DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Chiang Dao Travel Guide: Northern Thailand’s Best-Kept Secret Posted on July 22, 2026July 24, 2026 Think Chiang Mai is the only destination worth visiting in northern Thailand? Think again. Just 90 minutes away, Chiang Dao offers towering mountains, peaceful temples, scenic cafes, waterfalls, and a slower pace that’s hard to leave behind. Here’s why this hidden corner of Thailand deserves a spot on your itinerary.** Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Chiang Mai Travel Guide: Why So Many Travelers End Up Staying Longer Posted on July 18, 2026July 24, 2026 I never planned to fall in love with Chiang Mai, but it’s become one of those places I keep coming back to. Every visit feels a little different. Sometimes I’m hiking to a forest temple. Other times I’m exploring mountain villages, chasing waterfalls, relaxing at a cafe, or wandering through a market. The city has a slower pace that makes it easy to enjoy without feeling like you have to see everything. If you’re wondering why so many travelers end up staying longer, these are the experiences that keep bringing me back to Chiang Mai. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Bangkok’s Wat Pho Posted on April 18, 2026April 19, 2026 Wat Pho is considered the first public university in Thailand, specialising in religion, science and literature. It is now more well-known as a centre for traditional massage and medicine. After a walk around the temple there is nothing quite like a relaxing foot or head and shoulder massage. If you’ve never tried a traditional Thai massage, Wat Pho is a great place for your first one. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES My Top 10 Most Beautiful Temples in Thailand Posted on August 28, 2025January 10, 2026 Thailand is filled with temples, but these ten stood out to me the most. From Wat Pho’s reclining Buddha in Bangkok to mountaintop stupas in Lampang and the glowing tree of Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao, each temple offers beauty, history, and devotion. This personal list reflects the places that felt unforgettable in design, setting, and spirit. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Why Wat Ban Den Is One of the Most Unique Temples in Thailand Posted on September 25, 2024December 20, 2025 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. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES An Hour of Enlightenment: My Monk Chat in Luang Prabang Posted on July 21, 2023December 23, 2025 At 9 am, just as the day’s heat began to rise, I bicycled in the historic town of Luang Prabang, preparing for an enlightening encounter. I parked my bike, a loaner from the Belle Rive Boutique Hotel, near the steps, covered in pink petals from the flowering bush overhead. Before entering the temple grounds, I pulled out the sweater I brought to cover my arms. As requested by Orange Robe Tours. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Walking in the Footsteps of Monks: Alms in Luang Prabang Posted on July 20, 2023December 23, 2025 Immerse yourself in the enchanting morning traditions of Luang Prabang with the captivating almsgiving ceremony and the insightful Orange Robe Tour. As the sun rises over this charming town, embark on a spiritual journey unlike any other. Join me as I share my unforgettable moments of partaking in the almsgiving ritual and delving into the profound teachings during the Monk Chat sessions. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Visit Seoknamsa Temple in Ulsan, South Korea Posted on July 19, 2023December 23, 2025 Tucked away in the calm mountains above Ulsan, Seoknamsa Temple is a truly peaceful and beautiful spot. It’s easily one of my favorite temples in South Korea. This place is not just about spirituality; it’s where nature and peace come together. When you visit, you’ll find it’s impossible to take a bad picture – that’s how stunning it is. Seoknamsa Temple is a perfect escape from the busyness of life, and I highly recommend checking it out. I highly recommend experiencing the serenity and beauty. Read more