DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES What You Need to Know About Booking a Hotel Near Patong Beach Posted on December 18, 2015August 22, 2026 This post explores the lively energy of Patong Beach in Phuket, Thailand, where nightlife, street food, and beach life blend into nonstop fun. From LadyBoys and ping-pong shows along Bangla Road to relaxing at Fisherman’s Harbour Urban Resort, it captures the balance between adventure and comfort while offering honest insights for first-time visitors planning where to stay and explore. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Tips for Visiting the Big Buddha in Phuket Thailand Posted on December 15, 2015August 23, 2026 Building Phuket’s Big Buddha began about 10 years ago as a labor of love and will cost roughly 30 Million Baht ($850, 000) when it’s completed. Now, ten years later, it has become a revered monument by both locals and tourists. More than 1,000 people make the 6km trek up the mountain every day to see the huge Buddha that’s still under construction. It is taking so long because of its scope, as well as the fact that it is being funded by donations alone. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES My Top 10 Phuket Thailand for First Time Visitors Posted on December 14, 2015August 23, 2026 Snorkeling in Koh Phi Phi is a great place for the first time snorkeler. With its crystal waters and incredible scenery, a snorkeling trip in this part of Thailand allows you to gaze on strikingly beautiful corals and prismatic schools of fish. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Enjoy the Hand of Harmony Sunrise Ceremony in Pohang Posted on November 30, 2015August 21, 2026 Early morning road trip This morning, excitement filled the air as I woke up at 4:30 AM, ready for adventure. I quickly got ready, grabbing my camera gear and snacks. After setting my Korea-specific GPS, I hit the road, my favorite tunes setting the mood. My destination? Pohang’s annual Hand… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Everything You Need to Know About a Dinner Cruise in Tokyo Posted on October 29, 2015August 22, 2026 5 days exploring the quirky neighborhoods of Tokyo culminates on a sunset dinner cruise around Tokyo Bay with delicious food, awesome service and amenities, and a great picture window to see the Tokyo skyline. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD The Best of Both Worlds: Military Support and Korean Experiences Posted on September 30, 2015September 2, 2026 I once referred to myself as an expat. But during a recent dinner party at my home, we welcomed “real” American Expats to a long promised and much appreciated home cooked meal. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Why Peking Duck at Quanjude Is the Best Way to End a Trip to China Posted on September 9, 2015May 3, 2026 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. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES The Truth About the Seokguram Hike: More Sweat Than Serenity Posted on September 1, 2015August 20, 2026 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. Read more