Top Spot Travel

September 20, 2019 by Jeremy

Best Clubs to Visit for a True Rock and Roll Men’s Night out in Madrid

Everyone knows how Madrid magnetizes millions of visitors with charming flamenco sound and exotic dance moves. Luckily, whether it’s more rock, pop, indie or funky, the capital offers a huge array of pubs, clubs, halls, or whatever you prefer to call to satisfy your musical preferences.

In this post, we will present to you rock and roll places where you should expect the real feeling of the genre with a bit of alternative and hardcore vibe when you travel to Madrid.

In order not to overwhelm you with information but not forget anything important. The list below consists of the most recommended rock and roll places in Madrid with considering factors such as the quality of the bands, acoustics of the premises, location or clientele, among others.

These places will be an ideal stop for every men’s night out in Madrid and not to mention all the possibilities for a rock and roll bachelor party.

Honky Tonk

I start with the bar more often trodden in my Madrid nightlifer. Frequently open from Monday through Saturday and every day they offer live music with double sessions on weekends. Tribute groups play mashups with national bangers. Although rock n ‘roll is the protagonist, pop, indie or funky always have a place in this legendary club.

This place also has two stages. The plant at street level is the right place to chat quietly listening mainly to the classics, while at the bottom is where everything is cooked concerts.

Entry price: free

Location: Chamberí – Bilbao

Bonsu Tip: Although you always find some spot here to stay, don’t be too late for the performances. Three large columns on the ground floor make it difficult to see the stage in some areas.

Thundercat

Within Thundercat walls, they have managed to create a powerful brand image that breathes rock n roll on all four sides. For everyone looking to hear the authentic crispy sound of classic tube amps with some dirty riffing through the night, there is hardly a better place than this one.

Initially, pictures of KISS, David Bowie, Jimmy Hendrix or The Doors adorned its walls under natural reddish lighting. Subsequently, the club made a quality leap with a beautiful integral reform with a distinctive leopard carpet.

Its week begins with great jam sessions on Thursdays and continues with two concerts on Friday and Saturday.

Once the live music ends at 02.00 AM, the bar finishes completing its capacity by organizing a respectable queue outside.

Entry price: free – from € 3

Location: Alonso Martínez

Bonus Tip: If you go to the show, stay at the bottom on the left, in the area closest to the stage. You will enjoy the excellent view in addition to the comfort of not having to move every time you want to have a snack.

The Monkey

Nestled in the outskirts of the Puerta de Toledo, The Monkey emerges as an alternative rock hotspot if you go around the La Latina area and want to continue banging your head. The club consists of an excellent open part, which makes it an appropriate space for live music.

But beyond the genuine bands that gather from Thursday to Friday, the club also offers attractive leisure proposals such as comic monologues, storytellers or poetry and live painting meetings.

Entry price: free – from € 5

Location: Puerta de Toledo

Bonus Tip: If this bar convinces you to come back more often, then take out your ‘Monkey Card.’ It is free, and they make you offers and discounts on drinks.

Moby Dick

Its quarter-century tradition endorses this place as one of the iconic concert halls in Madrid. In its careful and original industrial decoration, marine and nautical themes mix with electric guitars hanging on its walls.

While the three previous rock bars copy the agenda of each other, Moby Dick raises the bar in authenticity and program. In its programming, you will recognize prestigious artists that may well be in your Spotify or Apple Music collection.

Therefore, the prices of the tickets vary greatly. Besides, it is common to find theme parties, musical competitions, or comic performances.

Entry price: from € 6

Location: Cuzco

Bonus Tip: It has a fast food cooking service. If you arrive in a hurry to a concert and you have not had time for dinner, for a reasonable price you have a Rock Menu.

Wurlitzer Ballroom

Open every day of the week, and its garage-style makes it the most alternative on the list. More than versions, its live performance sheet bets on original rock groups and all its variants. Therefore, you will see that the Wurlitzer is an ideal place to discover new bands of the national scene.

The sound quality in the club is more than acceptable, and the club is getting renovated at the moment. You should know that of the five proposed clubs in this list; this is the one with a younger clientele, more twenty years old rockers than thirty visit this place.

Entry price: from € 5

Location: Gran Vía

Bonus Tip: If you decide to visit it on the weekend, we advise that you do it during concert hours. After 3.00 AM, you may be waiting for longer outside than in the club.

