International Travel, Travel Photography, Travel Stories

The Many Gorgeous, Glorious Doors of Cartagena

It’s impossible to visit the city of Cartagena without noticing its gorgeous doors and colorful buildings. Well, these days it’s impossible to avoid them even if you don’t visit, as Cartagena’s doors are an Instagram favorite. Even I, someone who’s not a fan of “Instagram hot spot” trends, could not resist its allure. The rainbow… Read More The Many Gorgeous, Glorious Doors of Cartagena

Domestic Travel, International Travel, Reflections, Travel Stories

The First Time Sexual Harassment While Traveling Made Me Feel in Danger

Any female who has traveled, especially solo, no doubt has stories of experiencing sexual harassment while traveling. It wasn’t until last November though, after years of frequent travel, that an incident made me both pissed and wary enough to change my travel plans. It’s everywhere Go out with friends, and some guy will think he… Read More The First Time Sexual Harassment While Traveling Made Me Feel in Danger

International Travel, Itineraries & Trip Planning, Travel Stories

A Guide to Trains in China, from the Old-School to the High-Speed

One of my most poignant observations when I was in China in spring 2012 was how the state of the Chinese rail system reflected the country’s growing wealth gap. As I rode a variety of trains in China between September and November 2017, this disparity only became clearer. There are extremely old trains that rattle… Read More A Guide to Trains in China, from the Old-School to the High-Speed

International Travel, Travel Photography, Travel Stories

The Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival: A Technicolor Himalayan Dream

I was a few rows behind in the crowd, but because I’m tall enough, I smiled real big and caught her attention. She looked me in the eye and smiled. Pleased to meet you, I said, not knowing how to properly address her. She extended her hand and I accepted. Pleased to meet you, too,… Read More The Dochula Druk Wangyel Festival: A Technicolor Himalayan Dream

International Travel, Travel Stories

You Haven’t Experienced Thailand Until You’ve Tried This Type of Massage

As the first hammering pounds came down on my back, I winced a bit and wondered whether I’d made a good decision. What if she injures me? As she worked her way down to my buttocks, I wondered what bruises I was going to end up with. Stop. If your mind is going somewhere illicit,… Read More You Haven’t Experienced Thailand Until You’ve Tried This Type of Massage