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 in Southeast Asia.

Ranong: The Unexpected Border Town

Ranong isn’t known for glamour. It’s the wettest spot in Thailand, a busy port town on the Myanmar border, it has a small airport, and it’s not on most travellers’ lists. That’s exactly why it’s worth a visit.

Ranong’s name comes from ‘Rae Nong,’ meaning ‘filled with minerals’ in Thai, and it fits. Natural hot springs are everywhere, drawing locals for their healing benefits long before tourists ever came.

What Makes It Special:

The Hot Springs: Raksa Warin Public Park has Thailand’s first discovered hot spring, with sulphur-free water at 65°C. Locals come for foot soaks or to fully immerse themselves. At ‘The Healthy Park,’ hot cement platforms sit over the spring’s flow, making it a perfect place for hot yoga or simply relaxing tired muscles.

The Hokkien-Chinese Heritage: Ranong’s first governor was Hokkien-Chinese, and his influence remains to this day. You’ll notice it in the ornate shrines, shophouse buildings, and especially the food. Dishes like Yao Ye (a spicy water spinach salad with seafood and crispy toppings) and Chun Piah (deep-fried tofu skin rolls with crab and pork) blend Chinese cooking with Thai flavours. They’re healthy, delicious, and hard to resist.

Ranong’s Old Market: This is the city’s heart. From early morning until late at night, the market buzzes with energy. Unlike most Thai markets, you’ll spot Burmese writing on signs, bags of cumin and turmeric beside Thai curry pastes, and a food court serving everything from roast pork noodles to khanom jeen (fermented rice noodles with curry). The market is large, winding through buildings and into the backstreets. It’s a real melting pot shaped by borders, trade, and the sea.

The atmosphere here is gritty and genuine. This is a working town with hidden gems, not a place built to impress tourists.

Koh Phayam: Thailand As It Was

A 90-minute ferry from Ranong takes you to Koh Phayam, where it feels like stepping back in time. There are no cars, tall buildings, or 7-Elevens. Instead, you’ll find beaches, bicycles, and the kind of Thailand many believe has disappeared.

The island isn’t on the usual tourist path. It’s too far from Phuket for day-trippers, too simple for luxury resorts, and too quiet for backpackers who want to party. That makes it perfect for anyone who really wants to escape.

Long Beach (Ao Yai):

Long Beach (Ao Yai) runs for three kilometres along the southwest coast, covered in soft sand. Even in the busiest season, it stays quiet. You can walk out of a simple beachfront cabin (about 900 baht per night), swim before breakfast, and enjoy a peaceful morning.

Koh Phayam even has surf. Small, steady waves come in every morning and evening, attracting both experienced surfers and beginners. You can rent a surfboard for 150-300 baht per hour, and lessons are available. The sandy breaks are gentle for beginners. Watching surfers gather at dawn, with just the sound of waves and the occasional motorbike on the beach road, you see Thailand at its simplest.

The Hippy Bar:

Don’t let the name fool you. The Hippy Bar isn’t just another reggae-themed beach shack. It’s a multi-level place that looks like a cross between a treehouse and a shipwreck, overlooking Ao Khao Kwai (Buffalo Bay). Made from driftwood and full of character, it’s a great spot to relax on Thai pyramid cushions, have a beer, and watch dhows go by. If you’re lucky, you might spot rare hornbills eating watermelon. It’s a true island favourite.

Ao Kwangpeeb:

For real seclusion, rent a scooter and head to Ao Kwangpeeb. The road gets dusty as you climb the hill. Experienced riders can manage, but most people should park and walk the last 10 minutes. Three trees mark the path down. Keep right, then take the left fork with rice sack steps. At the end, you’ll find a quiet cove, best visited at high tide, where you’ll probably have it all to yourself.

Secret B. There’s a viewpoint and a hidden cove you reach by climbing down 40 uneven steps. At low tide, rocks cover the area, so bring sturdy shoes. At high tide, it turns into your own private spot with clear Andaman water. water.

