John, Author at Melissa and John Travels

🍴 Top 5 Affordable Restaurants on Gili Air

John — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:56:08 +0000

Gili Air has a vibe that is relaxed, friendly, and full of flavors that made us want to try everything. When we travel, we’re always looking for spots that are affordable, authentic, and delicious. These five affordable restaurants on Gili Air hit the mark. Prices below are for two people total, with equivalents in USD and EURO as of mid‑2025 rates (≈ 1 USD ≈ 15,200 IDR; 1 EUR ≈ 16,500 IDR).

1. zZz Warung

Simple, delicious, and full of flavor — this spot hit the spot every time.

- We ordered: Chicken & Vegetable Curry + Mie Goreng + Water
- Total for 2: IDR 100,000 (~ USD $6.50 / EUR €6)
- Authentic warung feel, great portions
  Google Maps – zZz Warung

2. Turtle Bar & Resto

A perfect beachside spot for lunch or dinner with a view. (shaded beach lounger included)

- We ordered: Mie Goreng + Beef Rendang + Coconut + Beer
- Total for 2: IDR 150,000 (~ USD $10 / EUR €9)
- Great sunset vibes with chill music
  Google Maps – Turtle Bar & Resto

3. Kopi Susu

Our go-to breakfast café with good energy and better food.

- We ordered: Breakfast combo with eggs, toast, fruit + iced coffee
- Total for 2: IDR 150,000 (~ USD $10 / EUR €9)
- Cozy seating and great to start your day
  Google Maps – Kopi Susu

4. La Gelateria

Post‑beach ice cream break that felt like pure joy.

- We ordered: Matcha Ice Cream (1 scoop)
- Total for 1: IDR 45,000 (~ USD $3 / EUR €2.70)
- Small batch, authentic Italian-style gelato
  Google Maps – La Gelateria

5. Gili Bliss Gili Air

A favorite for smoothie bowls and a chill morning.

- We ordered: Dragon Fruit Bowl
- Total for 1: IDR 95,000 (~ USD $6 / EUR €5.50)
- Beautiful presentation and tropical ingredients
  Google Maps – Gili Bliss

Final Thoughts from Us

Sometimes it’s the little cafes and warungs that leave the biggest impressions. These affordable restaurants on Gili Air were not only easy on the wallet, but full of personality, flavor, and charm. If you’re visiting this laid-back paradise, make time to slow down, eat local, and connect with the island over a shared plate.

Want more island food picks? Let us know in the comments below or shoot us a DM!

The post 🍴 Top 5 Affordable Restaurants on Gili Air appeared first on Melissa and John Travels.

10 Things to Do in Ubud, Bali – Through Our Eyes

John — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 19:23:24 +0000

Ubud captured us with its lush jungles, quiet magic, and a pace of life that felt like hitting reset. Every walk through its rice terraces or sunset at a hidden café reminded us why travel keeps our hearts full and our souls inspired. Here are our top picks for exploring Ubud’s hidden gems, cultural heartbeats, and soothing spa escapes:

Dine on Crispy Bebek at Wedja Bali

- Sink your teeth into the famous Bebek Timbungan (slow-roasted duck)
- Soak in the serene garden surroundings and boutique ambiance
- A meal that feels like a warm hug, comfort food elevated

Official info: Wedja

Flower Bath & Massage at Karsa Spa

- Immerse yourself in a flower-filled bath and a Balinese massage
- Held in a peaceful zen garden oasis…pure bliss
- Sacred self-care inspired by nature and intention

Book now: Link

Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest

- Stroll through lush greenery surrounded by playful macaques (be careful with your belongings tho!)
- Experience ancient temples nestled within the forest
- A unique blend of nature, spirituality, and light-hearted fun
- Ticket info: Official Site

Wander the Iconic Rice Terraces

- Drift along emerald green paddies with shimmering waterfalls
- Feel the rhythm of rural Bali at its most picturesque
- A photographer’s dream and a soul-soother to walk through
- Site details & access: TripAdvisor

Experience the Ubud Kecak Fire Dance

- A thunderous chant, dramatic fire, and a mesmerizing retelling of the Ramayana
- Intimate performances surrounded by tropical gardens
- A transcendent ritual that stays with you
- Tickets: Buy Here

Unwind at Bali Relax Spa ($3/hour massage!)

