Java, a volcano-dotted island just west of Bali, is the cultural and economic hub of Indonesia. This beautiful island is a mix of boisterous cities, stunning landscapes of rice fields and volcanoes, as well as ancient temples that have survived for centuries. In this Java itinerary and guide, I’ll show you why Java is not to be missed when you want to fully experience Indonesia.
Mount Telomoyo is a local gem in Central Java that is still mostly undiscovered by foreign tourists. Driving through the lush jungle to see incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes at picturesque overlooks, it’s easy to see why locals love it. In this article, I’ll share the best way to visit Mount Telomoyo as a foreign tourist as well as tips for your trip to Central Java.
One of Indonesia’s most important archaeological sites, Borobudur Temple is an important cultural icon of Southeast Asia and should not be missed on a trip to Java. Borobudur’s beautiful landscapes and peaceful countryside vibes also make it an ideal spot to spend a couple of nights. In this guide, I’ll share you tips for visiting Borobudur Temple as well as how to enjoy a relaxing getaway in Borobudur.
Often regarded as the cultural heart of Java, Yogyakarta is a city that relishes its traditions and heritage while embracing modern touches. This juxtaposition makes Yogya a fascinating place to visit. Given its location near Central Java, it’s also a perfect base for exploring the region. In this article, I’ll share our quick 2-day itinerary to give you an idea of what to expect when visiting Yogyakarta.
Java, the fifth largest island in Indonesia, is a beautiful island with incredible scenery, including massive volcanoes, green rice fields, palm trees, and quaint villages. If you’re not keen to rent a car, then traveling around Java by train is the best way to appreciate these incredible landscapes. In this article, I’ll share what you need to know to book a train as well as what it’s like to ride the train across Java.
Jakarta, Indonesia’s chaotic capital city, is not usually what you dream of when planning a trip to Indonesia. Well-known for its traffic jams and pollution, Jakarta won’t lure you in with beaches and tranquil vibes. However, as a powerhouse in Southeast Asia with a rich history and delicious food scene, it’s worth spending a couple
A dynamic and vibrant place unlike any other in the world, Hong Kong, and its many contrasts, are fascinating to explore. Despite its small size, you can experience both the chaotic energy of a densely-populated city, but can also get away from all of that in its country parks to enjoy incredible natural beauty. Living in Hong Kong for 6.5 years, I’ve played tour guide to lots of friends and family. Now, I’m sharing this 5-day Hong Kong itinerary and complete guide to help you fall in love with this amazing city.
Planning a holiday to Koh Samui, one of Thailand’s lush tropical islands, is an exciting task and choosing the perfect place to stay is a large part of it. Whether you’re looking for a 5-star luxury resort, affordable beach hotel, or a secluded jungle hideaway, Koh Samui has plenty of beautiful accommodations from which to choose. With so many options, it can be an overwhelming search. To help you get started, I’ve curated a list of highly-rated Samui accommodations, with a few options for every budget.
When you think of Koh Samui, you most likely picture tropical beaches or sipping a Mai Tai by the pool at a fancy resort. And while Samui is a great place to indulge in those things, if you head inland to the lush jungle, you can also discover many beautiful waterfalls. In this article, I’ll show you how to get to the 4 incredible waterfalls we visited on our last trip to Koh Samui.
Known as the “Las Vegas of the East” with its glitzy casinos, Macau is a famous gambling destination. If casinos are your thing, then you’ll enjoy exploring that side of Macau. As for me, I prefer exploring its historic streets. Wandering through the small cobblestoned streets, admiring the architecture, and sampling delicious food is my favorite way to see Macau on a day trip from Hong Kong. In this article, I’ll share my one-day itinerary for discovering historic Macau.
For years, the beautiful island of Bali, Indonesia has been on my bucket list. The bright green rice field terraces, ancient temples, and plethora of beaches beckoned me to visit. Due to its popularity, Bali is also home to some incredibly luxurious resorts and spas. So, when I found out I was pregnant, Bali seemed like the perfect destination for a grand babymoon adventure.
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a bustling and vibrant Southeast Asian city with beautiful architecture and delicious food. A fascinating mix of modern development and historic charm provides a fun adventure as you explore this dynamic place. In this article, I’ll share some of the great things you can do on your next trip to Ho Chi Minh City.
Hiking to Lantau Peak via the Middle Dog Teeth Range is a fantastic adventure for experienced hikers in Hong Kong. This short, yet steep hike offers incredible views as you scramble up the rocky and exposed trail to Hong Kong’s second highest peak. As one of the most difficult hikes in Hong Kong, it’s not for everyone. But if you love a challenge, this hike on Lantau Island might be perfect for you!
