First impressions about Beijing… it’s BIG!! Really big. More than 250 million people live in the city and its surrounding suburbs. Imagine that. There are only 50 and 322 million people living gin the entire countries of Korea and the United States respectively.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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Why Peking Duck at Quanjude Is the Best Way to End a Trip to China
This blog explores the iconic Peking Duck experience in Beijing, from the legendary Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant to the art of preparing and eating the dish. It reveals why cooking it at home is nearly impossible and shares the rich cultural tradition behind every crispy bite of this beloved Chinese delicacy.
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
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How to Plan a Budget Family Friendly Weekend in Florence & Pisa
Florence with kids does not have to mean long lines and expensive tickets. This guide shares budget-friendly ideas like gelato breaks, open parks, hands-on museums, and lively piazzas. Slow down, let children move, and enjoy the city in ways that feel relaxed, practical, and genuinely family friendly.
SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD
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The Truth About Moving Abroad: When Unpacking Turns Into Job Hunting
Steps for Applying for a Federal Job My apartment is set up. Everything I do from now on will be tweaking how I use the small but beautiful space. Our VPN is working, and I can stream videos and order from JCPenney’s. I met a few of my neighbors, even…
TRAVEL MONEY & PLANNING
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What You Need to Know Before You Start Planning Your Next Trip
Off-season makes sense for the savings in hotels, airfare and the decreased crowds. However it works for places like Paris. Paris in the Spring is hell on Earth, but in August, you’ll have some popular attractions all to yourself. Deals are plentiful May thru October to Thailand but you may not enjoy your time (or possibly die trying) because typhoons are likely to pop up anywhere.
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
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The Truth About the Seokguram Hike: More Sweat Than Serenity
I expected serenity on the 4km climb from Bulguksa to Seokguram. Instead, fog erased the views, steep drops tested our nerves, and the line to see the Buddha stretched over an hour. Was the hike worth it? Here’s the honest truth no brochure mentions.
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES
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What Makes Anapji Pond One of Gyeongju’s Most Beautiful Spots
Gyeongju was once the capital of the Silla Dynasty and remnants of its former glory lay all over this pretty college town. And although the original palace was burned to the ground in the 10th century, the man-made pond still maintains its original footprint where many remnants were recently discovered.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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11 Observations of a Black World Traveler
Nope, not even close. Although… even though I am NOT rich, I may be the only black person they meet and I want to leave a positive impression. I often feel the need to over tip or otherwise over-compensate for my skin color. Its totally unnecessary because I’m not a hotel pig, I find myself doing things like straightening up the room so the maids don’t see any mess.