No one should actually take a day trip to Saparua Island. Of course I didn’t realize this until later and I had no choice at the time either way. As the water taxi sputtered its way across the scenic waters of the Banda Sea, my mind had already envisioned a requisite media style picnic on […]
Meeting the Rainforest with Flight of the Gibbon
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 Chiang Mai zipline adventure, I […]
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 […]
Hanoi Graceful Hotel: An Old Quarter Gem
Entering the lobby of the Hanoi Graceful Hotel the din from the surrounding city streets diminishes to library-esque quiet. The hotel’s entrance is nothing short of charming, with the large glass front looking rather elegant against the mahogany-colored wooden pillars. The Hanoi Graceful Hotel sign glimmers in reflective gold accents while the entryway is guarded […]