Being a tropical country located near South India, I used to think that when visiting Sri Lanka, all I needed to pack was summer clothes. Wrong. Especially if you’re planning to stay in Nuwara Eliya, a beautiful English town on top of a hill. Dubbed as Little England, the town is a contrast to other cities in Sri Lanka not only because of the English history, but also the climate and architecture. Founded by Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya’s cool climate (daily average of 16°C) made the town a favourite place to stay for British civil servants and colonialist. I’m so happy to include Nuwara Eliya in my Sri…
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I Visit Lonely Planet’s Hottest Destination 2019 and Regret
Like most of my friends, or should I say, most Asian, Sri Lanka is a country that we never dream of visiting. It doesn’t even cross my mind. However, my crush tells me that he’s been to Sri Lanka four times and the country is one of travel’s best-kept secrets. Really? What are the good things in Sri Lanka? Soon after, Lonely Planet named Sri Lanka as the best country in the world to visit in 2019! I feel so curious. I know that I need to see and experience the country myself. “You better hurry or it’ll soon become packed with travellers, just like Thailand,” he says. I book…
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Globetrotters and ‘Macarons’, Is It True?
Some people think that wanderlust or people who travel a lot will kiss and bang strangers from around the world. Perhaps, in every country they visit. Where’s this perception comes from?? Once I had catch up with my ex-colleagues. We’re very close and brutally honest, we discuss anything. At one point, my male friend asked me, “So Clara… Do you try a lot of ‘macarons’ when you’re travelling?” “Macarons?” I asked in confusion. The first thing that popped up on my mind was Ladurée, the famous French macaron that I tried while in transit in Charles de Gaulle. “You know what I mean,” he looked at me with naughty gaze.…
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5 Things People Got Wrong About Joining Tours
I agree that when we arrange our own trip, we’ll have total freedom. However, what’s bugging me is when some people think they’re better travellers because they arrange their own trips. It’s like the traveller snobs. Perhaps they forget to check the dictionary that “tourist” is the synonym of “traveller” 😉 I have some reasons to arrange a private tour or join a tour, but the strongest reason is to help me attain the tourist visas. That’s how I got my very first Schengen Visa, even though I was in a complicated situation. This article isn’t about boosting the benefit of joining a tour, just an honest opinion from someone…
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What You Can Do with Men Socks
This week, I want to encourage you to utilise everything when you mix ‘n match. I shared about keeping your grandma’s vintage clothes before, but what about your dad’s or brothers’ stuff? I wish I knew this before I bought the socks. Yup, a few years ago I got myself three pair of men socks because they’re on discount. You know, the ones that long enough to reach your calves? At that time, I hadn’t figured out the purpose. Even though mini socks were on trend, somehow, I thought long socks could add more style. Here are some examples on how you can wear men socks: Wear Them with Boots…
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Digital Detox Trip: Nature Edition
For this week’s blog post, I want to share an unforgettable travel experience in Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2016. Situated at the tip of The Bird’s Head Peninsula, West Papua, it’s hailed as The Mecca of Diving by divers worldwide thanks to the marine life diversity. Imagine finding 75% known corals, 1,700 species of reef fish and endangered mammals when you dive! Even better, you can go island-hopping and find yourself surrounded by gorgeous nature. Moreover, there are many beautiful white-sand beaches which you may have for your own. Talking about a much-deserved break from the city! If you love photography, Raja Ampat or the Four Kings will make your work…
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Why Being Low Maintenance Allows You to Travel
In the previous blog post, I shared my experience having too many mini-retirements aka six holidays in a year. How could I possibly have the money? Well, basically I’m a low maintenance girl. I’m conscious of my spending so I can save enough money for travel. Here are some habits that help me travel often: I’m Staying with My Family What else do I need to say? I’m waived from house rental, electricity and water bills, and the food is provided. In Asian culture, children stay with their family before they get married, which is an advantage if you love travelling. If you’re working overseas you may need to pay…
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This Christmas… Dare to Dream and Repurpose Your Life
On November 30, 2017, I made a wish: All I wanted for Christmas is fantastic trips next year. 2018 is the year when I totally surrender to my wanderlust. What’s supposed to be two trips suddenly morphed into six trips. I totally agree if you think I’m crazy, yet I love it. I saved for a year to realise my 15 days Cuba trip, failed to step my foot in Holy Land Israel thus went to Spain + Portugal half-heartedly. The beauty of Chiang Mai +Chiang Rai captured my heart, so did Da Nang + Hội An, Toraja and Beijing – so I booked the trips in a snap of fingers.…
