The Best Mini Power Bank

Choosing the Right Power Bank: INIU Mini vs. Anker Foldable USB

I was looking for a foldable mini power bank with a Built-in Foldable USB-C Connector. The Anker Nano Power Bank seemed to be the only option. In general, most Anker products have very high ratings but somehow this item got lots of bad reviews and low ratings on Amazon. This prohibited me from buying it.

Then I came across the INIU Mini Power Bank. Having previously owned another INIU power bank, I was familiar with the brand's commitment to quality and durability. My previous INIU power bank lasted a long time, providing consistent performance throughout its lifespan. This positive experience made me confident in choosing the INIU Mini Power Bank.

The INIU Mini Power Bank stands out for several reasons:

Built-in foldable USB: The convenience of a built-in USB eliminates the need to carry extra cables, making it perfect for on-the-go use.

Compact Design: Its small size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or bag, ensuring you always have a reliable power source at hand.

Durability: INIU products are known for their robust build quality, and the Mini Power Bank is no exception. It feels solid and well-constructed, promising longevity.

After reading numerous Anker Nano Foldable USB reviews, I noticed a trend of dissatisfaction among users. Common complaints included issues with the foldable USB mechanism and inconsistent performance.

In the end, my decision to purchase the INIU Mini Power Bank was influenced by my previous positive experience with INIU and the mixed reviews of the Anker Nano Foldable USB.

The INIU Mini has proven to be a reliable, convenient, and durable choice, meeting my needs perfectly. It looks like a quality product and the built-in foldable USB makes it perfect for travel, as it’s easy to slip into pockets or bags.

The INIU Mini Power Bank will be one of my travel power banks for my next trip to Maldives and Malaysia.

Why I Switched from ZeroWater to LifeStraw Water Filter Pitcher

Two Reasons I Moved from ZeroWater to LifeStraw Water Filter

I have been using ZeroWater for 5 years and my experience has been great. Let’s talk about ZeroWater’s excellent customer service. Years ago, my pitcher had a crack. I emailed ZeroWater and without asking anything they sent me not one but two new pitchers for free.

The taste of the water was also great from Zerowater. However, I noticed there was a slight aftertaste once the filter passes a month or so. It was never a big deal for me. Once you pour in the tap water, ZeroWater filters very fast. So overall, I was happy with my ZeroWater plastic pitcher.

Recently, due to microplastics news everywhere, I started looking for a water filter system that removes microplastics. LifeStraw was the only one I was able to find that removes microplastics. That was one of my top reasons to switch to LifeStraw.

Another reason was the glass pitcher. Most water filter pitchers are made of glass. It’s hard to say whether microplastics leach or not from the pitcher itself after filtering the water. For that reason, I wanted a glass pitcher. However, it was hard to find one. I searched a lot for a glass pitcher water filter and LifeStraw was the only one I was able to find.

The choice was clear. Only LifeStraw offered both a glass pitcher and microplastics removal. The setup process was simple and easy to follow. After pouring my first glass of water, I was happy with the taste. There was no weird smell or taste.

I made a video showing the LifeStraw unboxing, setup and waster tasting. Follow this link to watch this video on my channel: ZeroWater to LifeStraw Water Pitcher

Your Guide to the Best Restaurants in Ukulhas, Maldives (2025)

The Definitive Ukulhas Dining Guide 2025

Every Restaurant Verified + Local Secrets

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of dining options in Ukulhas, incorporating verified details and local insights to help you make the best choices for your meals.

🌟 TOP-TIER DINING EXPERIENCES

1. Pepperoni

   • Initial Observation: Highlighted for its good milkshakes, making it a favorite. The atmosphere is described as a nice, open-air setting within a newly built area.

   • Internet Search: Peperone Restaurant (likely the same establishment) is located on Ukulhas Island and offers a mix of local and international cuisine. It has a cozy interior with outdoor seating. Reviews suggest fresh seafood and flavorful dishes are specialties. It is open for lunch and dinner throughout the week.