In Conclusion

Apart from these five, there are other fantastic places with live rock performances such as the Costello Club, La Boca del Lobo or La Fontana de Oro, among others.

All you have to do is grab yourself a beer with your pals and stroll around this beautiful city that may not be so famous for rock and roll, but undoubtedly present numerous opportunities to headbang all night like never before.

September 10, 2019 by Jeremy

Basic Bike Checklist: How to Prepare the Family for a Biking Adventure

There are many ways to bond with your family. However, few activities offer the kind of physical exercise and sense of accomplishment as biking. There are bound to be dozens of trails near where you live, and you can take the family out for a thrilling weekend of biking. To be safe and have the most amount of fun, you will need to pack more than your hybrid bicycles in the car. Have this checklist handy to make sure you have not forgotten a thing before your next biking adventure.

Water

Bicycling is fun, but it is also intense exercise. You and your family need to remain hydrated to reduce the risk of medical problems popping up. You can have water bottles in your backpack, but you may also want to invest in a CamelBak. This device stores water, and you can wear it on your back. A tube goes around, so you can drink water without having to get off your bike. Regardless of what you have, you should always pull off to the side of the road every so often to rest and rehydrate.

Proper Seating

Spending a whole weekend biking can really do a number on your body if you do not have the right seat. You should definitely purchase the best child bike seat available. You can attach it to your bike while riding, so your baby is right there with you the entire time. Beach cruiser bikes are perfect for adorning with a baby seat because you can only really ride at a leisurely pace.

Sunscreen

Helmets will provide you with a bit of protection from the sunlight. However, you should have plenty of sunscreen in your backpack. You should ideally use one that offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. You need water-resistant sunscreen because all of you will work up a sweat while riding. Finally, your sunscreen should have at least SPF 30.

Pump

You should have some vital bike repair items with you on your journey. One of the most important tools to have readily available is a pump. That way if your bike develops a flat tire, you can refill it with ease. Some other items you should have handy include a spare tube, patch kit, cycling multi-tool and tire lever. You will be able to do basic maintenance even if you are out on the trails.

First Aid Kit

Similar to how you need to be able to fix your bike at a moment’s notice, you also need to know how to fix your family. A basic first aid kit with Band-Aids, gauze and other necessities. There are plenty of first aid kits that are small enough to fit inside your pack. This kit should contain your medical information and emergency contact card in case something major happens on the trail.

Biking is a great activity to share with the family. After you purchase some stellar bikes from a reputable online shop and all of the essentials you need, you are ready to start making memories.

September 5, 2019 by Jeremy

Bacolod for the Budget Traveler: 4 Thrifty Ways to Enjoy the City of Smiles

Tourists heading for Bacolod with the expectation that it is a sleepy and underdeveloped city will find themselves in for a surprise; the capital of Negros Occidental is lively and thriving, highly urbanized and densely populated. It was named Best Place to Live in the Philippines by MoneySense magazine in 2008, and Top Philippine Model City by The Manila Times in 2017.

The accolades alone make it a place worthy of a visit, though “highly urbanized” doesn’t mean that you’ll have to shell out a significant amount of money to enjoy yourself. Thrifty travelers will find Bacolod a budget-friendly holiday destination. Below are our tips for a worthwhile trip to the City of Smiles without breaking the bank:

Stay in a Pension House

Instead of spending a good chunk of change on a hotel room, look towards pension houses instead. Many of them are centrally located at the heart of the city, and rooms typically won’t cost an arm and a leg. These affordable options are a great way to save on costs and keep within your budget; and though the on-site facilities and amenities are more basic than what you’d typically find in a full-fledged hotel, you still will be coming back to clean and comfortable rooms after a day of sightseeing. Ong Bun Pension House is one of our recommendations for no-frills accommodations that don’t skimp on quality service, though there are many other options in Bacolod City.

Dine at Manokan Country

Bacolod is famous throughout the country for 3 things: the vibrant Masskara Festival, held annually every October; the local sweet delicacy known as piaya, an unleavened piece of flatbread filled with muscovado sugar; and chicken inasal. You would do yourself a disservice if you didn’t have this local grilled favorite where it originated from, meaning that a visit to Manokan Country is a must for any trip to Bacolod.

