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Destinations

Below you’ll find a list of all our favorite travel destinations. Under each section, you’ll also find a few quick links to kick-start your trip planning and wanderlust!

Asia

Hong Kong | Indonesia | Japan | Macau | Malaysia | Singapore | South Korea | Taiwan | Thailand | Turkey | Vietnam

Hong Kong

I’ve visited Hong Kong quite a few times because it was such a quick and easy trip from Taiwan. It’s one of those places where you get a mix of old and new in a single day — busy streets, temples tucked between buildings, hiking trails with great views, and food that’s worth planning your day around.

  • Hong Kong 2-Day Itinerary
  • Things to Know Before Visiting Hong Kong
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use these Hong Kong travel tips to take a junk boat at Victoria harbor

Indonesia

From pristine beaches to diverse marine life to epic parties, Gili Trawangan has stacks to keep you busy and stacks to love. Check out the best things to do in Gili Trawangan here!

I’ve been to Indonesia around six times, and each trip has felt completely different. I’ve seen Komodo dragons up close, taken long boat rides between islands, hiked down to Kelingking Beach, and had my fair share of nasi goreng. With thousands of islands and a huge range of landscapes, it’s the kind of place where you can build a totally different trip every time.

  • Indonesia 2 Week Itinerary
  • What to Do in Bali in 7 Days
  • Ubud 3-Day Itinerary
  • Incredible Landmarks in Indonesia
  • Bali Packing List
  • What to Do in Nusa Penida
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Japan

Japan is one of the most visually striking places to visit, especially during cherry blossom season or when the autumn leaves start turning. Between the temples, gardens, mountain views, and easy day trips, it’s a destination that’s hard to forget.

  • Best Places to Visit in Japan in Autumn
  • How to Spend 2 Days in Kyoto
  • The Most Beautiful Landmarks of Japan
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Macau

macau's red street is one of the most photogenic places in Macao

There’s so much more to Macau than its dazzling casinos. This country state is jam-packed with a rich history, diverse culture, and exciting things to do, see, and try.

  • Best Photo Spots in Macau

Malaysia

Malaysia has a good mix of cities, islands, and rainforests, and it’s one of those places where each area feels different. I love George Town for its street art and easy walkability, and Kuala Lumpur for its busy markets and shopping.

  • Kuala Lumpur Itinerary
  • Incredible Places to Visit in Malaysia
  • Famous Landmarks of Malaysia
  • Instagram Spots in Kuala Lumpur
then you temple is a popular place to visit in Kuala Lumpur

Singapore

cloud forest singapore best attractions

Singapore may be small, but it packs in a lot — from striking architecture to gardens, museums, and some of the best food in the region. The Cloud Forest blew me away, and the Botanic Gardens is still one of the best I’ve ever visited. And of course, the laksa and Hainanese chicken rice alone are worth the trip.

  • Best Photo Spots in Singapore
  • Best Places to Visit in Singapore
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South Korea

South Korea is one of my favorite places in Asia. You get a mix of historic temples, modern architecture, busy shopping streets, traditional neighborhoods, and some of the best food around — from Korean barbecue and bibimbap to bulgogi and, of course, late-night soju. I love the contrast between old and new and how each area has its own energy.

  • How to Spend 4 Days in Seoul
  • When is the Best Time to Visit Seoul?
  • How to Spend 3 Days in Busan
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A vibrant, ornately painted temple roof detail in Seoul, South Korea, set against a backdrop of pale pink cherry blossom trees. The colorful architecture contrasts beautifully with the delicate, blooming branches.

Taiwan

Cherry blossoms in full bloom frame the multi-tiered pagoda of Wuji Tianyuan Temple in Taiwan, set against a clear blue sky. The pink flowers and traditional architecture create a serene and picturesque spring scene.

Taiwan is full of character and easy to explore, with a mix of buzzing cities, misty mountains, jungle trails, ocean views, and a food scene that deserves more attention. I lived here for 14 years, and it’s one of those places that keeps surprising you no matter how long you stay. If you’re planning your first trip, this is a great place to start.

  • The Perfect 2-Week Taiwan Itinerary
  • Ultimate Taipei Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
  • How to Spend 1 Day in Taipei
  • Where to Stay in Taipei: Best Areas for First-Time Visitors
  • Best Day Trips From Taipei
  • How to Get From Taoyuan Airport to Taipei
  • Taiwan Packing List
  • Kaohsiung for First-Time Visitors: What to See, Do, and Eat
  • How to Visit Taroko Gorge (What I Wish I Knew Before Going)
  • How to Visit Alishan
  • How to Plan a Trip to Sun Moon Lake
  • Ultimate Green Island Travel Guide + How to Get There
  • Night Markets in Taiwan: Which Ones Are Worth It
  • Most Beautiful Places in Taiwan
  • Hidden Gems in Taiwan You Shouldn’t Miss
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Thailand

Thailand is one of those places I keep going back to. I’ve visited around five times, mostly because I’m obsessed with the islands (and coconut milkshakes). Between the busy cities, night markets, white-sand beaches, temples, and jungle trails, there’s always something to see and do. If you’re not sure where to start, these guides will help:

  • Bangkok in 4 Days: What to See & Do
  • Famous Landmarks in Thailand You Shouldn’t Miss
  • Best Photo Spots in Bangkok
  • How to Spend 5 Perfect Days in Krabi
  • Island Hopping in Krabi: Which Islands Not to Miss
  • Ultimate Railay Bay Travel Guide
  • What to Pack for a Thailand Trip
  • My Tips for Visiting Thailand
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A tropical beach in Thailand with tall palm trees casting shadows over white sand, where a traditional longtail boat and a smaller motorboat are anchored in clear turquoise water. The lush greenery and gentle waves create a serene, postcard-perfect coastal scene.

