to the old town centre and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This four star hotel isn't exactly in the best area of town, but it is convenient.

However, the four star rating is exaggerated as it fails to deliver. Though comfortable, I left the hotel feeling let down by the service, a lack of attention, and poorly maintained in-room facilities.

Room 107 was a good size with two twin beds, high ceilings, patio doors with small balcony overlooking the square of the Pisa Central train station. The bathroom was large and clean, a good selection of soap and shower gels. A good size closet, and small desk made this a decent room overall.

The TV turned on, but had no channels or 'no service available at this time' the entire stay. The mini bar fridge wasn't working, leaving me with a selection of overpriced warm drinks. One of the two lamps by the bed did not function. No extra outlets for charging mobiles or electronic devices, except in bathroom where a spare plug for electric shaver was available.

Reception and hallways were modern and clean. The breakfast was a good selection for a hotel in Italy, but nothing exceptional.

Nh Cavalieri served its purpose, but am disappointed the hotel fell short of expectations for a 4 star, but this is Italy where most things are generally over-rated, I shouldn't have expected the quality of Nh Hotels, at least not in Pisa.

October 6, 2012

Top Gambling Getaway Destinations

In collaboration with James Guill.

Casino de Monte Carlo

Gambling getaways have been growing in popularity with tourists over the last few years as many of the social stigmas around gambling have become relaxed. As such, tourists are always looking for the best spots to vacation and get their gamble on. Below are our picks for the best gambling getaway destinations.

Las Vegas

The top gambling destination in the United States is easily Las Vegas, NV. Known as Sin City, Vegas offer any type of gambling and almost any type of entertainment that tourists would want.

Not including establishments with just slots and video poker, Las Vegas has 77 casinos spread out through the city. Twenty-nine of those are located on the Vegas strip and include the Bellagio, Venetian, and Wynn.

With so many casinos, many offer low cost options for those looking for budget gambling getaways. With a little research you can find discounts on everything from hotels to entertainment.

Monte Carlo

If you've ever seen the classic James Bond movie Casino Royale, then you have seen
one of the most elegant casinos in the world. The Casino de Monte Carlo is located in
the heart of Monaco and is the oldest of all European casinos.

Built in 1863, the Monte Carlo is famous for its classic architecture as well as its
sophistication. A dress code is enforced here and at night patrons dress exactly as you would find them in Bond films.

This casino is a great place to experience the life of a high roller, but without having to have the bankroll of one.

Macau

Macau has quickly grown to become the top gambling destination in the world. In fact,
their revenues have grown at such a dramatic rate that they have surpassed Las Vegas as the top casino destination in the world.

At present there are 33 casinos in Macau with a large number of them running under a
government franchise. In recent years, large casino companies have been allowed to build in Macau, and one of those companies constructed the largest casinos property in the world.

The Venetian Macau has a casino with over 500,000 square feet in gambling space
and the property takes up 10.5 Million square ft in total space. In addition to casino gambling, there are plenty of options for patrons that include hit shows, live music, and more.

The Venetian Macau

October 3, 2012

Happy Nations - World Happiness Report

As if the United Nations didn't have more pressing matters to deal with, in April 2012 they commissioned the World Happiness Report, which reviews the state of happiness in the world today.

The report reflects a new worldwide demand for more attention to happiness and absence of misery as criteria for government policy.

These are the results of the first ever World Happiness Report 2012.

The World Happiness Report

Denmark
Finland
Norway
Netherlands
Canada
Switzerland
Sweden
New Zealand
Australia
Ireland
USA
Costa Rica
Austria
Israel
Belgium
Luxembourg
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
Venezuela
Iceland

View World Happiness Report
Download PDF of World Happiness Report

October 1, 2012

Kauai Has Many Gems – Here's 4

A guest post by Vincent Stokes.