Where to Eat:

• Ban Nam Cha: Run by Jess, an English expat, this relaxed spot serves excellent vegetarian and vegan Thai-Burmese fusion dishes. The black pepper tofu is a highlight. Don’t rush; service is slow, but that’s part of the charm. Grab a beer and take it easy.d. Thai-Burmese fusion at the crossroads, with a long menu and solid vegetarian options.

• Munchies Cafe: Enjoy a comforting meal. Try the comforting Thai clear noodle soup and excellent Penang curry here. It’s a great place for a relaxed brunch.to get around. The island is small but spread out, so it’s too far to walk everywhere but ideal for exploring by bike. Straight roads run through rubber tree plantations, giving you a look at village life and the farming routines that shape Koh Phayam beyond its beaches.

The Cashew Connection:

The island is known for kayu (cashews), especially kayu wan (sweet cashews). Roasted and peeled cashews are a local treat, and even the young cashew leaves (yot) are used in Yam Yot Kayu, a spicy salad with shrimp paste and dried shrimp. This dish is traditional, local, and has a unique flavour you won’t find anywhere else.

The Moken: Guardians of the Andaman

Koh Phayam and the nearby waters are home to the Moken, an ancient group of seafaring people who have travelled the Andaman Sea for thousands of years. They used to live on boats, moving with the monsoons and knowing the tides, fish, and underwater world in great detail. live on islands and work as fishing guides or fish sellers. You might find Moken-led snorkelling trips around Ranong’s national parks. By choosing these, you support living heritage rather than just taking a tour.

Their presence reminds you that this is more than just a beautiful part of Thailand. This coast has deep layers of history, culture, and a strong connection to the sea that no resort can match.

Why They Belong Together

Ranong and Koh Phayam show two sides of Thailand’s forgotten coast. Ranong is the lively gateway, a working border town where cultures mix, hot springs flow, and the food tells stories of migration and trade. Koh Phayam is the escape, an island where life slows down, beaches stay quiet, and you remember what first drew people to Thailand.

Together, these places offer something rare: a part of Thailand untouched by mass tourism. Local life continues; visitors are welcomed as guests, and your stay supports family-run guesthouses, local restaurants, and small businesses rather than international chains.

This is Thailand reimagined:

• Authenticity over amenities.

• Discovery over itineraries.

• The quiet beauty of places still finding their way.

Beyond the ordinary. Beyond the beaches. Beyond the crowds.

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 two destinations are wonderfully surprising, brimming with character, and unlike anywhere else in East Africa.

Malindi: The Swahili Dolce Vita

Malindi’s nickname is more than just a catchy phrase; it comes from real history. Since the 1960s, Italians—artists, chefs, and dreamers—have come to this coast and made it their home. Their influence is still strong, especially at the annual Italian food festival, where Swahili chefs and Italian expats collaborate, mixing local flavours with Italian recipes. This creates a unique blend of Swahili culture and European style.

The Morning Ritual: A sunrise swim in the warm Indian Ocean, followed by flawless espresso beneath swaying palms.

The Long Lunch: Fresh-caught lobster and seafood linguine savoured with the attention they deserve.

The atmosphere is both stylish and relaxed, offering boutique luxury that feels completely natural.

Where to stay for the “Little Italy” vibe:

• Lion in the Sun: This Afro-colonial retreat was once Flavio Briatore’s private getaway. It shows off Malindi’s Italian style, with top-notch thalassotherapy spas and a true la dolce vita spirit.

• Billionaire Resort & Retreat: Perfect if you want upscale beachfront comfort, with infinity pools overlooking the ocean and a grill known for its Italian-style seafood.

Lamu: A Timeless Architecture of Water

If Malindi is about enjoying the good life, Lamu is about truly experiencing a different world. People call it the Venice of Africa, not because of canals, but for its peaceful, car-free streets and rich maritime history. This UNESCO World Heritage island feels timeless.

