JOURNAL
Preparing for a trip to Asia: Essential tips and advice
Exploring Asia is a fascinating adventure, but proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy it. Whether you dream of exploring the picturesque villages of Vietnam, savoring Thai cuisine, immersing yourself in Indonesian traditions, or immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Japan, this guide will help you prepare. Here are some tips to help you feel prepared and make the most of every moment of your stay in the heart of this captivating continent. 1. Organize your itinerary With its rich culture and geography, Asia offers an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences. Before you leave, do some thorough research on the destinations you plan to visit. Learn about local customs, languages spoken, available transportation, and necessary formalities, such as visas. Identify major attractions, must-see markets, and more remote spots to explore. 2. Travel light but strategically One of the secrets to traveling with peace of mind in Asia is to choose lightweight and practical luggage. Traveling between cities and regions can be frequent, and a bulky bag can quickly become a source of stress. Clothing: comfort above all To tackle varying climates, choose lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying clothing. FIG Clothing's collections offer practical and stylish pieces that are perfect for travel. A sleeveless top like the MAYFAIR ensures freedom of movement and comfort, while the reversible SHENLEY adapts to different occasions. A flowy dress like the SHELLY is ideal for a day on the city or a tropical getaway, and pieces like the AMAYA blouse and AVERY pants offer lightness and versatility. Also, pack protective clothing to protect yourself from the sun or to visit temples where respectful attire is required. A light scarf or sarong will be useful for easily covering your shoulders or legs. 3. Think about your health and safety Before you leave, make sure your vaccinations are up to date and consult a doctor to see if any additional vaccinations are required for your itinerary. Pack a first aid kit with essential medications, mosquito repellent, and ocean-friendly sunscreen. To stay hydrated while reducing your plastic consumption, use a SteriPEN or other purification system to make your water safe to drink. If you're unsure about the quality of your water, avoid ice cubes and opt for filtered or treated water. Also, be careful with your food, especially if you're trying street food (which is often delicious but sometimes risky). 4. Manage your money well Although card payments are becoming increasingly common, it's best to always carry some cash, especially for small businesses or in rural areas. Check exchange rates and use a discreet wallet to carry your bills safely. 5. Immerse yourself in the local culture Asia is, above all, an incomparable cultural richness. Respect local customs, learn a few words of the language of the country you're visiting, and interact with the locals. Be aware that in many Asian countries, removing your shoes before entering a home or temple is a sign of respect. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on, such as comfortable sandals. Getting along with languages In many parts of Asia, English isn't widely spoken, so it's helpful to have some communication tools. Download a translation app on your phone to help you in situations where language is a barrier. It can also be helpful to have a short guide with keywords to facilitate everyday communication. 6. Don't underestimate the seasons Seasons vary from country to country, with specific weather conditions. The rainy season can be intense in some areas: a light raincoat or a pocket umbrella will be very useful. 7. Travel with awareness Consider the impact of your trip. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, support local artisans by purchasing their products, and limit your use of plastic whenever possible. With these tips in mind and a well-designed suitcase, you're ready to set off on an adventure in Asia! — Article written by Jessica Gallant
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Chamonix: An Unforgettable Experience at the Aiguille du Midi
Perched at an altitude of 3,842 meters, the Aiguille du Midi offered me far more than just a panoramic view: it was a true sensory experience, an immersion that transcends mere sightseeing. In winter, this iconic site in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc transforms into a winter paradise, where nature reveals its majesty in all its purity. A breathtaking ascent The journey began with a cable car ride that transported me to 2,317 meters, at the Plan de l'Aiguille. There, an awe-inspiring landscape unfolded before me: the majestic Mont Blanc, the Aiguille Verte, the Drus, and the Aiguilles of Chamonix to the left, with the Bossons Glacier to the right. The peaks sparkled as if time had come to a standstill. This was merely a prelude to what awaited me higher up. At the summit of magic The second cable car whisked me to the summit at 3,777 meters. There, magic took over: the glaciers of Pélerins and the hanging glaciers stretched out beneath my feet, while the invigorating fresh air filled my lungs. The panoramic terraces offered an unparalleled view of the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps, each vista enveloping me like a living postcard. A dizzying adventure I then ventured onto the walkway linking the north peak to the central peak—a vast and moving experience. Overlooking the snowy ridges and the Géant Glacier was an adventure filled with both humility and exhilaration. Then came the “Step into the Void”: a glass cube suspended above the abyss. My heart raced, my soul soared—an unforgettable moment I captured forever. An extraordinary immersion But the Aiguille du Midi is more than just its scenery. The on-site restaurants provide a culinary experience as spectacular as the views, allowing visitors to extend their time in this breathtaking setting. Finally, the mountaineering museum revealed the daring stories that shaped these heights. The “Hypoxia” exhibit offered a unique insight into the mysteries of altitude and the effects of reduced oxygen levels. Every moment spent up there was a total immersion into an extraordinary world. The icy wind on my face, the endless grandiose panoramas… The Aiguille du Midi transported me to the heights of wonder. It is undeniably a must-see during any stop in Chamonix! Article written by Jessica Gallant