Secret Kauai Bay - picture by Justin Donnelly

Just 20 minutes by air from Honolulu, the garden island, Kauai is over 550 mi.² of some of most beautiful terrain on earth. Kauai is known as the garden isle and is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands. Receiving over 450 inches of rain a year Kauai is one of the wettest spots on the planet. The millennia rains have carved out some of the most beautiful canyons, cliffs, and waterfalls in the world.

Kauai offers a truly relaxed atmosphere with small quaint towns and a plethora of tropical beaches and resorts. If adventure is in your heart then you won't have to go far to find world-class hikes, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing or other Hawaiian style activities. Here are a few gems of the garden island to wet your appetite.

Waipouli Beach Resort

Words can't do justice to the beauty of Waipouli Beach Resort. This works well for the entire family or for a romantic getaway for that special someone. It's one of those places where you actually feel like YOU want to say thank you for letting you stay there. Everything you need is within walking distance. We strolled across the street coconut marketplace to get a taste of the local scene and found a free hula show right there in the center of the quad.

Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is located on the Westside of the island. It is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and believe me, that is no exaggeration! Make sure you follow the main road all the way into the mountains where it ends at Kokee State Park. This is the furthest end of the canyon and when you get there get ready to look down to the ocean over 4000 feet below you. If you are a newcomer then stop by the Kokee Natural History Museum and ask the staff to provide you with the best trail and scenic advice for the day.

Polihale State Beach Park

This beach-park is located miles away from the nearest town and only publicly accessed through poorly marked dirt roads. The road is bumpy, dusty, and turns into somewhat of a mini road trip but it is worth it once you arrive. There is open beach for miles and it is nearly empty most of the time. If you want to get away from life on the mainland and from the tourist traps you can fall in, then go to Polihale. I was there on a holiday weekend and still only saw about 10 people all day. Amazing!

Kipu Falls

Kipu Falls is a lovely little gem hidden off the main highway. Use extreme caution though, when entering the pool. It may look inviting and calm, however, there has been a few serious injuries and deaths over the past few years. This has prompted local authorities to remove Kipu Falls from tourist guidebooks. This makes the place a little bit more exotic and less crowded. Only go here if you understand the risks and are confident in your swimming abilities. Enjoy the scenery and if you do
use the rope swing take the tips from the locals and never dive headfirst.

Kauai Sunset - picture by Doug Brown

About the Author:

Vincent Stokes is an avid traveler and freelance writer. He is also a Hawaii enthusiast.

September 27, 2012

First Cabin Tokyo Haneda - Review

An alternative option instead of staying at a hotel, First Cabin is a capsule style private room located in Terminal 1 of Tokyo Haneda Airport, perfect for early morning flights, but also available for hire for a few hours, or day use, if you have a long wait for a connecting flight.

I opted for the First Class Cabin of 4.2 square metres, instead of the Business Class Cabin of 2.5 square metres. Divided into men and women areas, once inside I was pleasantly surprised to find a modern clean space with rows of cabins. My cabin Y08 had a double bed, small table and 32' flat screen TV. On the bed towels are folded, headphones for watching TV (so you don't disturb others), a dental kit, and branded pajamas to wear. Even a special adapter is supplied for charging your electronics as others are strictly prohibited due to fire regulations. There is also a safety box for storing valuables under your bed since cabins do not have a door and do not lock for safety reasons, instead pulling on the vertical shutters ensures your privacy.

Extra facilities include PC stations, battery charger for mobiles and laptops, lounge with a separate smoking room, vending machines that offer soft drinks, alcohol, snacks, bread and even noodles. A self-service laundry, bathhouse, showers, and a coin operated massage chair which I especially enjoyed in the spa area.

First Cabin is a well thought out experience and am very impressed by its function and facilities, a great value stay with all the amenities of a hotel, in a cabin style room conveniently located within the airport terminal.

Note: First Cabin is located in Terminal 1 of Tokyo Haneda Airport, not Terminal I (i) the international terminal. When I left First Cabin at 4:30am found myself locked-in the domestic terminal, thanks to a security guard I was escorted outside and luckily found the only passing vehicle, a taxi, and took the short ride to the international terminal in time to catch my very early morning flight.