While The White Lotus shows Thailand through a glossy, dramatic lens, my experience looked very different. From quiet trails to humble cafés, Chiang Mai offered something richer—peace, connection, and clarity. This is my personal story of Thailand, far beyond the screen, and why it keeps calling me back.
HOTELS
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Alt_Coliving Chiang Mai: Two Unique Locations with One Shared Community
Looking for a place to live, work, and connect in Chiang Mai? Alt_Coliving blends comfort, creativity, and community in two great locations. With private rooms, shared spaces, and zero setup stress, it’s ideal for students, solo travelers, or remote workers who want more than just a room with Wi-Fi.
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD
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How WITS Connects Women Who Love Travel and Content Creation
Why I Keep Going Back to WITS Creator Summit Is WITS worth attending? Absolutely. I asked myself that same question before signing up for my first Women in Travel Summit in Portland, Maine. I didn’t know a soul. But by the end of the weekend, I felt like I had…
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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White Lotus Season 3: How to Avoid the Mistakes Victoria Ratliff Makes Abroad
The White Lotus Season 3 brings luxury to Thailand, but one character—Victoria Ratliff—reveals something deeper. Her offhand remarks about monks, culture, and belonging reflect real-world entitlement. This post explores what her character gets wrong about travel, spirituality, and respect—and why those attitudes aren’t just fiction. They’re familiar.
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD
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How to Travel with a Friend Who Doesn’t Speak Your Language
I said yes to a trip with a woman I barely knew.We didn’t speak the same language, but I trusted her and the friendship we were creating.The conversations aren’t smooth, but the silence becomes part of the dialogue. A few months before leaving Korea, I met 강미향 or Angela (her…
FOOD AND DRINK
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The Truth About Tourist Trap Restaurants: 21 Tips to Avoid Them
Nobody wants to be overcharged or have a bland meal, especially while traveling. Experiencing local cuisine is one of the best parts of travel, but not all restaurants have your best interests in mind. Can you identify a restaurant that caters to tourists? Today, we’ll discuss how to avoid tourist trap restaurants. We’ll cover location tips, menu warning signs, server tricks, and techniques for finding the most authentic local eateries.
SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD
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Leaving America: When You’re Living a Life You Don’t Want
After years of staying for family, I’ve realized leaving America—at least part-time—offers the space to feel present, free, and fulfilled. Living abroad isn’t about escape. It’s about choosing a slower rhythm, deeper connection, and a version of life that feels more honest than what I’ve settled for here.
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD
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Real Ways I Make Money as a Travel Blogger Today
I didn’t start Duffelbagspouse to make money. I just wanted to tell real stories about travel, family, and constant moves. Over time, I found ways to earn from what I love. This post breaks down what works, what doesn’t, and how storytelling can become part of something sustainable and real.