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Hanging lanterns hold a significant cultural and historical importance in Vietnam, particularly in the city of Hoi An. The tradition of hanging lanterns can be traced back several centuries and is deeply rooted in Vietnamese folklore and religious practices. Read on for more information and history about the lanterns in Vietnam, and find a list of some of the festivals you might want to plan for if you are visiting this amazing country. Table of Contents ● Hoi An, and its history with lanterns ● What are the main Lantern Festivals in Vietnam? ● Our first impressions of Da Nang on YouTube More from Jenn & Leon Travel Blog ● How to follow our Blog ● Your FREE interactive map of Vietnam ● Explore Hoi An with special offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to visiting Vietnam Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for further information. Hoi An, and its history with lanterns Hoi An, located on the central coast of Vietnam, was a bustling trading port during the 16th and 17th centuries. It served as a melting pot of different cultures, attracting merchants from China, Japan, India, and other countries. These diverse influences contributed to the vibrant cultural heritage of Hoi An and shaped the tradition of hanging lanterns. In the past, lanterns were primarily used for religious and spiritual purposes. People believed that hanging lanterns in front of their houses would bring good luck, ward off evil spirits, and guide the souls of ancestors back home during important festivities and ceremonies. Lanterns were also lit to celebrate special occasions such as the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival. The lantern-making process was passed down from generation to generation, with each family often having its unique techniques and designs. Artisans would meticulously craft lanterns using bamboo frames and colored silk or thin fabric. The frames were carefully bent and shaped into various forms such as spheres, cylinders, or squares, while the fabric was skillfully stretched and attached to create a beautiful, translucent covering. Over time, the tradition of hanging lanterns became intertwined with the daily lives of the local community in Hoi An. It was not limited to religious or festive occasions but became an integral part of the city's cultural identity. Streets and houses in the Ancient Town of Hoi An are adorned with multicolored lanterns, creating a mesmerizing sight, particularly during the annual Lantern Festival held on the 14th day of each lunar month. The Lantern Festival, also known as the Full Moon Festival, is a captivating event that attracts both locals and tourists. During this celebration, electric lights are turned off, and the streets are illuminated solely by the soft glow of countless lanterns. Locals release floating lanterns on the river, believing that their wishes will come true as the lanterns drift away. The tradition of hanging lanterns in Vietnam, and specifically in Hoi An, continues to thrive today. It has not only become a symbol of cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship but also a beloved tourist attraction. Visitors can explore lantern workshops, participate in lantern-making classes, and immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty and symbolism of these vibrant illuminated decorations. RETURN TO CONTENTS What are the main Lantern Festivals in Vietnam? Vietnam is known for its vibrant lantern festivals that celebrate various cultural and religious traditions. Here are some notable lantern festivals in Vietnam: ⪢ Hoi An Lantern Festival This festival takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month in Hoi An, the UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its lantern-lit streets. During the festival, perhaps one of the most popular in Vietnam, the city turns off its electric lights, and the entire Ancient Town is illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. Visitors can release floating lanterns on the river, enjoy traditional performances, and immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere. Book your tickets in advance for the Hoi An Lantern Festival to save you time and money! ⪢ Mid-Autumn Festival Also known as the Moon Festival or Children's Festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. It is a joyful occasion for children and families, marked by colorful lanterns, lion dances, dragon parades, and the sharing of mooncakes. The festival symbolizes reunion and the harvest season. ⪢ Tet Trung Thu Tet Trung Thu, or the Vietnamese version of the Mid-Autumn Festival, is a significant celebration for children. It occurs on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month and is characterized by lantern processions, lion dances, and performances. Children carry lanterns shaped like animals or characters from folk tales as they parade through the streets. ⪢ Tet Nguyen Tieu Tet Nguyen Tieu, also known as the First Full Moon Festival, is celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month. It marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. During this festival, people visit temples, light incense, and release lanterns to pray for good luck and fortune in the new year. ⪢ Lim Festival The Lim Festival is a unique cultural event held in Lim Village, Bac Ninh Province, typically in February or March of the lunar calendar. The festival features a variety of folk songs, traditional games, and lantern displays. One of the highlights is the Quan Ho folk songs, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage of humanity. These are just a few examples of the notable lantern festivals celebrated in Vietnam. The dates may vary each year based on the lunar calendar, so it's recommended to check the specific dates closer to the time of your visit. Attending these festivals offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the vibrant traditions and the lively atmosphere of Vietnam's cultural celebrations! Book your tickets in advance for a boat ride and lantern release in Hoi An with Klook ● Explore Hoi An at its most magical during an evening tour that includes a boat ride and release the lantern on water ● Take in the sights and smells of the bustling night market. ● Learn about the traditional culture of Hoi An while cruising on the Thu Bon river Explore Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town Read more: The Marble Mountains: Explore the Beauty of Da Nang in Vietnam Uncover the hidden treasures of Marble Mountain and experience the harmony of nature and spirituality at this unforgettable destination. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our first impressions of Da Nang on YouTube Da Nang really does have it ALL! We were amazed by the beaches and clubs! Join us as we explore this captivating city filled with enchanting landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. In this travel video, we'll share our first impressions as we get settled in on day one in Da Nang (Danang) and reveal part of why this hidden gem has stolen our hearts! We had a short visit but we love the city so much we have it on our long stay list for the future! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! Your FREE interactive map of Vietnam Check out all of the places we visited in Vietnam courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Hoi An with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Hoi An. Whether you're looking for a coconut boat ride, spas, or even a lantern making class, Klook has something to offer. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Vietnam. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your guide to visiting Vietnam First time in Vietnam? Check out our comprehensive guide with  all you need to know including our latest posts , must-see places , and key information  about health & safety , transport , local customs , connectivity , visa information, useful links  and much more!

This top rated high demand hotel is located just a few minutes walk from the My Khe Beach and is a fine choice for a stay in Vietnam's Da Nang. A definite for the 'bougie' list, the rooftop pool, bar and restaurant is worth coming for alone! Not to mention 4 star dining with breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet packages, full spa facilities, expansive lobby and working areas, a gym and children's playroom. The Sala Beach Hotel turned out to be a fantastic choice for us for our first stay in Vietnam. In this post, we will show you just why we say that, and hopefully give you something to think about if you are planning a stay in the awesome city of Da Nang. Da Nang is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and stunning natural scenery. The city is home to several other popular tourist attractions, such as the Marble Mountains, the Dragon Bridge, and the Han River Bridge. Read on for more on the awesome food we had, a look at our room , how to find Sala Beach Hotel and our hotel rating ! Table of Contents ● Our Sala Danang Beach Hotel highlight ● The room at Sala Beach Hotel ● The food at Sala Beach Hotel ● Sala Beach Hotel facilities ● How to get to Sala Danang Beach Hotel ● Our Sala Danang Beach Hotel experience rating More from Jenn & Leon Travel Blog ● How to follow our Blog ● Your FREE interactive map of Vietnam ● Explore Da Nang with special offers from Klook ● Your guide to visiting Vietnam Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for further information. Our Sala Danang Beach Hotel highlight We had been living in Thailand for 6 fantastic weeks before landing at Da Nang International Airport. Our first trip to Asia was already exceeding expectations well before we came to Vietnam. We were super excited to get here and discover more of the wonderful culture south Asia has. Again, it turned out better than expected; much of that was owing to our great stay at the Sala Danang Hotel. Everything about our travel day had worked out smoothly; getting to the airport, going through security, the flight, getting through immigration; it was literally all a breeze (pardon the pun). So far so good... taxi from the airport, also no problem. Needless to say, we were feeling great, and by the time we checked in, accepted an upgrade (thank you Expedia) and sat down to wait in the lobby, these welcome drinks went down a treat! Not absolutely sure what it was but it was a deep purple, sweet and fruity, and served with a cooling towel. It was a moment where we both looked at each other feeling welcomed, excited, slightly tired, but eager to see what was next in store. And there was just so much more! Let's go explore... Yes, that is what we made a beeline for! The crown jewel of Sala Beach Hotel, its beautiful rooftop bar, pool and restaurant, overlooking My Khe Beach and with a 360 degree view of much of the city of Da Nang itself. The vibe was great, as were the efficient and attentive staff. It is a great place to chill, swim and enjoy the ocean and beach, without actually being on it. The sun can be pretty strong up there too, so a decent tan is an added bonus. This was our major highlight, but this is just one part of what is a 4-star hotel that really works hard to maintain that standard. We were very impressed with the room, spa and breakfast buffet too. Our tour continues... Don't miss: Esco Beach Bar Lounge & Restaurant THE place to be in Da Nang Located on the My Khe beach, this awesome restaurant & lounge is the perfect spot for tasty Vietnamese cuisine, epic drinks, and live music. RETURN TO CONTENTS The room at Sala Beach Hotel The hotel features 162 well-appointed rooms and suites, each elegantly decorated with modern amenities and furnished with contemporary furnishings. The rooms are well-designed to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay, with features such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-bars, and private balconies with beautiful sea or city views. They are also nicely spaced out and have decent wi-fi too. We found our room to be clean, comfortable and very relaxing. The air-con worked really well, which is always crucial in hot countries! There were some nice touches here with a stocked mini-bar, complimentary snacks and coffee, which was a common theme amongst the 3 hotels we stayed at in Vietnam (great job guys). We particularly liked the cool perks of Sala branded robes and flips, which could be purchased if wanted (we actually took the flips too, they were great!). The bathroom also came with a hairdryer, shower gel, shampoo, and a small pampering kit which is nice and convenient if you like to travel light on the toiletry side (which by the way, is a great way to save weight). This was certainly 4-star service, right down to the chocolate mints on our pillows. All in all we were very impressed with our room and would definitely recommend it. Our only slight critique (and actually a pet-peeve of ours) was that there was no microwave. They are so handy for warming up hot drinks and left-over food; we find it so odd that they are so rare in rooms, particularly in Asia. Not a big deal at all, but something to suggest! Also the windows were a little dirty. but given we were on the 17th floor and by the sea, this was totally understandable. Basically we tried to find a critique, and this was all that we could muster. The room... spot on! RETURN TO CONTENTS The food at Sala Beach Hotel Sala Danang Beach Hotel offers several dining options, including two restaurants (one buffet and one on the rooftop), a rooftop bar, and a coffee shop / bar in the lobby. Guests can enjoy a modest selection of Vietnamese and international cuisine at the rooftop restaurant, as well as refreshing cocktails and drinks, where you can also enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the ocean and the city. The buffet is more extensive, as you would expect, and offers a great variety of Asian cuisine and specialty dishes. The standards were set high here and we were impressed with the food on the whole. We tried the beef steak and spaghetti carbonara at the rooftop restaurant, and both dishes were reasonably priced and tasty. Our only slight critique was that they were not piping hot; the server told us that they come from the 3rd floor to the 22nd and they lose heat. Fair explanation, and the food was fine, but this is perhaps something that should be addressed, especially for a 4 star hotel. We really liked the buffet though and tried most of the options! Our favorite part was the barista-served coffee, which is a really nice touch for a buffet (they are usually self service). Check out our overall rating here . RETURN TO CONTENTS Sala Beach Hotel facilities The hotel also offers a range of facilities for guests to enjoy, including a swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spa, and a sauna. Additionally, Sala Danang Beach Hotel provides guests with a range of services, such as 24-hour front desk service, currency exchange, laundry, and room service. Rooftop Restaurant We took a spot here for sunset, dining into the night as we watched the sweeping change from sun-kissed buildings to neon signs and bright lights. The atmosphere was beautiful up here, with no other diners (we arrived just on opening time, 6pm). The decor is excellent with the restaurant also taking advantage of a 360 view as you walk around the perimeter. There is also a fantastic wine selection, and a fully stocked liquor bar. We would certainly suggest an evening meal here; the service is also excellent with the staff are highly attentive throughout. As mentioned earlier the food temperature was a slight issue, hopefully that is something that can be rectified, although it is not a major issue. Buffet Restaurant As part of our package we had a complimentary breakfast buffet every morning, which as you can see below was nicely put together and organized. The service was one of our highlights; every morning someone came to us at our table to check in and make sure we were enjoying our food and the stay. That was such a nice touch! At one point we were fanning ourselves as it was quite hot, it was noticed, and the air-con went on moments later. Now that is what we are talking about! It made us feel really appreciated and valued, and we thank all of the staff for that. There are also chefs and baristas working at the buffet, meaning you can get specialty dishes, cooked eggs and a range of different coffee options too. Sometimes buffets can be a bit hit and miss; this is definitely a hit! Rooftop Infinity Pool & Bar The rooftop pool and bar is an excellent place to chill, swim and unwind as mentioned earlier in our hotel highlight. The design and layout makes excellent use of the space and while it can get busy at times, it always seemed like everyone had a spot. There is also a mini buffet here at times, with finger snacks, and the bar is tucked away around the corner from the pool, to create a good separation between the two spaces. The greenery and décor are just perfect up here too. We think the pictures speak for themselves! Zen Spa We are both fans of a good spa treatment and we always like to check them out when available, even if we do not end up using them! Zen Spa at Sala Hotel offers a variety of different treatments, in keeping with most spa's, alongside some great package deals that you can take advantage of. The Zen Spa 'Buffet' was a really nice offer here; for roughly $30 USD per person you are able to to select up to 3 treatments, lasting a total of 90 minutes. We thought this was a fantastic deal, especially when considering in some places just one treatment can cost you almost double that. We opted for the foot therapy, back, neck & shoulder massage (which was basically full-body), and sauna & steam. The massage was excellent and we would highly recommend it! The foot therapy came first and was very relaxing going into the massage. We did the sauna and steam last; this was awesome too however the hot tub was not working at the time, which was a little disappointing. Not to take anything away from the overall experience though! The staff, the atmosphere and ambience, it was all lovely and great value for money. The Gym We aren't exactly gym users so we couldn't tell you much about the standard of equipment here, but it looked modern, clean and in good condition. And that view! If we were to work out in a gym, this would be a great place to do it! Children's Play Area This play area is located on the same floor as the spa which we found a little odd at first, as the access is via the same lobby / reception area. It was a little noisy on one occasion when we came to enquire about spa services, but when we came for our treatments it was fine and there was no interruption. The room is fully air-conditioned and has plenty of things to keep the kids entertained while mama and papa take a load off! This is a nice touch as we have not often seen this type of facility in hotels we have stayed at. The Lobby All hotels want to make a good first impression and we have to say that the Sala Danang Hotel does that with aplomb here. The sweeping lobby certainly has the wow factor and is well decorated and brightly lit. There is a large seating area and bar, along with a piano. There are 3 main elevators running through the centre, along with another elevator that runs on the front of the building. The lobby is warm and welcoming and is big enough to accommodate the heavy stream of guests that we saw throughout our stay here. The reception desk staff were on point and there are several of baggage handlers helping too. Top marks here! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Sala Danang Beach Hotel Sala Danang Beach Hotel is located at 36 - 38 Lam Hoanh Street, Son Tra District, Danang City, Vietnam. The hotel is situated just one block away from the beach, just a few minutes walk in terms of distance. The hotel is easily accessible for cars, coaches, taxis and scooters and is easy to geolocate on drive and food apps. Address: 36 - 38 Lam Hoanh Street, Son Tra District, Danang City, Vietnam Phone: 19006406 / 0868582227 / 0868582229 Email: info@salahotelgroup.com Website: salahotelgroup.com Save for later: Why are hanging lanterns and festivals so popular in Vietnam? Learn about the history and symbolism of lanterns in Vietnamese culture, and find out about some of the most popular lantern festivals here. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Sala Danang Beach Hotel experience rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Overall, Sala Danang Beach Hotel is an excellent choice for travellers who are looking for a luxurious and comfortable stay in Da Nang City, with easy access to the beach and a range of amenities and services to ensure a memorable experience. We were very impressed with the standards set here, from the amazing staff service all the way through to the excellent food and cleanliness. The Sala Beach Hotel comes highly recommended with a 5 star Jenn & Leon Travel seal of approval! ✓ Cleanliness: 5/5 Absolutely no issues with cleanliness here at all. All of the communal areas such as the elevators and lobby was spotless, as was the room. There is definitely a solid attention to detail here and we had no concerns at all. Perhaps the only suggestion we could offer is adding a few more hand sanitizing stations; there were a few available but not really enough for the volume of people and the size of the hotel. ✓ Cost & Value for money: 5/5 ✓ Food: 4.5/5 ✓ Location: 5/5 ✓ Service: 5/5 RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! Your FREE interactive map of Vietnam Check out all of the places we visited in Vietnam courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Da Nang with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Da Nang. Whether you're looking for water parks, traditional dance shows, or even a Ba Na Hills ticket, Klook has something to offer. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Vietnam. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your guide to visiting Vietnam First time in Vietnam? Check out our comprehensive guide with  all you need to know including our latest posts , must-see places , and key information  about health & safety , transport , local customs , connectivity , visa information, useful links  and much more!

