Everybody photographs Sri Lanka’s famous Tea Train. Almost nobody asks why it exists. We travelled one of the world’s most beautiful railway journeys after a cyclone had torn it in half, expecting spectacular scenery. Instead, we discovered the story of the people, plantations and colonial history that still shape Sri Lanka’s hill country today.
We Came For The Tea Train | That Wasn’t The Story! Read More »
Twin Waters Resort and Jetwing Vil Uyana couldn’t be more different on paper. One is a simple family-run retreat near Chilaw; the other a celebrated luxury eco-reserve near Sigiriya. Yet both gave us something we never expected. This isn’t a story about price or luxury. It’s about the people, places, and conversations that stay with you long after checkout.
Two Sri Lankan Hotels. One cost 5 times the other. But that’s not the story. Read More »
We went to Sri Lanka for 35 days. We came home after 54. In between: a cyclone that destroyed the most famous train line in Asia, six leopard safaris that produced exactly zero leopards, elephants swimming between islands on Valentine’s Day, and a global crisis that grounded our flights home and gave us 17 extra days we hadn’t asked for.
This is the full story. And it’s now a 40-minute travel documentary.
Sri Lanka Changed Our Minds About Almost Everything Read More »
When Middle East airstrikes grounded our flight home from Sri Lanka, we faced chaos, cancelled bookings, and visa nightmares. We also found paradise.
Stranded in Paradise: How the Middle East Crisis Kept Us in Sri Lanka Read More »
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.
This Hotel Did Something INCREDIBLE for My Wife – Luxury Thai Train Hotel in Khao Yai Read More »
Landing in Bangkok is like stepping into a kaleidoscope—one that smells of sizzling street food, hums with tuk-tuks, and glows with gold temples, neon signs, and tangled cables. We only had 24 hours before island hopping, but instead of letting that stop us, we turned it into a challenge.
24 Hours in Bangkok: A whistle-stop Adventure Staying in a Wacky Hotel Read More »
Arriving in the hills of Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand, unsure of what we’d find, our stay at Chai Lai Orchid turned out to be an emotional roller coaster. Elephants roam freely. You can opt in to activities if you want. But the sensory overload became too much for me. Find out why here.
Our Emotional Stay at Chai Lai Orchid Elephant Sanctuary, Chiang Mai Read More »
Traveling in the Philippines, you quickly realize boats are essential for exploring its 7,650 islands. When deciding how to get from Coron to El Nido, we opted for a four-day slow boat expedition with Big Dream Boatman. This unforgettable adventure included snorkeling in marine parks, sleeping on deserted islands, and bonding with fellow travelers. The crew’s care, the stunning scenery, and the thrill of island-hopping made it the highlight of our trip. Though not a luxury experience, it was an incredible way to see remote parts of Palawan while embracing nature and adventure. Would you take the slow boat route?
The Ultimate Boat Trip Expedition in the Philippines Read More »
Planning our trip to Asia was an incredible adventure, mostly self-guided, but for northern Vietnam, we found a package that included Halong Bay & Sapa. From a night train from Hanoi to expertly guided hikes, we had a seamless experience. Having a guide enriched our journey providing deep knowledge of the region. The CHAPA Express train to Là o Cai offered a surprisingly comfortable ride, setting the stage for our Sapa adventure. With its mix of mountain charm and vibrant markets, Sapa felt like a blend of Kathmandu and an alpine village—an unforgettable highlight of our Vietnamese travels.
Hiking in Vietnam – the Good, the Harsh…and the Frightening! Read More »
Hạ Long Bay had always been a dream destination for us, but we feared overcrowding and pollution. To ensure a serene experience, we chose a luxury cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, spending two nights immersed in its beauty. From kayaking past towering limestone formations to dining in a candlelit cave, every moment felt surreal. Our journey began with a seamless transfer from Hanoi, leading to a tranquil voyage with stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable adventures on the emerald waters.
