If you’re planning your first trip around Taiwan and staring at the train options thinking what on earth is the difference between all of these, I’ve been there. Before we visited, I kept seeing people mention the Taiwan High Speed Rail, but nobody mentioned the regular trains, and they didn’t really explain it in a…
Planning your itinerary for Taiwan can feel overwhelming, especially for a first-time visit, but this trip completely lived up to everything I had imagined. Just 2 weeks in Taiwan made me fall head over heels in love with the country. There is so much to see, from cities and temples to hot springs and nature,…
If you are planning a trip to Taiwan, you have probably come across the EasyCard and wondered if it is actually worth getting. I had the exact same question before I arrived. But after landing in Taipei, exhausted from a long flight and standing in Taoyuan Airport trying to figure out tickets while a queue…
Kaohsiung is often one of the most overlooked cities in Taiwan – and honestly, that’s part of its charm. While most people stick to Taipei, those who head south are rewarded with a completely different vibe. Think waterfront views, colourful art districts and some of the most breathtaking temples in the country. We nearly skipped…
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Kaohsiung, this guide covers the top attractions, hidden gems and how to spend 2 days in the city. Kaohsiung (pronounced cow-shung) was the last stop on our Taiwan itinerary, and it completely surprised me. I didn’t expect to find a city that could rival Taipei,…
I stayed at the Shangri-La Far Eastern Tainan for just £90 and it is easily one of the best value luxury hotel stays I have found in Taiwan. If you are trying to decide where to stay in Tainan, this is one of those rare hotels that genuinely feels like a luxury splurge without the…
Sun Moon Lake is said to be one of Taiwan’s most beautiful natural landmarks – a serene alpine lake surrounded by misty mountains and temples. But after spending two nights here for my birthday, I quickly realised Sun Moon Lake is the kind of place you need to visit with the right expectations. That said,…
If you’re wondering where to stay in Taichung, location matters more than you might expect. Unlike Taipei, the city has just one MRT line and relies heavily on buses, so your neighbourhood choice can shape your entire trip. If you’re only visiting for one or two nights, staying close to the attractions you actually want…
We only spent one night in Taichung. One night. And it wasn’t nearly enough. Taichung was meant to be a quick stop between Jiaoxi and Sun Moon Lake. Somewhere to sleep, grab dinner and move on. Instead, we found a city packed with creative neighbourhoods, unforgettable food and far more things to do in Taichung…
When planning a trip to Taiwan, most people choose Beitou over Jiaoxi hot springs. It’s closer to Taipei, connected by MRT and far easier to fit into a short itinerary. Jiaoxi sits a little further away in Yilan County, which means it often gets overlooked. For us, the choice was made for us. Beitou was…
Planning 3 days in Taipei sounds simple – until you start researching. Suddenly you’re choosing between lantern-lit mountain towns and skyline rooftops. Between incense-filled temples and chaotic night markets, between day trips, food tours, hot springs and hikes. And with only 72 hours, the pressure to ‘do it right’ feels real. When I visited Taipei…
Wondering if a day trip to Jiufen (pronounced j-OW-fun) is actually worth it – or if it’s just another overhyped tourist stop near Taipei? After planning and testing my own Yehliu–Jiufen–Shifen route while exploring Taipei, Jiufen ended up being one of my favourite places in Taiwan. It’s easily one of the most rewarding day trips…
Planning 10 days in South Korea can feel overwhelming at first. Between the ancient palaces, neon-lit districts, sweeping coastlines, serene temples and high-speed trains, it’s the kind of destination that draws you in from the moment you land. What makes Korea so compelling is how seamlessly it blends old and new – one moment you’re…
Visiting Gamcheon Culture Village was one of the highlights of my time in Busan. With its scenic views and vibrant street art, this village feels alive with culture, radiates energy and creativity, all set against stunning coastal views that will make your jaw drop. The pastel rainbow maze of tiny houses cascading down the hillside,…
Busan may be South Korea’s second-largest city, but it has a way of surprising you. It’s a place that tends to divide opinions – some people adore its relaxed, coastal atmosphere, while others find it less thrilling than Seoul. Personally, I loved Busan’s laid-back vibe and how much friendlier people were in comparison to Seoul….
