Oriental Mindoro in the Philippines does not reveal itself gradually. The descent by propeller plane lays it bare all at once — emerald highlands, coastline, open water — a geography that is as direct as it is striking. First impressions here are rarely wrong. My journey began in Calapan City, the provincial capital, a bustling hub that serves as the perfect introduction to the region’s unique character. Unlike the frenetic energy of Manila, Calapan breathes with a gentler rhythm. The city streets are lined with a mixture of traditional wooden […]

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The first thing that strikes you about Olongapo City isn’t the visual – it’s the energy. As our jeepney rumbles down Magsaysay Drive, the main artery of this bustling port city about 80 kilometers northwest of Manila, the vibrant pulse of street life emerges against a backdrop of mountains and sea. Once home to the largest U.S. naval base outside American soil, Olongapo has transformed itself from a military outpost into a dynamic Filipino city that honors its past while forging its own identity. The story of Olongapo is inextricably […]

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The morning sun casts its golden rays across the South China Sea, surfers dot the horizon at Urbiztondo Beach, their silhouettes dancing atop the waves that have made La Union the undisputed surf capital of Northern Philippines. Located approximately 280 kilometers north of Manila in the province of La Union, this coastal paradise has transformed from a quiet fishing community into a vibrant beach destination that perfectly balances rustic charm with modern amenities. The journey to La Union, or “ElYu” as it’s affectionately known by locals and regular visitors, typically […]

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Introduction Amsterdam was not meant to change everything. For most business travellers and expats, it is just another European city on the itinerary—a convenient spot for meetings, conferences, or short-term projects. The plan is always simple: arrive, work, explore a little, and leave with some nice memories and a few photos. But Amsterdam has different ideas. Beneath the picture-perfect canals and tourist-friendly surface lies something more powerful: a place where temporary visitors accidentally discover what they’ve been missing. It’s not the museums or nightlife that hooks them—it’s the morning bike […]

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Positioned by the clear waters of the Red Sea, Jeddah thrives as Saudi Arabia’s energetic gateway to Makkah, and more than that, a discovery to Arabia’s rich past. Once you pack your suitcase and get ready to discover the 10 best places to visit in Jeddah, be ready to fall for a city that combines tradition and innovation. From traditional coral-built pounds to modern architectural masterpieces, Jeddah today presents delightful Arabian guests to its visitors. Al-Balad: The Historic Heart of Jerusalem Let me start off with the most anticipated feature […]

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Nestled in the heart of Quezon Province, Lucena City stands as a vibrant hub where tradition meets progress. As the provincial capital, this first-class city seamlessly blends its rich cultural heritage with modern development, creating an intriguing destination for travelers seeking an authentic Filipino experience away from the usual tourist trails. The city’s history dates back to the 16th century when it was known as Buenavista, named for its scenic views of Tayabas Bay. Later renamed Lucena in honor of a Spanish friar, the city evolved from a small fishing […]

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Paso Robles, you know it: that quaint, semi-rustic town you stop at for a bite and a glass of wine on your drives between LA and San Francisco. Well, in between drives, Paso Robles has grown up, and in the best of ways. These days, Paso is more of a first (though less expensive) cousin of Napa’s St. Helena—you’ll definitely want a second glass of wine. And you’ll want to stay a spell. The town retains its California Western feel, but now there’s more Saturday night polished cowboy boots than […]

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Michigan, with its rich diversity of entertainment options, has emerged as a premier destination for tourists seeking a blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and cultural richness. In 2022, the state’s tourism industry witnessed a remarkable recovery, attracting 125 million visitors,. The resurgence was marked by a $27.3 billion expenditure in visitor spending, a 4% increase from 2019. The growth in tourism underscores Michigan’s appeal, driven primarily by an upsurge in demand for recreational activities, casino resorts, events, and igaming. The state’s vast entertainment choices, from vibrant city nightlife in […]

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The lights and allure of Las Vegas has long held curiosity for me. It’s a dazzling playground for all. From mind-blowing entertainment, dancing fountains, world-class cuisine and 24-hour casinos – and all on one street! There’s no denying that Las Vegas is a relentless assault on the senses and earns its high-octane reputation as the Entertainment Capital of the World. But is there actually more to Sin City than sensory overload? I was determined to find out on my recent trip and here I offer some of my personal highlights […]

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I heard it, I felt it in my bones, and my mind let go. Since I was a child, I dreamed of what this would be like, of what I would hear, of what I would experience, and this…isn’t what I imagined. Have you ever had an experience where your expectations are different than your reality? Where imagination gets the best of you and hopes get shattered? Now, now let me provide some context, it was my first time going to Ireland, my dreams were finally coming to fruition. My […]

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Plan a holiday to Sweden in the month of June this year and you will be rewarded with double helpings of celebratory joy. Not only is it the month when Sweden turns 500 years old, but also the month of Sweden’s most longed-for festival – Midsummer. On June 23rd (Midsummer´s Eve), which is the longest day of the year, you will have the chance to meet with a group of cheerful Swedes, dressed in traditional costumes, dancing around the maypole. Make sure you join the “Små Grodorna” (The Little Frogs) […]

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Nathan James Thomas is the founding editor of Intrepid Times, an online magazine that publishes narrative travel writing. He is the co-editor alongside Jennifer Roberts of the travel writing anthology Fearless Footsteps (2020), and the author of Travel Your Way (2022) and Untethered (Coming September 2023). In this interview, Nathan talks about his journey in establishing Intrepid Times, what narrative travel writing means to him, how to make writing stand out by exploring diverse perspectives instead of focusing solely on oneself, and his views on the future of travel writing […]

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Cheyenne, WY, a booming capital city and icon in the American West announces its 2023 calendar of events. This year, the lineup includes the return of several beloved annual festivals, culinary celebrations, and the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration, Cheyenne Frontier Days, ideal for visitors and locals of all ages. Located approximately 90 minutes north of Denver, the “Magic City of the Plains” beckons travelers to saddle-up for a destination that combines tremendous history and modern appeal with western swagger. Cheyenne Restaurant Week, April 2-8 Classic, quirky and […]

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Author Daniel Bayless was enjoying a permanent full-time position at an in-flight magazine accompanied by a decent salary. He soon made an offer on a condominium. He was at a point in life when he began to think about settling down. This all changed and he altered his plans when he was blindsided by his cousin’s unexpected death at age 26. This book is a detailed personal reflection about Daniel’s experiences on the Israel National Trail, a book one should expect to read slowly and savor the details – mirroring […]

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