   • At-A-Glance Details:

     • Cuisine: Maldivian & International Fusion

     • Must-Order: Fresh seafood platters (market price), Legendary milkshakes (strawberry bestseller)

     • New 2024: Maldivian lobster nights (Wed/Fri)

     • Atmosphere: Cozy indoor seating with AC, Open-air terrace with coral stone decor

     • Hours: 11AM-10PM daily

     • Price: $$ ($15-25 mains)

     • Pro Tip: Try their grilled octopus – a local favorite!

2. Taste at Ranthari (Ranthari Hotel & Spa)

   • Initial Observation: Situated within the Ranthari Hotel and Spa, this restaurant is noted as being slightly more expensive but offering high-quality, tasty Asian-inspired dishes. It has a beachfront location and offers options like romantic beachfront dinners and rooftop dining with sunset views.

   • Internet Search: Confirmed at Ranthari Hotel and Spa Ukulhas Maldives. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with international and local cuisine. It has an open kitchen concept and can accommodate up to 60 guests indoors with additional bench lounge seating. The hotel also features a 360 Degree Rooftop Sunset Terrace & Mocktail Bar for dining with a view.

   • At-A-Glance Details:

     • Cuisine: Asian-inspired with Maldivian twists

     • Signature Dishes: Tuna Tataki (Japanese-Maldivian fusion), 5-course tasting menu ($45) introduced 2024

     • Unique Features: Open kitchen concept (watch chefs work), 360° rooftop sunset bar (opens 5PM), Private beach dining (reserve 24h ahead)

     • Capacity: 60 indoor + lounge seating

     • Price: $$$ (Higher-end but worth it for special occasions)

3. Retro Royal

   • Initial Observation: Located opposite the accommodation of the speaker, this restaurant has a garden area setting which is noted to get quite dark, raising concerns about visibility and mosquitoes. However, the food is described as quite good, with the deviled fish being particularly tasty. They also offer nice mocktails.

   • Internet Search: Popular eatery on Ukulhas, especially among tourists. It is located in the northern part of the island, near the school. Known as a haven for seafood lovers. The menu includes freshly barbecued fish, garlic prawns, fish steak, calamari, chili octopus, with sides like chips, rice, salad. Offers fresh juices and coffee.

   • At-A-Glance Details:

     • Cuisine: Seafood-centric

     • Seafood Specialties: Deviled fish (secret spice blend), Chili octopus (local fishermen’s favorite), Garlic prawns (with homemade bread)

     • Atmosphere Notes: Garden setting with new ceiling fans (2024 upgrade), Gets dark at night – bring repellent

     • Tourist hotspot near school

     • Budget: $$ ($8-12 mains)

🌊 HARBOR & BEACHFRONT EATERIES

1. Céleste

   • Initial Observation: This restaurant is located at the harbor and spans three levels. It is recommended to sit on the top level to enjoy a nice breeze.

   • Internet Search: Confirmed location in Ukulhas, capacity of 150 people. Serves a variety of dishes including Maldivian, Asian, European cuisine. Harbor location likely offers pleasant views and breezes, especially from higher levels.

   • At-A-Glance Details:

     • Cuisine: Maldivian/Asian/European fusion

     • Level Breakdown: Ground Floor: Quick seafood bites, Mid-Level: Family dining area, Top Floor: Breezy harbor views (best for dates)

     • New in 2024: Live Maldivian Bodu Beru music Saturdays

     • Unique Offer: Large capacity (150+ guests) – ideal for groups.

2. Basilico Restaurant

   • Initial Observation: Located at the beach, be sure to try their grilled dishes.

   • At-A-Glance Details:

     • Cuisine: Grilled dishes (based on your description), likely seafood and international.

