DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES What You Need to Know Before Visiting Byukchoji Gardens in Paju, South Korea Posted on June 13, 2026August 3, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters It was 6:05 and the ajusshi, an elderly man at the entrance of the Byukchoji Gardens, was friendly but didn’t allow me to enter. We spent too much time cafe hopping– the botanical garden in Paju closes at 7:00 pm, and the last tickets are sold at 6:00 pm. The next day, we arrived early in the morning. As expected, the ajusshi recognized me and reached out to shake my hand. Steven stayed in the car while I packed up my camera gear and umbrella. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES What Makes Chiang Mai, Thailand, a Destination You’ll Fall in Love With? Posted on June 13, 2026August 3, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters 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. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Thailand Adventures That Will Change the Way You See the World Posted on June 11, 2026October 9, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Thailand gets talked about so much that it’s easy to wonder if it still lives up to the hype, especially if you’ve seen the same beaches, temples, and street food shots a hundred times already—but the real question isn’t what it looks like online, it’s what it actually feels like when you’re there, moving from one place to the next, and whether it still delivers on everything people promise, so before you decide, take a closer look at what keeps pulling people back. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Best of Bali: Travel Itinerary, Local Secrets, and Must-Know Tips Posted on January 21, 2026August 8, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Bali, Indonesia Travel Guide: Discover stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. Explore temples, surf world-class waves, and savor unique Balinese cuisine. Bali’s rich heritage and natural beauty make it a top travel destination year-round. Read more
HOTELS Trails and Tastes of Cinque Terre: Our Stay at Sostio a Levante Agriturismo Posted on October 25, 2025August 10, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters We had lunch in town and everything we ate was absolutely delicious.There are no museums or tourist attractions per se along the Cinque Terra. Just restaurants, some family owned shops, B&Bs and the hiking trails and the ocean and I hope that never changes. The drive back to the station a few days later was far less adventurous. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Everything You Need to Know About the Mae Sa Waterfalls in Chiang Mai Posted on April 24, 2025September 8, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Mae Sa Waterfalls, just 19 km from Chiang Mai, offers 10 beautiful cascades surrounded by lush greenery. Perfect for hiking, swimming, and picnicking, it’s a serene escape into nature. Avoid weekends for a peaceful visit and enjoy nearby attractions like Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden and Mon Jam for a full-day adventure. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Why Thailand Is More Than a Luxury Escape Posted on April 14, 2025September 11, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters While The White Lotus shows Thailand through a glossy, dramatic lens, my experience looked very different. From quiet trails to humble cafés, Chiang Mai offered something richer—peace, connection, and clarity. This is my personal story of Thailand, far beyond the screen, and why it keeps calling me back. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES How to Hike to Wat Pha Lat in Chiang Mai and What You’ll See Along the Way Posted on March 27, 2025September 11, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters One warm February morning in Chiang Mai, I set out alone to hike the Monk’s Trail. With each step, the noise faded. In its place—silence, birdsong, and the peaceful hush of Wat Pha Lat. That quiet temple in the forest reminded me what it feels like to arrive, not chase. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES How I Lost 60 Pounds Hiking in South Korea Posted on February 20, 2025November 11, 2026 By Stacey A. Peters Hiking in South Korea is more than just a weekend activity—it’s a cultural experience. From the breathtaking trails of Seoraksan to the scenic peaks of Apsan, each hike offers a unique connection to nature and history. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, Korea’s mountains have something unforgettable to offer. Read more