Before visiting, I had heard that Busan isn’t as vegan or vegetarian-friendly as Seoul and so I’ll be honest and say that I didn’t have high expectations. I had read that Korea is a challenging country to visit if you don’t eat meat and fish. Friends of mine who’d lived here years ago told me…
When I was researching my trip to South Korea, deciding where to stay in Seoul seemed overwhelming at first. The city is vast and sprawling, and every neighbourhood has its own distinct personality. Do you want the bright lights and non-stop buzz of Myeongdong, or a quieter, more traditional stay in Bukchon Hanok Village? Should…
South Korea is a tech-savvy country, but it runs on its own unique set of apps. Many of the apps we rely on daily in the UK simply don’t work as seamlessly here, so there are a few apps for South Korea that you should download before your trip. When we first landed in Seoul…
I booked the best DMZ tour from Seoul, and it turned out to be one of the most powerful travel experiences I’ve ever had. I’ve always been fascinated by the dark history between North and South Korea, and I was eager to see across the border with my own eyes. The relatively recent history of…
Finding vegetarian food in Seoul is challenging, but it’s not impossible. As someone who is vegetarian and lactose intolerant to most dairy, apart from cheese, I knew it wouldn’t be smooth sailing. Seoul, like many places across Asia, is a city that truly loves its meat, so I knew I’d need to do some serious…
If Seoul had a heartbeat, I’m convinced it would sound like Myeongdong. Between the flashing neon lights, sizzling street food and the endless hum of chatter, this district feels alive at every hour of the day. There’s something electric about Myeongdong. I loved wandering through its maze-like streets, discovering something new each time; a hidden…
When people talk about Seoul, they usually mention Korean skincare, K-pop or late-night barbecue. And while all of those are valid reasons to fall in love with the city, nobody does weird and quirky cafes quite like Seoul. I have never seen cafe culture quite like what I witnessed in Seoul. The city is known…
Whether you’ve only got a short layover in Seoul or you’re planning to spend just one day in Seoul before heading off to another part of South Korea, you’ll be glad to know there’s plenty you can see and do in just 24 hours. I spent around 8 days in Seoul – and honestly, I…
I’ll be honest, when I first walked into Longshan Temple Taipei, I wasn’t really expecting a spiritual awakening. I thought I’d admire the architecture, perhaps take a few photos, and then move on to the next stop on my itinerary. As I’ve mentioned before, temple fatigue is very real when travelling around Southeast Asia. But…
Taipei will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip to Taiwan – a bustling, vibrant city with a fascinating blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian influences. I spent four days in Taiwan’s capital and honestly, I wasn’t prepared for how quickly it would steal my heart. From the warmth of the locals,…
Travelling to China isn’t as straightforward as visiting many other countries thanks to the Great Firewall of China and our overall dependance on mobile phone apps as a society. Whether you’re heading to Shanghai, like I did or somewhere more off the beaten path, there’s one thing you absolutely must prepare before your trip: your…
The Shanghai marriage market is such an eye-opening insight into Chinese culture. Honestly, it’s one of the most fascinating (and unexpected) things you can experience on your trip to Shanghai. Essentially, this is where hoards of desperate parents of unmarried adult children congregate, holding laminated signs filled with key personal information about their children. This…
Trying to see Shanghai in one day is like trying to read one page of a novel and ticking it off your list. But still, what a page it is! I spent around 3 days in Shanghai either side of my trip to Taiwan and wanted to make the most of visiting a city and…
When I was booking my flights, I found myself wondering what vegetarian food in Shanghai would be like – especially since my last experience in the region wasn’t great. 16 years ago in Hong Kong, finding vegetarian food was a real struggle, but a lot of time has passed since then, so I was optimistic….
