Blonde Voyage

✧ Traveler ♡ Adventurer ☽ Creative

ITALY, ROME

ROAMING AROUND ROME

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Rome is one of the most iconic cities in the entire world. It’s filled with so much history, beauty and the most delicious food. It is a city that keeps you coming back, regardless of whether you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain or not. I visited Rome in May and I experienced beautiful weather. This is a perfect time to go in my opinion. 

Rome, Italy

1. EXPLORE THE COLOSSEUM

Built around 80 AD, the Colosseum is one of the most recognizable Roman attractions and one of the most visited places in the entire city. Being able to actually see something in person that you read about in history books your entire life is one of the most incredible feelings. This is how I felt when I first laid eyes on the Colosseum. I could not stop staring and smiling! This Colosseum used to hold plays, sporting events, gladiator fights and animal hunts. 

I would recommend going inside if you can. Even though the underground was under construction when I visited its definitely worth it to see it from the inside. It’s pretty crazy to think that slaves and animals were housed here. This is also where the gladiators got ready to fight.

When visiting you must expect lines. I highly recommend booking a tour ahead of time. I booked Skip the Line: Colosseum Small Group Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill on Viator. It was so easy to get in and we skipped all the lines. It’s completely worth it to me especially if you are limited on time. It’s also nice to have a guide to tell you stories and give you information on what you are seeing.

Colosseum, Rome

2. ROMAN FORUM

Located right outside the colosseum is The Roman Forum. The forum is just a magical sight, literally history from thousands of years ago that is very well preserved. The forum contains the ruins of several important ancient government buildings.

Roman Forum
Temple of Antoninus Pius

3. VIEWS FROM PALATINE HILL

Next to the Roman Forum is Palatine Hill, the center most of the seven hills in Rome. Palatine Hill is supposedly where Romulus founded the city of Rome in 753 BC, as well as the former site of the Imperial Palace. The best part of Palatine Hill is that it holds spectacular views of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum that just blew me away! It’s an amazing sight to see all the importance of Roman history all in one view.

Palatine Hill

4. ORDER CACIO E PEPE

After my tour around the Colosseum I stayed within the area and got a bite to eat at a restaurant my friend recommended. This is where I had a life changing meal.

When in Rome, there’s one pasta dish that’s a MUST try: Cacio e pepe! It’s made of Pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mine was served in this amazing Parmesan bowl. I still dream about this dish every day. The name of the restaurant is Pasqualino al Colosseo. We didn’t make a reservation but feel free to book ahead here.

Cacio e pepe

5. TASTE THE BEST GELATO

If you are in Rome and have not tried Gelato, then your Roman holiday is not complete. It is one thing to have Gelato in your hometown and another to have it in the country where it was invented! After dinner I was able to grab some delicious Gelato on my walk back to the Colosseum. I enjoyed a nice stroll around the area eating my Gelato and taking in all the beautiful colors of the sunset. This moment wasn’t planned and was completely spontaneous and is one of my favorite memories of the trip.

The Colosseum at Sunset

6. ARCH OF CONSTANTINE

The arch is located outside the Colosseum and a great sight to see. This is the largest surviving triumph in Rome dedicated to Constantine the Great.

Arch of Constantine

7. VISIT THE IL VITTORIANO

This building is hard to miss. I remember it being one of the first buildings I laid eyes on during my ride into Rome. I remember my jaw dropped and I could not stop staring at this building. It is a beautiful huge white building constructed of white marble, almost like a palace. It features a statue of a horseman as its focal point. It’s definitely worth a visit. It’s also open to the public free of charge. I walked up the steps and wandered around a bit. I also took in some amazing views of Rome from the terrace.  

Il Vittoriano

8. TOSS A COIN IN THE TREVI FOUNTAIN

A trip to Rome is not complete without a visit to the iconic Trevi Fountain. The fountain is located in the Quirinale district of Rome and is known as being one of the most stunning fountains in the world. It literally took my breath away. I recommend getting there early because it gets extremely crowded. It is also nice to visit at night as well. I did both! Make sure to participate in the tradition of throwing a coin over your shoulder into the Fountain. Not only does this make for a great insta video, but rumor has it it will ensure a trip back to the eternal city. I am already dreaming of returning!

Trevi Fountain, Rome

9. DRINK FROM THE ANCIENT AQUEDUCTS

Rome has been known for the quality of its drinking water for more than 2,000 years. The Ancient Romans built the aqueducts which you can still find standing around the city and the surrounding countryside. You can enjoy some ice cold refreshing water from them entirely for free. See below as we fill up our water bottle with fresh Trevi fountain water!

Filling up our water bottles with Trevi Fountain water

10. TAKE AN ESPRESSO BREAK

Coffee in Italy is a way of life and there are rules! Rule number one: do not ask for a skinny medium double-shot vanilla latte with whipped cream on top. What you want to say is “I would like a caffe” which is a strong shot of espresso. It’s delicious and great when you are in a hurry, on the go and need a quick jolt of energy. You will also notice that most Italians drink coffee while standing at the bar. I found this so different from the US where people hang out in coffee shops for hours sitting down. Another interesting thing that I learned is DO NOT order a cappuccino after noon in Italy if you want to fit in. The locals will give you a funny look especially at a local bar. 

Rome, Italy

11. CLIMB THE SPANISH STEPS

Sitting right off the street of designer shops is the Spanish Steps. Beautiful Trinità dei Monti church stands at the top of the steps. The Spanish steps are used as a common meeting ground for locals and tourists. The stairs offer a nice seating space for those who wish to take a break during all their roaming around Rome. I tried to get here earlier in the day to avoid the crowds. 

Spanish Steps, Rome

12. SHOPPING

Right off the Spanish steps is Via Condotti, a street full of luxury designer shops. If money is not an issue you can shop some of the top luxury brands here. Even if you do not have the money it’s always fun to browse around! The best thing to buy in Rome is leather. High end brands like Gucci, Chanel, Fendi and Golden Goose are tax free to tourists. You can actually save some money while shopping in Italy this way! There are also tons of shops and boutiques wherever you go in Rome that sell beautiful handmade leather bags & jackets that are more on budget. I always like bringing back a special piece from shopping during my travels.

Golden Goose, Luxury Italian Sneaker Brand

13. THE PANTHEON

The Pantheon is beautiful to admire from the outside and inside. The Pantheon is built in a Greek Style and was originally built as a temple dedicated to the Pagan Gods of Rome. It’s free to go inside and is now used as a church. The Pantheon holds the world record for having the largest unsupported concrete dome. It is quite an engineering marvel for its time.

The Pantheon, Rome

14. VATICAN CITY & MUSEUMS

Did you know that Vatican City is literally it’s own city? It’s the smallest country in the world with a population of just 1,000 residents. They even issue their own passports and driver’s licenses. 

A trip to Rome is not complete without visiting St. Peter’s and the Vatican. I am so glad I booked a guided tour with Viator because the lines were outrageous. You would waste an entire day waiting on the line for this and I’d feel bad if you’d come all this way and you missed out. Our tour guide was able to get us in within 5 minutes and was so knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The tour included the Basilica, the Vatican museum, and the Sistine Chapel and lasted around 3-4 hours. You could easily spend days in the Vatican museum and still not see everything!

Found the piece of artwork that matches the entrance ticket in the Vatican
Perseus with the Head of Medusa by Antonio Canova

15. MARVEL AT THE SISTINE CHAPEL

The Sistine Chapel is located within Vatican City. Being an artist, this was one of the most incredible things to see in person. The Sistine Chapel contains one of the most important paintings in the world, the Last Judgement painted by Michelangelo. You stand in a room full of people in silence and get to admire its beauty. Unfortunately, taking photographs is strictly prohibited but here is a stock photo.

Source: Flickr / Photo: Dennis Jarvis / CC2.0

16. BE AMAZED BY ST PETER’S BASILICA

This was the last stop on my Vatican tour. Saint Peter’s Basilica is the world’s largest church with its world famous dome that can be seen across Rome. It was designed by a number of talented artists and architects including the famous Michelangelo and took over 300 years to build! One of the most impressive sculpture is Michaelango’s Pieta which is made of marble. For those of you who studied art history this is a special sight to see. Thousands a week flock to see the Pope give his blessings on Wednesday. Unfortunately I didn’t get to see him during my visit.

Outside St Peter’s Square
St Peter’s Basilica

17. ENJOY A SPRITZ FOR APERTIVIO

After all the walking you will want to find a nice place to sit and enjoy a Spritz. If you only try one new drink while you’re in Italy, let it be an Aperol Spritz. This is a traditional Italian drink that combines sweet, bubbling Prosecco with bitter, herbaceous Aperol topped off with a splash of soda water and an orange garnish. It’s a refreshing citrus drink that is perfect in the afternoon. It was so relaxing to dine within the charming streets of Rome. There was even a man passing by us who played Italian music on the accordion!

Aperol Spritz

18. STROLL THE STREETS OF TRASTEVERE

In Trastevere you will find narrow, cobblestone streets filled with medieval era buildings. This area is known as Rome’s most charming neighborhood. It’s a trendy area known for great food and a lively atmosphere. Since I ran out of time I didn’t get to spend as much time as I would have liked here. 

