The parallel universe called Southeast Asia draws me in over and over again. Coming to Southeast Asia feels like coming home. Each time I return, I find comfort in the ease of traveling there, the excitement of new discoveries, and the energy hanging in the sweet, sticky air. I’ve traveled in Southeast Asia for over […]
Review: Rumah Pohon Treehouse in Nusa Penida
There have been many brilliant sunrises in my life, but it’s hard to top the one at the Rumah Pohon Treehouse in Nusa Penida, Indonesia. The way that the sun rose over the jagged islets, lighting up the entire bay in layers of orange, pink, and gold, all while I watched from the perch in […]
The Ideal Indonesia Itinerary for 2 Weeks to 2 Months
Where should you spend your time in Indonesia when you visit? With so many islands, how do you narrow it down? The first time I visited was in 2008, and since then, I’ve returned 10 times, most recently in 2024. Indonesia quickly became one of my favorite countries (after visiting 65 of them). Here are […]
Nusa Penida’s Secret Spots
I remember hearing about the Nusa Islands off of Bali in Indonesia years ago. People said it was like Bali used to be before the tourism and development took over. Ever since I’d imagined how it would be – jungly, with friendly people and rocky roads, rugged beaches, and hidden treasures. When I arrived in […]
What Changed My Mind about the Philippines
I wrote this post years ago after visiting the Philippines but never had the guts to post it. As travelers, and especially as a travel blogger, I think we often feel like we are supposed to absolutely adore and connect with each place we visit. There has to be some kind of enthusiasm or positive […]