Beyond the Ordinary

Most people picture Bangkok’s golden temples, Phuket’s busy beaches, or Krabi’s limestone cliffs when they think of Thailand. But if you head south along the Andaman coast and choose a different path, you’ll discover another side of the country. In this region, hot springs bubble, sea nomads influence the culture, Italian-style espresso is unexpectedly popular in a border town, and the islands remain peaceful and car-free. Welcome to Ranong and Koh Phayam. Ranong is the rainiest part of Thailand, and Koh Phayam is one of its least-known islands. Both places are full of surprises, genuinely authentic, and unlike anywhere else [...]

Most people imagine Kenya as endless savannahs and safari jeeps kicking up dust. But if you head toward the Indian Ocean, you’ll find a different side of the country: a coast shaped by salty air, old stone, and a slower pace of life. Malindi and Lamu stand out here, offering a sharp contrast to the inland scenery and showing how Kenya’s many regions come together to create a rich national identity. These places invite us to see Kenya in a new light, beyond the usual expectations. Welcome to Malindi and Lamu. Often called Kenya's Little Italy and Kenya's Venice, these [...]

The Seychelles is made up of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of East Africa. While most people picture its famous beaches and clear blue waters, there’s a wilder, more remote side beyond the main islands that few get to see. Here, you’ll find rare wildlife, peaceful isolation, and creative conservation efforts that make for a truly unique adventure. Island Diversity & Geography The Outer Islands, such as Alphonse, Cosmoledo, and Astove, are coral atolls and sandy cays located far from the main islands. You can only reach them by small plane or boat, so getting there is [...]

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! Now that the holidays are winding down, it’s a good time to start thinking about your travel plans for 2026. If you enjoy places that are authentic, peaceful, and full of character, this is a great moment to start dreaming and planning. What’s the most unusual destination you’ve ever visited? Many of us dream of seeing more of the world, but planning a trip to a less familiar destination can feel overwhelming. That’s why we often return to places we know and feel comfortable in. There’s nothing wrong with that! France and Italy, [...]

Japan has a word for hospitality that goes far beyond good service. Omotenashi is a deeply rooted cultural value — a quiet, anticipatory care for guests that finds its origins in the ancient tea ceremony. It’s not about rules or expectations; it’s about making people feel welcome without asking for anything in return. When I travelled across Japan with my husband, we encountered omotenashi everywhere. In Nikko, the owner of a beautifully designed traditional house  ( an architect by profession )came to pick us up in his original Fiat Panda. Later, in a traditional family home in the Japanese Alps, we [...]