An immersive journey on Day 7 into the Vietnamese countryside. Experience the spiritual beauty of large Buddha statues, navigate the Mekong’s small canals by boat, and sample local delicacies like honey, tropical fruits, and authentic Bánh Mì.
Moving from the tranquility of Indonesia to the vibrant energy of Vietnam on Day 6 of the Southeast Asia trip. Highlights include a spa morning in Bali, flying over Borneo, and arriving in a rainy but welcoming Saigon for dinner.
A diverse journey across Bali on Day 5, from the calm northern coast to the spiritual heart of the island. Discover dolphin watching in Lovina, scenic views of Mt. Batur, and the refreshing holy spring water of Pura Tirta Empul.
Venturing north from Kuta to Lovina Beach on Day 4, exploring Bali’s natural and cultural landmarks. Highlights include misty mountain views, terraced rice fields, and a refreshing swim in a jungle waterfall before a sunset on the northern coast.
Exploring the ‘Mother Temple’ and stunning water palaces of East Bali on Day 3. Highlights include a morning at Besakih, sampling authentic Luwak Coffee, and a walk through the manicured gardens of Taman Ujung.
Continuing a Southeast Asia journey with an adventurous Day 2 on the water at Nusa Penida. Highlights include spotting Manta Rays, navigating ocean currents while snorkelling, and sampling local staples like Gado Gado and Nasi Goreng.
Starting a Southeast Asia journey on Day 1 with a layover in Singapore. Highlights include a city sights tour during a 96-hour visa-free transit, visiting the world-famous Jewel Changi, and settling into a convenient stay in Kuta, Bali.
A practical example of redeeming KrisFlyer miles for a one-way trip from Mumbai to Denpasar (Bali) via Singapore, featuring flight schedules and tips on avoiding fuel surcharges.
Day 12 covers a day in transit in Istanbul, a walk around of Sultanahmet Square, the Egyptian Bazaar, and the Grand Bazaar, concluding at the famous Turkish Airlines lounge at Istanbul Airport.
Day 11 of the European Escapade features a whirlwind journey from Iceland to Turkey via Germany and Malta. Highlights include a walking tour of Frankfurt’s historic Römerberg, navigating transits, exploring the unique architecture of Gudja in Malta, and preparing for an Istanbul transit tour while resting in the Turkish Airlines lounge.
Day 10 in Iceland features the iconic basalt columns of Reynisdrangar, the dramatic Dyrhólaey lighthouse, and a sampler of Icelandic lava soup in Vík. Capping off the trip with a dip in the historic Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) before heading to Keflavík Airport for our overnight flight to Frankfurt.
Day 9, our longest travel day, starting with the iconic landmarks of Reykjavík—the Sun Voyager and Hallgrímskirkja. Then across the southern coast to witness the power of Seljalandsfoss, the floating icebergs of Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón, and the sparkling ice on Diamond Beach before settling in Vík.
Day 8 dedicated to the classic Golden Circle route. We explored the historical and geological wonders of Þingvellir National Park, witnessed the power of the Strokkur geyser at Haukadalur, and stood in the mist of the mighty Gullfoss waterfall before ending the day with local burgers in Reykjavik.
Day 7 took us from Reykjavik to the dramatic landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Despite the grey skies, we witnessed the beauty of Selvallavatn, the iconic Kirkjufell, and the stone arches of Arnarstapi, before warming up in the geothermal pools of Laugardalslaug.
Day 6, a guided walking tour through the historic landmarks of Athens. Explore the ruins of the Ancient Agora, the Tower of the Winds, and learn about the evolution of democracy at Pnyx, all while enjoying classic views of the Acropolis.
Day 6, a whirlwind tour of Athens, exploring historic landmarks including the Holy Metropolitan Church, Panagia Kapnikarea, and the Arch of Hadrian. Stunning panoramic views of the Acropolis from Areopagus and Philopappos Hills before catching a late flight to Reykjavík via Munich.
Day 5 took us from the Azores back to Lisbon. We spent the day navigating the city’s hills on the historic Tram 28E, visiting landmarks like the Basílica da Estrela, São Bento Palace, and the stunning viewpoints of Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol, before catching a late-night flight to Athens.
Day 4 in Terceira, we braved the chilly Atlantic waters at Piscinas Naturais Biscoitos before diving into the island’s volcanic history. We explored the subterranean depths of Algar do Carvão and Gruta do Natal, witnessed geothermal activity at Furnas do Enxofre, and enjoyed a final sunset from Miradouro da Serra do Cume.
Day 3 exploring Terceira Island. Highlights include the views from Serra do Cume, lunch in the UNESCO city of Angra do Heroísmo, and hiking the volcanic peninsula of Monte Brasil.
Day 3 from a sunrise departure in Nice to a sunset in the Azores. Read about our 10-hour layover enjoying Lisbon, the beauty of Manueline architecture, and the relief of our luggage finally arriving in Terceira.
Day 1 of our European trip began with a frantic dash through Munich Airport. Despite the rain, we managed to visit three countries in one day: starting in France, walking the harbor of Monaco, and crossing the border for pizza in Italy.
