HindlesWorld
Travel | Explore | Discover
Plan smarter, explore deeper, enjoy more.
Welcome to HindlesWorld
We’re Jez & Mel — independent travellers and storytellers. From bamboo huts in the Philippines to luxury rail hotels in Thailand, we share authentic DIY itineraries, cinematic stories, and a unique way to measure joy through our Holiday Cost of Enjoyment Index (HCEI).
Travel smarter, spend wisely, and discover more meaning in every journey.
Travel
DIY itineraries & travel tips to help you see more, spend less, and enjoy comfort on your terms.
Explore
Cinematic stories, unique encounters, and emotional moments that inspire your next adventure.
Discover
Our Holiday Cost of Enjoyment Index: compare destinations by more than just price — measure joy.
Latest Adventures
Is Your Next Holiday Worth the Money? Five Ways to Measure Travel Value
Traditional travel ratings tell you if a place is good. Built on five pillars [Comfort & Ease, Authenticity & Connection, Adventure & Exploration, Sustainability & Eco-Balance, and Value Score] this framework measures what actually creates travel joy. The Holiday Cost of Enjoyment Index (HCEI) tells you if it’s right for you.
Costa Rica Self-Guided Tours
Planning a Costa Rica adventure? Our self-guided journey took us from volcanoes and cloud forests to wildlife-rich beaches and remote eco-lodges. We stayed in five incredible hotels — The Springs, Monteverde Lodge, Hotel Costa Verde, Bosque del Cabo, and Golfo Dulce — and rated each with our unique Holiday Cost of Enjoyment Index (HCEI). Discover which properties scored highest and see the highlights in our cinematic videos filmed across Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and the Osa Peninsula.
Why Koh Kood Should Be Your Next Thai Island Stop
Discover why Koh Kood beats overcrowded Koh Samui for authentic Thai island experiences. With pristine beaches, healthy coral reefs, and genuine Thai hospitality, this hidden gem offers everything that made Samui special before mass tourism took over. Koh Kood remains Thailand’s last paradise with uncrowded beaches, excellent snorkelling, and traditional fishing villages. Learn why smart travellers are choosing Koh Kood’s authentic experiences over Samui’s tourist traps, plus practical tips for visiting before this secret destination becomes mainstream.
Koh Mak, Koh Kood, Koh Chang – Which Thai Island Should You Visit? (Our Story Inside)
Which Thai island suits you best—Koh Mak, Koh Kood, or Koh Chang? We share our first-hand journey via Boonsiri, the stays we loved (and one we didn’t), and how each island feels on the ground—quiet romance, wild nature, or lively convenience—so you can pick your perfect escape.
El Nido Disappointment vs. Darocotan Island Bliss – A Tale of Two Palawans
If you went to the Philippines, would you rather go glamping on a quiet island off-grid or stick with the crowds in bustling El Nido?
We did both. And for us, there is absolutely no comparison as to which is better.
This Hotel Did Something INCREDIBLE for My Wife – Luxury Thai Train Hotel in Khao Yai
On our second night at Thailand’s most unique luxury hotel, something happened that made my wife cry — and completely changed our trip. Discover the InterContinental Khao Yai, where Bill Bensley’s design turns 1920’s train carriages into luxury suites and heartfelt Thai hospitality leaves lasting memories.
Watch the Journey
Travel Smarter With Our Free Guides
Travel Smarter With Our Free Guides
Join other DIY travellers who save money and discover more joy with our tailor-made itineraries.
Download your free Philippines or Costa Rica itinerary today.
Meet Jez & Mel
We started HindlesWorld to share our passion for meaningful travel. Whether it’s watching elephants in Thailand, driving across Costa Rica, or island hopping in the Philippines, we believe in experiences that stay with you — and we want to help you create your own.
Explore HindlesWorld for inspiring DIY travel adventures, where you will learn how to build transformative journeys yourself. Discover tips, stories, and ideas to enhance your journeys and creative pursuits.
Hopefully, you’ll enjoy me blogging about Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Luxury Travel & Exploration Adventures and will subscribe to get notifications when there’s new stuff to read!
