I remember how struck I was by Hanoi’s vibrancy the first time I visited it. I needed to go there due to some visa problems in China and, compared to the China I knew, Hanoi seemed incredibly relaxed. Still it thrummed with a certain energy, fueled by over a...
The mountain city of Cusco, Peru, is best known as being the gateway to Machu Picchu. But the city is so much more than just a transit point for the famous world wonder. As the historic capital of the legendary Inca Empire and the oldest inhabited city...
Winter destinations: Warm places to visit in December Not everyone is fond of winter weather and blues especially at the start of December and holiday season. In fact, many snowbirds from Canada and cold winter areas of the USA and Europe opt for going to sunnier...
Exploring Plovdiv: Unveiling the Enchanting Charms of Bulgaria’s Oldest City(updated 2023) There some places on the Earth, which have something really unique, but since they are “behind the shadow” of the famous destinations, they often remained...
Oman is one of the most naturally diverse countries in the Middle East region. Contrary to its popular neighbor Dubai, Oman is a lesser known country aiming to get a spot on the world tourism map in the years to come. The country is home to a vast...
Once a stopover along the silk road, Turkey has long been a crossroads between East and West. As a result, the country has a rich culture steeped in history and traditions with warm hospitable people. Mixed together it makes holidaying in Turkey an unforgettable...
Hi, I'm Noel, a writer and photographer based in San Francisco and Hawaii. I write about delicious food and wine indulgences, thoughtful luxury, and adventure travel. I share camera tips and techniques while exploring new and unusual places around the world. My site explores culture and history, art and architecture, world heritage sites, exotic locals, along with nature tours and natural landscapes worldwide. Quite a mixed bag of curiosities and quirky interests, just like myself.