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly called Saigon is Vietnam’s largest city, in the south of the country. Located not far from the Mekong Delta, it makes for the perfect city to take a day trip from. Though their name changed from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City in 1976 after the Vietnam War, most locals…
Vietnam is so much more than bustling markets and temple hopping. This Southeast Asian gem offers an extraordinary mix of vibrant culture, awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich history and incredibly warm hospitality that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. Having travelled through this stunning country and falling head over heels for its charm, I have…
One of the most popular day trips from Ho Chi Minh City is to visit the Mekong Delta, a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a slower pace of life in southern Vietnam. This is where the third-longest river in Asia ends, offering a glimpse into a slower, more traditional…
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is recognised as Vietnam’s economic and cultural hub. Known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, colonial architecture and historical landmarks. It is a modern metropolis with a bustling business and entertainment scene in comparison to Hanoi, which offers a historical and slower-paced experience. I spent 2 and a…
Hoi An is best known for its well-preserved and colourful Ancient Town, and is located on the Thu Bon River in the middle of Vietnam. It offers the perfect mix of stunning beauty and chaos. This ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the highlights of a visit to Vietnam. With…
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam; a city that heightens your senses the moment you step foot in it. From the sound of motorbikes buzzing about like an angry swarm, the fragrant smell of pho simmering on every street corner and the endless scooters weaving through traffic like an intricate dance—it’s chaotic, exciting and…
Bali, the Island of Gods is a popular place; one of those bucket list destinations, part of the vast Indonesian archipelago. I have visited twice now so I feel as though I have a good sense of what to do but more notably, I have learned what not to do in Bali. It is a…
Bali is so much more than your average tropical getaway – it has an undeniable allure that attracts a diverse range of travellers thanks to it’s rich cultural tapestry, diverse landscape, incredible food, excellent yoga and more. So if you are planning a trip to Bali and wondering what to put on your Bali bucket…
Ubud is the ultimate vegan foodie destination and I challenge anyone to tell me otherwise. Having spent a considerable amount of time in Ubud across two trips to Bali, I am armed with the ultimate list of vegan friendly restaurants in Ubud that you need to try. From Bali’s infamous gorgeous açai bowls, nourishing salads,…
This post was written in collaboration with Original Diving, however all views are entirely my own. Many thanks to Original Diving for hosting our diving trip to Tulamben. Scuba diving in Tulamben at the USAT Liberty wreck is often considered the best dive site in Bali, and it should be at the top of your…
If you are interested in spending time at an incredible vegan yoga retreat, then look no further than Mana Eco Retreat in Lombok. Bali’s overlooked neighbour to the east of the island, in Indonesia. Lombok offers a tranquil escape, blending modern tourism with authentic local experiences, yet remains somewhat overshadowed by its famous neighbour. Those…
If you are planning a trip to Cambodia, there is no way that you’ll want to miss out on visiting Siem Reap – the gateway to the infamous Angkor Wat ruins. I spent 3 days in the charming city of Siem Reap, and so I’m armed with everything you need to know to make the…
Visiting Angkor Wat is one of those rare travel moments that will make you feel extremely insignificant – in a great way. Exploring the breathtaking ancient ruins will guarantee to make you feel simultaneously small and completely awestruck by the beauty that surrounds you. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Angkor Wat is the…
Vegetarian food can easily be found in Northern Cambodia’s ‘temple town’, Siem Reap. On every corner, tucked away on side streets, at stalls within the night markets and hidden in places you may not have expected – Simply put, vegetarian food in Siem Reap is not difficult to find. I spent just shy of 3 days…
One of the best things to do in Bohol is to book a Bohol countryside tour as it is the most convenient way to see all the highlights that the island of Bohol has to offer in a single day trip. I spent two days exploring Bohol and the variety of attractions on this island…
Secret Lagoon is a small pool of water hidden within the intensely tall limestone cliffs at Secret Beach in El Nido, Palawan. Visiting Secret Lagoon El Nido is such a unique travel experience; you have to quite literally squeeze through a small hole in a limestone wall to get inside and discover it’s beauty. No time…
El Nido is phenomenal. We spent 3 days and 4 nights here in El Nido and it blew me away. The stunning white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, beautiful coral reefs, towering limestone mountains, incredible lagoons, unspoiled nature and the bustling, trendy downtown. This island has such a variety of offerings to travellers and can…