Trastevere, Rome

19. VILLA BORGHESE GARDENS

If you are looking to escape the crowds in Rome, Villa Borghese is a wonderful place to go. Villa Borghese is the second largest public park in the city. My fiancé and I walked spent around an hour or two walking around, admiring the beauty and it’s hidden architecture built within nature. It was one of the most romantic parks we ever visited. 

Villa Borghese

20. EAT ALL THE PIZZA & PASTA

Roman Pizza & Pasta had to be my favorite Italian food. The pizza is thin and crispy and made with simple yet delicious ingredients. Unlike in the States where you will find pizza with numerous toppings, pizza in Italy is meant to be enjoyed with simple ingredients like cheese and sauce and some basil. That’s it! The gnocchi is also the freshest I have ever tasted in my life. Also go for the gnocchi with simple ingredients. All you need is some sauce and basil. 

Homemade Gnocchi, Rome
Homemade Pasta & Roman Pizza

21. ROAM AROUND ROME

Make sure to leave some time for some wandering. Go off the rails and get lost in the charming cobble stoned alleyways. It’s so relaxing and such a nice treat to the eyes to stroll around this beautiful city. You never know what you might find. Maybe a hidden gelato spot or pizza shop. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

Rome, Italy

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ICELAND, PACKING GUIDE, Travel

ICELAND PACKING GUIDE

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Packing for Iceland can be tricky. Iceland is a country where you can experience many different types of weather within one day, or even within hours. One moment the sun will be shining and next you will be driving through a storm of wind, rain or hail. The wind can be strong enough to blow you away!

Its varied weather is what makes Iceland so incredibly green and beautiful in many places. Thanks to the rain, often followed by brilliant sunlight, after a storm Iceland often becomes the land of magical waterfalls and rainbows. To me it’s one of the most beautiful and unique places on earth.

Dyrholaey, Vik

You must be thinking: how do you pack for a place that experiences so many different types of weather in a day? Don’t worry, I am here to guide you! The key is dressing in layers and wearing waterproof clothing. Having the right clothes will definitely make your trip a lot more enjoyable. Don’t think for one second that you don’t need proper gear when going to Iceland, even in good weather.

Less is more when you are packing, trust me I’ve always been an over packer! There have been way too many times where I pack too many pieces of clothing and end up only wearing half. Comfort should be your main priority when visiting Iceland.

Kerið Crater, Iceland

I visited Iceland the last week of September into the first week of October. The weather is very unpredictable at this time but it’s like that most of the year. I knew that running into rain, sun, clouds, wind and maybe snow was a possibility. Your Iceland packing list will be pretty similar no matter what the time of year it is but here is my specific packing list for Iceland in the fall.

Diamond Beach, Iceland

PACKING LIST (FALL/WINTER)

This post contains links for the products that I mentioned. All opinions are my own. I make a small commission when you make a purchase or booking through these links. This supports my blog and helps to keep Blondvoyagenyc running 🙂
  • 1-2 Jackets (waterproof)
  • Hiking Boots (waterproof)
  • 2 Pairs Fleece Leggings
  • 3 Pairs Wool Socks
  • 1-2 Hats
  • 1 Pair Gloves
  • 2 Uniqlo Heat Tech Tops
  • 1 Uniqlo Heat Tech Bottom
  • 1 Tech Fleece
  • 2 Sweaters
  • 1 Pair of Jeans
  • 1 Neckwarmer
  • 1 Bathing Suit
  • Flip Flops
  • Waterproof Backpack
  • Collapsible Water Bottle
  • 1-2 Sunglasses
  • Lotion/Chapstick & Toiletries
  • 1 Dress (if traveling for a special occasion)
  • Undies & Sports Bra
  • Plug Adaptor
  • Camera & Tripod
  • Carry On Luggage
  • Packing Cubes

FINDING THE RIGHT JACKET

The right jacket is the most important thing, apart from good footwear, that you will pack for your trip to Iceland. If you plan on visiting waterfalls (Iceland has many) you are going to get wet! There is no way around it. Believe me the last thing you want is to feel cold and wet all day. So something warm that keeps out the moisture is essential.

I recommend Volcom Women’s Winrose Insulated Snow Jacket for colder days. This jacket is warm and insulated and only cost me $79. I purchased this jacket in crimson but it’s also available in three other colors. This reddish color was perfect for standing out against Iceland’s backgrounds.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland

The other jacket I packed is my Burton’s Womens Chuteout Anorak for Iceland’s more mild weather. This jacket is not insulated and only a shell, so if worn by itself it’s very lightweight. Jackets like this are also meant for layering in the color temps. You can wear some heat tech with a sweater for extra insulation if needed. I got so many compliments on this jacket! Everyone loved the unique bandana pattern on the back. It’s a little on the pricey side compared to the Volcom, but I put this jacket to good use and use it during snowboarding season as well.

I love the side zip feature and other zippers along the arms for extra ventilation. This specific style might be sold out on amazon now but they have some new colors and pattern options available. It runs large so please size down.

Arnarstapi, Iceland

WATERPROOF HIKING BOOTS

The other item to allow more of your packing budget to is a great pair of boots. If you are adventuring around all day you will experience many different terrains. If you’re doing any hiking, you’ll definitely want them. Even if you’re just walking around the waterfalls, boots that keep out the moisture and have good tread are very helpful for the slippery rocks. I recommend Women’s Danner Vertigo Gore-Tex Hiking Boot. Don’t think you can get by with just any boot. You’ll be sorry when you have frozen and sopping wet toes. I also use these boots back home to hike. They are indestructible and spectacular quality! Available in three different colors. I purchased the Black ones.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

FLEECE LINED LEGGINGS

I am so happy I discovered these leggings on amazon! I am obsessed and have purchased more pairs after my trips for colder New York weather. These Yogipace Water Resistant Fleece Lined Leggings were perfect for keeping my legs just warm enough for the cold temperatures in Iceland. I lived in these and wore them during the entire trip. I would order 2 pairs at the very least. The water resistant feature works perfectly and I never felt damp or cold for the entire trip!

Diamond Beach, Iceland

WARM SOCKS

Smartwool Hiking Cushioned Wool Socks are the perfect socks to wear in Iceland. They keep you warm and have wicking fibers so your feet don’t get smelly or damp no matter the conditions outside. You will want to get a few pairs of wool warm moisture wicking socks instead of layering regular socks. Regular socks will trap moisture making your feet cold. They come in a few different colors.

BEANIE & GLOVES

Don’t forget to keep your ears, head and hands warm! These will be the most important areas of your body to keep warm. Pack a beanie or two for variety. I purchased a red and black knit beanie. In the height of winter I would recommend something fleece lined. Also pack a pair of warm gloves. Even if you don’t think you will need them, throw them in your backpack. They are small and don’t take up much room.

Dyrholaey, Vik

HEAT TECH TOP & BOTTOMS

For your essentials on what to pack for Iceland, these will be your basics. You’ll need these as your base layer. One of my greatest discoveries is Uniqlo Heattech. Uniqlo’s innovative collection will keep you warm on your day-long outdoor excursions. The Heattech technology works by absorbing your body’s moisture and turning it into warmth. Depending on the temperatures, I wear it solo or layered with a jacket or sweater. They are are so thin and stretchy, you won’t feel them. I purchased 2 tops and one bottom piece. Make sure they fit tightly. When they are tight, they can keep you warmer. Also it will be easier to throw a pair of jeans over them.

TECH FLEECE

When traveling in the fall/winter Make sure to pack 1 tech fleece. You will want to put this over your heat tech for colder days as another layer. If it’s warm enough you might also be comfortable just wearing this and a light raincoat.

SWEATERS & JEANS

Having some sweaters and a pair of jeans on hand is great if you want to go out for dinner or a drink later on. Its casual and comfortable. You only need one pair of jeans and make sure to wear heat tech underneath them! Depending on the time of year, you may get away with it. Don’t let jeans be your only bottoms, you never know when the weather will turn! I packed 2 Sweaters. I wore them everyday over my heat tech and under my jacket.

Reynisfjara, Vik

NECK WARMER

Packing a neckwarmer for Iceland is a must whether you visit in the summer or winter. I used this to pull over my face and keep my nose warm. In the summertime, you can bring any scarf that you like. But for the wintertime, I recommend getting wool, cashmere, alpaca or any material that will keep your neck warm. I have been wearing Turtle Fur Neck Warmers for years on all of my snowboarding trips and I am never cold.

BATHING SUIT

One of the coolest and most relaxing things to do while in Iceland is visit the national hot springs. The blue lagoon is one of the most popular destinations. They have showers and pools of varying heat up to 104°F/40°C, and are a great way to unwind after a day of adventures. You will not want to forget your Cupshe Bathing Suit ! Experiencing this is a must!

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

FLIP-FLOPS

Flip Flops will come in handy when you are visiting the hot springs. After getting out, you don’t want to wear your boots right away.

WATERPROOF BACKPACK

On outdoor adventures, I always bring an ultra-lightweight backpack with me. I used this instead of a handbag to bring as my +1 to my carry on suitcase. My favorite backpack is the Fjall Raven . It’s big enough to carry my actual camera bag, water bottle, snacks, and extra items that I may need during the day. Best of all it’s waterproof. I was outside in the rain for hours and NONE of my items got wet.