Turkey

A vertical view of Kaputaş Beach with turquoise waves washing ashore, people swimming and relaxing under white and yellow umbrellas, and a rugged cliff rising steeply beside the sea with a road and vehicle above.

Turkey is ideal if you love coastlines, good food, and history. It’s one of my favorite places to explore thanks to its small towns, clear water, ancient sites, and easy travel routes. Whether you’re after beaches, ruins, or a quick city break, you’ll find a bit of everything here. Start planning here:

  • Where to Stay in Kalkan
  • Best Places to Stay in Kaş
  • How to Visit Kaputas Beach
  • Kaş Travel Guide: What to See, Do, and Eat
  • Most Iconic Landmarks in Turkey

Vietnam

There are so many beautiful places to explore in Vietnam. The country is filled with lively streets, centuries-old landmarks, beautiful beaches, and excellent street food. Start planning here:

  • Vietnam Travel Guide
  • Travel Tips for Vietnam
  • Vietnam Packing List
  • Famous Vietnamese Landmarks
A street vendor in Hanoi, Vietnam, walks past a colorful fabric shop carrying a traditional yoke with two baskets, one holding goods and the other covered with cloth. She wears a conical hat, a long-sleeve shirt, and a face mask pulled under her chin.

Europe

Belgium | Greece | Netherlands | Portugal

Belgium

Belgium is one of my favorite countries in Europe, and not just for the chocolate, beer, and waffles (though those never hurt). It’s compact, easy to get around, and packed with history, cobblestone lanes, museums, and plenty to see and do. Plan your trip:

  • Where to Stay in Antwerp: Historic District or Central Station Area?
  • How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Dinant
  • Where to Stay in Namur + My Mercure Hotel Review
  • My NH Collection Ghent review
A busy Antwerp street with cars and taxis parked alongside a red iron and glass structure connected to the central station. A clock tower rises at the end of the building under a clear sky.

Greece

The white volcanic cliffs of Sarakiniko in Milos, Greece, rise above clear turquoise and deep blue waters, where waves carve into the stone and expose the rugged texture beneath. The striking contrast between the smooth white rock and the vibrant sea makes the coastline appear almost otherworldly.

Sun-drenched islands, clear blue water, and big, dramatic landscapes — Greece is a dream if you love exploring different islands. Santorini has the classic whitewashed look, while Milos brings volcanic cliffs, hidden coves, and quiet beaches. Each island feels different, and that’s what makes Greece such a fun place to travel through.

  • 3 Day Itinerary in Santorini
  • 3 Day Milos Itinerary
  • What to Do in Milos
  • How to Get from Milos to Santorini
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Netherlands

Picture-perfect canals, cozy cafés, and easy day trips make the Netherlands such a fun place to explore. You can wander through historic cities, bike through small towns, see tulip fields in spring, and find plenty of spots beyond Amsterdam that are worth the detour. And yes, the stroopwafels and cheese are always a bonus.

  • What to Do in Amsterdam
  • Things to Know before Visiting The Netherlands
  • What to Do in Gouda
Sunset over Noorderplassen in Almere, with modern waterfront homes and moored boats reflecting on the calm water. The sky transitions from soft orange near the horizon to deep blue overhead, creating a peaceful, warm glow across the scene.

Portugal

Two iconic yellow trams on a narrow street in Lisbon, Portugal, with tall pastel buildings lining both sides and a bright blue sky above.

Golden beaches, blue-tiled buildings, and freshly baked pastel de nata — Portugal is one of the easiest places to fall in love with. I spent about two weeks traveling from the Algarve to Lisbon and Porto, and each place offered something different. Think wide beaches, hilly streets with colorful buildings, and really good Port.

  • Tips for Visiting Portugal for the First Time
  • Things to Know Before Visiting Lisbon

Africa

Mauritius | South Africa

Mauritius

Mauritius is so much more than just pretty beaches (although that’s a good enough reason to visit!). With scenic drives, waterfalls, colorful markets, and seriously good food, it’s one of those places that’s easy to explore but hard to leave.

  • My Le Meridien Ile Maurice Hotel Review
  • Things to Know Before Visiting Mauritius
  • Where to Stay in Mauritius (coming soon)
  • Things to Do in Mauritius (coming soon)
  • Renting a Car in Mauritius (coming soon)
Two tall palm trees frame a sunny beach scene with a small yellow-and-white boat anchored near the shore in calm, clear blue water. A few people swim and walk along the gentle curve of the beach.

South Africa

africa bushveld sunset

South Africa will always feel like home to me. I grew up there and still try to go back every year to see family and friends — and every trip reminds me how much I love my home country. From coastlines and small towns to wildlife, good food, and a mix of cultures, it’s a place that’s hard to match.

  • My South Africa Bucket List
  • Travel Tips for South Africa
  • How to Spend 7 Days in Cape Town
  • Best Things to Do in Cape Town
  • Top Attractions in Mpumalanga
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about
Mariza is a South African who ditched her job in advertising to teach English in Taiwan — and ended up staying for 14 years. She now lives in Europe but still shares detailed guides and insider tips on traveling in Taiwan, Asia, South Africa, and beyond.

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