Summary Ninh Binh: A Popular Tourist Spot The final location of my trip was in Ninh Binh, an almost two-hour […]
Return to Vietnam: Hoi An (Part 2)
On my second day in Hoi An, I enjoyed a bike ride through rural Quang Nam, tasted traditional Banh Beo at a local family’s home, visited a chapel and a mat-weaving family, and ended with a Vespa food tour exploring local cuisine.
Return to Vietnam: Hoi An (Part 1)
After enjoying a late breakfast and a beach walk, I checked into a homestay in Hoi An’s Old Quarter. I attended a night Ghost Walk tour focusing on Vietnamese death customs. A Vespa tour followed, exploring local attractions and cuisine.
Return to Vietnam: Hue
The author reflects on a day trip to Hue after mistakenly thinking they had a free day at the beach. The trip included visits to Lap An Lagoon, the Imperial City of Hue, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh. Despite the heat and underwhelming sites, they prepared for the next destination, Hoi An.
Return to Vietnam: Da Nang
After a five-year break from traveling due to COVID, the author returned to Vietnam, exploring Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ninh Binh. The trip, initially planned for Christmas, was rescheduled to March for better weather. Highlights included local cuisine, cultural sites like the Marble Mountains, and a unique fishing method. Despite spending more than intended, the experience offered rich material for future blog posts.
Oman – Part 3: Wadis and Water
The trip culminated in a day of water activities, highlighted by visits to Wadi Shab, Tiwi Beach, and Bimmah Sinkhole. Despite mixed feelings about Tiwi Beach, swimming in Wadi Shab and the sinkhole provided memorable experiences. The journey concluded with a visit to Sultan Qaboos Mosque before heading home, leaving the possibility of returning someday.
Oman – Part 2: Nizwa and Canyons
On Day 2 in Oman, we visited Nizwa to explore its historic castle and fortress, built in the 8th and 17th centuries. Our guide Ali showed us local markets and we sampled traditional foods like mutabaq. The day ended with a scenic drive to Jabal Shams, the Arabian Peninsula’s highest peak, offering stunning canyon views.
Oman – Part 1: Christmas in the Desert
After debating destinations during their time in Qatar, the author and their friend chose to visit Oman based on recommendations. Their experiences included exploring the Wahiba Desert and Wadi Bani Khalid, sampling local foods, and navigating the bustling Mutrah Souq. The trip offered a blend of cultural insights and scenic beauty.
Christmas in the Middle East – Part One: Qatar
The author recounts their journey to Doha, Qatar, to visit a friend after 1.5 years. Their trip includes exploring Doha, dealing with airport confusion, enjoying local food, and visiting a market. They also reflect on luxury living and cultural differences. The visit provides emotional closure and a chance for adventure before heading to Oman.
Tokyo 2023 Wrap-Up
In the past year, the author reflected on notable experiences, including their 10-year anniversary of teaching abroad, bike troubles, and increased health insurance payments. They reunited with a friend in Qatar, attended an anti-war protest, and felt tremors.