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DISCOVER THE AMAZON WITH FIG
Our ambassador, Jessica (from Nomade Magazine), makes us discover the Amazon. A trip to the Amazon means adventure, heat and an extraordinary experience. After visiting the capital of the country, I had the chance to spend 4 days in the incredible rainforest of Ecuador near Tena. Despite all the physical activities and the changing weather, I remained comfortable at all time thanks to my choice of clothes. Since I know that I am not the only one who loves the outdoors and adventure travel, I thought it would be a good idea to share my 5 favourite clothes for this trip with you. IXU DRESS As my trip began in the mountainous Quito, I faced temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees. I wanted to wear something cute and comfortable to melt with the beautiful surroundings of the capital, that's why I chose the IXU dress that has kept me warm thanks to its long sleeves. I felt comfortable walking through the different streets of the old city and I loved the convenience of small zip pockets hidden inside larger pockets on each side below the belt. This dress is a real favourite! FIZ TUNIC AND OTH PANTS To reach my host family's home in the Amazon, I had to take a bus for a 5:30 trip to get to Tena and then a taxi. I easily get cold when there is air conditioning in transport so I thought it was perfect to wear the FIZ tunic and the OTH pants on the bus. Both garments are made from very soft materials and offer a style that is both casual and stylish. I also appreciated the flexibility of my clothes that made dealing with my travel bags easy and efficient. I also wore these pants several times in the evening once in the Amazon to avoid mosquito biting my legs. WUU SHORT AND GAX TOP Once settled in the jungle, I was fortunate to experience a variety of activities such as hiking in the forest, climbing waterfall and rafting. For each of these activities, I had the pleasure of wearing the WUU shorts and the GAX shirt for the first time. I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort of these 2 pieces, despite being soaked from head to foot 90% of the time. I even sometime thought to be protected from the water until I felt its effect on me. I had no trouble swimming at the bottom of a waterfall and walking in the forest for over an hour afterwards. It is also with great satisfaction that I enjoyed a delicious meal between two rafting descents dressed in the same clothes without the urgent need to change. At the end of the day, I just rinsed off my t-shirt and shorts and hung them outside for a quick drying. I hope these recommendations will guide you for your next adventure trip preparation. It is always reassuring to know that it is possible to live in different situations comfortably thanks to a good selection of your clothes.
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ISLAND HOPPING IN THE PHILIPPINES
Do you often dream of being alone on a desert island? With more than 7000 exotic islands, the Philippines is THE place to make that dream a reality! Quick overview, by Laurie, FIG ambassador. Constituting the 3rd largest archipelago in the world, the Philippines have a wide variety of landscapes and activities to offer. Rice terraces, lagoons, volcanoes, beaches and megacities, there is something for everyone! The best way to travel between islands is by boat or plane, so it is recommended to do a bit of research in advance and plan an itinerary that is not too busy. For example, visiting three main islands is probably enough for a one-month stay (ie the visa duration for most nationalities). No matter which region you visit, English is spoken fluently by locals and you’ll find accommodations that are suitable for all budgets! LUZON " Rice terraces, lagoons, volcanoes, beaches and megacities, there is something for everyone! " Home to the capital, Manila, this island is a good entry point to the country. If you’re feeling adventurous, just take the night bus that connects Manila to Banaue to find yourself in the middle of beautiful rice terraces. Lovers of the sea will opt instead for Donsol, where they can swim with whale sharks in their natural habitat. SIQUIJOR Offering a mix of tranquility and adrenaline, this small island can easily be discovered by motorcycle. Do not miss the turquoise waters of Cambugahay Falls and take the plunge at Salagdoong Beach! SIARGAO Not only my favorite spot in the Philippines, but worldwide, Siargao will charm you with its natural pools, lagoons with emerald waters, surf spots for all levels and laid-back, surfer lifestyle. A great place to disconnect! INFO PRATIQUE - Currency: Philippine Peso- Main languages: Filipino (Tagalog), English- Best time to go: February to May (dry season and fewer tourists)- In my suitcase: The WON tank top- Lodging suggestion: Tori's Backpackers on Siquijor Island- Restaurant recommendation: Baha Bar on Siquijor Island, located right on the beach, with a huge terrace and live shows!
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