Life here follows the gentle sound of donkeys’ hooves and the quiet movement of dhows on blue-green waters.

Walk through narrow stone alleys and past beautifully carved doors from the 13th century, reminders of the old Spice Trade.

Enjoy rooftop dinners under the stars, with the call to prayer floating through the evening air.

Where to stay for the “Venice” vibe:

• Lamu House: Located in the centre of Old Town, these carefully restored Swahili townhouses reflect the spirit of the island. The “Moonrise” restaurant lets you dine by the water under the stars.

• Peponi Hotel (Shela Village): This well-loved spot is classic Lamu. Enjoy an “Old Pal” cocktail on the terrace as dhows pass by—timeless, simple, and elegant.

• Tusitiri Dhow: For a true “Venice” experience, spend a night on this luxury traditional dhow. It’s a floating boutique hotel where you can sleep under the stars on deck.

Why They Belong Together

Together, Malindi and Lamu show two different but connected sides of Kenya’s coast. Malindi stands out for its mix of Italian culture and Mediterranean feel, blending European style with Swahili warmth. Lamu, on the other hand, maintains a strong connection to its Swahili roots, evident in its old buildings, walkable streets, and long-standing maritime traditions. Looking at both, you can see how Malindi’s modern, international vibe fits with Lamu’s focus on history. Their differences and similarities highlight how outside influences and local traditions shape the Kenyan coast.

This is Kenya reimagined:

• Culture over crowds.

• Atmosphere over itineraries.

• The profound beauty of the unexpected.

Beyond the ordinary. Beyond safari. Beyond expectations.

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 an adventure in itself. These islands are among the last truly untouched places on Earth, where nature leads the way.

• Green and hawksbill turtles nest without disturbance, seabird colonies thrive, and Aldabra giant tortoises wander freely.
• The coral reefs are full of tropical fish and manta rays. When you snorkel or dive here, you come face-to-face with nature at its best.
• Rare coco de mer palms grow well in these peaceful forests.

Experiences Beyond the Ordinary

Visiting the Outer Islands is more than just a holiday. It’s a chance to truly connect with nature. Imagine:

• Walking along deserted beaches at dusk, witnessing turtles nesting

• Snorkelling above vibrant reefs and swimming alongside manta rays

• Observing seabirds on untouched sandbanks like Boudeuse Cay and Remire Reef

The silence here is deep, interrupted only by the sound of waves and far-off wildlife. These moments stay with you long after your trip is over.

Luxury Meets Conservation

Many of the Outer Islands have exclusive, eco-friendly resorts like Blue Safari. They follow a ‘one island, one resort’ approach to keep their environmental impact as low as possible.

• Guests stay in luxury villas or tented camps that fit in naturally with their surroundings.

• Activities are chosen to help conservation, from guided snorkelling trips to wildlife monitoring.

• Every visit helps protect habitats and supports local communities.

Conservation programs like the Sea Turtle Monitoring Program let visitors see and even join in efforts to protect threatened species. When you stay at these resorts, you enjoy real luxury—access to untouched wilderness—while also making a positive difference.

The Seychelles’Outer Islands prove that responsible tourism can lead to amazing experiences. Every moment feels special, and every visit helps protect one of the world’s most untouched places.

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, with their famous sights, will always be beautiful. Still, the world is full of amazing places that many people haven’t discovered yet (in France and Italy, too!).

If you look beyond the usual choices, you’ll find places where cultures feel more welcoming, landscapes are more untouched, and your travel experience feels truly personal.

That’s why I encourage my clients to look beyond their immediate options and consider places that offer something different. For instance, when clients express interest in visiting Tuscany, where I am from, I often recommend lesser-known towns where they can experience the real slow-paced Tuscany.

Choosing less-travelled destinations isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about experiencing the world in a more meaningful way.

