Author: simon611

Explore the vibrant street style of Tokyo with La Carmina, a fashion blogger and TV host known for her expertise in Japanese street fashion. Discover the best places to shop in Tokyo if you’re into Gothic fashion or want to dress like an antique doll from the forest. Learn about Tokyo’s unique theme restaurants that promise unforgettable nights, and delve into extreme body modifications like snake tongues and bagel heads. Enjoy the quirky experiences of Cat Cafes and find family-friendly activities in Tokyo. Even if Japan wasn’t on your travel list, La Carmina’s recommendations will surely pique your interest.

La Carmina, who lives in Vancouver, Canada, has roots in Hong Kong. Her love for Japanese street style began during her childhood travels in Asia, where she was captivated by the cute Hello Kitty culture, punk and Gothic styles, and Harajuku fashion. Her passion for fashion continued through college in New York, leading her to start a blog to share her unique style. She has since authored books and appeared on TV shows about Japanese street culture. Follow her blog at La Carmina for more insights.

Tokyo offers something for every traveler, whether you’re into fashion, nightlife, adventure, or family relaxation. The city’s food is fantastic, and the people are incredibly polite. While Tokyo can be a culture shock, as depicted in the movie “Lost in Translation,” it’s a city that can push you out of your comfort zone in the best way possible.

For a comprehensive Tokyo experience, plan to stay for at least 5-7 days. La Carmina suggests staying in Shinjuku, a central hub for the subway and bullet train, with plenty of restaurants and nightlife. Nearby, Harajuku is famous for its Gothic and Lolita fashion, while Shibuya offers trendy shopping and the vibrant Gal culture. The subway is the most efficient way to get around, though taxis are expensive. Remember, subways stop running between 1 am and 5 am, so plan your late-night outings accordingly.

In Tokyo, politeness is key. On the subway, it’s rude to speak on your mobile phone; texting is acceptable, but conversations should be kept to a whisper. Food etiquette is also important; for example, never stick your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, as this symbolizes death.

La Carmina’s fashion is influenced by various Japanese street styles, from J-Rocker and Visual Kei to Goths, Punks, and unique groups like Mori girls. Harajuku is a must-visit for its eclectic stores and fashion-forward teenagers. Shibuya is perfect for those into Gyaru fashion, with Shibuya 109 being a shopping hotspot. For high-end fashion, visit Omotesandō and Ginza. Shimokitazawa offers a bohemian vibe with vintage stores and cafes.

For unique souvenirs, check out the 100 Yen stores, which offer a variety of quirky items. Daiso in Harajuku is a popular choice. Tokyo’s food scene is diverse, from high-end sushi to budget-friendly convenience store meals. Theme restaurants provide an immersive dining experience, with places like the Monster Theme Restaurant offering theatrical settings and quirky food presentations.

Cat Cafes and Dog Cafes are popular in Tokyo, providing a chance to interact with pets in a city where space is limited. For a fun family outing, visit Odaiba, a port area with museums, a video game center, and themed attractions like a cat petting zoo and a recreation of Hong Kong.

For nightlife, explore Golden Gai in Shinjuku, known for its tiny, themed bars. Try traditional Japanese drinks like Sake and Soju, and look for cocktails with Yusu, a unique Japanese citrus flavor. Tokyo’s music scene is vibrant, with clubs catering to various genres. La Carmina recommends Gothic and alternative parties like Midnight Mess and Tokyo Decadance, as well as extreme nightlife events like Department H, featuring body modifications and performance art.

Tokyo’s creativity extends to costumes, with stores in Akihabara offering a wide range of options. While not everyone dresses up, the city’s fashion scene is diverse and inclusive. For a unique experience, visit Odaiba, which offers attractions for all ages, including a cat petting zoo and a giant video game center.

La Carmina’s tips provide a comprehensive guide to the cool and quirky aspects of Tokyo. For more information, visit her blog and YouTube channel, and check out her books on Tokyo’s theme restaurants and cute food recipes.