If you're looking for a unique beachfront experience in Da Nang, Vietnam, look no further than the Esco Beach Bar Lounge and Restaurant. Located just steps away from the crystal-clear waters of My Khe Beach, Esco offers a relaxing atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and stunning views of the coastline. As you enter the restaurant, you'll be greeted by friendly staff and a modern, minimalist decor. The open-air seating area allows you to soak up the sunshine and feel the sea breeze while enjoying your meal. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, Esco has something for everyone. Read on for more on the wonderful food we tried, how to find Esco Beach Bar, our YouTube video highlights and our restaurant rating ! Table of Contents ● Our Esco Beach Bar & Restaurant highlights ● The food & menu at Esco Beach Bar & Restaurant ● How to get to Esco Beach Bar & Restaurant ● Our Esco Beach Bar experience rating More from Jenn & Leon Travel Blog ● How to follow our Blog ● Your FREE interactive map of Vietnam ● Explore Da Nang with special offers from Klook ● Your guide to visiting Vietnam Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here  for more information. Our Esco Beach Bar & Restaurant highlights The menu at Esco features a wide range of international cuisine, including Vietnamese, Japanese, and Western dishes. The fresh seafood options are especially noteworthy, with dishes like grilled octopus and shrimp tempura being customer favorites. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of drinks, including cocktails, wine, and beer. Sip on a cold beer or a tropical cocktail while taking in the beautiful view of the sea! In addition to the great food and drinks, Esco Beach Bar Lounge and Restaurant also offers a variety of entertainment options. You can enjoy live music performances every night (at around 7pm) by local musicians while sipping on your drink. The restaurant also has a small infinity pool facing the beach, alongside a special 30 minute fire show performance which happens every weekend. It really is the perfect spot for a fun night out. We were already on the look-out for a good beach bar and after a short walk on the sand, we headed up to the main street to see what we could find. As you will see from the map below, the main road runs alongside the beach, but at the roundabout it moves to the left, giving way to a parade of buildings. Esco Bar is on of the first ones, so we did not have to walk for long at all. The entrance is really inviting and well put-together, so we immediately knew this would be a good place to try. It actually started raining the first time we were here, but we were well sheltered from it despite grabbing a table on the main deck. It was actually a nice break from the heat to be honest! It cleared up not long after we sat down, and the rest of the afternoon was bright and sunny. We did not stay for the live music or fire shows on any of our visits, as we had other evening plans, but we certainly will do if we ever find ourselves back in Da Nang. We felt really welcome here and the food was great. Keep scrolling for more details on what we tried here, and how to find Esco Bar. Don't miss: Magic in the Moonlight: Exploring Hoi An Night Market and lighting a candle at the Lantern Festival What is the Lantern Festival? Find out here, along with history & facts, a boat tour, the ancient Hoi An Night Market and our YouTube video! RETURN TO CONTENTS The food & menu at Esco Beach Bar & Restaurant The drinks Esco Bar has an extensive drink menu as you would expect, alongside a strong list of cocktails to try. Prices are on the higher end with a bottle of beer coming in at just over $3 USD, while the cocktails are over $7. There are far cheaper places, notably the drink huts by the main roundabout. But you do get what you pay for here, with an excellent view, great service, and what turned out to be some pretty tasty drinks. We tried the Butterfly Negroni , Tropical Breeze and 60 Miles to Medellin cocktails. They were all very well presented and each went down a treat. The Tropical Breeze was our favorite, a mix of orange liquor, vodka and mango. If you like rum, consider the 60 Miles to Medellin and for gin lovers, the Butterfly Negroni is a safe bet. Leon is also a huge brandy fan and was delighted to see his favorite brandy, Courvoisier, on the menu too. One shot is just over $8, and bear in mind if you want a chaser such as coke, it comes as a slim-standard can and is charged at $1. The food We tried several dishes, some appetisers and main meals, and we were very impressed with what we received. Leon really wanted to try some traditional Vietnamese cuisine on our first visit and opted for Banh Xeo , a super tasty fajita-style do-it-yourself style, while Jenn tried the fried spring rolls which were some of the best we have ever tasted. All of the dishes were served with fresh vegetables and were presented well. The Banh Xeo in particular was fun, albeit a little messy! We also tried the house Escoburger , pan potatoes and stir fried rice with chili sausag e. Prices ranged from around $7 - $12 USD. The rice was well seasoned but very spicy (you have been warned). The burger was stacked well and was good value too. See more about what we thought in our ratings at the end of the post, or take a peek at the video below. Check out the full Esco Bar Menu here . RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Esco Beach Bar & Restaurant Esco Beach Bar Lounge & Restaurant is located in the city of Da Nang, Vietnam, specifically on My Khe Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area. To get there, you can take a taxi or grab a ride from anywhere in the city. You can also rent a motorbike or a bicycle and drive yourself. If you're staying in a nearby hotel or resort, you may be able to walk to the restaurant. If you're coming from the airport, it's about a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. If you're coming from the city center, it's approximately 10-15 minutes by car. It's always a good idea to check the traffic conditions beforehand to plan your journey accordingly. Also parking is limited as it is on a main road. Address: Lô 12 Võ Nguyên Giáp, Mân Thái, Sơn Trà, Đà Nẵng 550000, Vietnam Opening Hours: 8am to 12am Contact: ( +84) 236 3955 668 Reservations & Menu: facebook.com/escobeachdanang Note that due to limited availability for beachside seats reserving a spot is recommended , especially during peak season (June to August). All major credit cards are accepted . Don't miss: Why are hanging lanterns and festivals so popular in Vietnam? Learn about the history and symbolism of lanterns in Vietnamese culture, and find out about some of the most popular lantern festivals here. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Esco Beach Bar experience rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 When we left our hotel to take a stroll by the ocean, one of the first things we said to each other was that we would love to find a really good, cool beach bar. That could not have manifested itself any better than as it did when we found Esco Beach. We visited several times in the end, had fantastic food, great drinks and met some lovely people. It was everything we could want, and we do urge you to check it out if you are in the area. Relax and enjoy a great time out as you soak up the excellent My Khe Beach! ✓ Atmosphere: 5/5 Music is an important factor for any beach bar, and Esco Bar does this really well, offering a great mix of upbeat, chill and local music. Combined with the contemporary, modern decor of the bar itself we enjoyed relaxing moments watching the waves, party moments over cocktails and chill vibes while eating. The atmosphere here really was spot on. ✓ Cost: 4/5 ✓ Food: 5/5 ✓ Service: 5/5 RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! Your FREE interactive map of Vietnam Check out all of the places we visited in Vietnam courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Da Nang with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Da Nang. Whether you're looking for water parks, traditional dance shows, or even a Ba Na Hills ticket, Klook has something to offer. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Vietnam. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your guide to visiting Vietnam First time in Vietnam? Check out our comprehensive guide with  all you need to know including our latest posts , must-see places , and key information  about health & safety , transport , local customs , connectivity , visa information, useful links  and much more!

The Irish Sea crashes against the rugged coastline of Anglesey, Wales. Amidst this dramatic scenery lies a man-made marvel: the Holyhead Breakwater. Stretching out for over 1.5 miles, it's not just the longest breakwater in Europe, but a place where history whispers on the salty breeze and breathtaking views leave you speechless. For over 150 years this Victorian feat of engineering has protected the Port of Holyhead, pound-for-pound the busiest UK port for Irish freight traffic. This post delves into the unique story of the Holyhead Breakwater, exploring its role as a guardian of a vital port, its fascinating past, an intriguing castle-like ruin, and the scenic beauty that unfolds along its path. Table of Contents ● What is the Holyhead Breakwater? ● Why was the Holyhead Breakwater built? ● The history of the Holyhead Breakwater ● The Holyhead Lighthouse ● The Castle-like Soldiers Point House, Hotel and World War 2 Pillbox ● A £40 million refurbishment (of the Breakwater) ● How to get to Holyhead Breakwater ● Our Holyhead Breakwater experience rating More from Jenn & Leon Travel Blog ● How to follow our Blog ● Your FREE interactive map of England ● Explore England with special offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to visiting England Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here  for more information. What is the Holyhead Breakwater? The Holyhead Breakwater is a massive Victorian structure, completed in 1873, located at the northwestern tip of Holyhead in Anglesey, North Wales. It's effectively a giant seawall, stretching an impressive 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers), making it the longest breakwater in the United Kingdom and Europe. Its primary purpose is to shelter the busy Port of Holyhead from the strong westerly winds and rough seas of the Irish Sea, ensuring safe passage for ferries traveling between Wales and Ireland. The port is the second busiest roll on / roll off port in the UK, with millions of tonnes of goods flowing through it every year. It is also a major transport hub for thousands of passengers from the UK to Ireland and Europe. Despite its industrial use, the Holyhead Breakwater offers stunning coastal scenery. Visitors can walk along a promenade that runs along the top, enjoying panoramic views of the Irish Sea, the port, and even the distant Skerries islands on a clear day. The area is also designated as part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Save for later: Cardiff Castle: Over 2000 Years of History in the Heart of Wales One of the oldest castles in the UK, with a history dating back to Roman times! Prepare to be awestruck by this majestic fortress! RETURN TO CONTENTS Why was the Holyhead Breakwater built? The Holyhead Breakwater was built for two main reasons: ⪢ To Create a Safe Harbor:  The old port at Holyhead was exposed to northerly winds and rough seas, making it difficult for ships, especially those reliant on sails, to enter safely.  During bad weather, journeys would be disrupted, and passengers and cargo might even have to be diverted to a less convenient port. ⪢ To Accommodate Increased Sea Traffic:  With the rise of steam power and increased trade between Wales and Ireland in the 19th century, Holyhead needed a larger and more sheltered harbor. The breakwater's construction aimed to create a massive, calm-water space, called a roadstead, where hundreds of vessels could safely anchor, regardless of weather conditions. This significantly boosted the capacity and efficiency of the port. RETURN TO CONTENTS The history of the Holyhead Breakwater The Holyhead Breakwater, a leviathan of stone stretching over 1.5 miles, is more than just a barrier against the Irish Sea. It's a testament to Victorian engineering prowess, a vital cog in maritime trade, and a silent witness to history. Let's delve into the fascinating story of this iconic structure: ⪢ From Necessity to Innovation: The Birth of the Breakwater (1840s-1870s) The 19th century saw a surge in maritime traffic and trade between Wales and Ireland. Despite numerous land transportation upgrades, such as the London Holyhead Road, marine traffic remained a problem. Holyhead's existing port was exposed to the elements, making safe passage a gamble. It also required frequent repairs and dredging due to its heavy use. Recognizing a need for improvement to keep the goods flowing and avoid trade going elsewhere, a plan for a massive breakwater was conceived in the 1840s. Construction began in 1847 under the leadership of J.M. Rendel. Building such a behemoth demanded innovation. A broad gauge railway was used to carry more than seven million tonnes of stone from the quarries on Holyhead Mountain to the working areas. Shaped 10-tonne limestone blocks formed the outer wall, while a core of rubble was created by dumping stones from ships and tipping them from the shore. Notably, divers working in specialized submarine bells played a crucial role in laying the foundation underwater, using picks, hammers, and even controlled underwater explosions. Up to 1,300 men were employed during the work; 40 tragically died during construction. The project wasn't without its challenges. In 1851, workers at the breakwater and nearby quarries went on strike, protesting the use of Irish laborers. This unfortunate incident highlights the social tensions of the era. Despite the hurdles, the breakwater steadily grew. Following Rendel's death in 1856, John Hawkshaw took over, and by 1873, the marvel was complete. The same Prince of Wales (Albert Edward) who witnessed its early stages officially opened the New Harbour, protected by the breakwater, in 1880. He was the eldest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and later became King Edward VII in 1901 upon his mother's death. ⪢ A Haven in Wartime: The Breakwater in World War II The 20th century brought a new chapter for the breakwater. During World War II, the sheltered harbor it created became a crucial asset. The Royal Dutch Navy, having fled Nazi occupation, found refuge in Holyhead. The breakwater's role shifted from facilitating trade to safeguarding allied ships. The area around the breakwater also saw defensive measures implemented. Lookouts were stationed, and anti-aircraft guns and pillboxes were positioned to protect the port from potential aerial attacks. The breakwater itself, a testament to human ingenuity, stood strong throughout the conflict, a silent guardian during a tumultuous period. ⪢ A Legacy of Stone: The Breakwater Today Today, the Holyhead Breakwater continues to serve its original purpose. It protects the port, now a vital ferry link between Wales and Ireland. Its historical significance is recognized, with the breakwater and its lighthouse being listed structures. Beyond its utilitarian role, the breakwater has become a scenic attraction. The Wales Coast Path stretches along its landward end, offering walkers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the distant mountains of Snowdonia. The disused quarries that provided stone for the breakwater are now part of Breakwater Country Park, a haven for nature lovers. The Holyhead Breakwater stands as a powerful symbol of human ambition and engineering skill. Its story reflects the changing tides of history, from facilitating trade to providing wartime shelter. As visitors walk along its path, they experience not just a scenic wonder but a tangible connection to the past. Since November 2014, concrete blocks have been placed at the entrance to block traffic. However, the breakwater is still accessible to walkers. RETURN TO CONTENTS The Holyhead Lighthouse Completed in 1873, the lighthouse was likely designed by Victorian civil engineer John Hawkshaw, coinciding with the final stages of the breakwater's construction. Unlike many round lighthouses, it's a unique three-story, square-shaped tower. This design choice offered more comfortable living quarters for the lighthouse keepers. ⪢ A Guiding Light The lighthouse's primary function was to guide ships safely into the newly formed harbor created by the breakwater. Its light would have been particularly important during foggy conditions or nighttime crossings. ⪢ Technological Advancements In the 19th century, the lighthouse would have used an oil lamp system with lenses to project a powerful beam. Over time, technology evolved, and the lighthouse eventually transitioned to more modern lighting systems. ⪢ Manned to Automated The lighthouse was initially manned by lighthouse keepers who ensured the light functioned properly. However, advancements in automation led to its conversion to an automatic operation in November 1961. ⪢ Architectural Significance The Holyhead Breakwater Lighthouse is considered an architectural landmark. Its square design and location as part of the ambitious Victorian engineering project to create "harbors of refuge" contribute to its historical significance. Today, the lighthouse stands as a silent sentinel beside the breakwater, a reminder of the ingenuity and dedication involved in creating this vital maritime structure. While no longer manned, it continues to be an essential navigational aid and a captivating piece of maritime history! RETURN TO CONTENTS The Castle-like Soldiers Point House, Hotel and World War 2 Pillbox Located on the lead up to the Breakwater, built with local rubble and slate roofs, Soldiers Point House has a distinctive castellated design, featuring turrets and battlements. This "folly tower" style gives it a castle-like appearance, making it a unique landmark on the Holyhead coastline. It was constructed in 1849 by Charles Rigby, the contractor for the Holyhead Breakwater, for his own residence. Based on two L-plan structures, the main house faced south-east. Rigby was not just a contractor, but also an Anglesey Magistrate. At the time, he commanded the 2nd Anglesey Artillery Volunteers, who he grouped together from his breakwater workers. During World War II, the strategic location of Soldiers Point House wasn't overlooked. One of the towers of the house's castellated screen wall was converted into a pillbox. Pillboxes were small, fortified structures designed to provide a defensive position for troops. This modification highlights the importance of the Holyhead Breakwater and the surrounding area during the war, as they aimed to protect the port from potential attacks. In 1950, Soldiers Point House transitioned into a hotel. This would have capitalized on the growing popularity of seaside resorts and the potential for attracting visitors interested in the scenic beauty of the area. Unfortunately, details about the hotel's operation and its eventual closure are scarce. In July 1994 the building was Grade II listed, with plans to turn it into a museum. Sadly, in 2011, the already neglected structure suffered a major setback when it was heavily damaged by a fire. The fire damage requires significant restoration, and its future use remains unclear. In June 2023, it made the Victorian Society's Top 10 Endangered Buildings List , with growing calls for the building to be restored to its former glory. "Soldiers' Point really needs some love and some help. It’s sad to see this remarkable monument to engineering falling into disrepair. It’s not too late. It is a remarkable place. It is surrounded by history and close to a remarkable engineering landmark. Griff Rhys Jones, Victorian Society President Find more photos from inside on derelictplaces.co.uk RETURN TO CONTENTS A £40 million refurbishment (of the Breakwater) In October 2023, the Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford announced a £40 million funding package from the Welsh Government. The £40m package, made up of a £20m loan and a £20m grant, will go towards the estimated £110m cost of refurbishing the Breakwater. Stena Line Ports Ltd, which operates the Port of Holyhead, has been lobbying for support as the Breakwater is gradually being eroded by the Irish Sea. The stability of the breakwater is now under threat, with an increasing probability of a breach in the structure occurring during storm conditions. Holyhead Port is an important asset to North Wales. This £40m investment in the breakwater will help ensure the port’s future and protect jobs. The port is of vital strategic importance. It plays a crucial role in the delivery of economic prosperity for the region and is also a key part of our transport infrastructure. Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford 150 years after its groundbreaking construction, it will be fascinating to see how our modern day technology will be used to restore this crucial piece of infrastructure. We will try and keep this blog up-to-date with its progress! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Holyhead Breakwater There are a couple of ways to get to Holyhead Breakwater depending on where you are coming from. Here are your options: ⪢ By Train While there is no direct train service to Holyhead Breakwater, you can take a train to Holyhead itself and then take a taxi or bus to the breakwater. The train journey from London Euston to Holyhead takes about 3 hours 40 minutes. ⪢ By Ferry If you are coming from Ireland, you can take a ferry to Holyhead port and then take a taxi or bus to the breakwater. The ferry journey from Dublin to Holyhead takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. ⪢ Car This is the most flexible option, especially if you are coming from outside of Wales. The drive from Bewdley to Holyhead Breakwater is around 3 hours 12 minutes via the A55. Parking is available for free just in front of the Soldier's Point House, but is limited. You need to enter via an open gate which you will see to the right hand side on your approach, with a 'Stena Line' sign on it. RETURN TO CONTENTS Don't miss: Exploring Whitby Abbey & Dracula's Birthplace via the Pickering Steam Train Our day trip exploring the North Yorkshire Moors – A ride on the Pickering Steam Train to Whitby & Whitby Abbey, England’s Coastal Gem! Our Holyhead Breakwater experience rating The Holyhead Breakwater is a great place to include in a day trip itinerary to Holyhead itself, but maybe not as a single destination. The waters here are stunning and the lighthouse is very cool, especially given that it is a unique square shape. But unless you are in to fishing, there is not really much else to do here at this specific point, other than that very long hike along the promenade of the Breakwater. Most people include this with a trip to the picturesque South Stack Lighthouse in Anglesey, which we were going to do, but we chose to go to some castles instead! We would recommend coming here for an hour or two, grabbing your photos and enjoying the water, but after that, head into the town or venture around Anglesey itself. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of Wales Check out all of the places we visited in Wales courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore the UK with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of the UK. Whether you're looking for Stonehenge, a tour of London, or some castle trips Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of the UK. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting Wales First time in Wales? Check out our comprehensive guide with  all you need to know including our latest posts , must-see places , and key information  about health & safety , transport , local customs , connectivity , visa information, useful links  and much more!

