PLACES Why Travel Belongs in the Political Section Posted on October 8, 2024October 8, 2024 You can avoid politics while traveling, but it will inevitably catch up with you. Whether it’s dealing with visa restrictions, encountering foreign customs, or watching a single tweet shift entire travel markets, politics lurks in every trip. It shapes not just where we go, but how we experience a place. And yet, there’s something deeper I’ve discovered about how politics impacts travel… something that might surprise you. I’ll tell you more about it, but first, let me share this unexpected moment I encountered in the least likely place…
PLACES Exploring the Enchanting Daewangam Park in Ulsan South Korea Posted on October 7, 2024October 7, 2024 Explore Ulsan’s Daewangam Park, where nature whispers over the steady roar of the coast. The cliffs stand tall against the crashing waves, but it’s the quiet moments that get you. The forest, dense with trees older than most people you know, wraps around you as you walk. The air hangs heavy with salt and earth, and the trails wind through like secrets waiting to be uncovered. It’s raw, unfiltered—just you, the sea, and the whispers of something ancient in the air. A place that pulls you in, not with spectacle, but with the kind of quiet that makes you listen.
PLACES Beyond Napa– 5 Other Wine Regions You Should Visit Posted on October 4, 2024October 5, 2024 The United States boast a remarkably robust network of wineries, wine trails and wine-related activities. Wine tourism is alive & well in places like Sonoma and Napa. But also in new emerging wine regions around the US that are less well-known, but just as good– or better.
PLACES How to Spend 24 Hours in Istanbul: Exploring Markets, Mosques, and More Posted on October 2, 2024October 10, 2024 These are the Top 11 Istanbul Places to visit for the flavors, religion, sights and sounds. Straddling two continents, Istanbul, figuratively and literally, has roots in both Europe and Asia. Visit for its unique geographic distinction, heavy in Islamic influence. But fused with European culture, Istanbul is certainly unique because it’s truly where east meets west.
PLACES 27 Things to Do in Cleveland, Ohio Next Weekend Posted on October 1, 2024October 7, 2024 Discover Cleveland: Surprising Attractions and Must-See Spots We are heading back to Cleveland for the second time soon! At first glance, Cleveland might not scream “must-see destination,” but this city will definitely surprise you. With tier-one professional sports teams in football, basketball, and baseball, Cleveland has more to offer than…
PLACES Would You Book a Date with a Geisha in Kyoto? I did! Posted on September 30, 2024October 10, 2024 Japan is synonymous with Geisha. Well, at least it used to be. Nowadays, they are not as common as you might think. And their services are costly. I am not kidding. Time spent in the company of a geisha is ridiculously expensive. And more often than not, you’ll see Geisha…
PLACES 11 Reasons I Know You’ll Fall in Love with Chiang Mai, Thailand Posted on September 28, 2024October 5, 2024 Chiang Mai is essentially Thailand’s second city – the smaller, more relaxed answer to the madness of Bangkok and the chill space sans the Phuket beaches. It was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, but now is a major draw for backpackers and travelers of all kinds, not to mention older ex-pats, humanitarians and digital warriors.
PLACES Wat Ban Den: A Guide to Thailand’s Most Unique Temple in Chiang Mai Posted on September 25, 2024September 25, 2024 I didn’t know what to expect when our Thai friend Suwat took us to Wat Ban Den. Nestled 45 km north of Chiang Mai, this temple isn’t just another beautiful spot—it’s like a blend of Buddha and Dr. Seuss. With whimsical, colorful designs and 12 stupas representing the zodiac signs, it’s a feast for the eyes. Don’t miss the hidden dragon mural behind the main hall—it’s like finding a secret passage in a storybook. This underrated gem is a must-see for anyone exploring Northern Thailand.