Mexico is the top choice for Americans looking for a tropical escape and a cultural experience that’s hard to find in the U.S. Think of the beautiful, ocher-colored cities, stunning Baroque cathedrals, and that charming Old World feel. Fortunately, they don’t need to travel far to find places rich in history, as Mexico is full of cities that date back centuries, some even older than the American colonies.
Morelia is one of these hidden cultural treasures, and it’s very accessible, with flights from eight U.S. airports. Morelia, the capital of Michoacán, is a state in central Mexico that often gets overlooked in travel guides. Despite this, its architecture is just as impressive as Mexico City’s, and its historical significance rivals popular destinations like San Miguel de Allende and Campeche. Morelia boasts a well-preserved historic center with buildings from the 17th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was recognized for its cultural importance, having been inhabited by indigenous groups like the Purépecha and Matlatzinca long before the Spanish built the present-day city. It flourished during the Spanish Empire as a key trading hub and a center for education, with the Universidad Michoacán de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, the oldest university in the Americas, founded in 1540.
Over the years, Morelia has accumulated many monumental churches, monasteries, and grand buildings, most of which still stand today. Notable structures include the twin-towered cathedral, which began construction in 1660, the landmark aqueduct, and the Government Palace. Many buildings in the old quarter are made from Michoacán’s distinctive pink sandstone, giving the city a unique character. However, as a major state capital, it can be busier and less tranquil than places like San Miguel de Allende or Taxco. Traffic can be hectic during rush hours, and pickpocketing is more common in crowded areas, but overall, it’s a pleasant city to explore. If you need a break, there are plenty of green gardens and tree-lined patios to relax in.
Morelia is also a great destination for food lovers, with numerous street food stalls offering generous portions of Mexican cuisine for as little as $3. The Mercado de Dulces y Artesanias is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth or an interest in handicrafts.
Safety-wise, Morelia has a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges, with gang activity in the suburbs and a travel warning for the state of Michoacán. However, the locals are friendly and hospitable, and the city center is relatively safe. Visitors should stay aware of their surroundings, avoid displaying wealth, be cautious of scammers, and stick to well-lit, busy streets at night. It’s also advisable to stay in a centrally-located hotel to minimize the need for taxis, which can be prone to scams.
Despite being less popular than Mexico City or Guanajuato, Morelia is well-connected with flights from eight U.S. cities, making it an easy cultural trip for Americans wanting to experience authentic Mexico away from the typical tourist spots. Volaris is the most popular airline for flights to Morelia, offering the most frequent and affordable options. For example, round-trip flights from Chicago can be found for $296, and from Fresno for $396. The U.S. cities with direct flights to Morelia include Chicago Midway, Chicago O’Hare, Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Oakland, Los Angeles, San Jose, and Fresno.

