Making Friends with the Sherpas While Trekking in Nepal
Many people go trekking in Nepal for the views of the Himalaya Mountains. But I found there’s an even better reason to come: the Sherpa people.
Asia
The largest continent by both area and population, Asia offers a tremendous diversity of places to see and things to do. There is an incredible history in Asia – from the Imperial dynasties of Japan and China to the mystic cultures of the Central Asian countries. Many of the great food cultures are located here: sushi and sashimi in Japan, momo dumplings in Nepal, pho in Vietnam and the bold curry dishes from Thailand, Malaysia, India and Bangladesh. If there’s something good to eat in the world, chances are good at least part of it can trace its roots back to this massive stretch of land.
For travelers there is so much to do here. Active travelers and adventure seekers can find thrills in the high Himalayas of Nepal and Bhutan, including mountain monasteries and trekking around Annapurna. Skiers should seek out the slopes of Japan. Scuba divers will be treated to amazing diving in Okinawa and Thailand. Intrepid travelers looking to get off the map have incredible opportunities to explore the stans: Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan. And foodies will be delighted by the street food in Singapore. There’s a lot to explore in Asia.
Reflections After The Nepal Earthquake
I learned one key lesson in Nepal: never underestimate the resiliency of the Nepalese people. When you are born into one of the poorest countries on earth, you don’t have the luxury of failing. The Nepalese people have always found a way to overcome. In the aftermath of the Nepal Earthquake, I’m confident they will rebuild their lives…with a smile on their faces. That’s what you do in Nepal.
The Local View – Dalang, Dongguan Expat Life in China
The Local View – Dongguan, China. Agness Walewinder shares her Dungguan expat experience of teaching, travelling and living like a local girl.
Buddhism and Bloodshed in the Nepal Civil War
Reflecting on my time in Kathmandu during the Nepal Civil War. Study abroad during college brought me to Kathmandu, Nepal to study physiology and Buddhism during the early days of this insurgent conflict.
The Topkapi Palace Museum in Historic Istanbul, Turkey
The Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul is a monument to Turkey’s importance as the seat of the Ottoman Empire for centuries. It also has stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Which Bosphorus Cruise to Take in Istanbul
Istanbul, Turkey sits astride the Bosphorus Strait. This is the meeting of two continents – Europe and Asia – and is one of the busiest shipping channels in the world. Thousands of vessels cross these waters every day. Taking a Bosphorus cruise tour is also one of the top activities for visitors in Istanbul.
The Highlights of Historic Istanbul
Istanbul. There are few places like it in the world. The hilly, sprawling city welcomes visitors with unfamiliar sights and sounds. There are million things to do in Istanbul, so first-time visitors need to be selective. These are our must see places in Istanbul.
Soaking in Cleopatra’s Antique Pool at the Pamukkale Hot Springs
Since the 7th century, people have been coming to Pamukkale to soak in the unique “champagne waters” that are heated by geothermal activity. Since we are big fans of geothermal pools around the world, we knew we had to visit the Pamukkale hot springs and the Antique Pool.
Visiting The Ruins of Ephesus, Turkey
Ephesus is one of the most famous sites of the ancient world. It’s breathtakingly beautiful – and incredible hot.
The Highlights of a Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride
A Cappadocia hot air balloon ride is a unique experience above a stunning landscape. These photos of our dawn ride and cave visit tell the story.