- Unicorn-level value: an hour-long massage for about $3 USD
- Experienced therapists. Cozy, calm ambiance. Complete bliss.
- Ideal for travel-weary shoulders and happy grins alike
- Info: Visit Bali Relax Spa

Feel the Calm at Campuhan Ridge Walk

- A scenic path along gentle ridgelines and river valleys
- The morning light spills onto green hills for golden-hour perfection
- Easy to walk, hard to forget
- Park info: Google Maps Link

Discover Local Art & Museums

- Meander through galleries like Blanco and Neka Museum
- Watch artisans at work and find truly unique local pieces
- Ubud is art-infused from every corner

Catch a Dance at Ubud Palace

- Traditional Balinese dance hosted in the elegant courtyard of Ubud’s royal palace
- Immersive cultural energy paired with gamelan music and folklore
- A glimpse into Bali’s performing arts heritage

More info here: Wikipedia

Chase Hidden Waterfalls Around Ubud

- Step off the beaten path to visit less-crowded gems like Tibumana or Tukad Cepung
- Swim under cascading waters and snap jungle-framed photos without tourist crowds
- Hire a local scooter or guide to string a few together into a full-day mini adventure
  Guide & Maps › or Ubud Waterfall Tours

“Ubud is where you meet yourself. Warm rice terraces, ancient stories, and spa days that slip into dreamy bliss.” – Melissa n John

Stunning captures

Monkey Forest

Rice Terraces

Ubud

Ubud Wildlife

Ubud from Above

As soon as you step into Ubud, you’ll feel the flow of culture, nature, tranquility, and just enough magic to keep your heart full and your feet wandering for more. If you’d like help planning an itinerary of ethical retreats, hidden waterfalls, or where to sip the perfect kopi luwak…just shout! – M&J

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10 Things to Do in Phu Quoc Island – Through Our Eyes

John — Sat, 04 Jan 2025 15:17:00 +0000

Phu Quoc Island is the Vietnamese paradise you didn’t know you needed. From white-sand beaches to vibrant night markets and lush jungle hikes, this island gave us the kind of “wow, are we really here?” moments we live for.

1. Watch the Sunset at Long Beach
- Chill with fresh coconut or cocktail in hand
- Walk along powdery sand as the sun dips over the sea
- So peaceful you’ll want to stay forever
  (No ticket needed—just grab a seat and enjoy!)

2. Ride the Hon Thơm Cable Car (Longest in the World!)
- Glide over turquoise waters and fishing villages
- Arrive at Hon Thơm island for beach time + amusement park
- Perfect blend of nature and fun
  Tickets & info: Grand World / VinWonders Phu Quoc attractions

3. Explore Duong Dong Night Market
- Feast on grilled squid, bánh tráng nướng, mango sticky rice
- Shop for souvenirs and local snacks
- Experience the vibrant evening energy of Phu Quoc
  (Free entry—food & shopping pay-as-you-go)

4. Relax at Sao Beach (Bãi Sao)
- Soft white sand & crystal-clear water
- Quiet atmosphere—perfect for relaxing
- Ideal for swimming and sunbathing
  (No ticket—entry is open and gorgeous!)

5. Snorkel Around the Southern Islands (An Thới)
- Discover colorful coral reefs and tropical fish
- Tours often include floating restaurant meals
- Warm, clear water = snorkeling paradise
  Book through local operators or Klook tours for safety & convenience.

6. Visit Phu Quoc Prison Museum
- Learn about Vietnam’s struggle for independence
- Historic exhibits and somber storytelling
- A visit that enriches understanding of Vietnam
  Access via ticketed museum entry.

7. Scooter Rental to Explore the Island
- Local rental guides list reliable vendors near Long Beach Village
- Typical rental costs around 100,000–200,000 VND/day ($5–10 USD) for scooters

8. Watch The Quintessence of Vietnam Night Show
- Multimedia storytelling of Vietnamese heritage
- Big show starts at 8:15 PM nightly
- Big audience draw with spectacular visuals
  Tickets: VinWonders Official Ticket Info

9. Watch Jetski & Flyboard Show (Kiss of the Sea / Love Hurricane)
- Watch professional athletes do stunts at sunset
- Music, lights, water effects make it theatrical
- Free to watch from Kiss Bridge area
  Info: Sunset Town “Love Hurricane” show details

10. Enjoy the Free Water Puppet Show at Sunset Town
- Trẩy Hội Mùa Xuân combines water & land puppetry
- Daily 30‑minute performances around 7:30 PM
- Free entry, plus meet the puppeteers afterward
  Details: See Vietnamplus article on puppet theater

“Phu Quoc is the kind of place that makes you stop, breathe, and remember why you love to travel.” – Melissa and John

Let us know if you need any tips—we’re always happy to share more from our adventures.

Your tour guide, Melissa!

Stunning Sunset Town

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🛸 Our Space-Age Stay at Met A Space Pod in Bangkok

John — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 14:45:00 +0000

If you’re ever looking for a fun and quirky stay in the heart of Bangkok, Met A Space Pod is the spot. As travel content creators, we’re always on the lookout for unique accommodations that offer more than just a place to sleep — and this space-themed capsule hostel completely delivered.

