I clutched the rope for dear life, as the distant tree tops below made me feel slightly light-headed. I’m not sure when I had become phobic of high places. Maybe it had always been with me and I hadn’t noticed. But as I embraced my first Flight of the Gibbon zipline adventure, I realized I […]
Should You Visit Hat Yai, Thailand? Yes!
Should You Visit Hat Yai, Thailand? Yes! Well at least I think so. I’m always surprised to see so few western faces when I’m there. Hat Yai is a transient city that I’ve grown rather fond of over the years. I’ll admit it took me a few visits to get into the Hat Yai groove, […]
My Ghostly Encounters on Corregidor Island
One of the perks of attending a TBEX (Travel Blogger Exchange) conference are the pre and post conference tours and media trips offered to conference attendees. This was how I found myself face to face with a significant episode in the history of the Philippines, as well as a glimpse of the past through the […]
Sanom Beach Resort: Koh Lipe’s Best Kept Secret
Does the image of a seaside bungalow on a private white sand beach against the backdrop of swaying palms come to mind when you start thinking about a holiday? Then Sanom Beach Resort has your name written all over it. Sure there are plenty of other seaside bungalow options available in Koh Lipe, and many […]
Puerto Princesa, the Jewel of Palawan
Island airports tend to look very similar to one another, yet as I stepped just outside of the Puerto Princesa International Airport baggage claim I was struck. The air hit me with a wave of familiarity that immediately brought tears to my eyes. And a chill up my spine. I know that may sound beyond […]
Shangri-La at the Fort: Hospitality from the Heart
At a glance the Shangri-La at the Fort barely hints at the degree of opulence available to their luxury seeking guests. An impressive glass chandelier splashing light across the massive lobby, the hushed tones of the well mannered, and impeccably dressed staff are generally expected at 5-star luxury accommodations. My weekend splurge at the Shangri-La […]
Vietnamese Food Guide For Hanoi Newbies
Two Vietnamese foods that I learned to love on my first trip to Vietnam were Beef Pho and Spring Rolls (gỏi cuốn). That was about it for my culinary expertise. But for years I exclaimed, “I love Vietnamese food!” Seriously, right? As if I even had a clue beyond those two dishes I had eaten. […]