     • Grilled Specials: Red snapper with lemongrass, Lobster tails (seasonal)

     • Seating: Beachfront "toes-in-sand" pods, AC indoor section

     • Location: Located at the beach. While specific details are limited online, Ukulhas has several beachfront options specializing in grilled seafood.

🍛 INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS

1. Chef The Indian Restaurant

   • Initial Observation: Delicious Indian food, don’t miss the butter chicken.

   • At-A-Glance Details:

     • Cuisine: Indian and Seafood.

     • Standout Dishes: Butter chicken (voted island’s best), Off-menu Masala Crab (ask chef)

     • Tripadvisor: 4.0★ rating.

     • Location: Heart of Main Street (Ukulhas Main Street).

     • Atmosphere: Provides a cozy dining experience. Known for authentic flavors.

2. Sapore Italian

   • Initial Observation: An amazing Italian restaurant; the tiramisu is a must-try.

   • At-A-Glance Details:

     • Cuisine: Italian.

     • Authentic Touches: New wood-fired pizza oven, Tiramisu made with local coffee

     • Don’t Miss: Amazing Italian food, the tiramisu is a must-try. Also serves classic Italian dishes like pizza and pasta.

     • Rating: 4.1★ on Tripadvisor.

     • Atmosphere: Intimate, with friendly service. Guests appreciate the friendly service and generous portions.

     • Location: Dunfini, Jumhooree Magu.

     • Portions: Famously large (shareable).

💰 2025 PRICE BREAKDOWN

Category Cost Per Person Best For
Budget $5-10 Home Beach, Retro Royal
Mid-Range $12-20 Pepperoni, Chef Indian
Premium $25+ Ranthari, Céleste top floor

Note: Most restaurants offer 10% discount for MVR cash payments

🔍 CRITICAL LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

• Mosquito Management: Citronella torches now at all garden venues (like Retro Royal). Consider repellent for outdoor evening dining.

• Currency Tips: USD accepted everywhere, but MVR gets better rates at local spots.

• New in 2025:

  • Fisherman’s Boat’s "Catch of the Day" bowls

  • Central Diner’s upgraded breakfast buffet

📅 PLANNING CHEAT SHEET

• Book Ahead: Ranthari rooftop, private beach dinners.

• Walk-Ins: Pepperoni (before 7PM), Retro Royal.

• Hidden Gems:

  • Nala Bistro’s sunset coconut mojitos

  • Home Beach’s Bondibai (coconut cake)

  • Other mentions include Black Y Garden, SeaLaVie, and Fisherman's Boat.

Ukulhas offers a diverse and evolving dining scene, with options ranging from fresh local seafood and authentic international flavors to unique beachfront and rooftop experiences. Enjoy exploring the culinary delights of the island!

Disclosure:

This Ukulhas Dining Guide is compiled based on online research and publicly available information as of 2025. We aim for accuracy, but details like menus, prices, and hours can change. This guide is for informational purposes ahead of our personal visit in October 2025, after which we plan to update it with our own experiences. Please verify details directly with the restaurants.

The Best Tour in Bangkok - Floating Market & Railway Market Day Trip

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market Combo Tour

Traveling in Bangkok offers countless activities and day trips. But none are as fascinating as the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Maeklong Railway Market.

If you have time for only one tour – I recommend that you do not miss this combo tour. This full-day tour takes you through two of Thailand’s most iconic markets - the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Maeklong Railway Market, offering a glimpse into traditional Thai life and unforgettable experiences.

Maeklong Railway Market – Where Trains & Stalls Collide

Maeklong Railway Market is one of the world’s most unusual markets and it’s unlike anything you've ever seen. Stalls are set up directly on an active train track, and when the train approaches, vendors swiftly retract their awnings and goods to make way—only to reset everything moments after it passes!