Imagine walking into a scene that feels like it’s straight out of a sci-fi movie: glowing pod beds, ambient LED lights, and sleek, futuristic vibes all around. Keep reading our Met A Space Pod Bangkok review. Each capsule felt like our own little spaceship. We got to try both the double bed pods and the single bed pods. Even though we had two singles booked at one point, we always snuggled up together in one and used the other as our personal storage bay.

The pods were surprisingly spacious and super comfy, with good air circulation and privacy screens, which made it perfect for unwinding after a long day of shooting content and exploring the city. We had access to clean showers, reliable Wi-Fi, and delicious food you could order right from the front desk. They even had friendly hairless cats roaming around, adding that cozy, homey vibe amidst the space-age aesthetic.

“It felt like we were sleeping inside a spaceship, and we loved every second of it.”

Another huge plus? The location. We were within walking distance to EmQuartier and EMsphere malls, two of Bangkok’s best shopping and dining hubs. Whether we needed a coffee break, a late-night snack, or some air-conditioned mall exploring, everything was right there, no Grab ride needed.

“Tasty Food!”

“Art Remark Wall”

The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, and the price point was fantastic for Bangkok, especially for such a cool concept. We’d definitely recommend Met A Space Pod to solo travelers, couples, and content creators looking to experience something out of the ordinary. Find them on Google Maps here!

Melissa Vibing in the Pod

Mel's Favorite Show!

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10 Incredible Things to Do on the Big Island 🏝️

John — Wed, 18 May 2022 17:54:00 +0000

The Big Island of Hawaii isn’t just big in size, it’s big in adventure, diversity, and soul. From active volcanoes to cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches to lush jungles, every corner of this island feels like stepping into a new ecosystem. Whether you’re stargazing atop Mauna Kea or snorkeling with manta rays at night, the Big Island offers unforgettable moments for every kind of traveler. We’re Melissa & John and this magical island swept us off our feet. Let’s dive into our top 10 things to do on the Big Island!

Explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

- Hike along Kīlauea’s crater rim and steam vents
- Witness the ever-changing volcanic landscape
- Learn about Hawaiian geology and culture
  Official info & park alerts: GoHawaii Volcanoes NP

Snorkel or Dive with Manta Rays

- Night snorkel dive under manta plankton lights
- Float above gentle giants at Garden Eel Cove
- One of the world’s top marine wildlife experiences
  Learn more: Wikipedia Manta Ray Night Dive

Mauna Kea Summit & Stargazing Tour

- Watch the sunset at 13,800 ft altitude
- Stargaze above the clouds with powerful telescopes
- Experience the island’s top astronomical vista
  Tour info: Angie Away Mauna Kea Tour

Relax at Hapuna Beach State Park

- One of America’s finest white-sand beaches
- Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking
- Lifeguards and full park amenities on-site
  Park details & access: Wikipedia Hapuna Beach

Visit Akaka Falls State Park

- Walk a scenic loop to a 442 ft waterfall
- Lush tropical jungle with multiple photo spots
- Easy trail, great for all fitness levels
  Park guide: Wikipedia Akaka Falls

Visit Ka Lae – The Southernmost Point in the U.S.

- Stand at the edge of dramatic cliffs where ancient Hawaiians once fished
- Watch cliff divers leap into crystal-clear waters below (or just enjoy the view!)
- Peaceful, windswept spot far from the crowds, great for reflection and photos
  Info: Go Hawaii – South Point (Ka Lae)

Explore Lava Tree State Monument

- Walk among eerie lava-formed tree molds
- Short loop trail through a forest of blackened trunks
- Free and open daily during daylight
  Park info: Lava Tree Monument

Snorkel at Captain Cook Monument

- Swim in Kealakekua Bay’s pristine waters
- Colorful reef ecosystem and historic monument
- Multiple tour operators offer guided trips
  Tour & info: Big Island Activities

Take a Helicopter Tour

- Fly over volcanic craters, waterfalls & coastline
- Access to remote areas unreachable by foot
- One of the most epic ways to see the island
  Book here: Big Island Activities – Helicopter Tours

Hike into Pololū Valley Lookout

- Take in jaw-dropping views from the cliffside lookout
- Hike down a short but steep trail to a black sand beach
- Peaceful, raw, and perfect for a quiet nature moment
  Info: Go Hawaii – Pololū Valley

“The Big Island is a patchwork of ecosystems. Each adventure feels like stepping into a new world.” – Melissa n John

Stunning captures

Pololu Valley

Floating Clouds

Native Plant Life

Perfect Sunset

Mauna Kea Forest Reserve

Hawaii Sunset

Mauna Kea

Volcanos National Park

Beach

From fiery volcanoes to graceful manta rays, lush jungles to sparkling beaches, the Big Island is Hawaii in technicolor. Each stop above added its own layer to our adventure and yours, too. Let us know if you want help crafting your dream island itinerary!

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