A Morning Adventure in Deep Cove, North Vancouver: Hiking, Coffee, & Views!
Deep Cove in North Vancouver is one of my favorite places to hang out when looking for somewhere different yet serene.
Deep Cove is a small, picturesque village located at the eastern edge of North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It sits on the shores of Indian Arm, a fjord that stretches north from Burrard Inlet, surrounded by lush forests and mountains.
Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, Deep Cove offers a peaceful escape from the city, known for its waterfront views, outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking, and access to trails like the popular Quarry Rock hike.
48 Hours in Washington, DC: National Monuments & Mount Vernon Adventure
Washington, DC, has always been on my hitlist of places to visit in the USA.
When I was a young kid watching the news, I always saw videos and photos of the iconic landmarks in this city, such as the National Mall, Lincoln’s Statue, the White House, and Capitol Hill.
Finally, I managed to visit, and this blog combines two visits over two days a year apart, aided by my friends Adam and Stephanie from Road Unraveled.
In this blog, I'm taking you on a weekend trip through the heart of American history—Washington, DC!
Thamel, Kathmandu: My Ultimate Travel Guide to the Heart of Nepal
It is no secret that Nepal is one of my favourite destinations on the planet, and you can see why by seeing the awe-struck Annapurna at Poon Hill to trekking the Langtang Valley and exploring the winding alleys of Thamel or soaking in the spiritual energy at Swayambhunath, this place has everything.
Traditionally, in my YouTube videos, I showcase the best of a place I have visited with videos and photos. However, weirdly, I do not have enough content to make a great video of Thamel or Kathmandu as a whole, but I have tons of content to share in written form.
I stayed in Thamel, Kathmandu, for a combined five weeks during two visits in 2018 and 2023, so I know the area well and have some cool spots for you to check out.
In this blog, I want to cover my favourite restaurants, cafes, sights, and accommodations in Thamel, Kathmandu.
Walking Vancouver's Iconic 28km Seawall in One Day
The Vancouver Seawall is a scenic, uninterrupted pathway that runs along Vancouver's waterfront, offering stunning views and a great way to explore the city's natural beauty.
The route is flat and easy in terms of trajectory but hard in terms of distance.
Starting from Spanish Banks and ending at the Vancouver Convention Center, the Seawall covers approximately 28 kilometers.
We completed the Seawall in reverse to finish the last leg in Downtown at the end of the hike. I predicted that we would walk more than 28 km, and I would be knackered at the highest level.
I was proven right, which you see more of in the video below.
Why one day?
We fancied a challenge, and as the route is flat, I am pretty confident we could complete it without problems.
This wasn’t a race; we stopped off for brunch and checked out a few trendy cafes for coffee.
I outline key points of interest along the walk to give you the whole experience of walking the Seawall and perhaps encourage you to see a part of it when you next visit Vancouver.
Let’s dive into some details below.
Hiking in Paradise at Joffre Lakes in British Columbia
Today, we're heading to one of British Columbia's most breathtaking destinations—Joffre Lakes!
Get ready to experience crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning mountain vistas, and an unforgettable hike through the heart of nature.
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or love exploring beautiful places, this journey will inspire you. I am not the best at hiking; the hardest battle is just getting there. Then, I am motivated to get through the hike to stunning views of the mountains and the lakes.
Joffre Lakes is about a 3-hour drive from Vancouver, or you can stay in the closer hubs of Pemberton or Whistler. This is one of the most popular hikes in British Columbia, so be sure to get on the front foot with the admin!
You will need to go online to book a day pass, and they allow 500 visitors a day in the summer months. You will need to be organized and lucky.
I would label this hike moderate, with some steep parts as you go up, but it is worth it as you come across the three lakes at varying altitudes. I love exploring the local areas for hikes, and this one is a favorite of mine.
So, lace up your hiking boots, and let's dive into the natural beauty of Joffre Lakes!
A breathtaking weekend in Hornby Island, British Columbia
This week, I am taking you on an adventure to Hornby Island, British Columbia, known as the Hawaii of British Columbia.
Hornby is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, serene beaches, and clear waters. It is a true gem on the West Coast.
This tranquil island, with a small, close-knit community, offers a perfect escape into nature while being just a short trip from the bustling cities of Vancouver and Victoria.
I'll explore its picturesque landscapes, learn about the local culture, and uncover some hidden treasures along the way.