Step inside one of the oldest castles in the UK, with a history spanning over 2,000 years! Prepare to be awestruck by Cardiff Castle, a majestic fortress with a story as rich as its architecture. From Roman beginnings to a lavish Victorian transformation, this castle boasts a history as dramatic as the battles it has witnessed. We absolutely love exploring castles and we were really happy to add Cardiff Castle to our ever-growing list. This blog post is your one-stop guide as we delve into its fascinating past, highlight must-see features with stunning photos, include interesting facts, and provide all the practical information you need for your visit, including opening times and ticket details. We also explore the surrounding Bute Park, and its incredible abortorium. There is so much to the story here. Let's get to it! Table of Contents ● Our Cardiff Castle highlights ● The history of Cardiff Castle ● 10 interesting facts about Cardiff Castle ● Cardiff Castle opening times & ticket prices ● How to get to Cardiff Castle ● Our Cardiff Castle experience rating More from Jenn & Leon Travel Blog ● How to follow our Blog ● Your FREE interactive map of England ● Explore England with special offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to visiting England Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here  for more information. Our Cardiff Castle highlights As two passionate history fans, exploring the castles of the UK has always been something we have been keen to do. That being said, that had all pretty much happened in England to-date. Wales had always been high on the list, especially given its fascinating Celtic history, but we had never really had the chance to go there - until now. So, of course, what better way to kick off a road trip around Wales than with a visit to its perhaps most famous pride-and-joy, the incredibly Cardiff Castle! A life-long ambition fulfilled, we came here with a huge sense of anticipation and we were not disappointed in the slightest. This is a magnificent castle, and one that we will not forget in a hurry! The first of 4 Roman forts is established in Cardiff, it was strategically built alongside the River Taff, which supplied its moat and provided easy access to the sea. In around 270 AD the basis of the Castle’s layout today is built in stone, modified over the years as it defended the city from invasion. It now stands as one of the most important structures in Wales, and is a fascinating beacon of Roman, Welsh and English history in the area. With a large itinerary for the day, we got to the castle early, and had very limited time. We were only able to explore the inner castle and exterior area (Bute Park), and were desperately disappointed not to be able to go inside. We will save that for another time! If you chose to, you can get a ticket to explore the walls of the castle, the Norman keep , its museum and perhaps its most impressive feature, the Victorian Apartments . It was a cloudy and windy day as you can probably tell from the photos, but we still really enjoyed our time wandering through the free parts of the grounds. The Welsh Dragon, the main castle entrance gate and the keep on the mound are excellent features to check out. The paid area is well sectioned off, but you can still get close enough for some good shots. Once you get past the mound of the keep the you will exit to Bute Park. ⪢ The Surrounding Gardens (Bute Park) Bute Park is a large park (around 130 acres) located right next to Cardiff Castle. It used to be the private pleasure garden of the castle, but now it's a public park and considered the "green heart" of Cardiff. It's a Grade 1 listed historic park with a wealth of archaeological and nature conservation interest including a magnificent arboretum containing over 3000 rare and beautiful trees, some of which are "champion trees" - the biggest of their species in the UK. There are remains of a medieval Blackfriars Friary within the park, and it also has a visitor center, cafes, toilets, a woodland play trail, and fitness equipment. There is plenty to enjoy here and when you exit the east-side of Cardiff Castle you will find yourself in the park itself. We crossed over the River Taff, and were thoroughly impressed by the arboretum which kind of reminded us of the mangroves in Langkawi (Malaysia). They really are spectacular! We also checked out the Gorsedd Stone Circle, which may look old, but was actually only installed in 1978. It was moved to Bute Park from Gorsedd (hence its name), to celebrate Cardiff hosting the Welsh National Eisteddfod . This 8 day festival is considered to be the largest music and poetry festival in Europe! We did not know this at the time, but as two poets who literally met each other through our poetry, it was super cool to find this out afterwards. Especially as Jenn was particularly drawn to stand right in the middle of it on the large central stone overlooking the castle walls! Y ou can find more information on the official Bute Park website . Read on for more on the history of the castle, and some impressive facts! Plus find out all you need to know about opening times, admission prices, and how to get there. RETURN TO CONTENTS Save for later: One of THE finest in all of England, the historic Arundel Castle This magnificent castle emanates beauty both inside and out! A true English gem boasting almost a thousand years of history. Will you visit? The history of Cardiff Castle ⪢ One of the UK's Oldest Surviving Castles Cardiff Castle, standing tall in the heart of Wales's capital city, has a rich and storied history dating back over 2,000 years. Its origins trace to the Roman occupation of Britain, where a fort was constructed on the site around 55 AD. Over the centuries, the castle evolved, with significant developments occurring during the Norman period when William the Conqueror's nephew, Robert Fitzhamon, built the first stone keep in the late 11th century. ⪢ Medieval Conflicts Cardiff Castle has indeed witnessed its fair share of attacks and conquests throughout its history. It was repeatedly involved in clashes between the Anglo-Normans and the Welsh during the 12th century. A significant event occurred in 1404 when Owain Glyndŵr, a Welsh leader, successfully stormed and captured the castle during his rebellion. ⪢ English Civil War During the English Civil War (1642-1651), the castle changed hands twice. Royalist forces under the Marquess of Hertford captured the castle in a surprise attack, then Parliamentary forces and local troops quickly besieged and recaptured the castle within hours. While these are the most prominent instances, it's likely the castle faced other attacks or attempts at conquest throughout its long history, particularly during periods of regional conflict. ⪢ Noble Ownership & Victorian Transformation Subsequent generations of noble families, including the de Clare and Herbert families, expanded and fortified the castle, shaping its imposing appearance. However, it was during the Victorian era that Cardiff Castle underwent its most significant transformation. In the 19th century, the castle's owner, the Third Marquess of Bute, commissioned renowned architect William Burges to redesign and refurbish the castle interiors, resulting in the creation of opulent and fantastical rooms that are now celebrated as some of the finest examples of High Victorian Gothic architecture in the world. The castle remained in the Bute family until the 20th century when it was gifted to the city of Cardiff. ⪢ The End of the Moat In the mid-1800s, Isambard Kingdom Brunel came up with plans to divert the River Taff to the west, away from its old course around Cardiff Castle. Having supplied the moat for over a thousand years, this move was considered to have marked the end of the defensive era of the castle. The river now flows next to Cardiff Arms Park and the Cardiff Principality Stadium. It also allowed Cardiff Central Station to be built in an area that had previously been prone to flooding. ⪢ Air Raid Shelter to Modern Day Attraction Cardiff Castle also played a role in World War II, with its walls offering shelter to citizens during air raids. Following the 4th Marquess's death, the castle and its parkland were gifted to the city of Cardiff. For a period, it housed the National College of Music and Drama, but since 1974, it has become one of Wales' most popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into Roman, Norman, and Victorian eras within its walls. RETURN TO CONTENTS 10 interesting facts about Cardiff Castle 1. Roman Beginnings: The site boasts a Roman fort built around AD 55, making it nearly 2,000 years old! Four separate forts were built by the Romans over two centuries, laying the foundation for the later castle. 2. Norman Transformation: Following the Norman conquest in 1066, a motte and bailey castle was constructed, solidifying Cardiff as the center of the Marcher Lordship of Glamorgan. 3. Medieval Makeover: Throughout the Middle Ages, the castle underwent numerous transformations, including the addition of a stone shell keep and extensive defensive walls. 4. Victorian Extravaganza: In the 19th century, the 3rd Marquess of Bute embarked on a grand project with architect William Burges, transforming the castle into a lavish Victorian Gothic mansion. This resulted in the opulent interiors with murals, stained glass, and intricate carvings we see today. 5. World War II Refuge: During the war, the castle's tunnels provided shelter to citizens during air raids. These tunnels, with dormitories, kitchens, and first-aid facilities, are now accessible as part of the castle tour. 6. Giant Rugby Ball: In 2015, during the Rugby World Cup, a giant rugby ball was cleverly installed into the castle wall, symbolizing Wales' passion for the sport. 7. Ghosts and Legends: The castle is shrouded in tales of ghosts and legends, including the "Black Cat" said to roam the grounds and the "Archer" haunting the Clock Tower. 8. Movie Magic: The castle has served as a filming location for various movies and TV shows, including "Doctor Who" and "Torchwood." 9. Architectural Mashup: The castle is a unique blend of architectural styles, showcasing Roman, Norman, Medieval, and extravagant Victorian Gothic elements. 10. National Treasure: Today, Cardiff Castle is one of Wales' most popular tourist attractions, offering a fascinating glimpse into its rich and layered history. RETURN TO CONTENTS Cardiff Castle opening times & ticket prices ⪢ Opening times Cardiff Castle is open to visitors 7 days a week, including bank holidays. The only exceptions are Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December) and New Year’s Day (1 January), when the castle is closed. Summer Opening (Mar – Oct) Monday to Friday Saturday to Sunday Opening Time 10am 9am Last Entry 5pm 5pm Closing Time 6pm 6pm Winter Opening (Nov – Feb) Monday to Friday Saturday to Sunday Opening Time 10am 9am Last Entry 4pm 4pm Closing Time 5pm 5pm ⪢ Ticket Prices Admission Rates Prices (GBP) Adult £15.50 ($19.45 USD / $26.58 CAD) Child (Ages 5 – 16, must be with an adult) £10.50 ($13.18 USD / $18.01 CAD) Senior / Student / Disabled (single carer free with each disabled ticket) £12.50 ($15.68 USD / $21.44 CAD) Adult Family Ticket (2 Adults and 2 Children) £42.50 ($53.33 USD / $72.89 CAD) Senior Family Ticket (2 Seniors and 2 Children) £36.50 ($45.80 USD / $62.60 CAD) Under 5s FREE ** Prices are correct at time of writing (May 2024). Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Note: If you currently live or work in Cardiff then you are entitled to your very own Key to the Castle with FREE admission to this world-class heritage attraction for 3 years . RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Cardiff Castle Cardiff Castle is conveniently located in the heart of Cardiff city center, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Visitors can choose from several options to reach the castle: ⪢ Public Transport Cardiff has an extensive public transport network, including buses and trains. Cardiff Central Railway Station is just a short walk from the castle, making it a convenient option for those arriving by train. Additionally, numerous bus routes serve the city center, with several bus stops within walking distance of the castle. ⪢ Walking If you are already in the city center, walking to Cardiff Castle is often the most straightforward option. The castle is centrally located, making it easily reachable on foot from many nearby attractions, hotels, and shopping areas. ⪢ Cycling Cardiff is a cycle-friendly city, and cycling to Cardiff Castle is a popular option if you enjoy exploring by bike. The city center has dedicated cycle lanes, and bicycle parking is available near the castle entrance. ⪢ Taxi or Ride-Sharing Taxis and ride-sharing services operate throughout Cardiff, providing a convenient door-to-door option if you prefer not to use public transport or walk. Taxis can drop off you near the castle entrance. ⪢ Car While parking in the city center can be limited, there are several public car parks within walking distance of Cardiff Castle, generally charging around £6 per hour. They are well sign-posted and easy to access. Address: Castle St, Cardiff CF10 3RB Email: cardiffcastle@cardiff.gov.uk Phone: 02920878100 Website: cardiffcastle.com RETURN TO CONTENTS Don't miss: Exploring Whitby Abbey & Dracula's Birthplace via the Pickering Steam Train Our day trip exploring the North Yorkshire Moors – A ride on the Pickering Steam Train to Whitby & Whitby Abbey, England’s Coastal Gem! Our Cardiff Castle experience rating We would perhaps have given a higher rating had we had time to go inside, but even still, we would recommend a visit based on what we saw and the experience we had. There is plenty to see here even if you do not want to spend anything, and it is a really nice walk inside where you are able, and outside in Bute Park and along the street with the famous animal wall. Parking is easy to get to and being located in the heart of the city there are plenty of other things you can do around the castle if you are going for a longer day out. Our castle ratings have pretty high standards, and given we have been to the likes of Balmoral and Arundel , we feel that 3.5 is still pretty respectable! Take nothing away from Cardiff Castle, it is very inspiring and wonderfully imposing! Feel free to let us know about your experience in the comments below... would you rate it higher? RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of Wales Check out all of the places we visited in Wales courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore the UK with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of the UK. Whether you're looking for Stonehenge, a tour of London, or some castle trips Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of the UK. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting Wales First time in Wales? Check out our comprehensive guide with  all you need to know including our latest posts , must-see places , and key information  about health & safety , transport , local customs , connectivity , visa information, useful links  and much more!