Kirkjufell Mountain, Iceland

WATER BOTTLE

Tap water in Iceland comes directly from the glaciers, so its as fresh and pure as you can get. There’s no need to pay for expensive water so bring your bottle and refill it. It was great to have this water bottle on long drives to avoid making multiple stops. I am obsessed with this Collapsible Water Bottle. I used it during my entire trip and fit perfectly in my backpack.

SUNGLASSES

It can also get very sunny in Iceland! I recommend Blenders Eyewear. They are polarized and great or the outdoors. Plus they look great in photos.

The Great Geysir, Iceland

LOTION/CHAPSTICK & TOILETRIES

Don’t forget your lotion and chapstick. Your skin will get super dry. Try to keep makeup to a minimum. I packed a small travel bag that included a tinted moisturizer, eyeliner, mascara and eyeshadow. There are drug stores/supermarkets around so you can purchase shampoo or other toiletters if needed. Most hotels provide these things too of course.

RED DRESS

Because of a special occasion, I got dolled up one evening and took some beautiful photos with Julie & Ryan Photography on the black sand beach in Vik. In May of 2019 my fiancé and I got engaged in Italy. Since Iceland was our next big trip and the scenery is just breathtaking, we thought this would be the perfect location for an engagement photoshoot. This Red Dress was the pefect choice to contrast amongst the black sand.

Vik, Iceland

UNDIES & SPORTS BRA

I find sports bras to be a lot comfier whenever I’m hiking. I think you’ll feel the same once you’re out and moving around! I always pack around 7-10 pairs of undies for a weeks vacation. It’s always better to have a few extra pairs. I like ones that fold up really small and don’t take up a lot of space. Gap’s Breathe Undies are the softest and fold up to practically nothing!

PLUG ADAPTOR

I purchased this Europe to US Travel Plug Adaptor on amazon. It has both a USB & an outlet plug option which is perfect. I am from the USA so I needed one but Iceland uses the same plugs as the rest of Europe.

CAMERA & TRIPOD

You have to bring a camera to Iceland. It’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world with a million photo opportunities. What about capturing the Northern Lights? You need a camera that has manual mode functionality and a sturdy tripod. I purchased a Canon G9x Mark II. My favorite thing about this camera is how small and lightweight it is. It literally fits in the palm of my hand. It’s so easy to just throw it in your backpack and go!

Here is a general camera setting for photographing the Northern Lights

• Apeture at 2.8 or 4 – the lowest number your lens can go.
• Expose for 15 seconds for the slower auroras and 10 seconds for the faster ones. Adjust as needed.
• Set ISO at 1,600 to start and experiment.
• Camera must be on a tripod. You cannot move the camera when taking long exposure photographs or it will look like a big blur.

I recommend playing around with the camera at night before your trip. I took some photos of cars going by at night and was able to learn how long exposure on a camera works.

Grotta Light House, Reykjavik

HOW TO PACK WITH ONLY A CARRY ON

You may also be wondering, how is it possible to pack for Iceland using only carry-on luggage? I am here to tell you it’s possible! You may not enjoy the luxury of choosing different outfits every day, but it’s possible if you are ok traveling on the lighter side. Believe me you do not want to be hauling around a heavy suitcase on this trip.

The luggage I purchased is Kenneth Cole Reaction 20” Expandable Carry-On Luggage. It has a hard shell and it’s the max size you can bring as carry on most airlines. This luggage measures 20” H x 14” W x 7.5”-9” D and is expandable so if you purchase a few extra things on the way home you don’t need to sweat!

To make everything magically fit, use Mossio Packing Cubes. I seriously don’t know how I traveled before these. Also roll your clothes, do not fold them, to save space and keep your clothing from wrinkling. You will be surprised at how much you can fit in these cubes. You can thank me later!

As I mentioned earlier I used brought my backpack as my +1 bag (instead of a handbag). You are able to fit so much more this way and a handbag is not necessary when in Iceland.

One important tip with my experience on long flights is to put anything you need to access on the airplane in this bag. This bag will be under your seat and next to you at all times. This is where I keep items like water, snacks, medicine, makeup/wipes, hairbrush, etc.

I also packed an extra pair of underwear, my swimsuit and deodorant in this bag. After landing my plan was to head straight to the hot springs. By doing this I avoided rummaging through my suitcase in the parking lot. I was able to grab my backpack, relax and enjoy my morning at the blue lagoon.

I hope this post on packing for Iceland was useful!

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Let me know in the comments below if you are planning a trip to Iceland and tag me on Instagram @blondevoyagenyc so I can see your adventures.

KRABI, THAILAND, Travel

THE BEST OF KRABI THAILAND

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The town of Ao Nang, Krabi is located on southern Thailand’s coast and is a beach lovers paradise. It has everything from snorkeling and kayaking and it makes a great base for island hopping.

My favorite thing about Krabi is being able to avoid Thailand’s most touristy islands, but if you still want to have easy access to the surrounding islands and beautiful backdrops then Krabi is the perfect island getaway. There’s a party scene, but it’s not over the top! The locals are genuinely friendly, the prices aren’t ridiculous, and there are tons of activities to choose from 🙂

With only 3 days it was hard to choose what I wanted to do and I definitely did not have enough time for everything!

1. STAY AT A COTTAGE IN THE JUNGLE

Waking up to this view of the limestone mountains felt like a dream. The rooms are beautifully nestled against the cliffs of Ao Nang. This hotel is close enough to the town of Ao Nang, but far enough away that you are truly able to unwind in peace and quiet. I stayed at Ban Sainai Resort in the Grand Pond Cottage which was unreal! The Cottage was huge and had a jacuzzi and our own private terrace. My favorite thing to do was sit outside and relax every morning.

Breakfast was included and was only a short walk from the cottage. I enjoyed fresh fruit, rotis, yogurts, and various juices and pastries. Everything was absolutely delicious! The staff was very humble and nice.

The hotel also has a lovely restaurant that is open for dinner as well. I enjoyed the Green Curry which was amazing every time. I could seriously could eat Thai food every day and be perfectly happy!

A Tuk Tuk shuttle is also available by the hotel to quickly get in and out of the town of Ao Nang when necessary. This was a such a great accommodation! You can also walk to the town if you want but it is a little far to do every day.

2. AO NANG BEACH & TOWN

Ao Nang is a relatively small town and is easily walkable. This town has something for everybody. You can grab a massage at one of the many places in the area, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or go shopping at one of their many shops!

Some may say the beach at Ao Nang isn’t as impressive as other beaches in the area but we fully enjoyed it.  Not only is it super convenient if you are staying here but it’s the perfect beach if you just want to enjoy a little sun and have a quick dip. I recommend walking as far to the left as you can (passing all the longtail boats) because the boat area is a little more polluted from the boat’s engines running all day. The views as we walked up near the limestone cliffs were incredible. A nice local worker also shared some fresh pineapple with us. We wound up going to her shop afterwards and enjoyed a nice massage and manicure. She was very persistent though!

3. THAI MASSAGE AND MANI

There’s no better place to experience a Thai massage than in the land where it all began! Massages can start out as a simple half hour foot massage and can go all the way to a full body massage with stretching (I have never felt so great as after one of these)! Your best bet is to ask the hotel where the best places are near you to get a massage, but there will be plenty throughout the town of Ao Nang! I booked one of the best Thai Massages of my life right at my hotel. It became a nightly routine of mine to end the night with a massage. Not to mention that nothing beats the price of a Thai massage in Thailand!

I also enjoyed a fabulous gel mani on the beach. A lovely young lady showed up on a scooter with a UV light machine and my nails looked fabulous for the rest of the trip. I never received a manicure with a view quite like this!

4. EAT A LOT OF GREEN CURRY

This is my favorite Thai curry and it’s one of the tastiest curries on the planet! It gets its name because of its bright green color from the amount of green curry paste that is added to it, gaeng keow wan kai. It also includes vegetables, chilies and chicken and is usually served with a portion of Thai rice on the side. I literally had this once a day. My favorite dish was at 11/thai around the corner from the Ban Sanai hotel. It was literally a man cooking in his home kitchen, and it was the most delicious curry I have ever tasted!

5. TASTE A ROTI

One of my favorite food discoveries from my trip is Thai Style Roti. It’s a banana crepe style pancake with egg that’s topped with condensed milk. This is a must try when in Thailand!!

6. ELEPHANT SANCTUARY

There are very few reputable elephant sanctuaries in Krabi and I was lucky enough to come across the Krabi Elephant Sanctuary. This was one of the best days and experiences of my life. I spent the day with these rescued elephants at Krabi Elephant Sanctuary which is a relatively new facility. We prepared food for them, fed them tons of bananas ? and gave them a spa mud bath. These creatures really are gentle giants, and each have their own personalities. It was amazing to donate money to help give these elephants a better life. This elephant sanctuary is cruelty and ride free. The elephants can live their best lives.

It’s so important not to ride elephants in Thailand, as the conditions needed to train them to accept riders are often cruel and inhumane. However, visiting one of the cruelty-free sanctuaries is an incredible experience that you don’t want to miss out on! Click here to reserve a spot while visiting Krabi.

7. RENT A PRIVATE LONGTAIL

If you are headed to Thailand, grabbing a ride on these beautiful long tail-boats is a must!  It was really a treat to ride in one of these. One of the main reasons to rent a longtail is to island hop to some of the most magnificent and unique places in Thailand.

