I don’t think I have hidden the fact that I have not had the best time in Bali. The country is nothing like I expected. Granted I did not do nearly enough homework so this is all on me. It was not a loss however; I did indeed discover some beautiful things that I really …
Oh how I love markets, and seek them out where ever I travel to. I had been unable to locate a truly local one until this moment in my Bali trip. What a treat it is to explore this covered space to the fullest. Here at the interesting & fun Sindhu Market in Sanur Bali, …
Not to be confused with the most common definition of ‘gang’, but a gang in Bali, pronounced ‘gung’, is a tiny alley or path, some no wider than an average sized person could pass through. Come get lost with me in the gangs of Sanur Bali and see what I find. Gang Bali has a …
Now onto my third coastal destination while visiting this Indonesian island this year. Previously I have explored the Seminyak and Canggu areas. The beautiful golden sand beaches in Sanur Bali are surprisingly busy, mostly with locals enjoying the sea. Sindhu Beach This is a gorgeous gold sand beach just south of Segara & Sanur. Here …
Exploring further up the coast of the island, I have arrived at another diverse area of coastline. Always happiest with my toes in the sand, I was interested to see what this location offered. I found the beautiful black sand beaches at Canggu Bali to be full of life. Canggu Beach At the town is …
I adore beaches, they heal me, give me strength and bring me insurmountable amounts of tranquility. Everywhere I travel, I will be beach bound at some point. The first coastal area I explored on the island gave me a taste of what is available. Here are my best & worst beaches near Seminyak Bali. Petitenget …
I didn’t have the best time in Ubud to be honest. Its just not my vibe. Waayyy too touristy for me, missing just about all of its authenticity and generally not pleasant. If you are headed that way though, here are 4 free things to do in Ubud Bali that might be of interest. Campuhan …
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 …
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 …
I had no idea what to expect when I arrived in Osaka. Not being a ‘city girl’, I did find it very overwhelming. It took me a few days to get my groove on and feel comfortable walking around these unique streets and districts. With so much to keep me occupied, here are my top …
If there is a beach to be found in any destination, I will be the one to find it. 😁 I feel my absolute best at the beach, near the water, exposed to the big sky and horizon. Beside this beach is another attraction though, so a two or even three in one! A visit …
I have just had an amazing, short, first time visit to Kyoto, and am astounded at all of the things to see and do here. Dubbed as Japan’s cultural and traditional centre, I can tell you that you will have no shortage of activities to keep yourself busy. Here are my top 5 free things …
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 …
Having seen a photo of an unusual mound located in a shrine in Kyoto, my curiosity was peaked. I knew I must travel here to see this with my own eyes. The unique & beautiful Yasui Konpiragu Shrine is nothing short of fascinating. Getting There This little treasure is tucked into the Gion District in …
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 …
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, …
Oh how fun! I had no idea when I booked this trip that I would be travelling on such a decorated and adorable train. There are two main train options for this route and I chose this one. Taking the Haruka Hello Kitty Train from Osaka to Kyoto was easy and cute. Online Booking Try …
On a day trip to Nara from Osaka, my first stop was to visit with the beautiful sika deer at the park. But after that, I went on an exploratory mission inside the neighbouring temple. Here are 5 things not to be missed at Todai-ji temple in Nara. The Great Buddha Hall It would be …
I decided on a day trip from Osaka and it was going to be on a single sunny day in the forecast. For my trip, I was taking two trains, and heading out towards Nara. This ancient city is located between Osaka and Kyoto. Having fun at the Nara Deer Park was how I spent …
Oh, what a treasure trove I walked into completely unawares! I adore antique and flea markets, well any type of market really. And completely by accident, I stumbled onto this one, located in a 1,000-year-old Japanese temple! The best flea market at Shitennoji Temple in Osaka is a wonderland of goods, food and ambience. Deets …