In the era of digital entrepreneurship, finding innovative ways to generate income has become increasingly popular. In this post, we will share one of the methods that have enabled our full-time travels for the past three years - drop shipping with Printify. This article will explore what print on demand is, how the process works, the pros and cons, creating an online store with Wix, and effective product marketing strategies. Table of Contents ● Print on Demand: Simplifying E-Commerce ● Who are Printify? ● What is Wix, and why use them over other website platforms? ● Setting Up Your Online Store with Wix ● Effective Product Marketing Strategies ● Start Your Print on Demand Business Now Discover more ● How to follow our blog Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for more information. Print on Demand: Simplifying E-Commerce Print on demand is a business model where products are customized and printed only when an order is placed. This eliminates the need for inventory storage and allows for a wide range of unique designs without the upfront costs of traditional printing methods. Getting started is incredibly easy, and you can literally get things going in a couple of hours! ● Choose your platform: There are many platforms to choose from, such as Etsy and Shopify, but we feel that Wix offers a user-friendly website builder perfect for beginners. ● Sign up with Printify: Connect your Wix store to Printify seamlessly with a free in-built integration tool, where you can access a network of print providers and perfectly synchronize product updates, new products and sales. ● Create designs: Upload your custom designs or use existing templates available through Printify. ● List products: Select the products you want to sell and customize them with your designs. ● Market your products: Promote your store through social media, influencer collaborations, and targeted ads. Pros: ● No inventory management ● Low startup costs ● Wide product variety ● Scalability Cons: ● Lower profit margins ● Quality control challenges ● Dependence on third-party printing partners While there is very little investment needed, and virtually no running costs (apart from your website and domain), there is a lot of time involved in getting everything just right. In particular around SEO, and marketing your products correctly. But given the minimal risk involved, versus the considerable rewards if you get it right, this is absolutely something we would recommend you try in your journey. Who are Printify? Printify is a leading print-on-demand platform that has revolutionized the way businesses create and sell custom products with their unique designs. Founded in 2015 by James Berdigans and Artis Kehris, Printify has quickly emerged as a game-changer in the e-commerce industry. The company's primary goal was to offer a simple yet effective solution for entrepreneurs to bring their creative visions to life without the hassle of managing inventory or production. Over the years, Printify has witnessed remarkable success and exponential growth. Its user base has expanded significantly, catering to a diverse range of individuals such as entrepreneurs, artists, and designers seeking to establish their presence in the online marketplace. Printify's success story can be attributed to various factors, including its intuitive and user-friendly interface that simplifies the design and selling process for users of all skill levels. Furthermore, Printify stands out for its extensive range of product offerings, allowing users to customize a wide array of items to suit their specific needs and preferences. The platform's competitive pricing strategy has also played a pivotal role in attracting users, offering cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Moreover, Printify's efficient production and shipping processes have been instrumental in building trust and loyalty among its user base. The company's commitment to timely delivery and customer satisfaction has set it apart from competitors, earning it a reputation for reliability and excellence in the industry. In essence, Printify's journey from inception to success is a testament to its innovative approach, commitment to customer satisfaction, and dedication to empowering businesses of all sizes to thrive in the digital landscape. With a strong foundation built on creativity, quality, and efficiency, Printify continues to set new standards in the print-on-demand industry and inspire countless entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. What is Wix, and why use them over other website platforms? Wix has established itself as a leading website builder in the digital landscape, catering to a wide range of users seeking to establish their online presence effortlessly. One of the standout features of Wix is its user-friendly interface that empowers individuals without coding knowledge to design and launch professional-looking websites seamlessly. By leveraging a simple drag-and-drop editor, users can navigate through the process of creating a website with ease, eliminating the barriers that traditional coding may present. In comparison to other website platforms, there are several compelling reasons why one might opt for Wix. Firstly, the platform's extensive collection of templates stands out, offering users a diverse array of design options tailored to various industries and preferences. These templates serve as a solid foundation for customization, enabling users to personalize their websites to align with their unique branding and vision effectively. In our opinion, the robust feature set that Wix offers further enhances its appeal. From built-in e-commerce capabilities for online stores to SEO tools that optimize visibility on search engines, Wix equips users with the necessary tools to enhance their website's functionality and reach. Additionally, the seamless integration of third-party apps allows for enhanced customization and expanded functionality, catering to the evolving needs of users. Another key advantage of choosing Wix is the comprehensive customer support it provides. Through multiple channels such as phone, email, and a knowledge base, users can access timely assistance and guidance whenever they encounter challenges or require clarification on features and functionalities. This commitment to customer support fosters a sense of trust and reliability, ensuring that users can navigate the platform with confidence. Wix's affordability is also a significant draw for individuals and businesses operating on varying budgets. With a range of pricing plans available, including a free option with Wix branding, users can select a plan that aligns with their financial resources while still benefiting from the platform's robust features and capabilities. This flexibility in pricing underscores Wix's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, making it a viable option for users across different economic spectrums. We believe that Wix's combination of user-friendly design tools, diverse templates, feature-rich offerings, comprehensive customer support, and flexible pricing plans positions it as a top choice for individuals and businesses looking to establish a compelling online presence without the complexities of traditional web development. We highly recommend it! Setting Up Your Online Store with Wix Wix simplifies the process of creating an e-commerce store with its drag-and-drop functionality and customizable templates. Follow these basic steps to kickstart your online store: ● Sign up for Wix: Visit the Wix website and create an account. ● Choose a template: Select a design that aligns with your brand and business goals. ● Customize your store: Add product pages, payment gateways, and shipping options. ● Optimize for mobile: Ensure your store is mobile-responsive for a seamless shopping experience. ● Optimize SEO and site speed: Good SEO can be a long and arduous journey, but with new AI tools of today it is incredibly easy to get right. Along with good site speed and useability, this is crucial in giving your site and store a good chance to be noticed in search results. ● Go live: Publish your store and start selling your custom print on demand products! Effective Product Marketing Strategies To drive traffic and boost sales, we advise implementing these product marketing strategies: ● Social Media Promotion: Utilize platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your products and engage with customers. ● Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers in your niche to reach a broader audience. ● Email Marketing: Build an email list and keep customers updated on new products and promotions. ● SEO Optimization: Use relevant keywords to improve your store's visibility on search engines. ● Offer Discounts: Encourage conversions by providing exclusive discounts and offers. By leveraging these strategies, you can maximize the reach and profitability of your print on demand drop shipping business. Ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey? Start your Printify drop shipping venture on Wix today and turn your creative designs into profitable products! Remember, success in e-commerce requires dedication, creativity, and a willingness to adapt to market trends. Start Your Print on Demand Business Now This comprehensive guide aims to equip casual readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in the world of print on demand drop shipping. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a creative soul looking to monetize your passion, this business model offers endless opportunities for growth and success. Happy printing and happy selling! Feel free to ask us any questions you may have in the comments below! How to follow our blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel, and our future poetry, life and social media blogs. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy!

Welcome to a world where travel knows no bounds and connectivity is as simple as a click. Nowadays, the internet is an indispensable companion for travel - whether it's for navigating through unfamiliar cities, communicating with loved ones, or simply sharing unforgettable moments on social media. But how often have we been frustrated by the tedious search for a local SIM card, exorbitant roaming fees, or complicated setup processes? Enter Simbye eSIM, here to solve all these problems with one elegant solution. Table of Contents ● Boundless Connectivity ● Cost Efficiency Without Compromise ● Simplicity in Perfection ● Freedom Without Contractual Obligations ● A Step into the Future of Travel ● How to follow our Blog Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for more information. Boundless Connectivity With Simbye eSIM, the world is literally in the palm of your hand. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Singapore , traversing the majestic Alps, or getting lost in the bustling metropolises of Europe , our eSIM data packages provide you with reliable internet connectivity anytime, anywhere. Forget about cumbersome SIM cards and nerve-wracking searches for a mobile provider. With Simbye, you can fully immerse yourself in your adventures without compromising on connectivity. RETURN TO CONTENTS Cost Efficiency Without Compromise At Simbye, we understand that travel can already be expensive enough. That's why we're committed to offering you cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Our eSIM data packages are not only affordable but also provide first-class connectivity, no matter where your travels take you. Say goodbye to high roaming fees and unexpected bills - with Simbye, you can keep your budget in check without sacrificing a seamless travel experience. RETURN TO CONTENTS Simplicity in Perfection Setting up a Simbye eSIM couldn't be easier. With just a few clicks, you can activate your eSIM and immediately connect to the internet. No more waiting for a physical SIM card, no more complicated setup processes. Whether you're a tech genius or an absolute beginner, with Simbye, connectivity has never been easier. RETURN TO CONTENTS Freedom Without Contractual Obligations We believe in maximum flexibility for our customers. That's why there are no long-term contracts or hidden costs with Simbye. You only pay for what you need, without being tied to a provider. With Simbye, you have full control over your connectivity - whenever and wherever you need it. RETURN TO CONTENTS A Step into the Future of Travel with Simbye eSIM The future of travel is here, and it's called Simbye eSIM. Say goodbye to the limitations of traditional SIM cards and experience the freedom of being connected anywhere in the world. Whether you're strolling through the vibrant streets of Asia or exploring the breathtaking nature of America , with Simbye, you're always connected. Visit our shop now at www.simbye.com and save 10% on your first order with our exclusive welcome bonus . Experience the revolution of travel with Simbye eSIM and make your travel experiences easier, more affordable, and more unforgettable than ever before. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy!