Our journey to Europe began with a race against time. After a weather-delayed flight from Pune to Delhi, we had to scramble to collect bags and check in with Lufthansa just minutes before the counters closed. A story of travel stress and the surprising kindness of fellow passengers at IGIA.
A comprehensive guide to booking a 13-segment award trip through Europe using United MileagePlus miles, featuring stops in France, Portugal, Greece, Iceland, and Turkey.
A journey through the “Illa de la Discòrdia” and beyond. Discover the four elements of Modernisme and the stories behind Barcelona’s most iconic facades.
Join me on a walking tour through Barcelona’s Barri Gòtic. From the legends of Font de Canaletes to the Baroque beauty of Sant Felip Neri, here is a journey through Catalan history.
A day in Barcelona: Navigating the city via the subway, joining free walking tours through the Gothic Quarter, and marvelling at the Modernisme architecture of the Sagrada Família.
A guided walk through Lisbon’s most famous districts. From the elegant plazas of Baixa to the bohemian streets of Bairro Alto, including stops at the Igreja de São Roque and the iconic Elevador da Bica.
A journey through the labyrinthine streets of Alfama. From tasting local Ginjinha to exploring hidden Roman ruins and breathtaking miradouros, here is what to expect on a free walking tour of Lisbon’s most historic neighborhood.
Turning a long layover into a Lisbon adventure. Exploring the historic streets of Alfama and Bairro Alto, here is how to maximize a single day in the Portuguese capital.
Wrapping up a weekend in St. Petersburg. From the yellow autumn leaves of Mikhailovsky Garden to the grandeur of Palace Square and a smooth Lux Express bus ride back across the border to Finland.
A deep dive into the “Underground Palaces” of St. Petersburg. From the double-decked Sportivnaya to the glittering mosaics of Avtovo, discover the art and history of the Russian metro.
A journey through the heart of Russia’s imperial capital. Highlights include the noon cannon shot from Peter and Paul Fortress and the stunning Kazan Cathedral.
From Helsinki to St. Petersburg: My first day exploring the “Venice of the North.” Includes travel logistics, Russian e-visa tips, and a midnight walk to see the drawing of the bridges.
An insightful walking tour exploring Riga’s 19th-century wooden architecture, Soviet legacy, and the vibrant Central Market, concluding at the iconic Freedom Monument.
A journey through Old Riga’s rich history, featuring architectural gems like the Riga Bourse, the haunting Geisterdenkmal sculpture, and the iconic black cats of Meistaru Street.
A comprehensive free walking tour of Vilnius covering major landmarks including the Presidential Palace, the Vilnius Gaon monument, the artistic district of Užupis, and the historic Literatų Street.
An efficient first day in the Baltics: exploring the historic sites of Vilnius, catching a luxury bus to Riga, and staying at the Clarion Collection Hotel Valdemars.
A day of discovery and drama in Riga: from the Bremen Town Musicians and the Nativity of Christ Cathedral to a race across the border to catch a late-night ferry.
A guide to redeeming Alaska Mileage Plan miles for a short-haul European award ticket, featuring a Finnair flight from Helsinki to Vilnius for just 12,500 miles.
A comprehensive walking tour through Oslo’s historic and modern landmarks, from the “The Tiger” at Jernbanetorget to the unique architecture of the Norwegian Parliament.
An efficient long layover in Oslo: navigating a SAS strike to explore the city center, joining a free walking tour, and visiting the Royal Palace before heading to Zurich.
A transit journey through Singapore featuring the iconic Merlion Park, panoramic views of the Singapore Flyer, and a festive visit to Little India during Diwali.
The final day features high-tech airport lounges and a surprise ride on ANA’s Star Wars themed jet. A ’last-minute’ clear view of Mt. Fuji from the aircraft window provides the perfect ending to an epic week-long journey.
A massive day of travel from the southern tip of Kyushu back to the Tokyo area. Highlights include authentic udon in Shikoku and a unique final night stay in a high-tech capsule hotel at Narita Airport.
A day all about relaxation and fire. From being buried in hot volcanic sand at the water’s edge to taking a ferry across to an active volcano, experience the raw natural power and beauty of Kagoshima.
A day of profound contrasts: honoring history at the Atomic Bomb Dome and enjoying local Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, followed by the stunning seaside vistas of Miyajima and a late-night arrival in Kyushu.
A full day dedicated to Kyoto’s UNESCO sites and natural wonders. From the imperial history of the Kyoto Palace to a sunset hike up Mt. Inari, discover why this city remains the cultural soul of Japan.
Start with a serene morning among the islands of Lake Onuma and the Hakodate morning market. The day concludes with a high-speed transit across Honshu, fueled by a variety of regional ‘Ekiben’ bento boxes, ending in Kyoto.
Day 2 takes you through the undersea Seikan Tunnel to Hakodate. Enjoy a day of coastal charm featuring fresh ramen, steep scenic slopes, and a breathtaking sunset over the city from the Mt. Hakodate Observatory.
After a smooth transit from Narita, dive into Tokyo’s highlights. Explore iconic shrines, witness the skyline from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and enjoy a warm reunion with a local friend over authentic ramen.