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1. Jaffna, Sri Lanka

This lively city in northern Sri Lanka is full of temples, spice markets, colourful local life, and deep traditions, all away from the typical beach crowds. Here, you’ll find real experiences, tasty food, and friendly local hospitality.

2. Mexico (Beyond Cancun & Riviera Maya)

Discover some of Mexico’s lesser-known places, like the colonial streets and food scene of Oaxaca, the mountain charm of San Cristóbal de las Casas, and the green hills of the Sierra Norte. These areas are full of history, scenery, and traditions that most travellers miss.

3. Namibia

Namibia is a fantastic place for nature lovers, with expansive desert views, striking bronze landscapes like Deadvlei, and plenty of wildlife. Take your time, watch the sunrise over the dunes, and enjoy a safari experience that feels truly special and uncrowded.

Why These Destinations?

When you travel off the beaten path, you can connect more deeply with the places you visit and the people you meet. You’ll find peaceful moments instead of busy crowds, and create memories that feel truly your own. Next year is a great time to explore in a more thoughtful and adventurous way.

Let’s Design Your 2026 Escape

Maybe you want to discover hidden corners of Mexico, explore the culture of Sri Lanka, experience the wilds of Africa, or relax by a peaceful lake. I’d love to help you plan a trip that feels personal, easy, and truly memorable.

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 were welcomed with the most delicious home-cooked food.

But rising visitor numbers are putting this treasured hospitality under pressure.

The Challenge of Overtourism

Tourism in Japan has exploded — from fewer than 5 million international visitors in 2000 to nearly 37 million in 2024. Much of this traffic concentrates in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Mount Fuji, leaving streets crowded, public transport packed, and cultural sites struggling to cope.

Some examples:

• Gion, Kyoto: Tourists harassing geishas for photos, despite strict etiquette rules.

• Mount Fuji: Overcrowded trails causing littering, safety hazards, and new trail fees.

• Nara Park: Sacred deer affected by plastic waste left behind.

In short, Japan’s hospitality culture and local communities are feeling the strain.

The Undertourism Approach: A Smarter Way to Travel

The good news? Japan is embracing undertourism — spreading visitors to lesser-known regions, preserving culture, and supporting local communities. Only 10% of Japan’s destinations receive 80% of tourists. By exploring the rest, travellers enjoy quieter, more meaningful experiences while helping sustain local life.

Examples of undertourism destinations:

• Toyama Prefecture: Historic farmhouses, rice paddies, and wood-carving traditions.

• Shiretoko Peninsula, Hokkaido: Pristine wilderness and wildlife.

• Hokuriku & Tohoku regions: Samurai heritage, craft villages, and untouched landscapes.

• Sado Island: Taiko drumming culture with immersive local experiences.

By travelling to these regions, you avoid crowds, enjoy authentic encounters, and contribute to cultural preservation. A win-win for both travellers and communities.

How to Travel Mindfully in Japan

To make the most of your journey and respect local culture:

• Travel off-peak: Late autumn, early winter, and early spring offer the best experiences with fewer crowds.

• Choose boutique stays: Family-run ryokans, machiya townhouses, and local inns enrich your experience and support communities.

• Step off the Golden Route: Explore lesser-known towns, rural villages, and small islands.

• Engage locally: Join tea ceremonies, craft workshops, or cooking lessons — experiences that connect you to the culture.

Even iconic destinations like Kyoto and Mount Fuji can be enjoyed more thoughtfully with careful planning: quieter temples, early-morning visits, or lakeside viewpoints that offer stunning views without the throngs.

Your Japanese Adventure, Reimagined

Japan’s culture of omotenashi is precious. Its people shouldn’t have to compromise their traditions for tourism. With mindful planning, you can experience this incredible country fully — from cherry blossoms to snowy onsens, culinary delights to historic towns — while leaving a positive impact on the places you visit.

If you’d like, I can craft a bespoke, crowd-free itinerary for your next Japanese adventure — a journey that blends slow travel, cultural immersion, and off-the-beaten-track discoveries.