On a cool, clear Saturday morning, we set out on another hiking adventure. This time, we’d tackle the Kai Kung Leng hike near Yuen Long. A steep and exposed trail, it offers epic 360-degree views for almost the entire hike. And so far, it’s the best view of the Shenzhen skyline that I’ve found in Hong Kong! In this article, I’ll show you how to hike this incredibly scenic trail in Lam Tsuen Country Park.
In Hong Kong’s northeastern New Territories, Pat Sin Leng Country Park is home to a fantastic hike on a gorgeous mountain range. Undulating peaks offer a tough workout for the legs. But stunning 360-degree views reward hikers for their efforts. In this post, I’ll show you how to hike the Eight Immortals and Wong Leng in Pat Sin Leng Country Park.
Because most Hong Kong hikes tend to head straight up a mountain with steep stairs, it’s a rare occurrence to find a flat, easy trail. But that’s what the Fung Hang Family Walk in northern New Territories is. Not only that, but this dog-friendly hike has beautiful views of Starling Inlet and the Yantian District of Shenzhen. It’s a perfect way for the whole family to enjoy some time in nature.
As other countries return to a semblance of normal, Hong Kong’s quarantine policies continue making it onerous to travel to the city. Recently returned to Hong Kong from the U.S., I’m in my third week of a 21-day hotel quarantine. So, it’s the perfect time to share a detailed look into my travel and quarantine experience with helpful tips and lessons learned along the way.
Nestled in the cozy Hebe Haven, or Pak Sha Wan, neighborhood of Hong Kong with a stunning waterfront location, The Pier Hotel is an excellent place to relax for a couple days. Nearby to hiking trails, beaches, plus delicious restaurants in Sai Kung Town, you can have a quiet getaway without sacrificing comfort. In this article, I’ll review our recent stay at The Pier Hotel so you can see what it’s like to stay there.
The Tai Tan Country Trail in Sai Kung’s West Country Park is a gorgeous, easy hike that’s perfect for summer. With stunning views of turquoise waters and the verdant green hills of Sai Kung, this hike highlights Hong Kong’s incredible natural beauty. Although best enjoyed on a sunny day, we hiked it during our recent rainy staycation in Sai Kung. In spite of the rain, it was a beautiful hike that I’ll share with you, plus provide tips for hiking it in wet conditions.
With its fishing villages, lush green parks full of hiking trails, and pristine beaches, Sai Kung is a world away from Central Hong Kong. As a result, it’s a perfect spot for Hong Kong residents and visitors alike to get outside the urban core and discover some of Hong Kong’s hidden gems. In this 3-day itinerary, I’ll show you what to do and where to eat in Sai Kung to have a fun-filled trip!
On the western end of Hong Kong Island, Kennedy Town is a vibrant, seaside neighborhood with great coffee shops, parks, and delicious food. Convenient to central Hong Kong, it’s a great place to live or just explore for a day. In this neighborhood guide, I’ll show you what you should do to make the most of one day in Kennedy Town. Plus, share my favorite places to eat and drink in K-Town!
Despite living in Hong Kong for three years, I’d never really explored the Tseung Kwan O area until last month. Tseung Kwan O (abbreviated TKO) is one of nine new towns built on reclaimed land in the northern part of Junk Bay in southeastern New Territories. Upon first glance, it’s just a bunch of tall skyscrapers built upon a spiderweb of shopping malls. But after living in Tseung Kwan O for a month, I found a wealth of fun things to do which I believe make this Hong Kong neighborhood worth a visit!
The Sunset Peak hike from Tung Chung Station to Pak Kung Au is a challenging trail which takes you up into Lantau Island’s rolling hills and past several beautiful peaks. As you climb, you’ll have incredible 360-degree views, including Hong Kong International Airport, nearby islands, and the sea. Use this hiking guide for tips on how to climb Hong Kong’s third-highest peak!
Climbing Ma On Shan peak is a fantastic challenge for hikers in Hong Kong. An adventurous, steep, rocky trail with stunning 360-degree views from several peaks, this trail will get your heart racing! In this guide, I’ll show you how to hike from Ma On Shan to Sai Kung by way of two notable Hong Kong peaks – the Hunch Backs and Ma On Shan.
As the days grew colder in Hong Kong, I knew it was time to hike one of those tall peaks in New Territories. So a couple days before the new year, we set out to tackle Tai Mo Shan – the tallest peak in Hong Kong! A steep climb, incredible views, and LOTS of wind – climbing Tai Mo Shan is certainly an adventure. In this guide, I’ll share our route and other tips for hiking this epic Hong Kong trail.
The Lion Rock hike is famous in Hong Kong for the incredible views you’ll find atop the steep rocky cliffs which from afar resemble a lion. On a clear day, you’ll be amazed at the panoramic views of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island from this picturesque trail. In this hiking guide, I’ll show you how to hike up Lion Rock then continue along the trail to Beacon Hill.