With Greece expecting a record number of tourists this season, here are some of the best beach destinations where you can escape the crowds during the summer.
We’ve all seen photos of dreamy Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini filling our social media feeds, but these pictures don’t always show the whole story. There are massive crowds watching the sunset in Oia, narrow streets and alleys clogged with cruise ship tourists, and packed beach clubs and restaurants. From personal experience, I don’t recommend visiting Santorini and Mykonos in July!
This summer is expected to be one of the worst times to visit popular destinations in Greece, with huge crowds anticipated in July, August, and even September as more visitors choose what was once considered the “shoulder season” for Greece travel. However, you can still escape the crowds in these three lesser-known Greek beach destinations.
**Amorgos**
Amorgos is one of my favorite underrated islands in Greece. It offers dramatic scenery and white-washed villages similar to Santorini, but without the crowds. Plus, it’s much cheaper than the more popular islands. This stunning island is the easternmost in the Cycladic chain, which includes hotspots like Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, and Ios. These islands can be extremely crowded and expensive during the summer months, but that’s not the case with Amorgos. Due to its more remote location (there’s no airport, and you’ll have to take a ferry from another island to get there) and lack of development, it remains an underrated destination. Amorgos has gorgeous, secluded beaches and a more laidback, local atmosphere in the villages, making it the perfect escape. If you’re looking for luxury at a fraction of the cost of the more popular islands, Aegialis Hotel & Spa is an amazing place to stay in Amorgos, with views that rival those of Santorini.
**Kefalonia**
Another Greek island that many tourists don’t know about is Kefalonia. This island is in the Ionian chain, on the western side of Greece. The most popular destination here is Corfu. However, Kefalonia is where you should go if you want to get away from the crowds. I’ve been to Corfu, and let’s just say I won’t be going back… instead, Kefalonia would be my top pick if I returned to the Ionian islands. This island is full of jaw-dropping scenery and amazing beaches, including Myrtos Beach, which regularly ranks as one of the top beaches in the country. You can also explore the various caves and caverns along the island’s coastline. Unlike Amorgos, which doesn’t have an airport, Kefalonia is accessible by air, and it’s an easy one-hour flight from Athens to get there. It’s also one of the more affordable island destinations in Greece, making it a great place to go if you’re looking for a budget-friendly getaway.
**Halkidiki**
Halkidiki is something of a hidden gem in Greece that very few foreign tourists know about — it’s mainly popular as a vacation destination for Greeks themselves. This coastal region of northern Greece is accessible from the city of Thessaloniki, which is an underrated destination in itself. (Head there if you want to escape the insane crowds of Athens!) A couple of hours from Thessaloniki, you’ll discover a picturesque region divided into three peninsulas. Kassandra peninsula is the liveliest and the most popular with tourists, while Sithonia and Mount Athos are much quieter and more off the beaten path. If you’re looking to totally escape the crowds, these two peninsulas are a great choice. Everywhere in Halkidiki, there are amazing beaches with crystal-clear water and quaint coastal villages.
**One Last Tip**
When you visit any of these destinations, it’s important to avoid the crowds. July and August are typically the most crowded times to visit any beach destination in Greece. This is when most local tourists and most foreign tourists are traveling. Even June and September have become more crowded months to visit Greece in recent years, but for more underrated destinations (like the three mentioned above) it’s still a good time to go. In particular, early June and late September are amazing for avoiding the crowds.

The hit movie “Mamma Mia” had us all singing along to those catchy Abba songs and loving the beautiful Greek locations. If you’re a fan, you might be wondering where “Mamma Mia” was filmed. We visited most of the film locations in Skopelos and the nearby Pelion peninsula in Greece and had a blast re-living moments from the movie.

One of the standout locations is the picturesque chapel of Agios Ioannis, perched on a rock overlooking the sea. Other notable spots include the beaches at Kastani and Glysteri in Skopelos, the charming port and beach of Damouchari in Pelion, and the old port of Skiathos.

In Skopelos, you can take a guided “Mamma Mia” tour to visit the film locations by coach, with time for swimming and a nice lunch by the sea.

The plot of “Mamma Mia” revolves around Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), who is about to marry Sky (Dominic Cooper). The story unfolds at Villa Donna on the fictional island of Kalokairi in Greece, primarily set in Skopelos, where Sophie grew up with her mother, Donna (Meryl Streep). Sophie invites the three men who could be her father—Sam (Pierce Brosnan), Harry (Colin Firth), and Bill (Stellan Skarsgard)—to her wedding, leading to a series of fun and romantic escapades.

The film crew arrived in Skopelos in 2007 after months of preparation. They had already filmed interior scenes at Pinewood Studios near London, so the location shoot was relatively quick, with the cast spending a week on Skopelos and five days at Damouchari. Since then, Skopelos has been known as “The Mamma Mia Island,” a connection that locals cherish as it boosts tourism. Bars and restaurants often display photos of the cast dining out during filming, and you can hear stories of their adventures.

