One of the things I did not want to miss, on this first trip to Ubud, was to explore the majestic rice patties that I have seen so many pictures of on social media. There is one specifically that is within walking distance of the town. Walking thru the Kajeng rice fields in Ubud is …
Witness to the Royal Cremation Ceremony in Ubud
I was lucky to have arrived in Ubud in time to see a most holy and mystical event. That of the creation, procession and cremation ceremony of the eldest son of the late king of Bali, Tjokorda Bagus Santaka. Being here during this time has cast a spell of magic into the air. My witness …
Travel Day Osaka to Bali on Scoot via SIN
Facing another long travel day, I gathered my wits and dove straight in. This one was a doozy, with a nine hour, middle of the night layover. Yuck. Travel day Osaka to Bali on Scoot via SIN was upon me. Lets go. This is a loooong door to door post. Osaka Airport KIX Having to …
The Beautiful Sakura Cherry Blossoms in Japan
When I was initially deciding what countries to visit on this first taste of Asia, and I arrived at planning April, I knew it had to be Japan. If there is one thing I have heard over and over in my life, it is to experience spring here. Seeing the beautiful Sakura cherry blossoms in …
The Exquisite Geisha & Maiko of Gion Kyoto
A long time ago, I read ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ by Arthur Golden. It is an historical fiction novel, perhaps my favourite genre, and moved me so deeply. I never thought I would ever have the opportunity to see a geisha in person. Whilst visiting Kyoto, I did. The exquisite geisha & maiko of Gion …
The Bountiful Nishiki Market in Kyoto
A must for me while travelling to a new destination is always to visit a market. Having been in Osaka and seeing all that was available there, I was curious as to what I could find here. The bountiful Nishiki market in Kyoto was even better! Brief History As early as the year 782, fish …
I Explored the Beautiful Gion District in Kyoto
Wanting to see what old Kyoto, and old Japan might have looked like, I researched areas to visit within the city, that might offer me a glimpse into the past. What I discovered were a few spots I might find what I was searching for. I explored the beautiful Gion District in Kyoto one day, …
Exploring the Famous Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
On my first full day in Kyoto, and the only one that was forecast to be sunny, I decided exploring the famous Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine would be a good plan. I had done very little research, but knew that the earlier I arrived, the less crowds I would encounter. Social Media I have seen pictures, …
What to See at Osaka Castle & Park
Who doesn’t love a castle? There was no way I was going to miss having a look at my first ever Japanese castle. Occupying 15 acres right in the middle of the city and complete with moats and turrets this was a splendid way to spend a morning. Want to find out what to see …
The Magic of Dotonbori Osaka by Day
Of the little research and photo’s that I had looked at before arriving in Osaka, I knew there was one place I was going to visit for certain. Generally, I don’t like touristy places, can’t stand the crowds and oftentimes find them over-hyped. But this, I needed to see. The magic of Dotonbori Osaka by …
My Travel Day Phuket to Osaka via SGN
This is a long venture, on the road for 30 hours but only a 2-hour time change. Today I will fly VietJet from Phuket to Ho Chi Minh city, have a 9-hour layover and then red eye to Osaka. Let’s go, here are the details of my travel day Phuket to Osaka via SGN Ho …
Kata Noi Beach, The Star of Phuket!
Well I did it, I found the most beautiful beach on this island, I’m sure of it. Wandering out of town one day, I took the road heading south. I knew there was a small beach I might see. Not expecting much, you can imagine how dazzled I was, when I saw Kata Noi Beach, …
My Hike up Mt. Nakkerd to the Big Buddha!
Oh jeez, I thought I had bitten off more than I could chew this morning. This was a steep one, and one that I had to constantly encourage myself to keep continuing. My hike up Mt. Nakkerd to the big Buddha was both exhausting and exhilarating. Location Past Kata Beach on Phuket Island, if one …
Beautiful Karon Beach in Phuket Thailand
I have shifted locations on the island and am now discovering and exploring a few more tropical beach destinations. One of the reasons I chose this beach was its size. Here are my thoughts on big beautiful Karon Beach in Phuket Thailand. Location South of the infamous Patong Beach, you will find this glorious long, …
Amazing Street Art in Kata & Karon on Phuket
I haven’t’ made a post on street art since leaving Chiang Mai, where I saw tons of beautiful art, every day. Here at the seaside, there has been much less, a surprise to me as often seaside towns have a real vibe, and that includes creativity. Here is some amazing street art in Kata & …
The Fun & Lively Kata Beach in Phuket Thailand
A much smaller beach than its large neighbour Karon, this expanse of seaside is quaint and just as beautiful. The fun & lively Kata Beach in Phuket Thailand is a perfect spot for families in the winter months and surfers in the summer. Surfers Paradise Kata is the most popular beach for surfing on Phuket …
5 Free Things to Do at Kamala Beach Phuket
Kamala is a small seaside town located on the West coast of Phuket Island in Thailand. Even though it’s a little hamlet, there are still things to do in the vicinity, that won’t cost a dime. Here are a few ideas, 5 free things to do at Kamala Beach Phuket to keep you busy. Friday …
Finding Animals at Kamala Beach in Phuket
As I wander the streets in this little seaside town, I have to wonder at all of the animals I have seen here! What a delight to bump into these beautiful creatures and a surprise for me. Not just cats and dogs as per usual, but other more interesting beings. Finding animals at Kamala Beach …
The Vibrant Friday Night Market at Kamala
Of course, I found a market! In fact, there are quite a few in this little haven on the island of Phuket. The biggest seems to be the vibrant Friday Night market at Kamala Beach, the one towards the north end of the main road. Location The two largest markets are situated at either end …
Beautiful Kamala Beach on the Island of Phuket
I have left the Old Town and travelled for 40 minutes to reach the coastline of Phuket. There are any number of beaches that I could have chosen to explore, however I was looking for a less crowded, less touristy place to sink my toes into the sand. At beautiful Kamala Beach on the Island …