8. ISLAND HOPPING

The coastline of Krabi is sure a treat for the eyes. It’s crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches will sweep you off your feet. I guarantee you will easily fall in love with this part of Thailand like I did. The landscape and limestone cliffs are absolutely incredible wherever you go!

9. HONG ISLAND

Since 3 days is such a short amount of time it was hard to choose which islands to visit among all the choices. After a lot of research, I choose Hong Island as our main destination. It was hard to pass up this island after viewing all the photos of its crystal clear water and white sandy beaches in a secluded lagoon.

I can guarantee I made the right choice. This was one of my favorite beaches that we visited. It was such a peaceful and tranquil island and the perfect place to relax, swim, float and best of all snorkel! There were so many fishes around the lagoon. This was our first stop on our private long tail excursion. Upon arrival I was greeted with the clearest water I have ever seen in real life. I was truly blown away by its beauty. I recommend arriving as early as possible to avoid the tourists. It quickly began to fill up during our stay.

If you’re planning on making a day trip to Hong Island (and its nearby islands), don’t forget to pack:

  • Beach Bag
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Drinking Water (provided by our longtail boat)
  • Towel
  • Hat
  • Snacks (if you think you’ll get hungry and your tour doesn’t provide lunch).

10. HONG LAGOON

After enjoying our time at Hong Island Beach, we headed over to the famous lagoon. Since the only way to get there is by boat, we jumped back on our long tail boat and cruised off to the lagoon. The entrance to the lagoon is so grand and beautiful. The first thing I noticed was the emerald colored water and massive limestone cliffs which was incredibly breathtaking. Our long tail captain was nice enough to snap some beautiful photos. This was a bucket list spot that I’ve been wanting to check off my list and was even better in real life that I could have ever imagined.

11. KOH PAK BIA AND LAO LANDING

This beach was truly picturesque. We stopped her for a short visit. I enjoyed staring at the unique limestone rocks. This beach is pretty rocky so please be careful, so wear flip flops to avoid cutting your feet!

At Lao Lading you can walk a short jungle path to a smaller beach on the other side of the island. This is neat to check out, but the main beach is best for snorkeling and swimming.

12. SNORKELING

Thailand has fantastic areas to snorkel. Our private island guide dropped us at this secluded spot where we got to see so many cool fish & sea urchins.

13. ENJOY SOME NIGHT LIFE

Krabi town is so vibrant at night. It’s full of live music, shopping and entertainment. Be sure to roam around the back sidewalks, as this is where we found places like hidden bars with live music. It was so chill and fun!

14. MONKEY TRAIL

Ao Nang is also home to a community of monkeys. This is a short little hike in Krabi that we really enjoyed. Do not get there too late or the monkeys will be sleeping. I tried going around 5pm the night before but did not see any. The next day I arrived around 10am and luckily there were tons of monkeys running around everywhere! I even got to see some babies with their mothers. Be careful if you have food or loose objects on you. They will try to take anything away! Keep your distance because these monkeys can be a little frisky. But it’s sure a lot of fun to enjoy their company.

15. MAI TAI ON THE BEACH

We discovered this lovely spot along the Ao Nang beach with beautiful sunset ocean views. We enjoyed delicious drinks and Thai food while people watching for hours! The mai thai is a specialty there and I enjoyed many.

16. WATCH THE SUNSET AT AO NANG

You can watch the sunset from many locations, but it’s hard to beat Ao Nang Beach for this. With such a huge stretch of sand and if the tide is low, your eyes are in for a real treat at this beach!

Krabi, and Thailand in general, has something for everybody, so I absolutely recommend you go see it! Perfect for any kind of vacation, and with less crowds than some of the more well known areas of Thailand, Krabi has a lot to offer.

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Let me know in the comments below if you are planning a trip to Krabi and tag me on Instagram @blondevoyagenyc so I can see your adventures.

Cinque Terre, ITALY, Travel

TOP 15 THINGS TO DO IN CINQUE TERRE

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Cinque Terre is made up of five villages along the Ligurian Coast. Each village has its own unique character and things to do. Everyone has their own opinion about which village is best. My personal favorite is Manarola! I decided to stay here as a base for my three days in Cinque Terre. To me it’s the perfect base! It’s romantic, packed with amazing restaurants, has the best wine & pesto and the prettiest views of all the terres. I’ll let you decide for yourself though 🙂

1. RENT A SEASIDE AIRBNB

I decided to use Manarola as my base so I decided to stay at an Airbnb. The apartment I rented has the highest balcony in all of Manarola and it overlooked the whole city. There are plenty of stairs and steep hills to get to this spot but it is totally worth it for that incredible view!

The thing I love most about renting an Airbnb is being able to live like a local. We got to stay in the cutest pink apartment. The owner Davide has lived in Cinque Terre his entire life. He now rents this apartment out through Airbnb. He also has an amazing restaurant Trattoria dal Billy right in town. There is a beautiful kitchen in the apartment and a local market close by as well. I enjoyed visiting the market and buying fresh pasta, prosciutto and cheese to have dinner on our balcony almost every night.

If you have never booked with Airbnb click here for $55 dollars off your first stay! I also included the link to my airbnb here!

Seaside Airbnb

2. HIKING/SOAKING IN THE CLIFFSIDE VIEWS

Cinque Terre is one of the most romantic hiking regions in the world. Walking around it’s trails is one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre. I didn’t know this until I arrived but as of 2018 only 2 of the 4 trails are open due to storm damage. This makes it difficult to get around by foot to all 5 terre so in reality I did a lot less walking than I imagined. The trails here are no joke though! They wind up and down the mountains and along the villages at sea level. You are in for some exercise! Be sure to wear proper footware or you will not be allowed on some of the trails. I was told my shoes did not have enough traction, so I was not allowed on the major hiking trails.

If you didn’t pack your hiking shoes and still want to experience some dramatic seaside views there are still some trails you can walk around. My favorite spots were...Riomaggiore: Had a beautiful trail off to the left when walking to the main square. This area had lots of dramatic cliff side views. Riomaggiore: We also enjoyed hiking around the right side trails as well. Can you spot me in the last photo? 🙂

Manarola: Some of the most beautiful views can be seen from this town

We walked up the steep terraces and soaked up some of the gorgeous seaside views

Monterosso: This village is mostly flat and has a lot of great views on the coast.

3. HOP AROUND BY TRAIN

Although Cinque Terre is most famous for its hiking trails, the simplest and most convenient way to get around is by train. You can get a day pass and use the train an unlimited amount for that day. The villages are within minutes of each other and super convenient to hop around to.

4. BEACHING IN MONTEROSSO

Monterosso is the northernmost village in Cinque Terre. Not only is it the largest of the 5 villages but it’s the only one with resorts and a true beach. The Italian Rivera has the most incredible water. You must spend a day just relaxing on the beach watching the turquoise waves hitting the shore. This area also has a nice seaside walkway where you can enjoy a stroll with several shops, food & views. I also had some of the most delicious Focaccia here.

5. RELAX ON THE ROCKS OF MANAROLA

One of my favorite memories of Manarola was climbing the rocks at the base of the village and just hanging out. Lots of people enjoyed sitting in this area to enjoy their lunch, have a drink or some gelato. It felt so good to soak up the sun and people watch under the magical rainbow village. Since the water is really deep here this area is popular for cliff diving. The water was on the verge of being a little too cold for my taste so I wasn’t brave enough to dive in. I got to put my feet in the water though.

6. NESSUN DORMA PESTO CLASS/LUNCH

Did you know that pesto was created in the Cinque Terre region? Therefore there is pesto on everything!  Pizza, pasta and even bruschetta. No matter how you eat it the pesto here it is absolutely delicious!

The pesto making class was one of the highlights of my Cinque Terre trip. The chef/owner of Nessun Dorma is very passionate and makes some of the most magnificent pesto! I loved his stories about how he got the spot to create this incredible restaurant. Let me tell you that making pesto is no easy work! The class lasts 1 1/2 hours. I signed up for the 10:30am class. They provide you with an apron and it is yours to keep! They also give you local white wine and follow it up with a charcuterie board for lunch. I wound up staying for another hour and half after the class was over just soaking up some of the best views in Cinque Terre.

Making Pesto at Nessun Dorma

The restaurant opens for lunch at 12:00pm and there is always a crazy line waiting to get in. When you do the Pesto Experience you are already in the restaurant with first dib seats and an amazing view. This is well worth the cost of 50 euro. I can't say enough good things about this experience!

7. TASTE THE WINE OF CINQUE TERRE

The wine grown in Cinque Terre is unlike any other wine in the world. Its vineyards are located on steep terraces along the cliffs jutting out over the Ligurian coast. It’s difficult to work this rocky terrain, so everything from vineyard maintenance to harvesting is done by hand. The wine in this region tasted unlike any wine I have ever tasted. It was so delicious that I can taste it by writing about it right now. Because these vineyards are located on the seaside there is a slight salty taste to the wine. It was absolutely divine.

White wine of Cinque Terre

8. GELATO

Is it even possible to go to Italy and not consume gelato daily? So eating gelato as you walk through the streets of Cinque Terre is essential! My favorite gelato was Bellavista Gelateria in Manarola. Is this not the cutest gelato stand you have ever seen?

