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When you travel, you often explore things too, especially if you are making a journey through an unfamiliar area AND you make an effort to learn or inquire more about the place.

Sunsets at Chilaw

Two Sri Lankan Hotels. One cost 5 times the other. But that’s not the story.

Destinations, Explore, Sri Lanka

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 »

You need a Private Driver to get to Madulkelle Tea Eco Lodge while on a Sri Lanka Travel Documentary Adventure

Sri Lanka Changed Our Minds About Almost Everything

Explore, Sri Lanka

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.

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InterContinental Khao Yai Railway Hotel

This Hotel Did Something INCREDIBLE for My Wife – Luxury Thai Train Hotel in Khao Yai

Explore, Photo Stories

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 »

Coral Sea on Big Dream Boatman 4D3N Boat Tour

The Ultimate Boat Trip Expedition in the Philippines

Explore, Videos

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?

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Rice terraces while hiking in Sapa Vietnam

Hiking in Vietnam – the Good, the Harsh…and the Frightening!

Explore, Photo Stories

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 Lào 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.

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Large Junk in Halong Bay

Luxury Halong Bay Cruise

Explore, Luxury Travel, Photo Stories

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.

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Lavender near Sault

Provence Markets – Or Countryside Views?

Explore, Photo Stories

There’s something idyllic about walking round a French Market, especially in Provence. But they are now so popular and often selling the same things, with the traders hopping to different towns (BĂ©doin on Monday, Vaison-Le-Romaine on Tuesday, Malaucene on Wednesday, Nyons on Thursday, Carpentras on Friday, Apt on Saturday and back to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue or Coustellet nearby.)

But for me, the beauty and peace is in the countryside.

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