The tiny chapel of Agios Ioannis, where Sophie and Sky’s wedding takes place, is a highlight. Perched on a rock, it offers stunning views after climbing 202 steps. The chapel’s interior was recreated at Pinewood Studios due to its small size.

Kastani Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Skopelos, was chosen for its practical and visual appeal. A jetty and beach bar were added for the film but removed afterward. This is where Sophie and Sky declare their love in “Lay All Your Love on Me.” The beach also features a scene with Donna’s friend Tanya singing “Does Your Mother Know.”

Glysteri Beach, close to Skopelos Town, is another film location. It’s where Sophie and her three potential fathers jump off the rocks at the end of their sailing trip. The olive groves above the beach were used for scenes like Sophie setting off for her wedding on a donkey.

Cape Amarandos in Skopelos, with its pine-covered rocks and clear turquoise water, provided an idyllic backdrop for several scenes. Sophie sings “Honey Honey” here, and the sailing scenes were shot around this area.

Skopelos is a small island, making it easy to get around, especially if you hire a car. We stayed at Panormos, which has one of the best beaches on the island, offering a variety of beach bars and tavernas.

A few scenes were filmed on the Greek mainland in the Pelion peninsula, close to the Sporades islands. We toured the Pelion and found it to be a beautiful region with mountain villages and unspoiled beaches. Damouchari, a tiny fishing port, features in a couple of scenes. The crew used a small guest house as their base here.

The island of Skiathos, close to Skopelos, also features in the film. The Old Port of Skiathos is where the three fathers gather to wait for the ferry to Kalokairi. The opening scene, where Sophie sings “I Have a Dream,” includes views over the old town rooftops and the church tower of Agios Nikolaos.

For those wanting to visit the film locations, the closest international airport is on Skiathos. Alternatively, you can fly to Volos and take a ferry to Skopelos. Major airports like Thessaloniki or Athens also offer routes to Volos, from where you can catch a ferry.

Skopelos and Skiathos are accessible by ferry from Volos, Thessaloniki, or Skiathos. Ferries between Volos and the Sporades islands are operated by several companies, and it’s worth comparing prices and journey times.

To reach Damouchari on the Pelion Peninsula, it’s easiest to travel by car from Volos. There are plenty of accommodation options nearby in Agios Ioannis.

For more details on “Mamma Mia” locations and things to do in Skopelos, check out my guide to Skopelos, Greece.

We started our Mediterranean Cruise with MSC Cruises, making our first stop at Marseille. Initially, I thought we could just walk into town from the ship, but it turned out we were docked about a 20-minute drive from the city center. MSC offered a shuttle bus for $16 per person round trip, but we opted for the public bus outside the port. After transferring to a tram, we found ourselves on La Canebière, heading towards the Vieux Port.

In the Vieux Port, I discovered a charming shop called La Cure Gourmand, where I bought some marzipan sweets and chocolate olives. The Vieux Port, once a commercial shipping hub, is now a marina filled with yachts and surrounded by restaurants and cafes. There was a lively Saturday market and an event by the local Marine Fire Service showcasing their equipment.

We saw the Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica on a hill and decided to take the No 60 bus from the Vieux Port for €1.80, avoiding a hot 30-minute walk. The bus driver skillfully navigated the narrow streets. The Basilica, built by Napoleon III in the 1850s, is a major landmark with a golden statue of Mary and baby Jesus. Inside, a mass was in progress, and the decorations were beautiful, but the highlight was the panoramic view of the city and the sea. We walked back down the hill and returned to the port by lunchtime.

The port area had wide boulevards for pedestrians and cyclists, making for a pleasant stroll in the warm sunshine. At the Quai des Belges, I noticed a stall selling artisan soaps, a famous product of Marseille. We chatted with the vendor and picked out a few soaps as souvenirs.

On the far side of the Vieux Port, cafes and restaurants lined the waterfront, which was rebuilt after WWII bombings. Guy wanted to try the local Bouillabaisse but found it too expensive at €60. We walked along the quay, looking for the free bus back to the ship but eventually gave up and had a drink at a café with a view of the old fortress.