It's with a mix of emotions that we are stepping away from Etsy after two years. The platform offered a fantastic launchpad for our products, but after careful consideration and a heap of frustrations, we have decided to pursue a different path for for our store, Closer Lives Emporium. In this post , we share the many reasons behind our decision and our major concerns with the platform. Things that drove a massive 32% drop in Etsy's stock price in 2023 , other sellers leaving in droves , and the tripling of Etsy's seller fees . Not to mention the hugely controversial Etsy reserve fiasco . What did we learn on Etsy, and what exciting things do we see coming next? Read on to find out! Table of Contents ● First things first, what is Etsy? ● How is Etsy performing? ● Why we choose Etsy for Closer Lives Emporium ● The journey to 300 products ● Understanding the SEO > product descriptions, alt tags, size charts etc. Mistakes spell a time-consuming disaster! ● The importance of Branding ● The Etsy ads disaster ● Etsy's direction... too concerned with updates and apps ● Crazy Etsy charges ● Time vs effort - is it worth it? ● Competition – how tough is it? ● The infamous Etsy 'reserve' debacle ● Poor store customization ● The turning point: time to QUIT ETSY and move on to OUR OWN PLATFORM, closerlives.com ● The benefits of building your own site ● The future of Closer Lives Emporium - what have we learnt, and where do we go from here? ● How to follow our Blog Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for more information. First things first, what is Etsy?   Etsy is an online marketplace that caters to those who appreciate unique and handcrafted items. It's a popular destination for people looking to support independent sellers and artists from all over the world. The platform offers a wide range of products, from jewelry and clothing to home decor and art. If you're looking for something special and bespoke, Etsy is a great place to browse. Imagine Etsy as a giant online version of a craft fair. Here, you'll find a vast selection of handmade and vintage items created by independent sellers. This means you're directly supporting creative individuals who put their heart and soul into their work. So if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind piece or a gift with a personal touch, Etsy is definitely worth checking out. ⪢ Drop Shipping and Print-on-Demand In addition to handcrafted items, Etsy is also a platform that is an outlet for the masses of drop-shippers and print-on-demand companies who have exploded onto the scene in recent years. Drop-shipping and print on demand (POD) companies like Printify are fulfillment models that allow you to sell products online without holding any inventory. With drop-shipping, you partner with a supplier who stores and ships products directly to your customers after you make a sale. POD takes it a step further - you design custom products (like t-shirts or mugs) and the POD provider prints them on demand only when someone orders, handling the fulfillment for you. Both models free you up from managing stock and allow you to test out a wider range of products without upfront investment. RETURN TO CONTENTS How is Etsy performing? In Q4 2023, Etsy reached 7.9 million active sellers, with a year-over-year growth of 3.8%.   One reason why selling on Etsy can be profitable is the growing number of buyers on the platform. According to Etsy, the number of active buyers went up by 3.4% to 97.3 million. This shows that Etsy is becoming a bigger market where sellers can make good money.   In 2023, Etsy’s consolidated Gross Merchandise Sales (GMS) decreased slightly to $13.16 billion from $13.32 billion in 2022, with a 1.2% decrease.   However, annual consolidated revenue notably increased, reaching $2.75 billion, marking a 7.1% YoY increase from $2.57 billion in 2022. Particularly noteworthy is the fourth quarter performance, where revenue marks a new record of $842.2 million, a 4.3% increase compared to Q4 2022, highlighting Etsy’s ongoing strength and resilience.   In February 2024, Etsy received 474.1 million visits, according to the web traffic collected by Similarweb . This number has made Etsy the 4th player in the Marketplace and Shopping category, only after Amazon, eBay, and Walmart. Despite this 'increase', 2023 was actually not such a good year for the platform when you really drill down into the numbers. While its revenue seems to have grown, actual sales on the Etsy have stalled. On Etsy, the money from sales goes directly to the millions of sellers on the platform, not Etsy itself. Etsy makes its money by charging sellers fees for various services they use to list and sell their products. Here's the interesting part: Even though Etsy's own revenue has increased from a very aggressive seller fee strategy to counter losses, the total amount of sales on the platform (called Gross Merchandise Sales or GMS) has dipped. This means sellers are making a less money overall. This trend worried investors in 2023, and it's why Etsy took action. In December of that year, they announced they were laying off 11% of their staff to focus on initiatives that will help sellers grow their sales on the platform. Initiatives which we will look at throughout this post. Funnily enough, they do not seem to be helping one bit. RETURN TO CONTENTS Why we choose Etsy for Closer Lives Emporium Fresh into our full-time travel adventure and with an eye on not depleting our savings too much, we started looking around for some serious ways to earn on the go. Etsy was by no means our only option, as we were already teaching English online when we decided to give it a try. That being said, we liked the idea of earning money without having to do much; it kind of seemed to good to be true! We were inspired by many hours of researching YouTubers and successful entrepreneurs who were sharing their Etsy success stories. Some were demonstrating hundreds of thousands of sales on POD items, in particular tees. With plenty of creative ideas as content creators on social media, we sensed an opportunity for us too. If they could do it, why couldn't we? At the time, we were in the midst of establishing this website, which was born from Closer Lives Poetry on Instagram, a community page, which Jenn had founded. closerlives.com was actually intended to be a Creator Academy initially, to expand the concept beyond the confines of IG at the time. With very little experience in website building, establishing our POD range on Closer Lives did not seem like the best idea, given the fact it would take some time to garner domain authority, and we wanted to start earning straight away. So familiar with the brand and prowess of Etsy, it seemed like the perfect spot to build. And so, Closer Lives Emporium was born. RETURN TO CONTENTS The journey to 300 products We started creating our range in Merida, Mexico (of all places). We had a super cute Airbnb in the middle of a quiet urban sector of the city. It was a good spot to relax and get creative, and once we got started, our range just exploded! There are a few platforms you can try for POD services, the main two being printiful.com and printify.com . We set up an account with both, but opted to use Printify more as it felt a little more user friendly, and it synchronised with Etsy pretty seamlessly. For those who may not know, POD companies usually have tie ups with the big players like Etsy and Shopify, whereby products you create upload directly to the respective selling platform. Any time a product sells, the order automatically generates in the POD platform, and aside from some customer service should you so choose, the process is entirely automated from point of order to the customer receiving the goods. There are some nuances and processes you can put in place, like manually authorising orders, sending thank you emails and such, but even postal tracking is automated so you really don't have to. All this takes a little bit of work to set up and get right, but once you have it done, you can sit back, and earn money in your sleep as they say. We kind of lost track of how many items we were creating at one point, if anything we were just having fun with it. We quickly made it to over 100 products, and before we knew it, we hit over 300 across 17 categories. Woah!!! RETURN TO CONTENTS Understanding the SEO > product descriptions, alt tags, size charts etc. Mistakes spell a time-consuming disaster! One of the biggest challenges was actually marketing the products, which goes far beyond just making it and sticking it on your Etsy storefront. There are things like flat-lays, descriptions, alt tags, getting the title right, terms and conditions, refund policies, privacy policies, size charts, fulfillment times, actual delivery times etc. Say what now? We thought this was going to be easy! Such things are not exactly talked about when people share their glossy charts advertising thousands of sales. This was exactly where the time starts to become a factor. Creating a ton of designs, popping them onto a product template and pressing 'publish' is honestly the easy part. Getting these items on the virtual shelf properly is another matter entirely. Especially if you don't know what your doing, and make some critical mistakes along the way. Let's give you an example. Alt tags. Yes alt tags. You may have heard of them, and in the past year or so they have grown into the conversation so much so that you can even see them given as an option for you in your Instagram posts. An alt tag is a hidden description for an image on a webpage, helping visually impaired people understand the image. It also provides backup text if the image fails to load, but perhaps most crucially, improves search engine ranking . And search engine ranking is a biggie. Like the biggest, actually. Funnily enough, alt tags weren't actually a thing on Etsy. In fact when we started in 2021, they weren't prevalent at all. So we did not make them. Just as we did not make size chart thumbs for our items, or fulfillment information graphics. A BIG mistake we had no clue we were making. Let us tell you, when you have 300 items, and realise you need to update them all with critical things like size chart graphics, that is hours of work . Then Etsy comes along and hits you with alt tags. Then you realise you aren't making sales potentially because of these issues. Then the panic sets in when you realise on average each of your items has at least 10 photos, which means potentially 3000 alt tags. Say what now? So hopefully we are able to paint the picture now! After all of our initial hype of getting things onto Etsy, we realised our shop was always going to struggle without some serious time being put into the background. SEO-effective product titles and descriptions was not something we did prior to uploading the item from Printify. They were just generic. We had to design a whole bunch of things like our size charts and product flat-lays. Then upload those and figure out how the hell to write a good alt tag, let alone 3000 of them. Weeks and months passed before we were finally able to get these kind of things done. Let us tell you, those weeks and months are measured in actual time spent , or at least it certainly feels like it looking back. RETURN TO CONTENTS The importance of Branding So things were starting to move, and after the rough months at the beginning, we were starting to learn a lot, and were making some serious progress on getting our listings up to scratch. We could see the difference it was making too; picking up some sales here or there, and getting excited about the future prospects. Our product wall was looking better by the day, and our products themselves were looking professional and organised. One of the key elements to this was our branding, something we took great care to curate right from the off. Again we were very in-experienced with this kind of thing, and quickly found out why people pay big-bucks for logo designers and high performance graphics. Just so you know, Canva is great and all, but it is very limiting when it comes to logos. We never did end up paying big bucks, but then again the offset against changing our logo several times, and having issues with pixelation and poor quality, perhaps we should have done in hindsight. The crux of the branding comes in with all of the 'peripheral' stuff that the big drop-shippers do not tell you about. Those fulfillment charts and delivery info charts are very important. A brand is more than just a flashy logo; it is in the details, the way you market your products, the follow up emails, the terms and conditions. These things can make-or-break a business and are often sidelined in the short-term pursuit of mega bucks. Fortunately with our business experience we did particularly well in this area, but again, that dreaded time count was dding up. Yet more hours, days and weeks to get it spot on! RETURN TO CONTENTS The Etsy Ads disaster So at the point in our journey where we finally felt like our store was how we wanted it, in terms of all of the above, we were still struggling to hit consistent sales. We had got over the 20 mark, which had felt like quite a lot of work for not really that much. With all of the effort we had put in to getting the descriptions, titles and alt tags right, we were hoping for far more return than that. With our reach pretty low, and our confidence in our products pretty high, we came to the conclusion that we should invest some cash into the store. Now sure, time is money, so the months of work it had taken to get to this point should always be considered as investment, but we are talking cold hard bucks in the system. We were averaging about ten visitors a day to our store, and simple logic told us that this was never going to be enough to take off. Besides, Etsy are obsessed with pushing its advertising-to-sales potential at you, so we decided to bite. And wait for the sales to roll in. This is where our frustration with the platform really started to kick in. Now you might think that paying some money for a bigger slice of the reach pie might automatically boost your profits. But with Etsy, this is a big no no. ⪢ Etsy Ads offers two ways to promote your products to a wider audience on Etsy and beyond: ⪢ Onsite Ads: These work on a cost-per-click (CPC) basis. You set a daily budget and Etsy will display your ads in various locations throughout the Etsy platform, like search results or product pages. You only pay when someone clicks on your ad, not when they just see it. ⪢ Offsite Ads: This is a commission-based advertising program. Etsy automatically enrolls all sellers and displays your product listings on other platforms like Google, Pinterest, or Instagram. You only pay a commission (12-15% of the sale price) if someone clicks on your ad and then makes a purchase within 30 days. Funnily enough, it seemed like every ad-based sale we were making was coming from 'offsite ads'. So we were losing 12-15% every time. Not to mention the taxes on top (which we will get into later). Now the average margin on your items, especially if you want to remain competitive and soak up the delivery charge, might only be 20%. Take away Etsy ad fees, taxes, and Etsy listing fees, and yes folks, you are losing money. Sadly for us, at least 80% of our sales were barely breaking even. Before we even factored the time spent on creating the damn things. Etsy's cut was easily approaching 25-30% with offsite ads factored in, and without them, the chances of selling though onsite ads was basically zero. We quickly realised that Etsy was starting to demonstrate itself as a little bit of a scam. With the platform raking in billions, where on earth was the support for the sellers that make it? 25% ? Absolutely madness. ⪢ Was there even a good reach? In all fairness, the reach on Etsy ads did seem okay. We saw an uptick of around 100 visitors a day to our store at one point, although that cost us a cool $130 in a month before we cut it off. It just was not worth it with the offset against sales barely breaking even. A shortage of actual buyers on the platform? Or were our products just not good enough? Definitely an argument for the later, although we had sold at least one across 30% of our range. Deep down we just knew the exposure was not good enough. RETURN TO CONTENTS Etsy's direction... too concerned with updates and apps With the amount of money Etsy was charging us for listings and ads, we were wondering if there was going to be some sort of major investment in the system to boost reach or something. Yes we know that is wishful thinking, but at this point, we had put way to much work in to simply give up. We turned the ads on and then off, then on again, desperately hoping they would spur the organic reach we craved. A few sales trickled in, we lost money, and we eventually decided to keep them off. In 2022, it felt like the money was going into constant updates and tweaks. A whole new app to replace one that was not broken, a slew of changes to product features and parameters (which meant yet another 300 changes), and then one of the most frustrating of all, an enforced delivery lead-time update which led to another 300 changes. There were plenty of others besides, and we seemed to be spending far more time catering to the platform than sending out 'thank you for your custom' emails. Sales were few and far between, but the time demanded was off the charts. In the past two years (roughly April 2022 - April 2024), Etsy has implemented several changes to improve the platform for both sellers and buyers. There have been adjustments to fee structures, though as ever with Etsy the specifics are ridiculously complex. After major seller backlash campaigns in the past few years, Etsy has made efforts to improve search algorithms and introduce new features to help buyers discover unique products. This involved better filtering options or promoting (apparently) high-quality listings. There have also been updates to the offsite ads program, such as offering sellers more control over their ad placements and budgets. Honestly, it is all company bluster to keep us going and paying our fees. Sadly hardly any of it has worked. RETURN TO CONTENTS Crazy Etsy charges The crazy Etsy charges. The crazy Etsy statements. It really is one of the worst parts of the platform. Even to this day, we still cannot make sense of the chaos. Etsy provides a monthly statement, and on it is a barrage of costs that no amount of terms and conditions reading can understand! For example, we sold a pair of green sneakers and a pair of brown sneakers. 2 items, that's it, that's all. On Etsy's statement - TWENTY separate charges. Yes 20! Let's give you more of an idea: The sale of the two pairs of sneakers came to $74.08 (CAD) . Charges applied by Etsy (we have added both charges together, but they are all separately placed on your statement, for each item, just to confuse you): ● Bill for click-throughs to your shop: $2.65 ● VAT on Etsy Ads: $0.53 ● Listing Fee: $0.27 ● VAT auto-renew sold: $0.10 ● Processing Fee: $3.21 ● VAT on Processing Fee: $1.28 ● Sales tax paid by buyer: $9.70 ● Transaction Fee: $9.24 ● Regulatory Operating Fee: $0.36 ● VAT on Transaction: $1.84 TOTAL: $29.18 So given that our profit margin on both the pairs of sneakers is $36, that leaves us with $6. Raising prices is not an option as we are trying to stay competitive with others in the market... given all of the work involved in launching the product, $6 is not a lot. And the more money thrown at advertising for no returns equals a loss sadly. ⪢ Oh, and the listing fees... We were aware of the listing fees prior to joining, however it is another expense that can seem to sneak up on you without you realising. Every item comes with an initial listing fee, which renews every 4 months, and also is charged on each sale. While 27 cents might not seem a lot, when you factor in 300 products, it really starts to add up and eat into the margins. RETURN TO CONTENTS Time vs effort - is it worth it? Now none of this is to say all is completely at a loss. From what we understand, for drop-shippers, Etsy is all about volume. If you can sell a thousand sneakers, that becomes $6000 profit. But the offshoot is that you simply cannot reach volume without Etsy ads, and Etsy ads are totally unsustainable and unprofitable. It is all geared towards raking in money for the platform, leaving the sellers with nothing but years of hard work with little to show for it. It really is not worth it in our opinion. Maybe a few years ago in the early days of Etsy it was, but in this day and age it is a false economy. It all feels a little like working for a public company where you bust a gut for minimum wage while the fat cats at the top flood their paychecks with millions of dollars. And you can bet they aren't working nearly as hard. Etsy works on the same principal and we decided we were no longer going to fall for it! RETURN TO CONTENTS Competition – how tough is it? The competition on Etsy can be quite tough as we have already mentioned, but it also depends on several factors: ⪢ Saturation: Certain niches on Etsy (like printed tees) are highly saturated, meaning there are many sellers offering similar products. This can make it challenging for new shops to stand out, especially for popular items like clothing or travel accessories (like ours). ⪢ Search Ranking: Etsy's search algorithm plays a big role in determining which shops appear first in search results. Understanding SEO principles and optimizing your listings with relevant keywords is crucial for getting your products seen according to Etsy, but by no means guaranteed. In our experience, the big accounts gobble up about 90%, leaving the remaining 10% feeding off of the scraps. Ok, we cannot back up those numbers, but it certainly felt like that in the 2 years we went at it. ⪢ Product Differentiation: What makes your products unique? Do you offer a special design element, use high-quality materials, or cater to a specific niche within a broader category? Standing out from the crowd is essential for attracting customers. That is what the Etsy 'experts' tell you anyway. Thumbnails are crucial, as are titles, but that takes time and money (Canva pro or flat-lay app subscriptions for example). All while eating into the little-to-no profit margins you have. ⪢ Marketing & Branding: Successful Etsy shops often invest in marketing their products beyond just the Etsy platform. This could involve social media promotion, influencer partnerships, or running targeted ads. Building a strong brand identity also helps you resonate with potential customers. Again this all costs a lot of time and money, and can be very draining. It is a hard slog, with absolutely no guarantees. Especially when you are fighting against millions of others. RETURN TO CONTENTS The infamous Etsy 'reserve' debacle The Etsy "reserve" debacle refers to a policy change implemented in 2021 that caused significant frustration among many sellers. Here's a breakdown of what happened: ⪢ The Policy: Etsy introduced a system where they could withhold a portion (usually 75%, yes 75%! ) of seller's funds in a reserve account. This meant sellers wouldn't have immediate access to the full amount from their sales. ⪢ Reasons for Reserve: The purpose, according to Etsy, was to protect the platform and buyers from potential fraud. They would hold the reserve until specific criteria were met, such as the order being shipped with tracking or a certain timeframe passing (typically 45 days). ⪢ Sellers' Frustration: Several aspects of the policy caused major problems for sellers, with the lack of transparency quite shocking. Many sellers felt Etsy wasn't clear about why their funds were being placed in reserve, making it difficult to address the issue. ⪢ Cash Flow Impact: Holding a significant portion of funds could strain a seller's cash flow, especially for those who rely on Etsy income to purchase materials or cover other business expenses. ⪢ Impact on New Shops: New shops (like us at the time), which are more susceptible to being flagged for reserve due to limited sales history, could find it challenging to gain momentum if their earnings are restricted. ⪢ Aftermath: The policy received significant pushback from the seller community, with many voicing their concerns online and through petitions and boycotts. While Etsy has made adjustments to the policy since its initial implementation, the "reserve" debacle remains a point of contention for many sellers. This shambolic policy was not quite the final straw when it was first implemented, but coupled with the insane charges, constant changes to the platform, the awful ad program and terrible reach, we were really getting there. RETURN TO CONTENTS Poor store customization Another major source of frustration for us came with the lack of customization for our storefront, which honestly is pretty poor given the amount of changes Etsy loves to implement practically anywhere else but. For example, items sold always go to no 1 spot in the feed, which means if you have a layout aesthetic you are constantly re-organizing it. And the re-organisation process absolutely sucks and is very time consuming. The store banner is a nightmare, has poor rendering and is a pain to size correctly. Yu can get additional layout options but of course, you must pay monthly for the privilege. The product layouts cannot be customised and it is very difficult to showcase your brand beyond the small profile picture. These are just a few frustrations, there are plenty more plastered all over the internet. Very disappointing from Etsy given how much money it is extracting from its sellers. RETURN TO CONTENTS The turning point: time to QUIT ETSY and move on to OUR OWN PLATFORM closerlives.com So what was the straw that broke the camels back? Well in all honesty, it was our own website, THIS website, which did it. Up until mid 2023, our website had taken a bit of a back seat to Etsy, our travels, teaching English online, and YouTube. We had started it as a creator academy, abandoned that, and then started to blog a little. But with limited time and an uncertainty as to how to monetize, it just was not a priority. After experiencing a dramatic rise and surpassing monetization on YouTube while in Jakarta in 2023, we realised that our website was an opportunity we could no longer avoid. We had blogged a little up until that point, but the design and usability was poor, and it was not bringing in any cash. We were nervous about throwing time at it, as we were concerned that it would be another Etsy situation. A whole lot of work for no payout. Well, we were very happy to be proved wrong on that front! After some serious research, again that good old time , and some big blogs, we completely overhauled Closer Lives. It has been 6 months of major reconstruction and we are now seeing tangible results; increased ad revenues, over ten thousand visitors a month and even store sales. Our OWN brand, our OWN money, and a GENUINE COMMUNITY that we could never replicate on Etsy. The decision was made. Time to go it alone! RETURN TO CONTENTS The benefits of building your own site Building your own website and online store offers several advantages compared to selling on platforms like Etsy; here are but just a few reasons, and things to consider: ⪢ Greater Control & Branding: You have complete control over the design, layout, and branding of your online store. This allows you to create a unique shopping experience that reflects your brand identity and resonates with your target audience. On Etsy, your shop operates within a larger platform with a pre-determined layout and branding elements. ⪢ Lower Fees: While website building and hosting come with costs, you typically avoid the transaction fees and listing fees associated with marketplaces like Etsy. In the long run, this can lead to significant savings, especially for businesses with high sales volume. ⪢ Customer Data Ownership: When you run your own store, you collect customer data directly, allowing you to build targeted email marketing campaigns and gain valuable insights into your customer base. On Etsy, customer data belongs to the platform, limiting your marketing options. ⪢ Flexibility and Customization: With your own website, you have the freedom to customize the functionality of your online store. This could involve adding features like loyalty programs, subscription boxes, or personalized product recommendations, which might not be readily available on marketplaces. ⪢ Scalability: As your business grows, your website can easily scale to accommodate increased traffic and product offerings. Scaling on marketplaces might involve additional fees or limitations depending on the platform's structure. ⪢ Here's a caveat though: Building and maintaining your own website requires more effort and technical expertise compared to using a pre-built platform like Etsy. You'll need to consider factors like web hosting, domain name registration, website design, security measures, and ongoing maintenance. However, the long-term benefits of control, cost-efficiency, and brand ownership can be significant for businesses looking to establish a strong online presence! RETURN TO CONTENTS The future of Closer Lives Emporium - what have we learnt, and where do we go from here? This whole experience has been a massive learning curve for us, and as ever hindsight will always demonstrate the could have's, should not's and what could-have-been's. If we could go back and do it all over again, would we? To be honest, as tempting as that might be, we wouldn't. We learnt far too much through our own mistakes, and we appreciate those as much as we do our successes. We did sell on Etsy, we did make a little bit of cash and we did come out of it with almost 300 products that are still very much alive and well right here on our own site. The learning curve has been steep and challenging, but has not deterred us from making a success of Closer Lives Emporium. That being said, it has also pushed us to developing our own site as a whole, which in turn led to us pursuing one of our biggest passions - writing and blogging! Would that have still been a reality if we were pushing our Etsy store? I guess we will never know, But one thing is for sure, we are having the time of our lives developing this blog, and happiness genuinely is the key to success. The energy this blog continues to give us is the cornerstone of Closer Lives. That all being said, our store is very much operational on here to and you are welcome to take a look! We hope this post has helped you in some way, and if you have any questions and want to pick our brains at all, feel free to get in touch! Drop a comment or pop us an email; we are always on hand and our advice is free. Helping and making a difference: that to us is a far better use of our time! ⪢ How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube  of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy!

