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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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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 pretty much avoid the massive herds. Many debate when the best time to visit Bagan is, but there is only one time that offers great weather and almost no tourists. So When is the Best Time to Visit Bagan? If you do a quick Google search, most will tell you…
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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 speaking, Mandalay was the least interesting. This isn’t to say it’s not worth visiting; however, if you’re limited on time there is no way you would skip Bagan or Inle Lake for Mandalay. Mandalay does host some sites that are nice, but nothing here will impress you as much as…
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Day Hike in Inle Lake
Inle Lake is one of the most scenic places in Myanmar and those that have been would beg to differ. The lake tour is the highlight of your trip here and probably the main reason why anyone would come visit. The lake tour can be done in either half or a full day so, anything else longer would just seem unreasonable. With 2 days left to spare, I decided to do a day hike. A day hike in Inle Lake is one of best things you can do here. Not only do you get off the beaten path, but you can get an authentic feel for life in Myanmar. Setting…
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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…