We then visited the St Jean Fort, one of the two fortresses guarding the port entrance. We walked around the pathway circling the fortress, enjoying the view of sailing boats and the sea. By early afternoon, we decided to take a taxi back to the ship.

Back on board, we watched the evening show, “Paris Fou,” which had a French theme in honor of our stop in Marseille. The entertainment included an Edith Piaf-style singer, showgirls, can-can dancers, a juggler, and an artist creating shadow pictures with his hands.

Tomorrow, we will reach Genoa in Italy, the home port of MSC Cruises, where we plan to explore more sights.

Americans have been flocking to Latin America recently, and it’s easy to see why. The local hospitality, vibrant Hispanic culture, and warm climate are hard to resist. Cities like Buenos Aires, Medellin, San Juan, Cartagena, and Lima have seen a surge in U.S. visitors. However, none of these cities can quite compare to the long-reigning queen of the subcontinent: Mexico City.
Mexico City, or CDMX, is the Latin American city that tourists most want to return to, no matter how many times they’ve been before. Here’s why:
As the capital of Mexico, CDMX is a cultural giant and the largest urban area south of the U.S. border, with over 20 million residents. Unlike São Paulo in Brazil or San Jose in Costa Rica, which are known as business hubs, Mexico City offers much more than just skyscrapers and business suits. While you might find some of that in Santa Fe, the city’s true charm lies in its rich cultural heritage, diverse neighborhoods, and culinary delights.
For Americans, who might not encounter ancient wonders daily, Mexico City is a treasure trove. The Zócalo, or Constitution Square, is the city’s main public square and home to the Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture. Built in 1573 on top of an older Aztec structure, the cathedral is an iconic part of the city’s skyline. Nearby, the 16th-century National Palace, now the official residence of the President, is famous for its beautiful rooms and Diego Rivera’s mural depicting Mexican history.
But the city’s Old World charm extends far beyond the Zócalo. Each neighborhood in Mexico City has its own unique character, and you could spend weeks exploring them all. Here are some highlights:
– **Condesa**: Known for its elegant, tree-lined streets, beautiful parks like Parque México, and upscale dining options.
– **Coyoacán**: A colonial district with a small-town feel, featuring winding streets, colorful houses, and the Frida Kahlo Museum.
– **Zona Rosa**: A trendy area known for its nightlife, including many gay-friendly clubs, and a youthful, liberal atmosphere.
– **Polanco**: An affluent neighborhood with luxury shopping on Presidente Masaryk Avenue and numerous fine-dining spots.
– **Xochimilco**: Famous for its system of waterways and UNESCO-listed artificial islands, dating back to pre-Columbian times.
– **Colonia San Rafael**: A quaint area close to the city center, known for its markets and street food.
– **Roma**: Condesa’s edgier sister, with a thriving café scene, lively nightlife, and a mix of contemporary art galleries and traditional eateries.
Mexico City is also a food lover’s paradise. Mexican cuisine is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage, and the best place to experience it is in the capital. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a culinary journey like no other. According to Condé Nast Traveler, it’s the fourth-best city in the world for food, and we agree.
For street food, head to Mercado Medellín in Roma, where you’ll find a variety of Mexican delicacies. Other popular markets include Mercado de Coyoacán, Mercado de la Merced, and Mercado de San Juan. If you prefer upscale dining, try Fónico in Roma for exquisite seafood, Pujol for a high-end twist on Mexican cuisine, or La Casa de Toño for a more affordable yet equally delicious option.
Mexico City is a city that keeps on giving. With countless landmarks like Templo Mayor, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Chapultepec Castle, and more, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. Just outside the city, the archaeological site of Teotihuacán, with its impressive pyramids, is a must-visit.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or living there long-term, Mexico City always has something new to offer. From hidden galleries and courtyards to an ever-growing list of restaurants, the city’s ancient charm and modern vibrancy make it a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

