Japan is a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and few experiences embody this as authentically as the onsen, the traditional Japanese hot spring. Beyond relaxation, they are deeply ingrained in Japanese society, offering a unique blend of history, health benefits, and social connection. Not just about personal wellness; they also play a vital …
Hawaii is home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world. Hiking in Honolulu offers a diverse range of landscapes and challenges. Here are some of my favorite hikes in the area from easy to difficult paths. Hiking in Honolulu – My Favorite Trails Manoa Falls Koko Crater Stairs Diamond Head Trail …
Banff National Park is a Canadian gem, renowned for its breathtaking mountains, crystal-clear glacial lakes, and endless outdoor activities. Summer in Banff is a particularly popular time to visit (especially July and August), but packing for Banff’s unique climate and terrain can be a bit tricky. We visited at the end of June and all …
How to Responsibly Dispose of bear spray in Banff and Canmore. If you’ve recently explored the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, it’s likely you picked up some bear spray for your trek through bear country. Essentially pepper spray on steroids, bear spray is your last resort if a bear is running towards you. In …
Knowing what to pack for your trip to Japan will help prepare you for any situation and make the most of your trip. I’ve visited 5 times now and believe this simplified list covers the basics. Coin Purse While Japan is known for its innovation, cash remains the preferred payment method in many places. To …
While researching my trip I was torn between Cairns vs. Port Douglas when choosing my base to explore the region. In my opinion, neither Cairns nor Port Douglas are thrilling destinations outside of the reef and rainforest, so it ultimately comes down to price and convenience. They are both very small towns. So I would …
Cairns is considered the entry point to the Great Barrier Reef and is near the meeting point of two Unesco World Heritage sites: Cape Tribulation and the Great Barrier Reef. A wide variety of snorkeling and scuba tours are available in the area. In my opinion, neither Cairns nor Port Douglas are thrilling destinations outside …
Is Kuranda worth it? Short answer: no. The journey there offers beautiful views but the village itself has little activities to enjoy. Why isn’t Kuranda Worth the Trip? Before I went I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy Kuranda or not. Online a lot of people enjoyed it, so I decided to go. Honestly, I was …
Often overshadowed by its neighbors, Kobe offers a surprising blend of history, breathtaking nature, and delectable delights. Only a short ride from Kyoto and Osaka, immerse yourself in the city’s maritime past at the Kobe Maritime Museum, then melt into the buttery texture of world-famous Kobe beef. Ascend the iconic Port Tower for panoramas that …
I confess, I used to be a “book-it-now-and-figure-it-out-later” kind of traveler. Snagging hotels with free cancellation seemed like a genius move, allowing me to compare options and snag the best deal. But here’s the harsh reality: free hotel cancellation doesn’t always mean free. This past year, my “brilliant” strategy cost me around $100 thanks to …
