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My Predictions for the Future of Travel

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My predictions for the future of travel

Selective time travel

It’s always a good thing when destinations are as authentic as possible, so as soon as we invent time travel I’m sure we’ll use it to make tourism reach its full potential. Going back in time sounds great, but who wants to go without modern conveniences like internet and flying cars? Someone will invent a kind of gun or time-mist that can blast a predetermined area into the past, leaving everything else around it in the present (or future for us – this is getting as confusing as most time travel movies). We’ll be able to visit tiny villages untouched by the ravages of time and still be able to use magical food making machines all in the same outing – what could be better?

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Muang Ngoi: An Idyllic Village in Northern Laos

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Before my current trip to Laos I’d spent about 6 weeks in the country and hadn’t even come close to seeing everything I wanted.  Muang Ngoi (also known as Muang Ngoi Neua) was one of the towns I reluctantly skipped last time, so I decided to make it the centrepiece of this 2 week trip.

To say Muang Ngoi is laid back is a huge understatement. It’s the very definition of a sleepy Southeast Asian village, complete with playful dogs, roaming chickens and curious kids. I was in Muang Ngoi in September, so it might be a bit busier in high season, but I’m sure you’ll find peace whatever time of year you visit.

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Nong Khiaw to Muang Ngoi, Laos: An Awesome Boat Ride

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Boats on the river on the journey from Nong Khiaw to Muang Ngoi

Laos is full of idyllic riverside towns and taking a boat between 2 of the most beautiful ones, from Nong Khiaw to Muang Ngoi, was one of my favourite experiences in Southeast Asia’s most laidback country.  This stretch of the Nam Ou River is particularly stunning; the only problem is that the boats aren’t built with photography … Read more

Cities and Their Celebrity Doubles: Vientiane / Robert Downey Jr.

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Patuxai park in Vientiane, Laos

Vientiane wasn’t always the laid back, family friendly Lao capital you see today. For a period in the 1960’s and 70’s it was a town where anything went, where foreign spies mixed with prostitutes in city bars; a place you probably wouldn’t take your wife and kids to. The same can be said for Robert … Read more

Backpacking in Malaysia: Costs, Tips and Places to See

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Backpacking in Malaysia

At first glance Malaysia just doesn’t seem as exotic or interesting as other countries in the region, but take a closer look and you’ll find everything you need for a rewarding backpacking experience. You won’t get hassled by touts and you’ll be treated to the best food in the region, so if you’re looking for a more relaxing alternative to Thailand, Malaysia could be a great choice. While backpacking in Malaysia you’ll see a huge variety of landscapes, from the jungles of Borneo to the white sand beaches of Pulau Tioman, via the very British Cameron Highlands hill station, where you can stroll through tea fields and search for the largest flower on Earth.

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