Today, we’re setting off on a hike in Austria along the Salzkammergut long-distance trail, starting from the lakeside town of Gmunden. Our journey will take us to a charming castle on the lake and through forests adorned with wooden carvings, finally enjoying a delicious lunch in a welcoming gasthaus, served on the characteristic green and white Gmunder plates. This is our second day hiking through Austria’s beautiful Salzkammergut region of lakes and mountains, exploring a new long-distance trail that can be tailored to be as relaxing or challenging as you wish, with over 20 well-marked sections to tour the area.

After our walk through the Almtal valley, we had a delightful stay in Gmunden, a pretty town with medieval streets rooted in the historic salt trade that named the Salzkammergut region. From our room at Seehotel Schwann, we could see Schloss Ort, a fairytale castle on the lake and our next destination.

Schloss Ort, with its onion dome tower and enclosed courtyard, sits on a small island connected to the shore by a wooden bridge. There has been a castle on this island since Roman times. It faces Schloss Lend, another grand building on the lake shore. Owned by the Hapsburg rulers until the 19th century, Schloss Ort served as a residence, fortress, and sometimes prison until it came under the management of the Gmunden community.

The castle attracts many visitors who are fans of the popular Austrian and German TV drama series, “Hotel Schloss Ort.” Filmed at the castle and the surrounding area from 1996 to 2004, the show still draws visitors, some of whom mistakenly think the castle is a real hotel and inquire about staying there.

Schloss Ort is a picturesque venue for fairytale weddings, with over 300 ceremonies held between May and October in various rooms. It can be visited by appointment or with a local guide to explore the courtyard, chapel, and a museum dedicated to mountain rescue teams. However, we experienced poor weather, so I’ve used photos to show what the castle looks like in sunny summer conditions.

Before leaving Gmunden, we also explored the hand-painted Geflammte green and white ceramics made at the Gmunder factory. Recognizing the traditional patterns in the tiled stoves of a lakeside gasthof, we visited the factory, which is open daily and just a short tram ride from the town center. There are factory tours twice daily, but you can visit the shop or try painting your own ceramic masterpiece anytime. If you visit Gmunden in August, don’t miss the famous Pottery Market on the esplanade.

From Schloss Ort, the Salzkammergut trail continues parallel to the lake and through Altmünster, then over forested slopes above the town with views back towards Traunsee. Due to rain, we took a lift and resumed the trail at Gasthof Reschenwirt. We crossed a meadow, followed roads between traditional houses with window boxes, and stopped for coffee at a bakery in Neukirchen, where the friendly owner made us excellent coffee. After a warm send-off, we continued the trail.

The path led uphill past a chapel, with views over the village and countryside. Cows grazed on the slopes, and traditional houses dotted the roads and lanes, with forests clothing the higher slopes. Despite the drizzle, we enjoyed the scenery and encountered a flock of sheep, where a ram stomped in warning as I tried to take a photo.

We reached Windlegernweg, a nature reserve popular for Sunday walks, marked by a Wishing Tree adorned with cloth pieces bearing wishes. The mist among the trees made us feel like Hansel and Gretel, following a trail of white stones laid on pine needles. Information signs educated us about the forest, including groves of beech and pines used for paper and building.

We encountered a friendly wooden sculpture spouting water into a trough. After hiking in relentless rain, our spirits lifted at the sight of Almgasthof Windlegern, where the friendly staff welcomed us and served a pine schnapps to warm us up. Lunch included venison carpaccio, goat’s cheese salad, and apple strudel on green-patterned Gmunder plates. We heard choral harmonies from a wedding party nearby. Though we wished to stay longer, we donned our rain ponchos to hike the final leg of the day’s trail.

