Reading the words ‘sand flies’ in a Trip Advisor review, had me rethinking my grand Koh Tarutao adventure. A fate worse than prisoner ghosts or giant jungle snakes, in my opinion. But the historic ex-prison island of Koh Tarutao has fascinated me for years. Looming on the distant horizon, its mysterious, yet picturesque presence is […]
Koh Lanta Island First Time Visitor’s Guide
My first visit to Koh Lanta did not leave a good impression on me. That was several years ago towards the end of ‘high season’. The menagerie of touts bombarding the new arrivals at Saladan Pier was overwhelming to say the least. All eager to gain a few more bucks before the low season arrived. […]
Discover the Charming City of Songkhla
Songkhla City, Thailand is not just a day tour destination. Songkhla is the kind of place that simply cannot be properly introduced through the smudged window of a passing tour bus. Seriously. There is so much more to Songkhla than getting a selfie at the Golden Mermaid! Songkhla’s cultural authenticity and heritage even rivals such […]
Pulau Ubin, Easy Day Trip to Singapore’s Unique Island Paradise
They say Pulau Ubin Island is like stepping back in time; to the 60s or 70s if you will. I disagree with that description of the Pulau Ubin experience. A living museum may be a more actuate description. But at the same time, Pulau Ubin is an impressive example of successful preservation of both Singapore’s […]
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. […]
My Search for Elephant Utopia in Phuket
The year 2000 was a big deal for me. I turned one of those milestone ages, traveled to Southeast Asia for the first time and got my first tattoo. I also rode an elephant. I thought I was pretty cool. It wasn’t until 15 years later that I read a blog post about the plight […]
Feeling the Love at Lipe Beach Resort
Finding an affordable Koh Lipe accommodation during ‘high season’ can be a challenge, especially if a waterfront location is at the top of one’s preferred amenities list. But taking advantage of the seasonal Langkawi to Koh Lipe direct ferry service means travel to Koh Lipe during their busiest and most popular time of year. Did […]