We arrived in at Beijing International, always an overwhelming airport based on its immense girth. But our gate was very close to immigration and we breezed through without much delay as officials kept opening new lanes as the lines swelled from the arriving flights. We discovered a small short-stay airport hotel and without hesitation spent the $40 for a two hour stay. Showers after long flights are one of the best things one can gift one's body … [Read more...]
Fresh Water Experiences in Gulf County, Florida
The Gulf waters draw many, but the rivers, lakes, lagoons and creeks offer variety for all who love the water. GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA JUNE 2026–Gulf County, Florida, located two hours southwest of Tallahassee and just an hour east of Panama City Beach, is known for its beautiful beaches amid a low-rise atmosphere perfect for disconnecting from the rest of the world while engaging with the people–and this beautiful destination–around you. This … [Read more...]
A Journey Carved by Wind, Water, and East African Coastlines
Some journeys are shaped by roads, cities, and landmarks. Others are shaped by weather, tides, and the gradual movement of the sea itself. Along the East African coastline and across the islands of the western Indian Ocean, travel still carries that older rhythm. Wind determines direction, currents influence pace, and entire days unfold according to the conditions of the water rather than the pressure of schedules. Credit Pexels / Stunning … [Read more...]
Sébastien Thépénier, French Oenologist and Winemaker
Sébastien Thépénier is a French oenologist and the winemaker behind Vin de Tahiti in Rangiroa, an atoll in French Polynesia. Originally from Burgundy of France, he moved to Tahiti in 2002 to oversee Domaine Dominique Auroy, a pioneering vineyard and wine estate on coral soil in the Pacific. He has since played a central role in developing and refining its unique tropical winemaking. Q. You are originally an oenologist from France. What drew … [Read more...]
Tuscany Above the Clouds: A Guide to the Glacial Lakes and Ridges of the Northern Apennines
The wind hit the ridge hard enough that I leaned forward to keep my balance. Ahead of me, a narrow path followed the crest of the mountain like a thread pulled tight between two regions of Italy. On one side lay Tuscany. On the other, Emilia-Romagna. As the clouds shifted, a deep blue circle suddenly appeared below the ridge: Lago Scaffaiolo. At that moment it was hard to believe I was still in Tuscany. Most travelers imagine Tuscany as … [Read more...]
Painting My Way Through Portugal With a Travel Watercolor Kit
The cafe owner set down a tiny cup of espresso and said something in Portuguese I did not quite catch. I smiled, nodded, and turned back to my sketchbook. Across the narrow street in Lisbon's Alfama district, a woman was hanging laundry from a wrought iron balcony, and the morning light was doing something to the yellowed tiles on the building behind her that I knew a phone camera would never get right. So I painted it instead. I have … [Read more...]
Malta Beyond the Postcard: Why This Tiny Island Deserves a Full Week
Malta is a small island but it has probably the highest density of things to see and do per square kilometre of anywhere I've been. I know that sounds like a brochure. It's not. You can drive across the main island in about 45 minutes. Most visitors give it a day or two, usually on a cruise ship stop — they walk around Valletta, take a photo of the harbour, and leave, which means they miss almost everything. Give Malta a week and you'll see what … [Read more...]
Where to Stay in Ubud: A Complete Guide to the Best Ubud Accommodations for a Relaxing Bali Escape
Ubud is a place of calm, serenity, spirituality and nature in the heart of Bali’s cultural district, the Ubud Highlands. While the southern beaches of Bali are a hub of activity, Ubud is a haven of tranquility where you can enjoy rice paddies, jungles, temples, and wellness spas. Selecting the ideal location for your holiday accommodation can make all the difference in the experience, whether you are travelling with a loved one, on a healing … [Read more...]
Majestic Siargao
The morning sun pierces through palm fronds as I stand at the edge of Cloud 9, Siargao's legendary surf break. The wooden boardwalk stretches before me like a runway to paradise, leading to the three-story viewing deck where photographers and tourists gather to witness surfers dance with the waves. The Pacific Ocean swells roll in with clockwork precision, each one transforming into perfect barrels that have made this tiny Philippine island a … [Read more...]
California by Car: The Only Way to Do It Right
I’ve spent an infinite amount of time navigating public transit across Europe and Asia, but when it comes to the Golden State, let me save you some hours: you need a car. No bus is going to stop, so you can watch the fog roll over Big Sur. No group tour will let you detour to a weird desert art installation or a roadside diner at 2 AM. To really understand California, you have to drive it with your own schedule. The Ultimate California … [Read more...]