We entered an eerie forest above the gasthof, navigating a steep, slippery slope over tree roots and rocks, relieved to find a better path running parallel to a mountain stream, leading us to Landgasthaus “In der Kreh,” our stop for the night. We settled into a cosy gasthaus at the intersection of several hiking routes, the only guests at the end of the summer season. Our comfortable apartment on the top floor had a lit stove and a view of the owner’s horses grazing nearby. The next morning, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast before continuing our hike on the Salzkammergut trail.

The Salzkammergut BergeSeen trail is a 350 km long-distance route inaugurated in spring 2017, covering the entire Salzkammergut region. It combines numerous local trails with new signage and maps, making it easy to hike individual sections or combine multiple stages. Each section is planned as a day’s hike, varying from 4 to 8 hours, with 20 sections in total. Most hikers, like us, choose to walk a few sections over several days. With excellent public transport, you can easily move between start points if you wish to skip a section.

Advanced Alpine Routes can be added, taking you high into the mountains, suitable for experienced hikers in good weather. Each stage ends at a location with accommodation options, making the trail a fantastic way to explore the region’s lakes, mountains, historic towns, and welcoming guesthouses and restaurants.

For more information, walking instructions, and maps, visit the Salzkammergut BergeSeen trail website. You can also purchase hiking guides and maps on Amazon to help plan your hike.

When I told people I was heading to Thailand for some traveling, the most common advice I got was to check out the marine life. My dad, an avid diver, suggested scuba diving, but once we arrived, it was clear that scuba diving wasn’t feasible for budget travelers with tight schedules. Scuba training costs around 9000 baht (£200) and requires three days of pool training, which we couldn’t spare. So, we opted for snorkeling instead, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice!

We went on several snorkeling trips in Thailand, but my favorite spots were Koh Tao and Ko Phi Phi. We booked the Koh Tao trip through our hotel, Asia Diving Resort, for just 850 baht (£18). The package included transport from the hotel to the boat, making it very convenient. All we needed to bring were sunscreen, sunglasses, and ourselves.

During the day, we visited five different snorkeling spots, ending at Nang Yuan Island. This beautiful location offers a climb to the peak for stunning views. The snorkeling gear provided wasn’t top-notch, but it worked fine. Except for one mishap where a group member lost his snorkel in the sea, we had no issues. If you’re still a kid at heart, the boat’s top deck is great for diving practice whenever it stops.

In the water, we kept our distance from other groups, which was easy since we had at least 45 minutes at each spot and plenty of space to explore. The sea life in Koh Tao was amazing, with vibrant, colorful fish swimming right up to our hands. For those nervous about fish getting too close, the staff added excitement by throwing fish food at us, attracting about 30 fish at a time. Staying calm is key here, as panicking and swallowing seawater isn’t pleasant. A tip for big boat snorkeling trips: sit downstairs in the shade to avoid sunburn, as it’s hard to stay fully sun-creamed when jumping in and out of the water.

Our Ko Phi Phi snorkeling trip was a beautiful sunset tour, booked through a local excursion shop for 400 baht (£10). This half-day trip started at midday and ended at sunset, with lots of extras. We visited Monkey Island, Maya Bay (where “The Beach” was filmed), and some impressive caves inhabited by resilient Thai people. With only ten people on the boat, the trip was relaxed, and the driver let us stop wherever we wanted. Although we saw less marine life in Ko Phi Phi, the fish we did see were larger, brighter, or more intimidating (like razorfish). The quiet spots we visited allowed us plenty of time to explore on our own.

My top advice for anyone planning a snorkeling trip is to get a waterproof phone case. If your phone has a good camera, you can take amazing underwater photos and videos. We used two cases for our iPhones, and the results were incredible!

Laura Howells is part of the Melted Stories travel blog team, where she regularly writes about her travel adventures. Besides exploring the world, Laura loves teaching, reading, and music.

We noticed stalls selling Horchata (or Orxata) at the Cuidad de las Artes y las Ciencies and around town. When we needed a break from sightseeing in the afternoon, we decided to try this local Valencian drink. It’s sweet, milky, made from tiger nuts, and has a powdery texture similar to soya milk.