If you’re looking for the ultimate Philippines bucket list, then look no further! This comprehensive guide includes 27 things to add to your list because the Philippines has everything you could possibly want from a destination. I would even go so far as to say that I think it’s one of the most underrated countries…
Having spent 3 days in the city, I discovered that finding the best vegetarian restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City isn’t too difficult. There are a lot of options available for vegans and vegetarians alike. So whether you’re on the pursuit for a veggie only spot, need a place to simultaneously satisfy both carnivore and…
The alms giving ceremony in Luang Prabang, known as tak bat locally is considered to be one of the best things to experience in this ancient town in Laos. I spent five days exploring the sleepy temple town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO world heritage site in northern Laos at the end of our Indochina…
This post will help you plan your ultimate 2 week Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary. It includes the best places to visit in Vietnam, the highlights of Cambodia, where to stay and which activities and sights to see plus some useful travel tips that I’ve picked up during my travels. This two-week odyssey includes visits to…
Discovering vegan-friendly dining options in Hoi An, Vietnam is a breeze thanks to the abundance of top-rated best restaurants in Hoi An, so prepare to indulge your taste buds in this striking riverside town. From cute vegan/vegetarian joints in the historic Ancient Town to the more traditional restaurants serving up a variety of plant-based options,…
We absolutely loved experiencing the best Halong Bay luxury cruise, exploring one of Vietnam’s most stunning and iconic natural wonders. Sailing through the emerald waters and dramatic limestone karsts is truly unforgettable, and what makes it even more remarkable is the incredible value for money you get in Vietnam. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing…
Finding vegan restaurants in Hanoi can initially be somewhat challenging as the city is incredibly overwhelming when you first arrive. However, when you do find vegetarian and vegan cuisine, prepare yourself for a taste sensation. Having heard mixed things about finding vegan food in Vietnam, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, it’s very normal…
Cebu is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the Philippines, and for good reason. This vibrant island is a hub of culture, history and adventure, offering visitors a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. We did just that during our time here, so I hope this Cebu guide helps you…
Travelling to the Philippines can be a unique and exciting experience. Whether you’re a budget backpacker, slow traveller or going on an adventure, these essential Philippines travel tips will help you prepare for an epic trip to the archipelago. 1. Research the destinations you want to visit in advance The Philippines is an archipelago of…
I spent 2 weeks in the Philippines last November and it was an absolutely incredible trip. With over 7,000 islands scattered across the Pacific, the Philippines is a destination where turquoise waters, dramatic landscapes and warm hospitality come together. From powder-white beaches and vibrant coral reefs to lush rice terraces and buzzing cities, the country offers…
Finding vegan food across the Philippines; the land of pork and seafood, was a real struggle – until I discovered Taste El Nido! This trip was reminiscent of my trip to Hong Kong 14 years ago, when it was virtually impossible to find any vegetarian dish that didn’t contain pork. I naively expected better in…
k Tucked away from El Nido town on Lio beach is Seda Lio, the first sustainable 5-star resort in the Philippines. They pride themselves on responsible eco-tourism and sustainability in a country that is already feeling the effects of climate change. While these terms are often misused to appeal to certain clientele, it’s always great…
Anyone who enjoys spending time by the water will love a stay at the four-star Traders Hotel Abu Dhabi . With its own private beach being one of the hotel’s best offerings right on its doorstep, it offers some of the best night views in the city. We spent just under two nights here, courtesy…
Planning a long-haul trip and want to turn your layover into a mini trip? With the Etihad stopover in Abu Dhabi, you can enjoy a free two-night hotel stay and experience the UAE’s capital at no extra cost. We did just that on our way to the Philippines , taking advantage of two nights at…
If you visit Langkawi, one hotel you have to stay at is the Ambong Ambong Rainforest Retreat – in fact, I’d go as far as saying it’d be a crime not to spend at least one night here! Secluded in the treetops of a rainforest without being isolated, if you’re after a unique experience and…
If you saw my Thailand vlog on YouTube , you’re probably wondering how Jass & I got into such a long, heated argument with a tuk-tuk driver in Bangkok! At the time, we didn’t know it, but we’d fallen for a common scam. Funnily enough, at the time, we were just annoyed that he wouldn’t…