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.
Category: TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
DuffelBagSpouse Travels is your passport to a world brimming with TRAVEL EXPERIENCES. Whether it’s a colorful parade, a traditional dance, or a local festival, DuffelBagSpouse’s blog is your gateway to experiencing the world’s most festive gatherings.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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How to Travel Poland as a Black Woman—And What Made Me Never Want to Go Back
Poland felt like a country torn between progress and prejudice. I’ve traveled through places that challenged me, but I’ve never felt so unwelcome. The stares weren’t curious—they were cold. I don’t regret visiting, but I left with no desire to return. Some places aren’t meant to be revisited.
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The Truth About Visiting the Midwest (From Someone Who Lives Here)
Is the Midwest worth visiting? It depends. This post explores the gap between marketing and reality, from gas station cafés to cultural blind spots. Written by someone who lives there—not someone passing through—it’s a candid take on what the Midwest offers, what it doesn’t, and why that matters.
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Why Blogging While Black Tells the Stories Travel Needs Now
Blogging while Black challenges the idea that Black travel stories are too niche. Through honest, emotionally rich reflections, this post explores how vulnerability and personal truth connect across race, age, and identity—proving that powerful storytelling isn’t limited by who you are, but deepened because of it.
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The Truth About Tourist Pricing: Paying More Abroad in 2025
As travel rebounds worldwide, many destinations are introducing two-tiered pricing to protect their landmarks and communities. Tourists often pay higher fees than locals, funding conservation efforts and managing crowds. See which countries already use two-tiered pricing and what it means for travelers planning future trips.
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4 Easy Ways to Get Around Seoul (When Walking Won’t Do)
I didn’t go to Seoul often—I preferred the rhythm and charm of Daegu. But when I did visit, I took full advantage of the city’s transportation. Driving worked well in Daegu, but in Seoul, it wasn’t worth the stress. The city is huge, crowded, and so well-connected you’d only slow yourself down in a car. Walking is a great way to explore—if you stick to one neighborhood at a time. But to see more of Seoul without the hassle, you’ll want a few other options. Here are four…
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What You Need to Know About the Thailand Digital Arrival Card
Starting May 1, 2025, all travelers to Thailand must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online. This new requirement replaces the TM6 paper form and applies to all entry points. Be prepared with your travel details, and submit the form within 72 hours before arrival to avoid delays at immigration.
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What Makes Hotel Breakfast So Special While Traveling
Hotel mornings move slower. No chores. No rush. Just soft light, quiet air, and the promise of a hotel breakfast downstairs—warm, fragrant, and maybe unfamiliar. I stretch, breathe, and follow the scent. That small luxury, often overlooked, feels like a reward for all the noise I left behind.