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Em

I’m a solo traveller in my late 30s with a degree in history and an insatiable curiosity about the world. I’ve been travelling alone for over 15 years and have visited 52 countries—25 in Europe and 10 in Asia (and counting). I focus on uncovering lesser-known destinations and cultural insights, particularly across Southeast Asia and Europe. My goal is to help independent travellers navigate new places with confidence, curiosity, and respect. Right now, I’m exploring the Balkans after a ten-month journey through Southeast Asia, living out of a backpack and chasing hidden gems one destination at a time.

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Em relaxes in a modern café with a coffee in one hand and an orange book in the other, titled 'The Refugees'. She sits under a wall sign that reads "Happiness is a cup of coffee & a good book."
Destinations: Asia Books about Travel Malaysia Vietnam

10 Unforgettable Books Set in Asia That Will Deepen Your Travel Experience

If you’re searching for unforgettable novels set in Asia that capture the spirit, culture, and complexity of this vast continent, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply craving an armchair escape, the right book can transport you into the heart of a country long before you arrive. But let’s …

A side profile of a wild orangutan mid-swing, framed by tropical leaves and softly dappled light—an unforgettable highlight of Sumatra's off the beaten track adventures.
Destinations: Asia Indonesia

Sumatra vs Bali vs Java: Which Indonesian Island Should You Visit

When travellers dream of Indonesia, Bali’s beaches and rice terraces or Java’s ancient temples and bustling cities usually steal the spotlight. But hidden to the west lies Sumatra—Indonesia’s wild, rugged, and vastly underrated giant. With dense rainforests, volcanic lakes, rare wildlife, and rich indigenous culture, Sumatra offers a side of Indonesia that many never get …

The Hoang Kim tailor shop in Hoi An, showcasing brightly colored clothing on mannequins and rows of yellow lanterns strung above the entrance.
Destinations: Asia Vietnam

I Got Casual Clothes and Sandals Tailored in Hoi An—Here’s Everything I Learned

Looking for the best tailor in Hoi An? You’re not alone. With hundreds of shops lining the lantern-lit streets, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options—each promising perfect fits, glowing reviews, and “premium fabrics.” But as many travellers quickly learn, not all tailors are created equal. From stiff seams to fading …