From Chiang Rai, we could have turned our toes in any direction and had an excess of exploration options thanks to the overwhelming number of pins we had saved on our Google map over the years. But, ultimately, we decided to grab a 160 cc motorbike for $12 and head north/northwest for the day to get off-the-beaten path with a…
When we landed in Chiang Rai, our vision was flooded with signs of Buddhism in the same way it was flooded with signs of Islam when we landed on Java….towering Buddhas, soaring stupas and sweeping golden rooflines. Indeed, Chiang Rai is predominantly known on the tourist circuit for its extraordinary wats or temples…some of them draped with traditional elegance and some…
We are always a bit wary about visiting tribes or places that are portrayed as a spectacle of animal or human tourism. One such place was the Hill Tribe and Long Neck Karen Village outside of Chiang Rai, which according to Google reviews, can definitely feel like a gray area. However, after understanding the motive and history behind the village,…
To the Thai/Laos Border From Chiang Rai, we made our way to another Chiang…this one combined with a Khong…on the Thai/Laos border. This approximately two hour journey can be made by local bus for about $5/person or, in our case because the parents were in tow, far more on a private shuttle. 🤣 We chose to stay overnight at the border…
The Charm of Luang Prabang Thanks to its cultural heritage, distinct spiritual vibe, culinary wonders and rich French colonial architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage jewel of Luang Prabang is a place that oozes culture, history, class, and charm at every turn. Therefore, it’s easy to understand why it has become an undeniable hit along the Southeast Asian traveler trail. Unfortunately,…
Arriving to Bali & Renewing our Visas From Malang, we had every intention to head to the far east of Java to Banyuwangi by train to see the blue flame of the Mount Ijen volcano. However, after an eruption on July 10, tours were closed for this natural wonder and we really weren’t in the mood to blow up anyways.…
The Best Apartment We Could Ask For For our week in Bali, we made a very good decision by heading to a tiny village about 9k south of Amed Beach, which is a chill up and coming spot known for snorkeling/diving in East Bali. In our village, we had a bright and cheery small ocean view apartment, a fully stocked kitchen…
From Bali to Lombok We Go After our blissful week in Bali, it was time to work our way over to the slums of neighboring Lombok. Of course we’re totally joking, but sometimes people glorify Bali so much you’d think this was the case. 🤣 Anyhow, to get there from Amed Beach, we could have easily taken the private fast…