Manokan Country is the local government’s way of consolidating dozens of inasal stalls previously operating out on the sidewalks into a single complex, for public safety and to legitimize businesses. Each stall has a unique take on the dish, and there is heated debate on which stall makes the best inasal, but it’s safe to say that no matter which one you head into, you’ll be well fed. Begin the meal with a plateful of grilled oysters, a popular appetizer in Manokan Country, and then dig into your chicken—most stalls allow you to choose which part of the bird you’d like to dine on.

For the complete experience, try isaw or atay, skewers of chicken intestine and liver basted with special seasonings and grilled over charcoal. Best of all, the food is cheap—plates typically cost less than a hundred pesos, exclusive of rice and drinks.

Visit Mambukal Springs Resort

These hot sulfur springs are now under government management, making them one of the cheapest attractions in Bacolod, with a pay-per-use system of the facilities after a 50-peso entrance fee. Picnic huts are either 300 or 600 pesos depending on the size. Use of the swimming and warm sulfur dipping pools is 50 pesos. Zipline and canopy walk are both priced at 50 pesos. The resort was built by a Japanese man in 1927, which means that there is an ofuro or Japanese bathtub on the premises, as well as a bathhouse built in the neo-classical style that is over 90 years old.

Use of both facilities start at a hundred pesos. Families and large groups can opt to stay on-site at one of the many accommodation options—there are family cottages and villas available for rent, as well as a tourist lodge. LGU cottages are by far the most cost-effective option, with available airconditioned rooms for couples, 4 persons, and 6 persons that start at 900 pesos. It is believed that a warm soak can relieve muscle tension and promote clear-headedness; the sulfur in the water is also known to have healing benefits for irritated and infected skin, such as in the case of eczema and rashes.

See The Ruins

What was once an impressive mansion built in the Italianate style of architecture is now a tourist destination that draws hundreds of visitors every year. Built in the early 1900s by a wealthy sugar baron named Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson in memory of his late first wife, only the façade remains standing today after Filipino guerrillas burned the structure down in order to prevent its use by the invading Japanese in the Second World War.

Now privately owned by the Don’s great grandchildren, the grounds and gardens have since been restored and are fastidiously maintained, making it an excellent location for photos and video shoots. For an entrance fee of 100 pesos, you are free to explore the area, though you may also hire a tour guide to tell you more about the mansion’s history.

Some of the most iconic dishes and sights one can find in Bacolod don’t come with a steep price. Here, you’ll find a lot of things to do, see, and taste without compromising your budget or the quality of your holiday.

August 13, 2019 by Jeremy

A Guide to Exploring the Thai Islands in 21 Days

If you’re in need of a beach getaway, there is nowhere else on Earth that compares to the Thailand. Whether you travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Phi Phi or Koh Tao to Koh Samui, spending time exploring the Thai islands is the best way to add a slice – or many slices – of paradise to your life.

One of the biggest mistakes among the travelers of the world is not allocating enough time to the islands, so it is important to give yourself plenty of time to soak up the sun. Spending at least two weeks traveling around Thailand is a must, but three weeks is even better. After your 21-day journey island hopping around Thailand, there’s a good chance you won’t be ready to leave.

Get Started in Bangkok

No matter where you intend on going, Bangkok is the ultimate starting point. It is highly recommended that you spend at least a day or two exploring the hustle and bustle of Bangkok before heading to the islands of the South. As the capital of the country, Bangkok serves as the mecca of Thai culture.

Before soaking up the sand, surf, and salt, spend some time trying authentic Thai street food, browsing through night markets, and exploring the temples surrounding Bangkok. One of the biggest mistakes by travelers flying through Bangkok is not spending any time in the city. Sure, it’s hectic and might not be your cup of tea, but just give it a chance for a day or two.

Head South to Phuket

There are a few options for getting from Bangkok to Phuket. The first is to fly, but the much better option is to travel by land. Of course, if you’re in a hurry to get to the southern Thai islands, taking the one hour flight is your best bet. However, you’ll be missing out on some gems that you can only experience by traveling over land. If you do choose to take a bus or train, make a side trip to the National Park called Kanchanaburi.

Once in Phuket, you’ll quickly see why this is referred to as the Gateway to the Andaman Sea. If you’re lucky enough to book accommodations right on the water, you’ll be surrounded by azure waters morning, noon, and night. Although Phuket is touristy and hectic, it is a must-visit destination.

