Si Phan Don: Don Khong, Don Khon & Don Det, Laos Initial Thoughts: The 4000 islands of Si Phan Don are known for having a relaxed pace of life. I first noticed this laid back attitude upon arrival to Don Khong. We'd been dropped off outside an unstaffed, barebones tourist … [Read more...]
The Sweetness of Sharing in Split, Croatia
Using a rusty, dirt-caked knife, she sliced a perfectly ripe pear and passed me a piece dripping with juice. In the space of a split-second, I was caught between craving the connection and fearing the lack of sanitation. My desire to experience, to interact, to connect grew … [Read more...]
Subsistence Fishing on the Mekong River, Laos
I stumbled across the deck feeling my way over to the wooden railing. As my eyes started to adjust to the darkness, I could just barely see the river gently flowing passed. I relished the absolute silence of the predawn. None of my fellow travellers were awake and yet I … [Read more...]
A Land of Outdoor Adventures: Central Laos
Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng & Vientiane, Laos Initial Thoughts: Driving into Luang Prabang on the back of a converted pickup truck after two days aboard a boat felt like waking up on a new continent. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang boasts gorgeous French … [Read more...]
A Journey on a Slow Boat: Mekong River, Laos
Mekong River, Laos Initial Thoughts: I'd had visions of a quaint wooden boat shared by locals and travellers alike drifting slowly along a busy trade route. What I got was 100 drunk foreigners crammed into a boat retrofitted with seats from a minivan. In particular there were … [Read more...]
My Adventure Roasting Coffee in Laos
Oh coffee. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. You are a delicious, nectar of the gods. My love for you is nothing short of a life-long love affair. I can vividly remember my first, wholly mediocre, cup. I was 15 years old and stage managing a theater production with … [Read more...]
Five Traditional Foods from Laos You Must Try
Eating is a favourite pastime throughout South East Asia and with so many fresh ingredients and flavourful spices, it is easy to see why! As I explore each region, I’ll be sampling local specialties and sharing the near infinite variety of foods that make travelling in this part … [Read more...]
A Place to Recharge: Southern Thailand
Krabi, Railay & Koh Lanta, Thailand Initial Thoughts: I arrived to Krabi a solo traveller once again after spending three weeks in Malaysia with my boyfriend. I wasn't having a good day. I'd nearly missed my flight out of Singapore due to a transit delay. The sole of my … [Read more...]