Independent & Budget Travel Blog
Brunei, a small country on the island of Borneo, has some of the most stunning mosques in the world, each reflecting the country’s deep Islamic heritage and architectural grandeur. These masjids not only serve as places of worship but also as symbols of Brunei’s commitment to preserving its cultural and religious traditions, offering visitors a … Read more
Hanoi, Vietnam’s lively capital, is famous for its vibrant culture and iconic landmarks, yet it’s the hidden gems nestled in its narrow streets and alleys that capture the true spirit of this unique city. From interesting museums to the remnants of downed American planes, trains running through residential areas and historic neighbourhoods, Hanoi offers an … Read more
Trekking through the beautiful landscape of Sapa Vietnam without a guide is a liberating and rewarding adventure. Especially for budget travellers wanting to explore the lush terraced rice fields and rugged mountain trails independently. In November 2023, I did two solo treks in Sapa independently without a guide. The first was to Muong Hoa Valley. … Read more
IMPORTANT: According to people on the ground in Bac Ha, the Water Buffalo Market has recently changed to Friday afternoons, 2pm to 10pm. From April 2024. Visiting the Water Buffalo market on Saturday morning in Bac Ha, Vietnam is quite the eye opening experience. You can easily do this the day before you visit the Traditional Bac … Read more
The Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum in Hoi An is a unique museum that showcases the diverse cultures and ethnic groups of Vietnam through the lens of renowned French photographer Réhahn Croquevielle. The museum is located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An and features a collection of hundreds of … Read more
Vietnam is a beautiful country filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture and delicious cuisine. In this 2 week itinerary, I will take you on a journey through some of south and central Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, including Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Da Nang and Phong Nha ke-bang National park. From exploring ancient temples … Read more
Da Nang is a city in central Vietnam known for its fire breathing dragon bridge, sandy beaches, ancient temples, delicious vegan food and cultural museums. It is the fourth largest city in the country and is located on the eastern coast, along the South China Sea. Da Nang has a pleasant climate and is a popular destination … Read more
As a recent revert to Islam, visiting the Islamic Museum of Australia was a beautiful experience. The Islamic Museum of Australia is a museum located in the inner suburb of Thornbury in Melbourne that celebrates the history, culture and diversity of Muslims in Australia. It aims to educate people about Islam, highlight the achievements of … Read more
Melbourne is one of Australia’s most vibrant cities, with a thriving arts and culture scene and an endless list of activities to keep you busy. It’s got some of the best coffee and restaurants in the world, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful architecture. There’s also some great Melbourne cycling routes to … Read more
Chinatown in Melbourne is a thriving hub of Asian culture and cuisine. It’s home to some of the best restaurants, shops, cinemas and bars, as well as cultural institutions like the Museum of Chinese Australian History. The food is amazing and the atmosphere is vibrant and exciting. You will be able to find a lot … Read more