While in Plaza de la Reina, we found two traditional Horchaterias opposite each other in front of the church of Santa Catalina: Horchateria el Siglio and Horchateria de Santa Catalina. Horchateria de Santa Catalina looked more inviting with its traditional painted tiles at the entrance.

We went in and ordered Horchata with traditional fartons, finger-shaped pastries available plain, or with chocolate or custard filling. The drink was intensely sweet, almost sickly, which explained why it hadn’t become as popular globally as Coca-Cola. The Horchateria was beautiful inside, but the service was disappointing as the staff were not friendly.

Afterwards, we walked along the street beside Santa Catalina to Plaza Redonda, a small circular marketplace with an old-fashioned, slightly run-down feel. For those interested in design and handicrafts, there were great stalls selling traditional lace and braids, perfect for trimming up a Fallas costume. There was also a nice ceramics shop, a pet shop with caged birds, and some souvenir shops where the children bought plastic fans for their friends. It’s worth a quick visit if you’re in the area.

The water sparkled in the sunshine as we walked along the waterfront in Halifax, a city deeply connected to the sea. We were there for a couple of days as part of a week-long road trip around Nova Scotia. Halifax’s downtown area is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore.

The sea’s influence was evident with lobster and scallops featured on every menu. A fortress on the hill overlooked the harbor, from where ships once sailed to war and brought immigrants to Canada. Despite having just a day, we managed to see a lot. Here are 10 fun things to do in Halifax that we enjoyed and recommend.

Staying at the Westin Nova Scotian, our first stop was the Halifax Farmers Market, a short walk from the hotel. The market, established in 1750, moved to its current modern building on the Seaport in 2010 and now hosts 250 vendors. We saw beautifully presented fresh fruits, vegetables, and seasonal specialties like asparagus and rhubarb. The market also offered pickles, wines, locally produced crafts, creams, and jewelry, reflecting Halifax’s history as a major seaport and immigrant gateway.

The Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market is a great place to experience local food specialties. You can have lunch on the upstairs patio with views over the water. From the market, we joined the Halifax boardwalk, a popular spot for walking, jogging, cycling, and enjoying the sea air and harbor views. The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and places to relax, with plenty of boats to admire.

We passed a beach volleyball court and considered renting bikes but opted for the Harbour Hopper tour instead. This tour, in an amphibious vehicle, offers a unique perspective of the city and harbor. The guide provided fascinating commentary, including the story of the Halifax Explosion in 1917.

After the tour, we continued to the historic quarter. The Fort on Citadel Hill, established in 1749, protected the port and offers views of the city. The star-shaped fort never came under attack but is now a place to learn about military history, with soldiers in period costumes and daily cannon firings.

We also visited the Halifax Public Gardens, a Victorian park with a boating lake, statues, floral borders, and a bandstand. Nearby, the Halifax Central Library, a modern community hub, impressed us with its design and rooftop terrace offering city views.

Our final stop was the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, which tells the story of immigration in Halifax and Canada. The museum, located at the historic immigration point, offers guided tours that bring to life the experiences of immigrants arriving in Canada.

Halifax is also known for its seafood. We enjoyed meals at several restaurants, including the upscale Five Fishermen and Seaport Social at the Westin Nova Scotian. Both offered delicious seafood dishes and a great dining experience.

For beer lovers, Halifax has a vibrant craft beer scene. We visited Garrison Brewery and Alexander Keith’s Nova Scotia Brewery, both offering tours and tastings. The Halifax Distilling Company on the waterfront also offers tastings of their fine rum and spirits.

We stayed at the Westin Nova Scotian, a historic hotel with a great location near the waterfront. Our spacious, comfortable room had a fantastic harbor view. The hotel is ideal for exploring Halifax, with easy access to all the sights.

Halifax offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination in Nova Scotia.