9. EAT FOCACCIA

Focaccia bread originated in Liguria which is in the area that Cinque Terre resides. You will find many shops devoted to this delicious fluffy bread, with all different toppings & flavors. It also makes for a great snack on the beach. Not going to lie I even picked up some fresh Focaccia for breakfast 🙂

10. ENJOY AN APEROL SPRITZ & APERTIF

If you only try one new drink while you’re in Italy, let it be an Aperol Spritz. This traditional Italian apertif drink is commonly served with snacks. It combines sweet, bubbling Prosecco with bitter, herbaceous Aperol before topping it off with a splash of soda water and an orange garnish. The result is a refreshing citrus drink that is perfect for a day spent by the sea in Cinque Terre!

Aperol Spritz

11. SUNSET BOAT TOUR

The best views of the cinque terre villages are from the sea. One of the highlights from this trip was a sunset boat tour. I booked with Enjoy Cinque Terre Boat Tours. Here's the link!

Our tour left from Manarola. Our tour guide Daniele was a local himself and knew everything about Cinque Terre. He was so enthusiastic and entertaining & his boat was clean & beautiful. From the second we left the shore we were served unlimited wine and beer and listened to stories about traditions of life here and what it was like growing up in Cinque Terre. Did you ever wonder what’s the reason behind the colorful cliffside houses? It’s so fishermen could easily find their house from the water. They could also look for signals to see who was coming and going from their house while they were gone. As the sun started to set we headed back to Manarola soaking in the sunset from each village. Daniele played the perfect music and even serenaded us at the end. He stopped the boat in front of every village for photos. We saw the most beautiful colors in the sky that night. This was truly an unforgettable experience.

12. ENJOY THE VIEWS FROM RIOMAGGIORE

For the best view of Riomaggiore head towards the sea. Go up the stairs to the left and don’t forget to turn around and soak in the stunning views of the brightly colored houses seemingly stacked on top of each other.

13. RELAX IN VERNAZZA

Possibly my second most favorite village! The harbor is a lovely place to sit and relax. I had a delicious pesto pasta by the water and enjoyed the views of the water, the iconic colorful Italian boats and views of the colorful houses on the waterfront. I could literally people watch here for hours.

14. PASTA TAKEAWAY

I am so glad we decided to stop here. We needed some carbs and energy before our hike around Manarola so we decided to stop at Pasta Takeaway. The pasta was super fresh and the staff was so friendly. I had the gnocci with Walnut Sauce which was divine, and my fiancé had the ravioli. There were seats out front to relax and enjoy a spritz.

15. WATCH THE SUNSET OVER MANAROLA

Watching the sun setting over the ocean is absolutely magical anywhere in the world. In Manarola we sat on our terrace and watched the mesmerizing sunset high up in the terraces while drinking some cocktails.

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CHIANG RAI, THAILAND, Travel

TOP 12 THINGS TO DO IN CHIANG RAI

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Chiang Rai is a city in Northern Thailand. It's a neighboring city to Chiang Mai. Chiang Rai is a popular tourist destination but still less explored than Chiang Mai. It took me by surprise! It quickly became one of my favorite cities in Thailand. It's laid back and relaxed (unlike bustling Bangkok) and mostly mountainous.  In my opinion it has some of the most unique and photogenic temples in Thailand.

I arrived in Chiang Rai via Nok Airways from Bangkok. This flight was quick: a little over an hour to You Mae Fah Luang International Airport, which is the main airport in Chiang Rai. I also got to fly on the cutest pink plane with an adorable face!

Nok Airlines

You can squeeze everything on this list into your trip if you stay in Chiang Rai for about two days, however, three days would be less rushed (I stayed for 3). The cheapest way to get around Chiang Rai it to rent a motorbike. If it’s your first time and don’t know your way around like it was for myself… it might be best make friends with a taxi who can drive you around all day. This option is actually not as expensive as you would think!

WHERE TO STAY

Bambuh Boutique Homestay is heavenly and one of the best hotels in Chiang Rai in my opinion. I booked easily through Airbnb. This lovely retreat is tucked in the country side where you can just relax and soak in all the luscious green vegetation. The hosts are amazing and cooked the most delicious breakfast and dinner for us upon request! It’s also great to get recommendations from a local whenever possible. The hosts at Bambuh were able to call us cabs, book us tours, etc.  The hosts here go above and beyond and made us feel at home. They provided bikes so I was able to ride to the Black House Museum in only 10 min! By car the Blue Temple is a 20 min drive, Way Huay Pla Kang 15 min, White temple 40 min and Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is 20 min away.


Bambuh Boutique Homestay

1. WAT RONG KHUN, THE WHITE TEMPLE

Wat Rong Khun is one of Thailand’s most special and most famous temples. To foreigners it’s known as the White Temple. You can definitely see where that name comes from! The temple has been open to visitors since 1997. Artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, a Chiang Rai native, completely rebuilt the temple to be the White Temple as you can see it now. The temple is incredibly beautiful and unique. Every detail of the temple has meaning. The bridge is the Gate of Heaven while the hands in front of the bridge reach up from hell. Get there early if you want photos without anyone else in them, otherwise it gets crowded real fast!

The temple is pretty big so you will want to spend some time here. There are also many different areas to wander off to. I absolutely love the gold portion of the temple which is hidden towards the back.

2. WAT RONG KHUN, THE GOLD TEMPLE

After walking through the White Temple do not be in a rush to leave. A lot of people don’t know about the Golden temple that is hidden behind the famous White Temple which is the Golden Pagoda for the Hindu God Ganesh. It was dreamy! My favorite part of the temple was that it was a lot less crowded. I was able to enjoy myself a little more and walk through the museum they had inside.

3. WAT RONG SEUR TEN, THE BLUE TEMPLE

The area where this temple is located was once the natural habitat of tigers. That’s why the name of the temple translates as ‘House of the Dancing Tiger’. The blue and golden colors of the temple make for great colorful pictures. Unlike the White Temple, you’re allowed to take pictures inside the Blue Temple as well.

As of now the Blue Temple is less popular than the White Temple, which is why it remains FREE. There were plenty of quiet areas were I was able to snap photos without other people in them. If you get hungry or need refreshments, there are plenty of vendors selling food and drinks right outside the temple. I highly recommend trying the coconut ice cream with sticky rice; it makes for the perfect afternoon snack!


Coconut Ice Cream w/ Sticky Rice

4. BAAN DAM MUSEUM, BLACK HOUSE

Baan Dam Museum is often referred to as the Black Temple, or the Black House Museum.  In Thai, ‘baan’ means home or house and ‘dam’ means black. Despite its temple like appearance, it is not in any way a temple. But it is oddly beautiful and surreal!

Artist Thawan Duchanee has created what you see today over a period of 36 years. Now just a museum, once was his home and art studio. This museum has a collection of around 40 buildings of varying shapes, sizes, and unique content. Entry costs 80 baht. You will also find various souvenir shops, coffee shops and food stalls. There are bathrooms, which are also interestingly designed. Check them out!

5. WAT HAUS PLA KANG

Many tourists make the mistake of calling this statue Chiang Rai’s Big White Buddha! The statue is actually not a Buddha but Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. I remember spotting this temple from a distance in a cab ride to my hotel in Chiang Rai and I knew from the second I spotted it that I needed to go here!  It is one of the newer temples in Thailand and becoming increasingly famous among photographers. The dragons on the staircase that lead to the statue and the views of the mountainous countryside make you feel like you are in an episode of Game of Thrones!

It was a gorgeous day in Chaing Rai until I arrived to Wat Huay Pla Kang and the heavens opened up on me. As my car pulled up I was greeted with torrential downpours and booming thunder. But that wasn’t going to stop me! I grabbed the taxi guys umbrella and ran up the stairs to the very top, got completely drenched and twirled around for a quick photo! The best part about it was having the entire place to myself. I have to admit it was actually quite peaceful to see this statue in the rain. It was most definitely a memorable experience.

6. SINGA PARK

You would think there would be beer at Singha Park. For those of you who do not know this, Singha is a popular beer in Southeast Asia. But prepare yourself to stick with just tea, as this Chiang Rai attraction doesn’t actually have any Singha beer! The Singha statue makes for a cool photo and has beautiful mountain views.

7. LOCAL COFFEE SHOP

I had the best cup of coffee while in Chiang Rai when our local driver pulled over to local coffee shop Akka Mino. The grounds that the shop is built on are beautiful. You can hang out on swings outside or sit in a Thai hut while enjoying your coffee and soaking in the beautiful views. We even brought some coffee home for souvenirs.

8. KHUN KORN WATERFALL

Khun Korn Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Chiang Rai. Measuring 70 meters tall, this waterfall is one of the biggest in northern Thailand, hidden deep inside the Khun Korn Forest Park. The waterfall is open from 8am to 5pm & it’s FREE! A destination you must visit! It was recommended to me by a local. I had some free time and quickly added this to the itinerary and I couldn’t have been happier to take the day and do this! I had a driver take me here for the day and wait while we did the hike (otherwise it is impossible to find a ride home since there was no cell service there!).

Hiking in the jungle to the Khun Korn Waterfall is very peaceful. While there are a few visitors here, the trail does not feel crowded. It’s not super touristy which is what I liked about this destination the most. You will probably see just a couple of people along the way who will mostly likely be locals.

