DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Sun Bathing on the Best Beaches in Phuket Posted on August 29, 2024December 12, 2025 Many of the beaches can be accessed by taxi or tuk tuk, but for others you’ll have to hitch a ride on a boat. That being said, more than 1,000 tour groups offer tours in Thailand. Do some research and book with one of the 100 tour operators who are respectful and licensed to operate on the fragile waters. Trust me you can tell them from the ones that aren’t. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES The Vibrant World of Seomun Market: A Supermarket Shopper’s Adventure Posted on August 28, 2024November 15, 2025 The markets are comprised of thousands of stalls inside and out, in air conditioned areas, on side streets and under umbrellas, selling everything from fabrics, to housewares, men’s and women’s clothing, both modern and traditional, crafts, produce, seafood and more. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Chiang Mai in the Rainy Season: What You Need to Know if You Go Posted on August 26, 2024July 31, 2026 Are you wondering if Chiang Mai is worth visiting during the rainy season? Let me share my firsthand experiences and help you decide. Chiang Mai, known for its stunning temples, vibrant markets, and cafes in picturesque surroundings, offers something unique each season. The rainy season, which runs from May to… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Why Seongsan Ilchulbong Is One of the Best Hiking Trails on Jeju Posted on August 18, 2024August 15, 2026 There’s a special kind of magic in watching the sunrise over the vast ocean—its golden hues gradually piercing the darkness and painting the sky with vibrant colors. This was exactly what we were after when we set out on the exciting journey to hike Seongsan Ilchulbong… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Everything You Need to Know About Purple Island, South Korea Posted on August 18, 2024August 5, 2026 Banwoldo (Banwold Island) is located off the southwestern tip of the Korean peninsula, adjacent to Bakjido Island. An expansive bridge connects them. Collectively, they are referred to as the Purple Island. The residents painted everything on both islands to encourage more tourist traffic. And so far, it is working. It made me want to visit, and here is what I discovered when I recently traveled there with friends. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Group Tours Offer Value for First-Time Travelers Posted on August 3, 2024July 23, 2026 If you know me, you know I’m not a fan of most group or package tours. I like the freedom to explore on my own, the excitement of discovering new places, and the opportunity to mingle with locals. However, I’ve realized that package tours can be a great option, especially… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Midwest Travel: the Magic of Hiking Morton Arboretum in Lisle Posted on July 31, 2024December 20, 2025 Hiking and Other Things to Do at Morton Arboretum Right in the heart of Lisle, Illinois, hiking Morton Arboretum wasn’t just a destination—it was my sanctuary. Imagine 1,700 acres of lush, green splendor where every turn offered a new wonder. This place, my friends, was where I reconnected with the… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Hoi An in 72 Hours: Your Ultimate Travel Itinerary Posted on July 30, 2024November 15, 2025 Reflecting on my recent excursion to this charming city in Vietnam, Hoi An, I find myself longing for its cozy ambiance and welcoming atmosphere. Although initially, three days might seem sufficient to uncover the city’s treasures, I soon discovered that the allure of the lantern festival, delectable cuisine, and myriad unique experiences could easily extend my stay. If only I had more time to immerse myself in the magic of Hoi An’s charms. Read more