Bali is one of the top tourist and digital nomad destinations in the world, with a vast number of scooters and motorbikes on the roads. Unfortunately it has experienced a significant number of accidents involving them specifically, owing to insufficient infrastructure and poor regulation enforcement. The accident rates in Bali can vary year to year but are currently amongst the highest in the world . Sadly we are now part of those statistics, and we want to raise awareness to help you avoid the same situation as us. PLUS read about the MONUMENTAL potential law change that will have a dramatic impact on tourists and locals alike on this stunning Indonesian island. There are an estimated 3.9 million scooters alone in Bali, Indonesia. This number has been steadily increasing in recent years, as scooters have become the preferred mode of transportation for many people on the island. Scooters are affordable, fuel-efficient, and easy to maneuver in the congested traffic of Bali. However, they can also be dangerous, as they are often involved in accidents. In 2019, there sadly were over 1,000 people killed in motorcycle accidents alone in Bali. Officially there are over 10,000 accidents involving bikes every year on the island, although the total is believed to be far higher due to a lack of reporting of minor incidents. Despite both of us having 20+ years driving experience, neither of us had ever driven a bike or scooter before. Jenn had the slight upper hand as she has been a passenger many times on them, so that gave us some confidence. For Leon, it is one thing he literally NEVER thought he would do. They had always been a no-go for him over safety. Be it vans, trucks, or even forklifts, all of those 20 years we had both always felt safe on four wheels. As travelers here in Asia, we know of the prominence of scooters and their affordability. We had also done our research surrounding the safety of them. Bali is notorious for its risks and in hindsight we should have thought twice before trying it here given it was our first time. Our quiet countryside residence in Thailand would have been a far better place to practice in hindsight (our AirBnb host offered to let us practice on theirs). But we procrastinated, didn't, and then here we were, ready and willing to join the mass ranks of scooter users in the beautiful area of Ubud. On day one it actually went quite well, despite the nerves. On day 2, the day of the accident, we were excited to get back on it initially. It is important to note here that our AirBnb host actually refused us a bike initially when we told her it would be our first time. Yet when we were in a local restaurant which also rented bikes, we were told it was no problem. Eventually we got ours from a friend of our host, and needless to say, there was not exactly any paperwork or licence checks. But from what we understand, that is a fairly common occurrence here. We were not entirely comfortable with it and knew the risks but we decided to go for it anyway. Little did we know, but that turned out to be a very painful decision. Read on for details on what happened, information about scooters in Indonesia, and things you can do to stay safe on the roads if you do choose to rent one, and THAT potential law change. Table of Contents ● Our motorcycle accident in Bali - how it happened ● Scooters and Bikes in Indonesia ● What we recommend you consider to avoid an accident on Bali's roads ● MAJOR potential law change BANNING foreigners from renting vehicles on the island ● What you need to rent a bike in Bali ● Our message More from Jenn & Leon Travel Blog ● How to follow our Blog ● Your FREE interactive map of Indonesia ● Explore Bali with special offers from Klook ● Your GUIDE to visiting Indonesia Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for more information. Our motorcycle accident in Bali - how it happened Only the day before the accident, Leon had posted on Instagram about getting on a scooter for the first time, feeling so proud that he had allayed his life-long fears to try it. Just look at the advantages too. Highly versatile, easy to rent, and a way of getting through traffic quicker. On top of that, here in Ubud (Bali), you can rent one for less than $4 a day. Win win right? We were fine on the first day as mentioned earlier, albeit a little nervous and shaky. On Tuesday we were feeling much more confident and super excited, planning our YouTube video for a trip up to the Ceking rice terraces, the famous Bali swing, and whatever else we could find amongst this jungle paradise. The traffic in Ubud is literally insane , so we decided to avoid the main route of chaos and take the only other option, the quiet backroads. I was worried about the traffic (ironically) so I thought it would be way easier. But.... these roads are tight, bendy, hilly and pot holed. We felt OK, it was a 30 minute ride and we were halfway through. It is so hard though; without a sat nav we could not anticipate the bends. So we were going slow! We were going down a hill (on a particularly narrow stretch) and around a bend when it happened. There was a truck and bike behind us trying to overtake, and then as we got past the blind point of the turn there was an oncoming truck on the road and it didn't honk (this is usually standard practice to warn bikes). We had to swerve to dodge them, then the bike slipped; Leon ended up underneath the bike and Jenn went over the top. The injuries were bad and we were both in shock, but thankfully there was no concussion. The van and bike did not stop, but others did. Someone stopped and moved the bike from the road, and we were offered water too. We walked to a local store a few hundred metres away, and called a taxi. We were both super stressed, in shock, and bleeding. Despite the language barrier the store was incredibly kind, getting us wipes and tissues, and they even recovered the bike from where it was parked for us. We left the bike at the store and arranged for its owner to pick it up. All in all we had to pay $35 for the damage, and there was absolutely no issue with the owner. It all kind of felt normal, just as it did when we walked in to the pharmacy on the way back in the state we were in. We were really grateful for this, although it was a sign that perhaps they are used to dealing with these kind of accidents. The stats really don't lie. We are so thankful it was not worse, with no broken bones, despite the intense pain of our injuries. It absolutely sucks as we are in our dream destination and can't do anything but rest up and recover. But we are so thankful we are alive! Since it happened, on the few occasions we have had to venture outside, the people have been incredible too. Locals and tourists are acknowledging us wherever we go, showing such lovely care and compassion We honestly have not been able to walk for more than a few minutes without being approached by someone. Everyone has recommended treatment and offered support and advice too. It is humbling really, and just goes to show the incredible kindness and compassion that we often forget that most people do have! RETURN TO CONTENTS Scooters and Bikes in Indonesia According to the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri), there were 131 million registered motorcycles in Indonesia as of 2022. This means that approximately 60% of the population of Indonesia uses a motorcycle as their primary mode of transportation. There are a number of reasons why motorcycles are so popular in Indonesia. First, they are relatively affordable. A new motorcycle can be purchased for as little as $1,000. Second, motorcycles are fuel-efficient. A motorcycle can get up to 50 miles per gallon, which can save a lot of money on transportation costs. Third, motorcycles are easy to maneuver in the congested traffic of Indonesia. However, the risks associated with using motorcycles in Indonesia are clear; case-and-point in this post. Motorcycles are involved in a high number of accidents, and the roads in Indonesia are often poorly maintained. Always wear a helmet, try not to go too fast, and keep both hands on the handlebars at all times. And please do not use your phone (unless for sat nav). Save for later: First Time in Ubud, Bali: A Magical Experience until our Scooter Accident! First impressions of Indonesia, including our taste of Balinese cuisine, our Airbnb stay in Ubud and how it all got cut short after 2 days. RETURN TO CONTENTS What we recommend you consider to avoid an accident on Bali's roads ⪢ High accident rates Scooter and motorbike accidents are a significant cause of injuries and fatalities worldwide. In many countries, including Bali, they account for a large proportion of road traffic accidents. ⪢ Vulnerability Riders of scooters and motorbikes are more exposed to the risk of injury compared to occupants of cars or other enclosed vehicles. The lack of protective barriers increases the likelihood of severe injuries in case of a collision. ⪢ Helmet usage Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and fatalities in scooter and motorbike accidents. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world, including Bali, helmet usage is not vigorously enforced or practiced consistently mainly by locals). That being said it is still a legal requirement in Indonesia, and police will pull over tourists without one. ⪢ Road conditions Uneven road surfaces, potholes, and inadequate infrastructure can contribute to accidents involving scooters and motorbikes. In Bali, where the road conditions can be challenging, it's essential to exercise caution and adapt your driving style accordingly. ⪢ Traffic congestion Bali, like many popular tourist destinations, experiences heavy traffic congestion. This can lead to increased risks for scooter and motorbike riders, such as rear-end collisions and sideswipes. In Ubud, trust us, it is madness out there! ⪢ Inexperienced riders Scooters and motorbikes are often popular choices for tourists and inexperienced riders due to their affordability and ease of use. Lack of familiarity with local traffic rules and riding in unfamiliar environments can increase the risk of accidents, like it did for us sadly. ⪢ Impaired driving Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major contributing factor in scooter and motorbike accidents. It impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making accidents more likely to occur. Besides, it is totally ILLEGAL. Just don't do it, it really is not worth the risk. ⪢ Defensive driving Practicing defensive driving techniques, such as maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, using turn signals, and staying alert to potential hazards, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. If you are not comfortable driving a scooter, consider using Grab or another ride / taxi service in Bali. You can even get bike taxis which are super affordable and have experienced drivers who know the roads and the ways of the locals. Yes, you may suffer in the chaotic traffic if you do take this option, but after what we have experienced and also heard from others, we would sooner take our time and get to our destination later than take this risk again. That is just us, and we only hope it will not be you!! RETURN TO CONTENTS MAJOR potential law change BANNING foreigners from renting vehicles on the island Back in mid-March 2023, Bali's Governor Koster made a series of monumental announcements that proposed changes to the way in which foreign tourists travel in Bali. This policy includes digital nomads and ex-pats and effectively bans any non-Indonesian from driving motorcycles, scooters or cars on the island, irrespective of whether they have an international or even local driving license. “Those tourists have to travel, walk, and use cars to travel. It is no longer allowed to use a motorcycle or anything that is not from a travel agent.” -Governor Koster This is a monumental change for Bali, although it is currently still not written into law. As of now, tourists are ONLY permitted to rent vehicles from authorized agencies. This is particularly interesting as GoJek and Grab services, which are hugely popular, are NOT recognized as formal travel agents. RETURN TO CONTENTS What you need to rent a bike in Bali Despite the aforementioned announcement, currently from what we have seen, there is little change to what has been the status quo in Bali for many years. We actually compiled the list below before we found out about this new law, and as this post shows, things have yet to change. From what we have seen, no-one seems to be aware of it and bikes and scooters continue to be rented as they are. So please do check out our advice below, but be very aware that this may become null and void when the ban comes into full effect. Please do check local government sources for up-to-date information before your visit. ⪢ Licences A driving licence is required here in Indonesia, along with an International Drivers Licence which you must get in your home country. Even if your rental company does not ask, carry them on you at all times as if ever you are stopped by the police, they most certainly will. ⪢ Where to rent one As of March 2023, tourists can only hire a motorcycle from a business that is registered with the relevant trade agencies or the Transportation Renting Association in Bali. While there are hundreds of companies that are part of the TRA in Bali, there are just as many informal operations renting motorcycles to tourists, digital nomads, and ex-pats in Bali. Local residents who are not formally registered as members of trade agencies or the transportation renting association are not permitted to rent two-wheeling vehicles to foreign tourists. Unfortunately we only found this out after our accident! ⪢ Rental costs This really depends on the strength of the scooter itself, but typically prices can range from 70-100k IDR per day for lower end bikes (110cc, i.e Scoopy bikes) to 150k IDR per day for bikes at 150cc. Prices may be offered at a discount for long-term rentals. ⪢ Insurance It is important to ensure ownership / registration papers are with the bike at all times, but do not confuse this for insurance. This is not something that will likely be offered to you, so check with your personal travel insurance (if you have it) to see if you are covered. If not, you must do so, as it is now required by law. ⪢ Fuel Fuel is very affordable and a full tank will set you back around $3 US. All Balinese villages tend to have roadside fuel stands, marked up in red and blue labels. There are only two options, Bensin or Pertamax, usually located outside of a shopfront or Warung (small privately owned restaurant).Bensin is yellow and Pertamax is blue Pertamax is slightly more expensive but better quality fuel, and is usually the default if you do not specify. Alternatively you can top up at a Pertamina Gas Station, although this may be more expensive as it is not self-service, as with virtually all petrol stations in Asia. NOTE: You will often find shelves filled with bottles of fuel outside stores too. Please be careful with this as from what we have heard the quality is questionable, it is more expensive, and often watered down. ⪢ Police A good tip is to keep some loose change in your pocket, maybe 80 - 100k IDR. If the police do pull you over, usually they will check your documents. Be warned that you could expect a heavy fine if you are not wearing a helmet, but that to one side, usually they are just looking to make you a little nervous and extract a little cash. ⪢ Clothing Most people tend to wear flip flops / thongs when using bikes; as Jenn and I did. In hindsight we would strongly recommend closed footwear as foot abrasions are debilitating and very uncomfortable! Long sleeve tops are also advisable, not just for extra protection if you fall but also to protect from the sun. ⪢ Back roads As you have read already the back roads can be very hazardous for bike users here. The roads are hilly, full of twists and turns, narrow and pot holed. Visibility is also low on bends due to trees and overgrowth too so take particular care there. We would recommend sticking to the main drag if you are inexperienced. ⪢ Honking Do not be alarmed if people honk at you, this is generally to let you know they are there (as opposed to irritation like in England and Canada). It is also best practice to honk on turns and blind bends, to alert people and oncoming vehicles. ⪢ Satellite navigation One of our biggest regrets is not having a phone holder, which we strongly advise after our sombre lesson learned. It is not necessarily easy to get lost in a place like Ubud, which does not have many main roads in and out roads, but a sat nav will really help for anticipating bends which are not sign posted and can tend to come out of nowhere. Read more: Our Airbnb Apartment stay at the charming Jayakarta Bali Beach Resort & Spa in Kuta On the beachfront, with access to the resort pool & restaurant, this Airbnb offers a unique experience with a great central location in Kuta. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our message This has been such a traumatic experience for us and we really are just so grateful to be here to write this post and share what happened. We do not want to discourage anyone from riding scooters or bikes. While the accident rates are scarily high, it is important to remember that millions of people use them literally every day, including tourists, and they are fun and exciting. When you look at the statistics accidents account for less than 1% of the total amount of bike users in Bali. You can have a great time riding scooters and sometimes accidents just happen. We survived, and we just hope to reach out and implore you to stay safe and take the very best of care, wherever you are in the world. Have you had a scooter accident? Please do share your experience in the comments if you feel comfortable, and help us to raise awareness on bike safety. Take care out there! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube  of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! Your FREE interactive map of Indonesia Check out all of the places we visited in Indonesia courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog   is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! Explore Bali with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Bali. Whether you're looking to go on a snorkeling adventure, enjoy a famous Balinese Spa, or even experience horse riding, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and even sim cards. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Indonesia. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! Your GUIDE to visiting Indonesia First time in Indonesia? Check out our comprehensive guide with  all you need to know including our latest posts , must-see places , and key information  about health & safety , transport , local customs , connectivity , visa information, useful links  and much more!