So grab your hiking boots, pack your beach gear, and join me as I discover all that Hornby Island has to offer!
Let's get stuck in!
A 7-Day Itinerary in Taiwan: Exploring Taipei and Kaohsiung
Welcome to my short and sweet Taiwan adventure!
I'm super excited to take you on a journey through Taiwan in this blog.
Over the next seven days, I'll be exploring the vibrant cities of Taipei and Kaohsiung, discovering their top attractions. From the iconic Taipei 101 and the spiritual Longshan Temple to the bustling Shilin Night Market and the busy Ximending, Taipei has so much to offer.
Then, I'll head south to Kaohsiung, where we'll visit the stunning Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, Lotus Pond, and the Pier 2 Project.
Our seven-day trip was magical. We checked out awesome night markets to try the famous street food of Taiwan. This episode includes a lot of coffee, temples, memorials, lakes, and views.
I have covered all the bases in this one. We even managed to get into a favourite Japanese haunt for lunch one day; thanks, Coco!
The bullet train was a dream to ride on as we travelled south, and it is an experience you should have once you are there.
Who doesn't want to travel at 300km per hour?
This video has great hostel options if you want a cheaper option in both cities. I even chuck in a few Western brunch places to keep the vultures at bay.
Whether you are planning your own trip to Taiwan or just love travel adventures, this guide has something for everyone.
Let's go on a journey!
My trek in the breathtaking Langtang Valley, with stunning views, tired legs, and endless Dal Bhat.
After a 5-year hiatus, we finally returned to Nepal and Kathmandu and are pretty excited about it. Our plan? The stunning Langtang Valley, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas in Nepal.
We had visited Nepal previously to hike the Annapurna, and this time, we are back to attempt the Langtang Valley. I have a love/hate relationship with hiking, and this journey isn’t short of drama either.
This is a blog on my unforgettable trek through the breathtaking Langtang Valley in Nepal. Starting from Syabrubesi, we'll journey through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and visit charming Tamang villages. Experience the serene beauty of Kyanjin Gompa, where the towering peaks of Langtang Lirung and surrounding glaciers create a stunning backdrop.
We returned to Nepal for the first time in five years, and I am buzzing to be back. I instantly knew I was returning to one of my favourite countries when I smelt the dust and heard the traffic in the taxi from the airport to the hotel in Thamel.
Five years ago, we hiked the Annapurna Circuit and visited Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Kathmandu, and other places around the country. This time, we visited Kathmandu and the Langtang Valley. We had been craving Dal Bhat every day since the last time we visited, and we had it every day in Nepal this time, including in Langtang on the trek.
Officially, a law in Nepal requires a guide when trekking in national parks and trails like this, so we had one for our journey. Whether this is enforced is another conversation and depends on the area you are trekking in Nepal.
This was a 9-day trek with a rest day in the middle of the journey, and it didn't come without drama on the second day.
The Langtang Valley trek can be challenging, with steep ascents and changing weather conditions. But the rewards are immense. Every step brings you closer to nature, and the views are simply out of this world.
The Langtang Valley offers more than just a trek; it's an experience of a lifetime filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal growth.
Let’s go hiking!
Busan Travel Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Visit and Historic Gyeongju: A Journey Through Korea's Cultural Heritage Sites.
Today, I am taking you on an unforgettable journey through two of South Korea's most captivating destinations: Busan, the vibrant coastal city, and Gyeongju, the historic treasure trove.
We had spent five days in Seoul, and our aim for the second half of our trip was to always visit somewhere different in Korea. We looked at a map and picked out two exciting places. We had no idea what to expect or find when we headed south towards the coast.
First, we'll explore Busan's bustling streets and stunning beaches, known for their unique blend of modernity and tradition. I have stunning walks along the beach, with brunch and coffee recommendations to get your juices flowing!
The weather was sensational for our beach trip; sunscreen and a hat are necessary in this video. The colours were breathtaking as I strolled down the boardwalk along the beach.
Next, we'll step back in time as we visit Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty. Known as the "museum without walls," Gyeongju is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the majestic Bulguksa Temple and the ancient tombs of Daereungwon.
We hopped on a bus from Busan to Gyeongju for a day trip to this quaint little town, which showcases a slice of Korean history. I don't think I have ever seen the colour green like I did in Gyeongju; the colours blew me away.
