When I was in Chiang Mai last year, my focus was mainly inside the old city walls. Seeing Thai temples for the first time, especially those ancient ones, was all consuming. This visit, my interest has strayed to the older neighbourhoods outside those walls. Particularly, to the beautiful traditional Thai Lanna houses. I see these …
Oh gosh, I cannot believe I am in Korea! Like Japan, this destination has been a dream but one that I never expected to be real. Probably even more so than Japan. I have arrived and had a few days to adjust and explore. Here are my first impressions of Busan South Korea. Fast Driving …
I have not made a secret of the fact that I have not enjoyed my time here in Bali. The country is suffering from over tourism, more than any other place I have visited. I was shocked by what I saw upon first arrival, the frustration I could see on the faces of the locals …
I am in the city for the 47th Annual Flower Festival and that includes a parade! How lucky am I? Not knowing what to expect….at all, I was absolutely overwhelmed by the amazing Chiang Mai Flower Parade. From the costumes to dancers and of course the floats, everything was amazing! Logistics Reading about the route …
After a long travel day, once I arrived at my Airbnb, I went straight to bed. When I awoke the next morning, I went looking for food, water, and drink for my new flat. Here are my first impressions of Chiang Mai Thailand, my first ever trip to this country! Beautiful Wow, I’m blown away. …
In an effort to help others planning to travel or explore overseas, I will document my expenses for each country I lived in during the 2023 year. I didn’t keep records for the first 2.5 months in Mexico as almost everything was paid for in cash. Beginning with the next destination, here are my budget …
I am so excited to be starting this part of my adventure in Asia! I have waited for decades to be able to travel here and explore the region. As a child, I lived in Indonesia for a period of three years and to be honest, don’t have the best memories. Because of this, I …
How excited am I to be here in a new destination! I was definitely ready to say goodbye to Turkey. There were so many things that I didn’t like about the area, my Airbnb’s, and in general feeling uncomfortable. But that is behind me now. Here are my first impressions of Paphos Cyprus. Windy Oh …
You had to know I would find a market. 😂 And boy, is it every fantastic! I had so much fun, interacting with the vendors and looking around, I can’t wait for next Sunday to arrive. This post will be two parts, there is just so much to show you from the best Sunday Pinarbasi …
I have never been to this part of Italy before, meaning Sicily. Arriving late at night, in the dark, I didn’t have any time to form an opinion before I crashed into a deep slumber after a long day of travel. When I awoke, I arose into an Italian fairy wonderland, something I was not …
One of my absolute favourite things to do in any city I feel safe in, is to explore with abandon. There is nothing quite like stumbling around and never knowing what you are going to see around the next corner! Come get lost with me in the streets of Salerno, more specifically in the old …
Within the beautiful historical district of Salerno is a riot of tiny alleys and streets. This once run down area of the city has been revitalized with art. The incredible street art of the Muri D’autore is quite literally everywhere in this singular neighbourhood. Muri D’autore What began as a tribute to the poet Alfonso …
I have arrived back in Italy and am so excited to explore more of this gorgeous country. From the amazing cuisine to the ancient history, this land has it all. My first impressions of Salerno Italy are feelings of arriving home. The People Oh so friendly. I don’t know but I think I am still …
After arriving into Tivat airport and heading for my flat for the next week, I had to go out and explore. I was on the lookout for the necessary groceries and drinks, and I needed a SIM card too. Here are my first impressions of Tivat Montenegro. Friendly Oh wow, what a breath of fresh …
I have spent the last few weeks on the Bulgarian Riviera, and have noticed many differences between beach goers here and those from my home in Canada. Having visited many, many beach towns and resorts all over the world, here are my observations on the surprising differences in beach vibes – Europe vs the West. …
When I’m scrolling through social media, I always slow down and look at the posts about street fashion. I find it super interesting, to see the various levels of fashion and style expressed in different countries. Here is a small sampling of what people are wearing in Plovdiv Bulgaria. Shops When I arrived in Plovdiv, …
On a trip into Old Town in Plovdiv, I decided to explore a house that I had not visited before. Although this home is one of the precious Bulgarian Revival Houses of the 18th & 19th centuries, it is not a museum per say. Instead, it is being used to exhibit an enormous collection of …
If I google the City of Split, most of the images are of Diocletian’s Palace and Old Town, including the Riva Waterfront and marina area. But Split is a HUGE sprawling city. The more I explore this part of Croatia, the more I admire life outside of Old Town. Old Town I have a previous …
I like to take note of my first impressions of a place that is new to me. After a few weeks, or when I’m about to leave the destination, it is interesting to see how my ideas and thoughts have changed. I’ve been here just one full day so I will notate my first impressions …
Wow. I’m in love. ❤️ Looking out the car windows on the ride from the airport, I knew I had made a great choice in visiting this country. I have been here a few days now, here are my first impressions of Malta. Most structures are made of huge limestone blocks ranging from ivory to …