The trail winds through a tall bamboo jungle alongside a small stream flowing from the waterfall itself. As you hike to the waterfall pay attention to all the wildlife around you. I saw many beautiful butterflies, birds, and lizards. As you get closer you will hear sound of crashing water and as you approach it you will get hit by the spray of the waterfall. It felt so refreshing!! It felt like taking a cold shower and was very necessary after the hike.

9. CHIANG RAI NIGHT BAZAAR

The Night Bazaar is a great place to enjoy the local fare and a must visit Chiang Rai attraction. Food, food & more food! There are plenty of different stalls to enjoy local delicacies there. I enjoyed some Pad Thai, noodles and Mango Sticky Rice that I would take home for a midnight snack. There is entertainment on two different stages. I loved listening to Thai music and watching dancers and different performances while eating.

There are plenty of souvenir shops selling handmade items such jewelry, trinkets and tees. Those famous elephant pants you see around Thailand can also be found here. I loved shopping here and found it to be a great place for souvenirs, for myself and others. Also, don’t forget that the first price they give you is never the final price. Be sure to bargain!

10. CLOCK TOWER

As you look at this clock tower you might recognize similar design elements to the White Temple. That's because the same designer and architect built both of these structures! Located right outside the town of Chiang Rai, This tower is definitely worth a visit! Make sure to show up at 7pm, 8pm, or 9pm on the hour. That’s when the light show happens. I have to admit I really enjoyed watching this!

11. CAT CAFÉ

I absolutely loved Cat N A Cup Café. You can enjoy your coffee while playing with some very cute and fluffy cats. Not really an authentic Thai experience, but definitely something that I have only seen in Asia.

12. THAI MASSAGES

You will find several places offering inexpensive Thai massages in Chiang Rai’s city center. Some places you will find hour long massages for as cheap as 150 baht! Treat yourself  🙂

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BANGKOK, THAILAND, Travel

BANGKOK BUCKET LIST

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Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. It’s also the biggest city in South East Asia. It has some of the most elaborate Buddhist temples and palaces such as the lavish Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun.

Bangkok doesn’t have an off-season. The city lives 24/7, 12 months a year. It can get pretty humid and warm during parts of the year. I recommend picking a time from November to January for the most bearable weather conditions. The months of March-May can get extremely hot. If you can’t stand intense heat I recommended not to visit during this time. The rainy season starts late May into November. I decided to travel during mid-November and it was perfect in my opinion!

Wat Arun

1. CHAO PHRAYA RIVER

When in Bangkok you need to experience a boat ride down the Chao Phraya River. You might have heard some call this area Venice of the East. That is because of this river and the many canals that flow off of it! Plenty of locals still use this river to get to work daily. I was able to experience this first hand. Use this as your mode of transportation to get around and experience the diverse way of life in Bangkok. You can see everything from the luxurious hotels to little shacks along the river.

2. GRAND PALACE

For about 150 years, this place was not only the home of the king and his court, but also the entire administrative seat of the government. By the turn of the 20th century, Thai kings had stopped living in this palace, and it primarily became a public museum. Despite this the complex remains the seat of power as well as the heart of the Thai kingdom with several royal offices still situated inside. 

3. WAT ARUN

Named after Arun (the God of the Dawn) Wat Arun measures 79 meters tall along side the Chao Phraya River. In my opinion it’s one of the best attractions in Bangkok. The tower is beautiful at any time of day, but it’s extra gorgeous when you catch the ceramic and colored porcelain tiles in the right light. The main tower is guarded by two giants that are indeed a sight!

4. WAT PHO

Wat Pho is the home of the famous Reclining Buddha. This Buddha measures 15 meters tall and 46 meters long and is covered in gold leaf. It’s hard to picture its true size so a visit in person is a must. The entire complex is more than just the Reclining Buddha though. Wat Pho also holds the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand. You’ll want to spend some time roaming around in awe of the colorful and intricate details of the temples as Wat Pho is one of the best places to visit in Bangkok. 

The Reclining Buddha

5. STREET FOOD

Food stalls along the street on your way to Wat Pho offer a wide range of snacks and local dishes. Go for a fresh fruit smoothie, Roti pancakes, Mango Sticky Rice, Fried Bananas…(I am drooling) or Cool off with a Thai Iced Tea from the locals. The food is so delicious and so cheap here!

Fried bananas

6. THAI COOKING CLASS

Thai food is one of my favorite cuisines in the world! So why not learn to make it at home? This cooking class will teach you how to prepare traditional Thai dishes. You use ingredients that you yourself gather from a nearby market. Come hungry because this class was a feast! I even got my meal to go! Enjoy a delicious meal with your hosts & other people you will meet around the world while learning about Thai culinary and cultural heritage. I recommend Silom Thai Cooking School. They even give you a recipe book of the dishes you cooked and chopsticks to take home 🙂

Ingredients from a local market
Making red chili paste
Fresh Thai ingredients
Chicken curry

We finished off the class by being served Mango Sticky Rice. My favorite dish in Thailand! This type of rice is made from a long grain that contains more starch. It was cooked in a bamboo basket and sits for about 3 hours. It takes some time but it is worth it!

7. PAD THAI & TOM YUM SOUP

You are probably super hungry by now after reading this! When visiting Bangkok don’t miss Thailand’s famous dish Pad Thai & delcious soup Tom Yum. Pad Thai is a local stir-fried rice noodle dish. Tom yum is a type of hot and sour soup. This is usually cooked with delicious shrimp. Whether you pick up some at the food stalls, local eateries, or if you get some at a nice restaurant, in Bangkok it’s usually super delicious no matter where you get it!


Homemade pad thai

This is me making homemade Pad Thai & Tom Yum Soup! The Pad Thai was the freshest I’ve ever tasted. The noodles were so fresh they melted in my mouth. I still dream about it to this day! I enjoyed both dishes with Shrimp.

Homemade tom yom soup

8. BRUNCH IN THE SKY

My stay at the Amara Bangkok was spectacular. Every morning I would head to the roof in my robe and lay out on the deck where I would be waited on like a queen! I ordered some coffee & breakfast and just took in that incredible view. Bangkok mornings are so peaceful & quiet (since everyone is still sleeping from being out late and partying). 

9. ROOFTOP POOL

Nothing like relaxing in a pool in Bangkok’s sky! The views of Bangkok are absolutely incredible, and the pool feels refreshing in the hot Thai heat! I am enjoying Amara Bangkok’s infinity pool and its incredible view.

10. THAI MASSAGE

There’s no better place to experience a Thai massage than in the land where it all began! Massages can start out as simple as a half hour foot massage to a a full body massage with stretching (I have never felt so great after one of these)! Your best bet is to ask the hotel where the best places are near you to get a massage, but there will be plenty throughout the city! I couldn’t believe how alive the city is at night. It became a nightly routine of mine to end the night with a foot massage.

11. STREET MARKETS

Whether they sell food, clothes, accessories, or all of the above, you will always bump into a street market no matter where you’re going. The Chatuchak Market is the biggest of its kind in the country. It’s open on weekends only and it takes hours to explore it. The Chinatown market is also a fun market if you are more limited on time.

11. RIDE IN A TUK TUK

Tuk tuks are everywhere and are fun to take at least once just to say you did it, but they’re also a great and inexpensive way to get around the city. You can recognize their bright colors from a distance along with their upbeat music playing. During rush hour you can get around faster in a tuk tuk, because they are smaller and can weave in and out of traffic easily. It’s exhilarating! The tuk tuks are notorious for trying to overcharge you, so be sure to ask up front how much it will cost and make a counter offer. I found it helpful to research before on Grab (Uber in Asia) and see what the quote was for a ride to get an idea of how much it costs.

12. DINNER AT THE BLUE ELEPHANT

Blue Elephant is a fancy Thai restaurant that was built in a beautiful old Chinese style building in 1903. This Thai style restaurant is a charming one. The decor is lovely, the atmosphere is relaxing, the service is phenomenal and of course the mouthwatering authentic Thai food is out of this world! The prices are a bit higher here than normal for Thailand… nothing compared to the US though! This is a place for special occasions or if you are just looking for a nice night out. I had the lamb with purple potatoes and it was absolutely incredible. 

14. SHOPPING

Bangkok is one of the best shopping cities in the world. Whatever you’re wanting to shop for something upscale like Chanel, a quirky market piece, or contemporary pieces from designers you’ve never heard of, you can certainly find it here in Bangkok! I enjoyed shopping at the street markets the most where you could find a lot of merchandise handmade from the locals.  

15. UNICORN CAFÉ

Are you a unicorn fan like myself? A visit to one of Bangkok’s unicorn café’s is a must if you enjoy pastel colors and sweet little treats! They serve food like rainbow spaghetti, unicorn waffles, rainbow crepe cake, cotton candy and fruit punch with glitter. Have you ever seen such a magical café?!

Of course there are endless amounts to do in Bangkok. If I had more time I would love to add more to this list. These were my top picks for the essential Bangkok experience!

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LONDON, Travel

TOP 20 THINGS TO DO IN LONDON

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Visiting London for the first time? Wondering what to see in London in a few days? Well I have got you covered! I’ve visited this amazing city 5 times and counting. London is one of the most treasured cities in the world to me. I’m always surprised at the endless opportunities it seems to offer.

