Gone are the days where analog films were used to preserve memories. With the advancement of technology, we can capture moments of love, laughter and life in just a matter of seconds and share these on social networking platforms like Facebook and Instagram where our friends and family can see our joyous moments.
Some may say that the art of photography is lost in the streams of #ootd posts and edited landscapes. However, one cannot deny that beautiful scenery is worth sharing with our followers.
You don’t have to travel far or spend much of your precious savings to get the perfect Instagram shot. Here are the last five out of a list of 10 #instaworthy spots from around Asia.
6. Pink Beach, Lombok (Indonesia)
Outlandish, picturesque pink beach that looks straight out of a fantasy movie. The pink sand is actually the result of a tiny red organism that grows on the dead coral reefs.
Because of the hard, rocky terrain, everyone needs to trek through to get there, there are hardly any tourists here.
So if you’re willing to brave the bumpy road, and enjoy the idea of having a whole beautiful beach to yourself, then grab your camera and hit the road to Pink Beach.
Cost: It’s quite expensive to visit a beach, but still cheap at RP 50,000 (approximately RM15). If you don’t want to drive the challenging road, you can also rent a boat at Telong-Elong (a village nearby).
Pro tip: The best time to go is before 8am and after 4pm when the sand catches the morning sun rays and presents you with an amazing view for your Instagram post.
7. Choi Hung Estate, Kowloon (Hong Kong)
What may first look like a normal residential area can actually turn out to be a spectacular palette of hues delightful to the eyes.
Built in 1962, Choi Hung Estates houses over 18,000 people. City planners went wild with housing designs in the 60s and 70s so this is a real treat for all of architecture and photography geeks out there.
Rumour has it that the government chose a colourful theme as a way to raise the spirits of its people, just like how it’ll raise the number of “likes” on your Instagram page.
The most popular spot for photos is the volleyball/basketball courts on the car park roof.
Cost: Since it’s actually a residential area, access to the public is completely free. However, please be respectful towards the residents living here. When in doubt, always ask for permission first.
Pro tip: For best colour effect, go when there’s no direct sunlight. For a full scope, consider buying a clip-on wide angle lens converter. If you can’t shoot wide, try shooting panoramic.
8. Unicorn Cafe, Bangkok (Thailand)
Raise your hands if you love unicorns and the colour pink. Well, then hurry now and head into Sathorn Soi 8, where you can crash a cafe that’s sure to satisfy the squealing little girl in you.
The cafe has a whole collection of unicorn plushies lying around, perfect for cuddling and taking selfies.
The heavenly, sweet dishes are also a must-try that’ll definitely fill up both your tummy and Instagram feed with “likes”. And there’s free wifi too.
Cost: Many of the unicorn-themed dishes are under RM30, so it’s very budget-friendly. There’s also a merchandise shop selling cushions, toys, and outfits.
Pro tip: The food portions here are quite large, so unless you’re a really heavy eater, make sure to bring your friends and family along. You can also borrow a unicorn costume to dress the part as you snack/dine for free.
9. Crazy house, Da Lat (Vietnam)
After all that sightseeing, it’s time to head back to the hotel. But wait, the Hang Nga Villa, or Crazy House, isn’t your usual B&B.
Imagine sculptured rooms connected by super slim bridges rising out of a tangle of greenery, wild colours, spiderweb windows and an almost organic quality to it all.
Those who enjoy the extraordinary and The Hobbit are sure to fall head over heels for this tree-shaped lodge. Featuring ten nature-themed rooms (the gourd, kangaroo, etc), watch as your Instagram posts catch the eye of your followers.
Cost: For both a tourist attraction and hotel, it’s relatively cheap, with the entrance fee of VND50k (RM9) for day visitors, and rooms at approximately RM90-RM215 per night as an overnight guest.
Pro tip: The doors open at 8.30am so it’s best to get there early before the tourists arrive. For those with young kids, be careful of the Crazy House’s maze of precarious tunnels, high walkways, and steep ladders.
10. Mount Pulag, Baguio (Philippines)
And finally, what is a better way to end your trip than by watching a beautiful sunset in all of its glory?
Lazy people beware, the hike up the mountain is considered moderately difficult, with two hours of forested areas, and one hour of grassland.
However, being able to witness the sunset and the sea of clouds while on the top of the third highest peak in the Philippines is sure to be most fulfilling.
You’ll also be able to meet the locals and enjoy the simplicity of life. Think you can do it? Awesome, then grab your gear and get your perfect #beautifulsunset post.
Cost: There many fees that you can be charged with to hike this mountain, but they’re all quite small and affordable.
This includes:
• Entrance Fee – Php 175/pax (RM13.50)
• Camping Fee – Php50/pax (RM3.90)
• Tent rental Fee- Php 300 for 3 pax (RM23)
• Environmental Fee – Php 150/pax (RM11.60)
• Guide Fee – Php 600-2400 / group of 5 pax (RM46–185) depending on which trail you’re taking)
Pretty reasonable, right? The park office is well equipped with a video room, interpretation centre, and a souvenir shop, too.
Pro tip: The best time to visit is when there is lesser rain from November to February as there’ll be more chances to see their renowned Sea of Clouds. Remember to bring your power bank as there’s no electricity and think twice before taking a bath – the water is cold as ice.
Unless you are part of a tour group where meals are provided for, remember to pack your own food and drinks beforehand. Spend the night with the locals, wake up early in the morning and start trekking at 2am for the epic view of the sunrise at the summit.
This article first appeared in thenewsavvy.com
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