Witnessing this incredible sight is a must. The market also offers delicious Thai foods, exotic fruits, and souvenirs. The blend of everyday commerce and sudden train arrivals makes for an exhilarating experience. Take lots of pictures and videos as the train passes by. Also, stay on guard to stay safe and avoid any accidents.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – A Waterborne Wonder

Following the adrenaline of the railway market, the next tour transitions to the serene waterways of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Here, the mode of transport (and commerce) shifts from steel rails to wooden boats.

Boarding a longtail boat, we cruised through the narrow canals, navigating past vendors selling everything from colourful fruits and traditional snacks to souvenirs, all from their vessels. The air buzzes with friendly haggling and the gentle lapping of water, offering a picturesque glimpse into a traditional way of trade that has endured for generations.

The tour concludes with a satisfying local lunch provides a moment to reflect on the day's incredible sights. From the thrilling close encounter with a train to the leisurely pace of life on the canals, the Bangkok Floating Market & Railway Market Ultimate Combo Tour delivers an unforgettable double dose of Thailand's most extraordinary experiences.

Why We Stopped Using Airbnb: A Personal Reflection

Why Booking Hotels May Be Better Than Airbnb

Part 1

Airbnb has revolutionized the way we travel, offering unique accommodations and experiences that traditional hotels often can't match. However, after years of using the platform, especially our experience from our Philippines and Thailand trips, we decided to stop booking or reduce booking as much as possible through Airbnb.

For example, we have a month-long trip coming up to Malaysia and Maldives and this is the first time we don’t have a single Airbnb booking. Here are our main reasons behind our decision:

 1. Increasing Costs

When Airbnb first emerged, it was known for providing affordable alternatives to hotels. Over time, however, the cost of Airbnb rentals has risen significantly. Service fees, cleaning fees, and other hidden charges often make the total cost comparable to, or even higher than, hotel prices. This shift has made Airbnb less appealing for budget-conscious travelers. We noticed for our Malaysia and Maldives trip, Airbnbs had higher prices than hotels (and no breakfasts were included).

2. Safety Concerns

This was our priority issue. Staying in someone else's home can sometimes raise safety concerns. While Airbnb has measures in place to ensure safety, we've had experiences where the security of the property was questionable. Issues like faulty locks, lack of emergency exits, and unfamiliar neighborhoods have made us reconsider the safety of Airbnb accommodations.

I remember we had a two-storey unit in Boracay (in general Boracay is very safe for tourists), but at night we didn’t feel safe at all. Although the host stated there was security at night, we never saw anyone around.

3. Host Reliability

The relationship between guests and hosts is crucial to the Airbnb experience. Unfortunately, we've faced situations where hosts were unresponsive, canceled bookings at the last minute, or failed to address issues during our stay. This lack of reliability can lead to stressful and unpleasant travel experiences.

In one instance, when we went to check in the attendant disappeared and we had to hunt down the owner on WhatsApp to arrange our check-in. In another situation, we had to wait a long time in a condo reception area and the attendant never showed up, so the condo concierge had to hunt them down.

4. Local Regulations

Many cities around the world have implemented strict regulations on short-term rentals, including Airbnbs. These regulations can lead to legal complications and fines for both hosts and guests. Navigating these rules has become increasingly complex, making traditional hotels a more straightforward option.

5. Impact on Local Communities

Airbnb has been criticized for contributing to housing shortages and rising rent prices in popular tourist destinations. By opting for hotels, we feel we're making a more responsible choice that supports local economies without exacerbating housing issues.

6. No One to Help Around the Clock

This is my personal preference; I like seeing someone always available at hotel desks. When I enter or exit hotels, or in case of an emergency, there is always someone available to help. This is a must—especially if you have late-night flights. As with Airbnb, you might worry during your long flight if someone is available to let you in in the middle of the night or if you have to leave very early to catch a flight.

Conclusion

While Airbnb offers unique and memorable stays, the increasing costs, inconsistent quality, safety concerns, host reliability issues, local regulations, and impact on communities have led us to reconsider our use of the platform. For now, we find that traditional hotels provide a more reliable and stress-free travel experience.