1. BIG BEN AND THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

If you’re visiting London for the first time, chances are visions of Big Ben come to mind. A visit to London is not complete without a trip to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Make sure to be there on the hour, when the legendary bell chimes. 

2. SNAP A RED TELEPHONE BOOTH PIC

The UK is known for its charming red telephone booths! So of course no trip to London would be complete without snapping at least one quick picture with one. You gotta! While the iconic phone booths can be found throughout the city, some of the most iconic locations for them can be found around the Houses of Parliament.

3. SEE THE LONDON EYE

While in the area of Big Ben head over to view the London Eye. I don’t really recommend actually going on the London Eye because of the very long wait times, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t see it at least once! It can be conveniently found in the same area as the Houses of Parliament.

4. PICCADILLY CIRCUS

Piccadilly Circus has to be one of the most famous road intersections in the world. It’s iconic for several reasons. The unique architecture surrounding it, the iconic advertisements on the buildings that light up at night and the statue of Eros in the middle. It’s a place that’s known all over the world. Many many tourists flock there year in and year out to have their picture taken here.

5. BUCKINGHAM PALACE

The home of the queen & the royal family. While in the Westminster area, don’t forget to stop by! If you arrive around 11 am, you can watch the changing of the guard ceremony. The changing of the guard is an iconic thing to see in London for sure! If you are lucky enough maybe you can catch a glimpse of the queen like I did. (Psst, if the Royal Standard flag is flying, then you know the Queen is in Buckingham Palace!)

6. TAKE A STROLL AROUND NOTTING HILL

An Instagram lover’s paradise, this romantic neighborhood is filled with candy colored houses, cute shops and charming pubs that look like they are straight out of a movie set. In fact they have been! Notting Hill is one of the most posh areas of the city. It’s the perfect place for a sunny afternoon stroll when visiting London town.

7. PEGGY PORSCHEN

To continue with the pastel theme head over to the cutest pink bake shop I’ve ever seen with the most delicious treats, too. I was lucky enough to visit during my favorite holiday: Halloween! The storefront is constantly changing each season with different flower themed decorations, along with their stenciled coffee’s. How amazing is this one below?

8. AFTERNOON TEA AT SAINT AYMES

While in London, you must go to an afternoon tea! The Afternoon Tea at Saint Aymes a great choice. Can you tell I am obsessed with cafes with floral storefronts?! We ordered the English Tea, Glitter Waffles & a Unicorn Llate. I don’t think our morning could have gotten any more magical than this!

9. SHOPPING ON OXFORD, REGENT AND CARNABY STREETS

These are four of the most major shopping streets in the entire city but their close proximity to each other means you can cruise all of them in the same day, if walking doesn’t bother you!

Oxford Street is thriving with street fashion like Topshop and Selfridges while Bond and Regent Street lean to more high end designer shops. Carnaby Street is home to more independent brands which has a small charming feel.

Right before the holidays is my favorite time of the year for shopping, especially when London is all dressed up for Christmas!

10. LIBERTY LONDON

While in this main shopping area end your shopping excursion at Liberty, the most beautiful department store in London. Liberty is built in a Tudor style house. It’s quite charming as it is expensive. The beautiful atmosphere and gorgeous products are worth the visit itself.

11. HARROD’S

Shopping at the famous department store Harrods is a must! Harrod’s is a luxury department store home to designer fashion, upscale gifts and accessories. Take the escalator to the second floor to find my favorite area Harrod’s gift shop. You can also find the Ice Cream parlor, Tea Room, and other eateries here as well.

12. COVENT GARDEN

London’s famous Covent Garden houses many restaurants, bars, markets and botiques. I recommend coming here hungry with some free time on hand. There are many restaurants and cafes here where you can pick up a snack or lunch while enjoying the atmosphere. I loved watching the street entertainers and singers. I felt like I was in a Broadway play!

13. CHINATOWN & SOHO

Whenever I spend time in London I always find myself wandering down to Chinatown for some delicious food and cocktails. London’s Chinatown may not be as buzzing as Bangkok’s, or as big as New York’s, but it’s certainly worth a visit. Soho is London’s most famous nightlife area as well. Soho is home to some of the most world class restaurants and the best bars and clubs in the UK capital. I recommend heading over to the Experimental Cocktail Club! It’s a speakeasy style basement club, hidden behind a random Chinatown door. The drinks are superb!

14. BREAKFAST AT THE BREAKFAST CLUB

Soho’s trendy diner The Breakfast Club, will treat you to a delicious American-style breakfast in one of London’s most quirky cafes. Don’t be discouraged if you see a long line. It’s worth the wait!! If you get there early you will spend only a small amount of time outside this eye-eyecatching bright yellow diner before getting a table.  I ordered the pancakes. They were seriously the best pancakes of my life & I am not just saying that. I am still dreaming of that delicious buttercream & fresh fruit topping!

15. SKY HIGH COCKTAILS AT THE SHARD

The Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom, and the view definitely does not disappoint! My recommendation is to get drinks at the lounge at night. There is no fee to get up there and you can relax and take in the view of London at night while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. 

16. NIGHTIME STROLL OVER THE TOWER BRIDGE

This is one of my favorite night activities & has become a London tradition of mine. It’s so beautiful walking along the water with the city lights, and the Tower Bridge has such pretty views of London at night.

17. TOWER OF LONDON

The Crown Jewels of Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the Royal Family are kept in the Tower of London. This royal castle holds many secrets and stories and is a must visit on your first trip to London. Apart from viewing the royal jewels you can meet the famous Beefeater guards and stroll around the castle walls.

18.   DINNER AT SKETCH

You may have seen Sketch London on your Instagram and Pinterest feeds as the super cute pink place to eat in London. Between the chevron tiles, pink velvety chairs, and shimmering bar, everything is just so pretty and pink! 

Not to mention those bathrooms. Those egg shaped things are the toilet stalls. I don’t know who came up with this concept but lets give them a round of applause! They have managed to make the restroom a fun and memorable experience. Never have I ever spent so much time in a bathroom taking photos than at Sketch London. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time as they fill up fast. This pretty in pink room is called the Gallery Room (pictured above).

19.   DALLOWAY TERRACE

If you want to impress everyone with beautiful instagram photos, Dalloway Terrace is the spot! The interior of this place is what you call #interiorgoals! The terrace was so dreamy with foliage covering the brick walls. This was one of the coziest cafés I have ever been to. They even have folded blankets placed on the chairs for those chilly fall days. We started with some coffee and assorted pastries. I enjoyed the acai bowl.

20. BOB BOB RICARD

It could have been their famous Press For Champagne buzzer that brought me to this restaurant, or the fact that the restaurant has pink everywhere and is a beyond glamorous spot for an evening out. I am so obsessed with this Press For Champagne buzzer I think I need one next my bed at home! Don’t leave without trying the crème brulè that is lit on fire right before your eyes.

There are so many fun things to do in London and I guarantee you will constantly be adding to your London Bucket list, just like me! London is a diverse, outstanding, and ever evolving city. To me it’s one of the greatest on earth!

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ARUBA, FLAMINGOS, Travel

ARUBA TRAVEL GUIDE

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Oh Aruba, the A in the ABC Islands. This small island off the coast of Venezuela offers more than year-round sunshine, white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters. From snorkeling to ATV riding, Aruba is an adventurer’s paradise. The adorable and goofy flamingos are added bonus, too! Discover the top things to do in Aruba with this easy guide.

#1: FLAMINGOS AT RENAISSANCE PRIVATE ISLAND

These Flamingos cannot be found on any random beach in Aruba. These magical birds live on the private island owned by Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino which is located on the west side of the island.

The Renaissance Hotel is located in downtown Oranjestad and provides free shuttle boat service for guests of the hotel or beach resort. The boat ride is short 15 minute ride and departs about every 15 minutes from the hotel. Each boat carries around 25 people on a first-come, first-served basis.

#2: CATAMARAN CRUISES

Catamaran cruises let you bask on a boat in the sun (or shade) with music, food, and drinks. Hop on in the morning or afternoon and enjoy when they stop by the snorkeling spots for a little underwater exploration. The Palm Pleasures cruise also brings you to Antilla where you can find a famous WWII shipwreck. It’s one of the largest in the Caribbean and easily became one of my favorite snorkeling spots!

#3: SNORKELING

There are several snorkeling tours to the Antilla shipwreck. Palm Pleasures was affordable, welcoming, and cheerful! You can book your tour directly through the Palm Pleasures website. In addition to exotic sea life, you can also find amazing coral and sponges among the wreckage and in the beautiful blue waters. Swimming with the fish felt so magical & the shipwreck was amazing to explore.

#4: RENT UTVs

Most people don’t know this, but Aruba is half desert! If you are an adventurous type like me then you have to rent a UTV, the best possible way to see the island. The reason I am recommending UTV’s over the more commonly known ATVs is because they are much safer. The roads are pretty rocky and you can come upon some unexpected difficulties if you’re not careful! Although Aruba generally gets very little rainfall, the night before our arrival there was more rain than Aruba had gotten in 7 years, which caused big potholes and rocky areas to form in the road. Our ATV got stuck in a ditch and it was quite dangerous. The other tourists in the UTV’s were fine and well protected! They gave us masks to cover our noses & mouths to prevent the dirt & sand from getting all over our faces. Sunglasses are also a must to keep the sand out of your eyes. We didn’t mind the dust though because the tour was so fun! 

