-
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…
-
Being Black in Korea
I spent 27 months in South Korea and loved every minute of it. Coming as a 21 year-old fresh out of college was the experience of a lifetime. Until this day, it remains as one of the best times in my life. I am often asked my experience being Black in Korea. While it is true that anti-blackness exists in Korea…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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 Backpacker’s Guide to Visiting the Gobi Desert
If you’re visiting Mongolia, it is likely that you’ll want to visit the Gobi Desert and rightfully so. Getting to the Gobi can simply be broken down into two methods: Organizing a trip through a tour guide and going by yourself. Unless you have your own vehicle, are permitted to drive in Mongolia, and are a master of navigation, you’ll…
-
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…
-
Terelj National Park Day Trip
Gorkhi Terelj National Park is an excellent place if you’re looking for a day trip from Ulaanbaatar.You can take the local bus here or book a tour through your hotel, but the best option in my opinion is through taxi ($50 round trip) and I’ll explain why. The local bus and most tour groups will not stop at the Genghis…
-
Best Time to Visit Bagan
Bagan is one of the most iconic places in Southeast Asia and the heart and soul of Myanmar. Recently, Myanmar has seen a huge surge in tourism as a result of its relaxed visa policies and proximity to Thailand. The days of being the sole tourist in Bagan are over, but if you travel during the right time, you can…
-
Is Mandalay Worth Visiting?
Mandalay is usually the 2nd or 3rd stop for foreign travelers after Yangon or Bagan. Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar and former capital, is an ethnically diverse city with a long history. It is also the financial hub of the country, but many travelers often wonder “Is Mandalay worth visiting?” I visited several places in Myanmar, but truthfully…
