Sigiriya is a small town a few hours north of Kandy, home to an ancient fortress on top of the 200m tall Sigiriya Rock, also known as Lion Rock. It's become one of the main tourist attractions in Sri Lanka, and it's worth a visit on your Sri Lankan adventure if you like big rocks... Continue Reading →
Killing time in Kandy
Kandy is a surprisingly big city nestled in the mountains of Sri Lanka's Central Province, a busy, dirty place surrounded by an endless sea of green. There are a few things to do here and it's worth a quick visit on your way to or from Ella. I didn't have any intention of visiting Colombo,... Continue Reading →
Ninjas and Buddhas in Luoyang
I was skeptical to visit these after such a wonderful day exploring the Yungang Grottoes, but I had nothing to worry about. In fact, if I had to recommend just one, it would be the Longmen Grottoes! Although the caves themselves don't have the colour or detail of Yungang, the scale of the complex will blow your mind.
Rest and relaxation in Pokhara
While Thamel was the place to 'relax' after an intense 17-day hike to Everest Base Camp, Pokhara was an even better place to relax after hiking all over the Annapurna region. Or before, for that matter. With nothing to do but chill by the lake and eat all the food, it's the perfect place for... Continue Reading →
Things to do around Kathmandu
So you've survived your first few days in Kathmandu but now it's time to explore this beautiful and chaotic city! It has a lot to offer, amazing food and handmade craft stores, temples and stupas, parks and rivers. All of these things are (just about) within walking distance of Thamel, but it's very easy to... Continue Reading →
How to survive your first time in Kathmandu
When you first arrive in Nepal it can seem a little daunting (unless you've just arrived from India, then it will seem like a breath of fresh air). Tribhuvan International Airport is a small, busy place and flights in and out can be extremely expensive compared to somewhere like Delhi or Colombo. It's also possible... Continue Reading →
Hiking the Himalayas: Everything you need to know about Altitude Sickness
Years ago, those who hiked in the Himalayas would be seasoned mountaineers looking to brave the highest peaks in the world. Now, anyone with a bit of cash and some determination can do it. It's busier than ever and not everyone understands the dangers they can face. Not only on the trails or from adverse... Continue Reading →
Eight captivating days in Central Mongolia
While Mongolia is famous for the vast Gobi Desert, it's not all there is to see by a long shot. Picture endless steppe, rolling hills, lakes and rivers, dotted with herds of wild horses and ger camps. It's beautiful, dramatic and deserted. I joined a 15-day tour from Ulaanbaatar through Golden Gobi for $535 and... Continue Reading →
Six uneventful days in Ulaanbaatar
I love exploring new cities when I get the chance. There's always something to see and do, enough to keep you busy for weeks! At least, that's what I thought until I got to Ulaanbaatar.