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Two Days in Kuala Lumpur
My friend MJ and I rode the plane from Busan to Kuala Lumpur excited to take our first real vacation outside of South Korea. For me, Malaysia was the 5thcountry I visited, but it felt like the first official for me. Up until this point, I had taken trips to Japan, The Philippines, Thailand, and South Korea, all either with family or with funding provided by my parents. I had paid for this trip and in essence, felt like I was becoming a true adult. We spent two days in Kuala Lumpur, hardly enough time, but good enough to get a feel for the city. Day 1 Arriving at Kuala…
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Hiking the Rice Terraces of Banaue
When you think of the Philippines, most people envision beautiful beaches, and while the Philippines does have those, many are unaware of the incredible rice terraces of Banaue. These terraces, which are often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, are hands down my favorite place in the Philippines. These terraces were carved into the mountains by the indigenous people, largely by hand, over 2000 years ago! If you’re in the Philippines, hiking the Rice Terraces of Banaue is a must! How to Get There? Ask your hotel/hostel to reserve a ticket beforehand. The earlier the better as the seats fill up fast. A one way ticket costs 470PHP…
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Floating Villages of Cambodia: Kompong Phluk
I spent about a week in Cambodia, most of it seeing Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, but no place quite fascinated me like the floating villages of Kompong Phluk. By my third day in Cambodia, I had grown tired of seeing temples and wanted to see something different. I told my driver I wanted to see some rural areas outside of the city and he recommended the floating villages of Kompong Phluk. From the city center, it was a bit of a drive by tuk-tuk, but nothing too bad. He dropped me off at the dock and I purchased a ticket for the boat for about $20. To my surprise,…
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Trekking Sapa
Trekking Sapa is truly one of the cooler things I’ve done in life. I’d argue that Sapa is one of the most beautiful places on earth if you go at the right time. Vietnam is often synonymous with Halong Bay, but Sapa is one destination I recommend if you have some extra time in Northern Vietnam. How to Get Started The journey to Sapa from Hanoi was a smooth and simple process. From my hostel in Hanoi I purchased a round trip ticket+ 2 day/1 night tour from Hanoi to Sapa for $140. I went through Hanoi Old Town Hotel, which I highly recommend, the staff is incredible and very…
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An Alternative to Bali: Lombok Island
Lombok is practically foreign to the average tourist in Indonesia despite being minutes away from Bali. This island is essentially an alternative to Bali with fewer tourists. Not being ones that like to be surrounded by tourists, Jamarcus and I opted for Lombok instead of Bali. We stayed at Idoop hotel for about $25 a night total for the both of us, which was a steal. Although it wasn’t in walking distance to the beach, the service was great and it was spacious and clean. We took a taxi to the beach nearby and practically had it to ourselves. The beach was stunning with water so clean you could see right…
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Lombok off the Beaten Track: A Day Trip to Tetebatu
Tetebatu is a hidden gem for those looking for a place in Lombok off the beaten track. This small village located in the central part of the island gives you the opportunity to see real everyday village life. After a few days on the beach, my friend Jamarcus and I wanted a change of scenery, and I discovered Tetebatu through a book. We found a taxi driver on the street and he agreed to take us to and from this town for just $40 total. From our hotel in Mataram it took a little over an hour to reach Tetebatu. We when arrived, we were taken to small restaurant and…
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Malaysia’s Indigenous Black People
Taman Negara is home to the world’s oldest rainforest, and unknown to many, home to a large number of Malaysia’s indigenous Black people. Months before my trip to Malaysia, I watched a documentary about the black presence in Asia. I was captivated by the natives of Malaysia. Their short statue, dark pigment, and Afro-textured hair was certainly far from the image I had of a typical Malaysian. I wanted to connect with these indigenous Malaysians and show the world that such people did exist. I was determined to meet them. The native people here are called the Batek people. Contrary to what people may believe, these people are some of the…
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Day Trip from Hanoi: Tam Coc
Tam Coc is a great place for a day trip from Hanoi. From my hotel, I organized a day tour for $40, which included transportation, entrance fees, and lunch. Your bus will typically pick you up around 8:00 and the first stop is the old capital of Hoa Lu, a 2.5 hour drive from Hanoi. Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th century and today it is one of the most popular destinations in the Ninh Binh province. Hao Lu is rather boring (sorry for that disrespect Hoa Lu). You’ll stay here for an hour and continue by bus for another 30 minutes until you…
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Visiting Angkor Wat in 3 Days
Why a traveler would visit Cambodia and not see Siem Reap is beyond me; this small town is amazing for two words, Angkor Wat. This historical temple complex and largest religious monument in the world was probably one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever seen. Although there is debate as to which is better, Angkor Wat or Myanmar’s Bagan temples, I believe Angkor Wat is simply in a class of its own. Angkor Wat offers 1, 3, or 7 day passes, 1 day is simply not enough so you’ll need a 3 or 7 day pass. I opted for 3 days, which in all reality was probably a bit long…