Traveling full-time as a digital nomad has become a popular lifestyle choice for many individuals in recent years. With advancements in technology and the rise of remote work opportunities, it has become easier than ever to work from anywhere in the world. This has opened up a world of possibilities for those seeking adventure, freedom, and flexibility in their lives. Let's take a look at some of the good and the not-so-good with living the digital nomad lifestyle. Table of Contents ● Internet connection is a must ● Freedom! ● New cultures and experiences ● Loneliness and isolation ● A final note ● How to follow our blog Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here   for more information. Internet connection is a must Being a digital nomad means that you can work from anywhere with an internet connection. This could be a coffee shop in Paris, a beach in Thailand, or a co-working space in Bali. It’s all about finding the perfect balance between work and travel, allowing you to explore the world while maintaining a successful career. Read more: So you want to travel the world full time? Here are 5 things to keep in mind The decision to embark on the life changing journey travel the world full time is a big one! Here are some tips to get you better equipped! Freedom! One of the biggest benefits of being a digital nomad is the freedom it provides. You are not tied down to a specific location or office, and you have the ability to work on your own schedule. This allows you to prioritize your travel goals and create a lifestyle that suits you. Whether you want to work in the morning and explore in the afternoon, or vice versa, you have the flexibility to do so. New cultures and experiences on the daily Another benefit is the ability to immerse yourself in new cultures and experiences. When you travel full-time, you have the opportunity to experience new ways of life and expand your horizons. You can try new foods, learn new languages, and meet people from all over the world. This can be incredibly enriching and can broaden your perspective on life. However, there are also some challenges to being a digital nomad. One of the biggest is maintaining a work-life balance. When you are constantly on the move, it can be difficult to find a routine and set boundaries for your work time. It’s important to prioritize your workload and make time for self-care and relaxation. Amidst these adventures and challenges, securing reliable nomad insurance becomes crucial for peace of mind and safety on your journeys. You might also read this comprehensive  Insured Nomads Review  for detailed insight. This company provides customized health and travel insurance for the modern nomad. Loneliness and isolation (if traveling solo) Another challenge is the potential for loneliness and isolation. While traveling can be exciting and adventurous, it can also be lonely at times. It can be difficult to form meaningful connections with people when you are constantly on the move. However, there are ways to combat this, such as joining co-working spaces, attending events and meetups, and staying in touch with friends and family back home. A final note... Overall, traveling full-time as a digital nomad can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience. It allows you to explore the world, learn new things, and create a lifestyle that suits you. However, it’s important to be aware of the challenges and make an effort to find a balance between work and play. If you are considering becoming a digital nomad, do your research and prepare yourself for the journey ahead. For more travel tips, experiences and post notifications, feel free to subscribe below! How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram , you can join our broadcast channel  for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube   of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog , and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy!

There is such importance and power behind a name. I recall talking with my ex mother in law (a strong Christian) while I was pregnant with her first grandchild and she asked me what name I was planning to choose. She discussed with me the gift and power of intention in a name…I love the lessons and wisdom that come from older generations than our own (yes, even that from an ex mother in law) So.. long story short, I named her grandchildren Noah, Eden & Adam. Both a gift to her and my children. Jennifer: my name essentially means “white fairy” or “white phantom” and has origins dating back to Roman Britain, perhaps even to pagan goddesses. Jennifer comes from a Cornish form of the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar “Jennifer” itself is Cornish for “white wave” or “white shadow”; “Gwenhwyfar,” as it turns out, is “derived from the elements gwen meaning ‘fair, white, blessed’ and sebara meaning ‘phantom, magical being.’ Interesting side note: I have been seriously considering allowing my natural hair to grow in. I have been colouring and hiding my new growth of grey, white and SILVER; literal SILVER hair, for years. It's going to be a long process but I am in it to win it. When I saw these photos of Annika von Holdt with her beautiful natural hair I was convinced that this is the path for me too. Am I the only one getting total MARVEL vibes here....channeling energy from your hands with white and silver hair!? In ancient cultures and tribes all over the world they used to introduce themselves fully. Why do we no longer say ‘I’m Jennifer, pure of heart, a white enchantress’ it sounds WAY cooler and far more memorable! And if you don’t identify with your birth name any longer than change it and find something that does resonate with the new you .. trust me, I’m a Scorpio. I’ve lived many lives in this one already.. we are the transformers! Take a name in your spiritual transformation process (but do remember there is a key and relevance in your birth namesake in your spiritual journey). After asking the universe (manifesting, calling it into being) for a deep, real conversation about the things I’m passionate about with a stranger, I recently met a fascinating man while we were in Patong, Phuket for Songkran, the WATER PARTY of the year and the Buddhist New Year in Thailand! When I returned from the washroom Leon was discussing ChatGPT with him and he hadn't tried it out....the first question he asked it was 'Explain to me Athenian Democracy' and that says it all. He was a fellow Canadian at that, I rarely have met Canadians in my travels and/or fellow funeral directors (which I ALSO met here at this exact restaurant the day before but that's a story for another time) He is backpacker in his late 50’s… a world traveller, writer, extremely spiritual & knowledgeable likes to dissect society, technology, politics, space, quantum, discuss ‘conspiracy theories’… basically he knew his ‘stuff’ (the ‘stuff’ that matters to me) he ‘spoke’ my language. (all joking aside I actually do speak 4 languages English, French, Portuguese and Spanish) When I finally got around to asking his name (often in travels we just get talking naturally and casually and introductions tend to fall to the wayside) he said ‘well, I go by Dallas…’ I thought that was an odd way to put it and it felt impersonal to me.. I like to know the depths of people (I'm a Scorpio, we don't do surface level) and his statement felt lingering to me, so following my intuition I said “yes, but what is your ‘birth/real name’?” (which I wouldn’t normally ask!) and he said ‘you know, it’s been so long since I’ve used it I can’t even bring myself to say it out loud…’ and he didn’t say it… but I could tell he thought/felt deeply about it… and I KNOW, as a healer, that was a take away for him.. a call to heal his namesake wounds...often in lineage/generational patterns and childhood trauma wounds etc. there’s no escaping the inner works when they come calling for you…and they will at some point in your journey. The other fascinating thing I find about my name is that oddly, I have many times in my life been referred to by strangers as ‘the lady in black’. Maybe it's due the sense of mystery or allure my energy sends out? I dunno...I remember when Leon and I stayed in Merida, Mexico in June 2021 at an old Mansion and the host kept calling me Lady in Black all weekend...for example brought a bottle of wine to our room and said " You're welcome Lady in Black. " That was the weekend that Leon read aloud to me all over the grounds from the Book of Osiris written by a clairaudient that I had found a few days prior at the local book store. I paid 60 pesos for it and it is valued at $450 usd (I love books however I am no collector etc quite the opposite actually since it's difficult to travel with tangible books) The book was a blessing to me in so many ways! Again, a story for another day. I’m a Scorpio and my colour is black and I have an affinity for the tone.. and it’s my clothing colour of choice but my namesake is all about the white..maybe it's the balance between light and dark? White and Black? The ying and yang? Who knows but what I do know is that there is true power and gifting that is attached to words and names. Writing prompt: What does your name mean? Compose an essay or write a poem about your name…your name sake.. anything that comes to you associated to your name .. have you noticed any generational patterns etc. learn about you!

A new movement is emerging—one that challenges the conventional norms of hair color and celebrates the natural beauty of gray hair. Also a process many people choose to go through to get to their beautiful natural silver hair. Enter "grombre" a term that's been making waves in the realm of hair care and self-expression. But what exactly is grombre, and why is it gaining traction among people of all ages and backgrounds all around the globe? What the Heck is Grombre Hair? At first glance, the term "grombre" might sound like a curious blend of words. But in reality, it's a clever fusion of "gray" and "ombre," two elements that are key to understanding this phenomenon. Gray/Grey: Traditionally associated with aging, gray hair has often been viewed as something to be covered up or concealed. However, the grombre movement challenges this notion, encouraging individuals to embrace their natural gray hair as a symbol of authenticity and self-acceptance. Ombre: A popular hair coloring technique characterized by a gradual transition from darker roots to lighter ends, ombre typically involves dyeing hair in shades of brown, blonde, or even vibrant colors. In the context of grombre, the term refers to the natural progression from one's original hair color to shades of gray or silver. Many if not most people go through this process when they decide to ditch the hair dye and naturally embrace their grey hair.  The process entails naturally allowing your hair to grow out, no longer dyeing your hair.  Some people do this only until they can cut it a length suitable for them.  Others, like myself desire to maintain their length and let the grow out process progress until the hair dye completely is grown out or cut away.  So although this is often a temporary process and look, temporary can often mean YEARS with a multitude of different lengths in the balance of the old and new hair throughout the process. The Rise of Grombre The grombre movement didn't emerge overnight; rather, it's the culmination of a cultural shift towards greater acceptance of diverse beauty standards and a rejection of ageism and the idea that grey hair equals old or ageing in the beauty industry.  Social media platforms like Instagram have played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of grombre advocates, like myself, who proudly share photos of their silver locks alongside messages of self-love and empowerment in attempts to normalize grey hair at all ages and phases of life. Embracing Authenticity At its core, grombre is about more than just hair—it's a symbol of embracing authenticity and rejecting societal pressures to conform to narrow standards of beauty. By embracing their natural gray hair, individuals are reclaiming ownership of their appearance and celebrating the unique journey that has led them to this point. They also choose to go through a process that they know can be challenging but yet rewarding in so many different ways. The Power of Representation One of the most powerful aspects of the grombre movement is its role in promoting representation and diversity in the beauty industry. By showcasing a wide range of hair colors and textures, grombre advocates are challenging the notion that beauty is synonymous with youthfulness and that grey hair equals - old, encouraging others to embrace their own unique features. The grombre movement serves as a powerful reminder that beauty comes in many forms. Whether you're rocking a full head of silver strands or just beginning to notice a few gray hairs, embracing your natural hair color is an act of self-love and empowerment. Grombre not only teaches us about self-acceptance as it is a temporary process for most of us, one we decide to take as the natural progression to a full grey hair transformation. This way to going grey also reminds us that positive, healthy changes can take time and patience. It also helps with the dialogue in our daily lives.  Often thrusting us into advocacy and conversations with others even when we weren't prepared for all of that. Because many people will be vocal about their thoughts and opinions on grey hair and ageing, we really get questioned about the choices and decisions we've made when ditching the hair dye and the whys. It can become quite evident early on that we will have to be strong in our decisions when sporting a grombre look because people have so many questions.  The grombre look creates a curiosity and questioning in others that the advocacy happens whether you want it to or not! So here's to grombre and here’s to the those choosing to rock one: a celebration of gray, a testament to authenticity, and a reminder that beauty knows no age because grey hair starts as young as late teens and early twenties which we still don’t seem to realize because we have been taught by society to hide it unless you are OLD, like REALLY OLD. Is there any wonder why we as a society have equated silver hair with age?  It’s only after decades of dyeing and hiding our white hair that women are finally saying ENOUGH to dyeing their hair and being exhausted from spending so much money, time and life energy trying to hide it. But not anymore. We are changing the narrative and for many of us it starts with the grombre. We’ve had enough and I couldn’t be more thrilled to see so many people embracing their natural hair even as early as their late teens and early twenties. It's always easier when it's in fashion or a trend but this opens up the world to more profound and longer term acceptance in the movement. We'll take what we can get! Through my grombre grow out, I've discovered a refreshed sense of courage, confidence, and self-love, and I'm proud to advocate for a movement that celebrates the beauty of authenticity. For me this is one of the final steps in a physical representation demonstrating what I have embraced inwardly for a very long time. Authentically accepting the fullness of me. And for many others it's one of the first steps to this! Have you ever thought about ditching the dye and giving the natural grombre a try? Now is a great time to do it while grey hair and natural hair is all the trend! But that is a blog post for another day.

