The Best Movies Set in Thailand: Travel From the Comfort of Your Couch!

Thinking of travelling to Thailand? Forget about reading long, boring books and check out these movies set in Thailand to really get a feel for the country. Only God Forgives (2013) Ryan Gosling, having decided he didn’t brood and stare intensely at things enough in Drive, decides to have another go in this boring, self-important … Read more

14 of the Best Beaches in Southeast Asia

Nacpan beach, one of the beaches of El Nido, Palawan, The Philippines

This post was first published in 2015, but I’ve been to a lot more Southeast Asia beaches since then so it needed an update! Are you planning a trip to Southeast Asia? There’s so much to see – from ancient history, pulsating cities and stunning natural wonders, but perhaps the biggest draw in the region is the … Read more

15 of the Best Ancient Temples and Ruins in Asia

For me, one of the highlights of travelling in Asia is seeing history embodied in elaborate ancient temples and ruins. Here are some of my favourite temples and ruins in Asia, including Angkor Wat, the erotic temples of Khajuraho and the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) Do you watch romantic comedies and think … Read more

The Rat Factor: What is the Cleanest Country in Southeast Asia?

The rat factor: What is the cleanest country in Southeast Asia?

Everyone says not to judge books by their covers, but if you’re lazily looking for a quick way to review them then there really is no better way. I took the same attitude when trying to decide the cleanest country in Southeast Asia. Sure, I could have done a whole lot of research and bombarded you with facts and figures – but to be honest, the only figure I really care about is the number of rats I see (I have a fear of rats, check out this post to find out why). The rat factor may be a flawed system, but it’s as good as any other and could 1 day be the official cleanliness yardstick in respected publications like Lonely Planet (as long as they pay me for using my idea!).

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Should You Travel to Phuket?

Naiharn beach in Phuket, a great place to stay if you are going to travel to Phuket

Phuket has a bad reputation. Travel snobs will tell you it sold out long ago, that it no longer holds any mystery or allure and that you’d be better off going to one of the lesser known islands in Thailand instead. It’s popular because it appeals to the masses. Think of anything you’d like to … Read more