The neighborhood you choose to stay will have a huge impact on your Phuket experience. For crazy nightlife and ladyboys on every corner, head to Patong. For something a bit more lowkey and less in your face, Kata Beach is a better choice.

Take a Ferry to Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi is known best for being home to the famous Maya Beach where Leo filmed his famous movie, The Beach. Although Maya Beach is currently closed to tourism, there is plenty more to keep you busy. Similar to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi is just as touristy and has a lot going on. However, the tiny size of this island means that you can walk around the entire thing. In fact, you’ll have to resort to getting around on foot since there are no motor vehicles on the Phi Phi Islands at all.

Next, Head to Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is another fairly small island, but it is large enough to accommodate for cars and scooters. The vibe on Koh Lanta is entirely different than Phuket and Phi Phi. It is way more laid back here, so it’s easy to take a break from partying during your time on this island. Check out Hey Hostel if you’re hoping to stay right on the beach and in need of some social vibes.

From Koh Lanta, Head to the Gulf

If you have the time, make a trip to the island of Koh Lipe and then spend some time in Krabi’s Railay Beach. If not, it’s time to head directly to the Gulf of Thailand from Koh Lanta. The most famous Gulf islands include Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. Koh Tao is a diver’s paradise, so be sure to check this little island out if you have SCUBA on the brain.

Koh Phangan is home to the infamous full moon parties, so plan your trip accordingly so that you’re on the island during the full moon. Koh Samui is a less popular area, but it’s a great place if you’re hoping to chill and get away from all the partying. There is also an airport in Koh Samui where you’ll be able to catch a flight to Bangkok before heading back home.

August 8, 2019 by Jeremy

How to Prepare Your Home Before Traveling

Your much-needed long vacation is finally coming, and at last, you can fully relax and unwind. To make sure that your mind will not be occupied about the safety and condition of your home while you are away, there are things that you can do to prepare for it. It will help so you can completely feel the moment while on your trip, instead of worrying about your property.

Clean the house

You must leave the house in a clean state because decluttering is something that you don’t want to do when you get home from your vacation. You will be tired from the trip, and all you will want to do is rest. You will thank yourself for doing the cleaning and organizing before traveling. Cover furniture with dust sheets too, to avoid dust and dirt accumulation. You don’t want your gorgeous Ashley North Shore furniture or luxurious bed all covered in dirt when you get home.

Empty the fridge

Remove everything from the fridge if going on an extended vacation to prevent food from getting spoiled, which can cause a nasty smell. If you know that you are going on a trip, limit your shopping before your travel schedule to avoid food from going to waste.

Plan for Expenses

Unfortunately, your bills don’t disappear while you’re on the road. Everything from mortgage/rent, utilities, TV service, car payments, and so on need to be paid. If you average roughly the same amount each month in bills and expenses, it is pretty easy to estimate what you might need to set aside. You can also use a bill tracking app to keep up with your monthly expenses and give you a better idea of the average cost per month.

Notify the alarm company

Let your alarm company know that you will be on a vacation so they can respond immediately in case they see something suspicious. You will have peace of mind knowing that someone is looking after the security of your property.

Set the thermostat and water heater

It is not recommended to turn off your cooling and heating system even if you are going on a long trip. The best thing to do is set the thermostat to ensure that you keep it at a comfortable temperature. Some of the latest systems have a vacation mode that you can choose to automatically adjust the setting to one that will be perfect if you will be away for quite some time.

Prepare your pets

You want your pets to be taken good care of even when you are away. Find a trusted person that can look after your pets while you travel. There are also pet service providers that offer accommodation and care for pets while owners are away. Arrange this to make sure that your pets will be comfortable and properly cared for.

Have someone look after your home

If possible, ask a family member, friend, or a trusted individual to look after your home when you travel. It’s best if that person can stay there while you are away, but if not, at least check it regularly.

Set the light timer

Setting the timer to turn on the lights in the late afternoon automatically will trick people into thinking that someone is at home. Intruders will have second thoughts about breaking into your house if they think that there are people in there.

Aside from the things listed, make sure that you double-check all the possible entries to your house, including windows, doors, and gates, and see to it that they are properly locked.