We learn a lot about how we view ourselves and the fears we have associated with going grey and getting older when we make the decision to embrace the grey. Ditching the hair dye is a big decision for women.The pressures from society are real and depending on where you live in the world it can also vary greatly. Jump straight to the Tips section Growing out your natural grey hair can boost confidence through embracing your authentic look but it can be really challenging too. The process is quite long and many women find themselves always finding a reason as to why this isn’t quite the right time to ditch the hair dye.  There may be a family wedding coming up, a business meeting, a first date. You can plan all you want but the timing is never going to be perfect so you have to choose whether or not you are going to go through with it and just do it. I now look back fondly at my transition photos and think how proud I am of her for and all that’s she’s learned. That she went to that event like that! That she defined her beauty and owned it. Are you ready to ditch the dye? Here are 5 reasons Ditching the Dye will help you tap into your Rebel Energy! 1. Authentic Self-Expression Growing out your natural grey hair is a natural and authentic expression of who you truly are. Embracing your natural beauty, including the silver strands, allows you to present yourself to the world without any pretense, fostering a sense of confidence rooted in genuine self-acceptance.  I try to demonstrate this in my Instagram reels through showing all sides of me.  Filtered and not. 2. Embracing Aging with a pro-ageing perspective: Choosing to grow out your grey hair signifies a positive embrace of the aging process. It reflects a confidence in navigating different life stages, showcasing that you not only accept but celebrate the wisdom, experience and privilege that comes with age. Learning the differences between pro-aging and anti-aging helps people to be more language conscious in expressing perspectives with others. 3. Breaking Free from Societal Expectations: Confidence flourishes when you break free from societal expectations. Choosing to let your natural grey hair shine challenges conventional beauty norms, demonstrating a bold self-assurance that refuses to conform to external pressures and standards.  This was a main factor in my decision.  I want women to feel freedom through my transition and to normalize grey hair at all ages.  I have seen so many women on Instagram embracing their grey hair in the 20’s and 30’s.  Let’s break the stigmas and normalize ageing and silver hair so it no longer has to be a part of the conversation for women. 4. Celebrating Individuality Each silver strand in your natural grey hair is unique, just like you. By allowing your hair to grow out naturally, you celebrate the individuality of your journey and appearance. This unique silver hair patterning contributes to an enhanced sense of what makes you distinct. I thought my hair was going to grow in SO white.  My temples are very light but I have a darker upper strip and a lot of dark and salt and pepper hair.  I also have larger silver highlighted streaks. It’s absolutely fascinating to see all the women with their unique patterning a styles. 5. Simplified Beauty Routine, Enhanced Confidence: Growing out your natural grey hair often simplifies your beauty routine, freeing you from the constant upkeep of hair coloring. This simplicity not only saves time and money but it gives you a look that literally no other human can have.  I think that’s pretty neat. I feel passionate about normalizing grey hair in society for women of all ages. In order for that to happen people need to see women with grey hair of all ages. They also need to hear, know and learn that it is fully OK TO GO GRAY ANYDAY IN ANYWAY and then the conversation can go away. Where are you at in the journey? Have you thought about letting your natural hair grow in or to let you silvers shine!? Are you already fully grown in? 🤍🩷 I am Jenn @embracingthesilverlining on Instagram where I also share an abundance of support, encouragement and education (daily updates, my hair shares and stares etc.) Don't forget to add your email to get notified of new blog posts and updates and to be a part of our community at Closer Lives and keep up with the progress!

In a world obsessed with youthfulness and perfection, the journey of Generation X (Gen X) women embracing their natural grey hair or their silver hair which now seems to be the preferred reference, is nothing short of revolutionary. For many of us, our hair isn't just HAIR; it's intertwined with the very core of our identity, our sense of self, where we 'fit' in society, and our journey through life. Yet, as we see the signs of aging, face societal pressures, and personal growth, the decision to go grey or ditch the dye becomes a poignant reflection of our values and our commitment to authenticity. A little History about Hair Dye Hair dyeing has a rich historical background dating back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Egypt, for example, both men and women used natural substances like henna to color their hair. Henna not only served as a means of beautification but also held cultural and religious significance. It symbolized fertility, prosperity, and protection against evil spirits. Similarly, ancient Greeks and Romans practiced hair dyeing using various natural ingredients. Wealthy individuals had access to more elaborate hair dyeing techniques, while commoners used simpler methods with locally available resources. The popularity of hair dyeing persisted throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, albeit with different cultural and social connotations. However, the Renaissance also marked the beginning of an era where societal expectations regarding beauty became increasingly rigid. Women, in particular, were expected to adhere to idealized standards of femininity, which often included maintaining a youthful appearance. As a result, the pressure to dye one's hair to conceal signs of aging intensified. This pressure only grew stronger with the advent of mass-produced commercial hair dyes in the 19th century. Chemists began experimenting with synthetic compounds to create vibrant and long-lasting hair colors, catering to the rising demand for cosmetic products. Advertisements and media further reinforced the idea that youthfulness and beauty were synonymous, leading many women to feel compelled to dye their hair to conform to these standards. The Generation X group, born roughly between the early 1960s and late 1970s, found themselves navigating these societal pressures during their formative years. As they entered adulthood in the 1980s and 1990s, they were bombarded with images of airbrushed perfection in magazines, movies, and television. The pressure to maintain a youthful appearance, including covering up signs of aging such as grey hair, was particularly pronounced for this generation. Despite the historical roots of hair dyeing and its cultural significance, the practice has also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and unrealistic beauty ideals. Embracing natural grey hair challenges these stereotypes and encourages individuals to celebrate their authenticity and embrace the natural aging process. It represents a rejection of societal pressures and a reclaiming of individual identity and self-expression. The historical evolution of hair dyeing reflects broader shifts in societal attitudes towards beauty and aging. By understanding this historical context, we can better appreciate the significance of advocating for natural grey hair and challenging the pressures placed on women, including those from the Generation X group, to conform to narrow beauty standards. The Cultural Landscape Growing up in the vibrant era of the 80s and 90s, Gen X women were inundated with images of eternal youthfulness. From magazine covers to Hollywood icons, the message was clear: aging was something to be feared, and grey hair was an un welcomed. As we entered the workforce, the pressure to maintain a youthful appearance only intensified. Hair dye became our armor against the passage of time, a shield to protect us from aging. Career and Identity For many Gen X women, our careers are deeply intertwined with our appearance. In industries where youthfulness is prized, the decision to embrace grey hair can feel like a radical act of defiance. Will we be taken seriously in the boardroom with salt-and-pepper hair? Will we be passed over for promotions in favor of our younger counterparts? These are the questions and fears that echo in the minds of so many of us as we contemplate ditching the dye. The Evolution of Beauty Standards Yet, amidst the chaos of societal expectations, a quiet revolution is taking place. With each silver strand that emerges, many Gen X women are reclaiming their narrative, rewriting the script on aging, and challenging ALL the status quo's. The beauty standards that once confined us are crumbling, giving way to a more inclusive and authentic definition of beauty. Embracing Change Embracing grey hair isn't just about embracing a new hair color; it's about embracing change in all its forms. It's about embracing the wrinkles that map the journey of our lives, the laughter lines etched around our eyes, and the wisdom that comes with lived experience. It's about embracing the beauty of imperfection and finding strength in vulnerability. As Gen X women, we stand at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, navigating the delicate balance between societal expectations and personal authenticity. Embracing our natural grey hair is more than just a trend; it's a statement of resilience, a celebration of individuality, and a testament to the beauty of aging. In a world where youthfulness is glorified and aging is often feared, the journey of Generation X (Gen X) women embracing their natural grey hair is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and self-acceptance. Let's explore the stories of three remarkable women who have dared to defy societal norms and embrace their silver strands with pride. Sarah's Journey: Redefining Beauty Standards Sarah, a 48-year-old marketing executive, spent years meticulously dyeing her hair to hide any sign of grey. However, after experiencing a series of personal awakenings and reflecting on the pressure to conform to beauty standards, Sarah made the courageous decision to let her natural grey hair shine through. "It was liberating," she shares. "I realized that true beauty comes from within, and embracing my natural hair color was a powerful affirmation of my self-worth." Maria's Story: Finding Strength in Vulnerability For Maria, a 52-year-old mother of two, the decision to embrace her grey hair was deeply intertwined with her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. "I spent years trying to fit into society's narrow definition of beauty," Maria reflects. "But as I grew older, I realized that my grey hair was a symbol of strength, resilience, and the wisdom that comes with age." Embracing her natural hair color became a catalyst for Maria to reclaim her identity and embrace her authentic self. Jenna's Transformation: Embracing Change Jenna, a 45-year-old entrepreneur, vividly remembers the moment she decided to stop dyeing her hair. "I was tired of constantly trying to hide my grey roots," she recalls. "I wanted to live authentically and embrace the natural aging process." Although the transition wasn't always easy, Jenna found solace in the support of her friends and family, who cheered her on every step of the way. "Embracing my grey hair was a transformative experience," she says. "It taught me to embrace change, celebrate imperfection, and find beauty in the journey." The journey of Gen X women embracing their natural grey hair is about more than just a change in appearance—it's a profound shift in mindset. It's about challenging societal norms, redefining beauty standards, and embracing the beauty of aging. So, let us celebrate these women and their courageous decision to break free from the confines of tradition, for they are the pioneers of a new era of authenticity and self-acceptance. And please, don't discourage or deter the people in your life or online that are boldly and bravely embracing their natural hair, they are trying to stand up for change. Do not reflect upon them your own potential fears surrounding ageing and grey hair. And remember so many people are grey at 20 so it isn't even about ageing...but that's a post for another day and first we face it for women since we are also supporting the pro-ageing movement here too! Please don't get in the way of other people's paths and purpose it is a very personal and challenging journey for many and they need support and encouragement. Where are you at in the embracing the grey hair journey?

10 Advantages and Benefits of Ditching the Hair Dye and letting your natural hair shine! Why I stopped coloring mine at 48 and embraced my gray hair. Jump straight to the Tips section I chose to step ‘outside of the box’ and to ditch the hair dye for many reasons but the main two for me would definitely be the constant stress and frustration of the new root growth showing within weeks of colouring. That and the time. The stress and the time. Isn’t it ironic to see those two words together? Why would we give our time to stress? We colour our hair to feel good about it and we do, for a few weeks. Then we are worried about the new growth showing, again.  Many of us can even be found chopping the top off of our heads in selfies to hide the greys. I know I did! Then you are paying for yet another trip to the salon or buying a new box of dye. I started to recognize and feel the weight of this cycle and I decided life had enough things demanding my time, attention and money.  We know life has no problem finding ways to add stress.  I wasn’t willing to pay any currency to do this to myself any longer, so I broke the cycle. Now here we are 11 months into my natural silver hair grow out journey. It’s been full of doubts and uncertainties, wonders and curiosities.  It’s had me questioning my views on aging and learning about positive language and the differences between an anti and a pro aging perspective. I am now in the fondly referred to grombre or gray ombre stage stage of my grow out. The upper quarter or half of my hair is natural and the lower half is the previously dyed colour.  Some people really struggle watching themselves and their hair through the process but I have quite enjoyed it.  I have decided to embrace and celebrate it. I couldn’t be happier that I stuck with it and didn't give in to dye my hair even through the harder days and trust me there are many. 10 advantages and benefits of Ditching the Dye and letting your natural hair shine! 1. Healthier Hair: Hair dyes often contain chemicals that can damage the hair shaft and lead to dryness and breakage. Embracing your natural colour allows your hair to grow and maintain its natural health. 2. Reduced Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the chemicals present in hair dyes. Going natural eliminates the risk of experiencing allergic reactions or irritations associated with hair dye. 3. Time and Cost Savings: Regular hair dyeing sessions can be time-consuming and expensive. By going natural, you save time and money that would otherwise be spent on purchasing hair dye products or visiting the salon. 4. Low Maintenance:  Natural hair colour typically requires less maintenance than dyed hair. You won't have to worry about roots showing or the fading of colour, making your hair care routine simpler. 5. Authenticity and Confidence: Embracing your natural hair colour allows you to express your authentic self. This can boost your confidence and self-esteem as you embrace and appreciate your unique features. 6. Environmental Impact: Hair dye production and application can have environmental consequences due to the chemicals involved. Choosing to go natural reduces the environmental impact associated with the manufacturing and disposal of hair dye products. 7.  Avoiding Chemical Exposure:  Hair dyes often contain chemicals like ammonia and peroxide. By avoiding these chemicals, you reduce your exposure to potentially harmful substances. 8. Versatility in Styling: Natural hair often provides a versatile base for styling. You can experiment with different cuts, textures, and styles without the constraints of maintaining a specific colour. 9. Aging Gracefully: Embracing your natural hair colour as you age can be a graceful and authentic way to navigate the natural process of getting older. It can also be a positive example for others in embracing their own aging journey. 10. Cultural or Personal Identity: For some individuals, their natural hair colour is closely tied to their cultural or personal identity. Embracing and celebrating this can foster a deeper connection with one's heritage or individuality. The decision to ditch the hair dye and go natural is a personal one. When you have grey hair it is also a very different change due to societal pressure. We feel pressure that our perception and reception in society may change. Grey hair isn't for old people.  Grey hair is so common in many people in their 20's and 30's. It is a hair colour. Many girls and young women feel pressured into coloring their hair from a young age, often told their hair is flat or mousy.  So much of our time, money and energy is spent in this area of our lives. I am learning to love and accept my hair as it grows in now.  My hair has surprised me and not at all grown in as I had hoped for or even anticipated. It's so interesting to go from dreading the silvers and white hairs to quickly wishing you had even more of them! It's a journey of letting go and trusting the process. I love growing and changing along with my hair and I am so happy that my hair is so long, so I have plenty of time to enjoy this transformation. I feel passionate about normalizing grey hair in society for women of all ages. In order for that to happen people need to see women with grey hair of all ages. They also need to hear, know and learn that it is fully OK TO GO GRAY ANYDAY IN ANYWAY and then the conversation can go away. Don't forget to add your email to get notified of new blog posts and updates and to be a part of our community at Closer Lives and keep up with the progress! Where are you at in the journey? Have you thought about letting your natural hair grow in or to let you silvers shine!? Are you already transitioned? Do you have anything to contribute? Please say hello in the comments section and let me know where you are from and of course welcome to the community. 🤍🩷 I am Jenn @embracingthesilverlining on Instagram where I also share an abundance of support, encouragement and education (daily updates, my hair shares and stares etc.) The entire Silver Sisters community there is waiting for you. It's where I first found support and inspiration. That and of course Pinterest too! You can find a community of women on similar paths. There are women there for curiosity about the grey and there are many women in different phases of their natural grow out (you could find a grow out partner or search for someone on a similar timeline to your grow out). And of course we also have the fully grown in beautiful, silky, shiny, salt and pepper, white, gray and silver sparkly stranded women that came before us and paved the way.

Who else remembers the old magazines that promised you could learn how to: lose 15 pounds in 5 days, become sexier in 5 days, cook the meal to his heart and all the old school how to’s that were aimed at superficialities (and for women to be ‘better’ for men)!? I certainly do. And who else tried and failed and felt like a failure because of it? Don’t be superficial. Don’t believe everything you read. And definitely don’t judge a book by its cover! Search for truth, depth and meaning in all things. Use your judgement and trust your intuition. Step into your power but don’t abuse it Written in February 2015 GLOSSY She learns how to become a cook How to become a runner Promises on how to become a better lover All from skimming the cover.. She falls for it She tumbles Stumbling on the shoe strings Of her sneakers That in reality just make her meeker And shall I even say bleaker? Like a beacon of society that says Here I am.. Look at me… I take notice I read the cover She takes all of the quizzes And wonders why Reality fizzes In comparison To the predictions She flips the pages Creating rages inside her Tormented with confusing desire For the quick fixes Creating instantly airbrushed wounds On her soul NO QUIZ NO TEST NO COMPARISON TO THE REST Will reassure her Of her Reassure her Of the beauty that radiates inside her Not created from airbrushed strokes Or trite words from know it all folks It’s the discovery she must find Inside her own mind And let go Of the societal precedent she knows To exude the light And fight for the plight Of discovering who she is Because no cover can truly Teach you to be a better lover Or to put others needs before your own And if you claim you can attain It all from skimming the cover You need to discover The true meaning Of depth © Jennifer Jones 2023 Thank you for reading and for your continued support! Please leave a like or comment if you enjoyed this piece and let me know your thoughts on this subject...have you ever felt similar pressures? If so how have you dealt with them? I have been blogging since 2013, you can find my other blog here: https://wordpress.com/view/writingsofamrs.wordpress.com