They say Pulau Ubin Island is like stepping back in time; to the 60s or 70s if you will. I disagree with that description of the Pulau Ubin experience. A living museum may be a more actuate description. But at the same time, Pulau Ubin is an impressive example of successful preservation of both Singapore’s […]
3 Unique Places to Stay in the Jungles of Sabah
Have ‘Stay at jungle resorts in Sabah’ on your bucket list? In addition to the diverse history, fascinating culture and delicious local cuisine, there is one particular reason travelers should visit Sabah, Malaysia, and that is the wildlife. Jaw-dropping wildlife, that many may never have the opportunity to see outside of coffee table books, television […]
Learning to Golf in Langkawi, Malaysia
Despite golf becoming more mainstream it is still a sport which maintains an elite air about it. And it isn’t exactly an inexpensive hobby, at least not for those of us new to the sport. But for golf enthusiasts (or potential golf enthusiasts) traveling through Malaysia, high end, world class, and challenging golf courses are […]
Vietnamese Food Guide For Hanoi Newbies
Two Vietnamese foods that I learned to love on my first trip to Vietnam were Beef Pho and Spring Rolls (gỏi cuốn). That was about it for my culinary expertise. But for years I exclaimed, “I love Vietnamese food!” Seriously, right? As if I even had a clue beyond those two dishes I had eaten. […]
My Search for Elephant Utopia in Phuket
The year 2000 was a big deal for me. I turned one of those milestone ages, traveled to Southeast Asia for the first time and got my first tattoo. I also rode an elephant. I thought I was pretty cool. It wasn’t until 15 years later that I read a blog post about the plight […]
Laksa 101: Written By A Clueless Tourist
I am a clueless non-foodie tourist. There, I’ve said it. And I feel much better confessing that straight away. Yet I am driven to untangle the mysteries of Malaysian Laksa. Not because I am a massive fan of Laksa, per say, but because there is so much heritage wrapped into this dish. I had erroneously […]
Langkawi Guide to a Unique Kampung Stay
As night gives way to the slivers of daybreak, the quiet of the morning village air is broken first by the calls to prayer followed by the crescendo of song birds’ choruses. The familiar daily soundtrack repeats itself as the scent of the sea drifts through. And thus, begins another day in a seaside kampung. […]