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

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.

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

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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Photographing Central Otago in Autumn

Central Otago in Autumn

You’d think the best time to visit New Zealand (and Central Otago specifically) would be the middle of summer, but if you’re travelling in December and January you’ll most likely get some pretty awful weather.  You’ll also have to deal with a lot of holidaying locals so if you’re thinking of making the journey then … Read more

The 15 Best Natural Wonders in Southeast Asia

The best natural wonders in Southeast Asia

As my time in Southeast Asia draws to a close, I’m starting to think about all of the awesome places I’ve been. I love cities, history and architecture, but the most memorable aspects of the region for me are the unique and varied natural wonders. I hope you enjoy my list of the best natural wonders in Southeast Asia, but bear in mind that these are only places that I’ve been to, so I might have missed some popular ones!

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How to Get (And Keep) a Comfortable Seat on a Crowded Bus

How to get a comfortable seat on a crowded bus

I love taking local buses. You see a side of the country that you’d never see by flying or hiring a car and you get the chance to interact with a wide range of locals. Even though there are many positives about riding on local buses, there’s always an overbearing thought on the horizon…what if I end up sitting on half a seat/someone’s knee with no leg room while listening to old women throwing up into plastic bags? I can’t help you with the last part, but I can show you how to ensure you get (and keep) a comfortable seat with good leg room while travelling on a crowded bus.

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