Join me as I take a little trip into the unknown and try my best to showcase as much as possible in my short time on the southern coast of South Korea.
Whether planning a trip or just dreaming of one, this blog will give you all the inspiration and tips you need.
Let's go on a journey!
The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors to Seoul, South Korea
Welcome to the bustling heart of South Korea, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels in a city that never sleeps.
We flew into Seoul from Taipei, and it is fair to say that after a great eight days in Taiwan, I had low expectations of Seoul due to previous blogs I had read and videos I had watched.
They described Seoul as boring, grey and too big. Were they right?
No, they were not! This was the most enchanting trip to a place without expectations; Seoul exceeded them.
Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a shopaholic, or a culture enthusiast, Seoul has something incredible to offer. Over the next five days, immerse yourself in a vibrant metropolis brimming with centuries-old palaces, cutting-edge architecture, bustling markets, and top-quality coffee.
Join me on this exciting journey as we explore the top attractions, the best cafes, and must-visit spots that make Seoul an unforgettable destination.
From the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace to the trendy area of Hongdae, I'll guide you through the best experiences this dynamic city offers.
As first-time visitors, this video would be perfect for anyone looking to book a trip to Seoul for a long weekend or a week; there is so much to see and do. I tried to mix the traditional sights with some gems in there, too, and with the weather being hot and humid, there are plenty of cafe stops along the way for coffee.
So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Seoul!
Let’s dive in!
Exploring Portland Again: Updated Travel Tips and A New Appreciation For The City
Welcome to the City of Roses! Whether it's been a few years or just a few months since your last visit, Portland always has something new and exciting to offer.
This vibrant, eclectic city constantly evolves, with fresh attractions, updated travel tips, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. In this guide, I will take you beyond the well-trodden paths and introduce you to the latest must-see spots, insider secrets, and local favourites that make Portland an endlessly fascinating destination.
Our last visit was in the Fall of 2019, and little did we know that this would be one of the last times we would visit the USA because of the COVID-19 pandemic. That would be our penultimate trip before the lockdown, and at that point, like most people, we almost took travel for granted.
Since then, we have been itching to return and see this quirky, fabulous city. Late last year, I booked tickets to TravelCon, so I was visiting anyway, but I decided to stay for the long weekend to check out some favourite haunts and new spots.
A Journey Through Time: Visiting Ancient Corinth and Nafplio for the perfect weekend itinerary
Welcome to my travel vlog, where I embark on a captivating journey through two of Greece's most enchanting destinations, Nafplio and Ancient Corinth, at the end of my trip to Greece.
Nestled in the heart of the Peloponnese, these historical gems offer a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating ancient ruins. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of scenic beauty, or simply seeking a memorable getaway, Nafplio and Ancient Corinth have something to enchant every traveller.
In this video, I’ll guide you through the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and best experiences in both Nafplio and Ancient Corinth.
From the romantic charm of Nafplio’s old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and Venetian architecture, to the awe-inspiring ruins of Ancient Corinth, steeped in myth and history, we'll provide all the tips and insights you need to make the most of your visit.
Join me as we explore the historical treasures, savour the local cuisine, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of these remarkable destinations.
When returning to Athens from Karpathos Island, I went to Athens Airport to hire a car and drive west to the Peloponnese.
My first stop is Ancient Corinth, which is an hour away. Then, I decided to drive south another hour to the historic city of Napflio.
To finish my Greece trip, I wanted to go somewhere on the mainland of Greece that would be completely new to me. I decided to head towards the Peloponnese, specifically Ancient Corinth and Nafplio.
My travel guide for Athens, my first time visiting this iconic city in Greece.
Welcome to Athens, a city where ancient history meets modern vibrancy. This guide will take you through the best things to do in Athens for a first-time visitor.
Whether you're a history buff, a coffee connoisseur, or just looking to soak up the culture, Athens has something for everyone.
Greece and Athens have always been on my mind, but I have never visited, not even during those party years at college in the UK, where you go to an island to party with your mates.
For CAD 30 one way, I booked a flight from London with my mum to spend a long weekend in the city before flying to Karpathos Island for another adventure. You can watch that video here on my YouTube channel.
The time of year for my trip was December, and it was a dream of no queues and a lack of tourists. Add to that the mild weather, and this is my top tip!