Korea is easy in lots of ways — English is spoken in major destinations, public transportation is high quality, free wifi is everywhere. But the culture? That’s something else. My friend Tom, who lived in Korea for years, often says that Korea is a tough culture to get to know unless you know someone who
Korea: A Tough Cultural Nut to Crack Read More »
One of the ways Korea surprised me was that it’s home to an amazing cafe culture. Koreans love their coffee, and you’ll find excellent independent coffee shops — all of them wired with lots of plugs and excellent wifi — throughout the country. And that’s not all — Seoul is home to several dog and
Puppy Playtime at the Bau House in Seoul Read More »
Tokyo is a sleek city of chrome, neon, and crowds — particularly in Shinjuku. This modern neighborhood is home to tall office buildings, high-end department stores, endless traffic, bright and colorful signs, and some of the busiest railway stations in Tokyo. But hidden on a narrow grid of side streets in Shinjuku is Golden Gai:
Golden Gai: Tokyo’s Coolest Bar Neighborhood Read More »
I’m back in Bangkok — and Southeast Asia — for the first time in two and a half years. I’ve been indulging in my favorite Bangkok activities — eating pad kra prow on the street. Browsing the wacky clothing stalls in Siam Square. Buying fresh-squeezed orange juice and fruit shakes from my street vendors. Going to
The Southeast Asia Conundrum Read More »
Since leaving Japan, I’ve been asked several times what my favorite place in the country was — and I honestly can’t put my finger on it. I loved Japan, but I think I loved the country overall more than any particular destination within the country. Tokyo was a great city, and it would be a
Bright, Brash and Funky Osaka Read More »
How do I even begin to describe what it’s like to travel in Japan? It is an experience. It surrounds you. Every moment of every day is filled with new discoveries and cultural difference and utter delights. I can’t describe it beyond that, but everyone who has been knows exactly what I’m talking about. If
What’s It Really Like to Travel Japan? Read More »
Out of the corner of a narrow Kyoto alley, she appeared. A woman in a traditional kimono, her skin like alabaster, her lips a perfect crimson bow. Her hair defied gravity in perfect lacquered waves decorated with floral ornaments. She was the marshal of her own inadvertent parade. Behind her a crowd of Japanese and
And Then We Saw Her Read More »
A few years ago, I watched the episode of An Idiot Abroad where Karl was forced to climb Mount Fuji in Japan. Karl did his usual grumbling as he hiked up all night long — but was rewarded by the most incredible sunrise. He was indifferent to it, of course. That sunrise was on TV,
Japan: Home to the World’s Most Beautiful Light Read More »
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard someone say in passing, “Everyone loves Chiang Mai.” They’re talking about the bloggers, entrepreneurs, and job-quitters who flock to this city to start a life lived on their own terms. Each time, it makes me wince — because it’s not true. (Note: this post was originally written
Chiang Mai is Not for Everyone. Read More »
I’m a big advocate of traveling in the off-season and reaping the benefits: lower prices, fewer crowds, a more local experience. But as I sit here in Turkey, I’m disappointed at my decision to come here for three weeks in late November. Istanbul was great if a bit cold, Cappadocia was freezing cold and creepily
Traveling in the Off-Season: Sometimes Great, Sometimes Awful! Read More »