#5: FRESH COCONUT WATER

On the way to the natural pool we found a local Aruban selling coconuts from their home. This had to be the most refreshing and tasty drink possible after adventuring in the desert. It sure is hot out there and this was perfection!

#6: CONCHI – OR THE “NATURAL POOL”

This is one of Arubas most talked about natural elements. The Conchi or natural pool is located in the national park on the north side of the island. This location is pretty remote. You can get there yourself by hiking, or riding in a UTV, 4×4, or on horseback with a tour guide.

#7 NATURAL BRIDGE

Our next stop on the ATV was the Natural Bridge. Aruba is made of coral and volcanic rock which lines the coast on the north side. Unfortunately the natural bridge pictured below is not the original bridge. The original collapsed after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. While some might not see the point in visiting, I will say the views from this area are breathtaking and definitely worth a drive. Not to mention that a smaller version of the original is still standing and makes for a great photo!

#8 CALIFORNIA LIGHTHOUSE

A charming white lighthouse stands near the northwest tip of Aruba. The California Lighthouse is a popular spot for visitors to snap a photo. It’s easy to see why with it’s beautiful views, gorgeous white beaches, California White Sand Dunes which are nearby. This area makes for a great stop on any excursion. Don’t mind our gangster masks!

#9 THE BUSHIRIBANA RUINS

Time for some Aruba History! During the 19th century Aruba had its own gold rush. One of it’s remains is mill of Bushiribana Ruins. This mill was built using natural stone and was designed to look like a fortress. Can you guess why? To ward off pirates! It has not been in use for over 100 years now and luckily Aruba has remained pirate free! Visitors are able to tour this mill. Maybe if you are lucky you will come across some remaining precious metals.

#10 PALM BEACH

Another popular beach to visit is Palm beach where the waves are incredibly calm and the water is incredibly beautiful (look at that color blue down there!). Raft rentals are available and will cost you about $5 a day. You can bring your own if you have room in your bag!

#11 ACAI BOWL AT EDUARDO’S

Located on Palm Beach is a small local snack shack called Eduardo’s. The acai bowls are both healthy and as delicious as they look! The flavor that gives it it’s beautiful color in the picture below is pitaya, which comes with a nice helping of fruit and granola on top.

#12 WANDER DOWNTOWN ORANJESTAD

Aruba’s old Dutch capital is best explored on foot so you can take in the many pastel-colored Dutch buildings that line its streets. Souvenir shopping (as well as high-end luxury shopping) is also excellent here and it’s fun to ride the trolley, which is free!

#13 DUTCH PANCAKES

As a former Dutch colony, Aruba is also known for their Dutch Pancakes. You can order almost any kind of flavor from savory to sweet. The Dutch Pancake House is a must try! The below pancake was the strawberry, banana and nutella.

#14 KESHI YENA AT THE WEST DECK

The West Deck is located along the Linear Park, on a large wooden deck that overlooks the water on, you guessed it, the west side of the island! It’s great for a casual but filling lunch or dinner. This was honestly the best food we had the entire trip! The food was so fresh and flavorful and the price was right. If you are like me and you love trying foods that you can only get when traveling to certain destinations, then the West Deck is for you. Keshi Yena was my favorite Aruban dish here. This large round ball of cheese stuffed with spiced meat. It was so good that I went back a couple days later and get the same thing again. The friendly waitress recommended we get it with the Hot Cakes, as is tradition. You will not be disappointed!!

#15 DINNER ON THE WATER

Barefoot Restaurant was a beautiful and romantic spot! The service was amazing, the food was exquisite, and the mojitos were on point. I ordered the ribs and my boyfriend had the steak. Eating on the beach was so peaceful and serene, I wish I could do it every night!

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Japan, Mario Kart, Tokyo

REAL LIFE MARIO KART IN TOKYO

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Mario and Princess Peach zoom through the busy streets, dodging obstacles and each other as they wave to the crowd! Does this sound like a video game you have heard of? This is real life Mario Kart! A fantasy that you can experience in real life in the streets of busy Tokyo, Japan!

Tokyo is known to be the capital of crazy and cute things and this has to be coolest thing to do during my recent trip there. Yes, it’s legal to drive a go kart on the streets of Tokyo and yes you dress up as your favorite character while taking videos & pictures. This was such a fun way to tour the streets of Tokyo and an amazing experience that I will never forget.

Many of you have asked questions about where and how to book the Mario Kart experience so I decided to put together this guide for you 🙂

  • In order to drive this go kart you will need an international driver’s permit. Luckily it’s very easy to obtain one. I visited my local AAA and applied. With a fee of $20 USD you can get a permit that is good for up to a year. It’s mandatory that you must show both your international driving permit and your passport, otherwise you won’t be allowed to drive.
  • The company I booked with was Samurai Kart, which I booked with through Voyagin. It’s best to contact them through email with any questions you may have. I received a response within a few hours.
  • I went with the “Middle Course Tour” which was two hours long. For me this was perfect (anything less would be too short). This cost $60 USD, or approximately 6771 YEN.
  • On this go-kart tour you can drive around Asakusa and many other Tokyo hotspots.


The meetup point is at their office in the Asakusa neighborhood of Tokyo. This made for a perfect day walking around the temples of Asakusa in the morning and meeting up around noon for Mario Kart. You can walk to their office from Asakusa station which is about a 15 min. walk. You will know you are there once you see all these Go-karts parked right in front


Next up: we picked our costume. This wasn’t a hard choice. I went straight to the pink gown & grabbed my crown. Princess Peach here we come!


It took about 30 minutes for all of us to be up and running then finally it was time to go! I would be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. It was a bit scary driving on the streets of Tokyo with the rest of the city’s traffic. I also wasn’t used to driving on the opposite lane and it was weird to be lower than every car on the street. Within 10 minutes I felt more comfortable and carefree. Our guide was great! He set up rules and hand signals to ensure we were as safe as possible.

Japanese drivers in Tokyo are surprisingly respectful compared to other big cities. All the cars on the road tried to avoid us by driving in a completely different lane. I would not stand a chance back home in New York City on a go kart!

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING

This was really an exciting and unique experience and ended up being the best way to explore Tokyo while having a blast. If you want to do this in Tokyo, make sure to do the following to avoid disappointment!

  • Make sure you have a driver’s license in your own country and be comfortable driving on the street
  • Get an international driving permit (in the US, you can easily obtain this from AAA for $20)
  • Contact Samurai Kart way in advance as they book up fast
  • If you come in the summer, be ready to sweat! Might be best to choose a cooler costume with more breathing room.
  • Bring a Go Pro for video footage and have a way to secure it to your body (head wrap or chest piece). You are not allowed to take photos while driving, but they have Go Pros to rent if you don’t have one. The tour guide will take plenty of pics for you & airdrop them all to you later, too!
  • The Go-Karts only have a small pouch for your phone and keys. Leave your pocketbook in the locker.
  • Follow Japanese driving rules and road etiquette, but most of all enjoy and be safe!

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Japan, Travel

FUSHIMI INARI SHRINE

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Walking through the Fushimi Inari Gates felt like a dream! The endless trail of glowing orange surrounded by the forest was truly magical and surreal.

GETTING THERE

Fushimi Inari is located outside the JR Inari Station. You can also reach this shrine can by a quick walk from Fushimi Inari Station along the Keihan Main Line.

THE ENTRANCE

The main shrine that meets you at the entrance is stunning on it's own, with it’s stark red color and golden ornate details. The main attraction is not the shrine itself but the pathway that starts behind the shrine. Be sure to keep walking forward.

FUSHIMI INARI SHRINE

Is there any better way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture than dressing up in a kimono rental in Kyoto? I loved seeing all the women in kimonos 🙂 Although I didn't have time to do it in Kyoto I was able to dress up in a kimono in Osaka Castle.

Fushimi Inari is most known for having thousands of orange coloured torii gates. The gates forms a tunnel that visitors can walk through on their way to the top of Mount Inari. You may be wondering like myself what is the significance of these gates?! Each gate has been donated by a person or Japanese business in the hopes of receiving good luck and fortune. The name of the donor can be found engraved in black ink on the back of each gate.


The hike to the summit of the mountain and back takes about 2-3 hours. It would be smart to wear comfortable shoes. My Nike Air's saved me! You are free to walk just as far as you wish before turning back. I took my sweet time...twirling around and just taking it all in. The gates are so peaceful and I loved walking off the beaten path and exploring fun side areas. I felt like I was in another world.


As you continue to hike along the way, you will find numerous smaller sized shrines stacked of miniature gates. I found out these shrines are donated by visitors! How cool is it to leave behind your very own shrine?!

In some places the gates stand so close together that even the sunlight has a hard time getting through. They form a glowing orange tunnel that winds itself up the narrow mountain path.

THE FOXES

Just after a few minutes of hiking through Fushimi Inari Taisha you will notice the dozens of fox statues across the shrine grounds. I wondered to myself, what does this mean? Foxes, or kitsune in Japanese, are regarded as messengers of the gods, much like the deer of Nara Park in Nara.

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Let me know in the comments below if you are planning a trip to Fushimi Inari Kyoto and tag me on Instagram @blondevoyagenyc so I can see your adventures.