The Seychelles conjures up images of white sand beaches, windswept palms and turquoise waters, a postcard perfect tropical paradise. Having spent five weeks exploring the islands, I can tell you: it’s true. It also brings to mind the ultra-luxurious resorts with a price tag that would send the average person reeling. Continue reading The Seychelles on a Budget
Affordable Accommodations in the Seychelles
If you thought the Seychelles only had ultra-luxurious 5-star resorts, think again. This island paradise has the most expensive resort in the world but you may be surprised to learn that the Seychelles also has many affordable accommodations in the form of self-catering chalets, villas and apartments, some with prime beachfront locations. Continue reading Affordable Accommodations in the Seychelles
The Seychelles – an intro to Seychellois Cuisine at Chez Batista
MAHÉ, The Seychelles – An enormous red snapper – all 15 pounds – lords over the table, its mouth agape, under-bite protruding over the edge of the platter, sharp little teeth conveying his displeasure over his situation. He was baked. Continue reading The Seychelles – an intro to Seychellois Cuisine at Chez Batista
Iran: Persia, picnics, pomegranates & poetry
From historic silk road desert towns to modern metropolises to remnants of the glorious ancient Persian empire, Iran will amaze even the most intrepid of travellers. Continue reading Iran: Persia, picnics, pomegranates & poetry
“Butanding!”
DONSOL, The Philippines – After three hours of aimlessly crisscrossing the waters I thought the guide would call it a day without us having caught a single glimpse. Not a fin. Even the spotters, perched high on the small boat’s bamboo towers, slumped and seemed less optimistic. Continue reading “Butanding!”
Portraits of Northern Laos: The story behind the colours
Ten colours, ten stories. This photo essay is the first of a series of posts on the mountainous, ethnically diverse region of northern Laos.
Continue reading Portraits of Northern Laos: The story behind the colours
Coppelia Ice Cream Parlour, Cuba’s Cathedral of Ice Cream
HAVANA, Cuba – Forget cigars, rum and old cars. Forget Hemingway, Fidel and Che. If there are only two things to remember about real Cuban life, it’s this: queues and ice cream. Continue reading Coppelia Ice Cream Parlour, Cuba’s Cathedral of Ice Cream
Plunge into local life in Luang Prabang at Phosi Market
LUANG PRABANG, Laos – Silvery, slithery things indignantly flick their tails sending a wave of water out of the bucket. Unidentified creatures with small paws sizzle on a grill. Continue reading Plunge into local life in Luang Prabang at Phosi Market
Din Tai Fung & the art of the dumpling
The art of the dumpling and how legendary Din Tai Fung restaurant brought Taiwanese food to the world stage. Continue reading Din Tai Fung & the art of the dumpling
October 23, 2011: “Stuff”
I recently stumbled upon something I had written and long forgotten about. It was entitled “Stuff”, dated October 23, 2011. Exactly two years ago today, I was frantically packing up my stuff, my life in Toronto for an opportunity to pursue my dream job abroad as a travel writer. It felt crazy; I was taking a huge leap of faith. Could I really do it? Here is the entry: Continue reading October 23, 2011: “Stuff”