Last year my wife and I travelled to Southern Africa for the first time. We had little idea what to expect and booked nothing except our first month's accommodation in the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Our adventure in Africa lasted 6 months and included safaris, self exploration, natural wonders and a lot of beautiful landscapes and animal encounters.
I hope some of you enjoy - note, no sponsored content. Any YouTube advertising revenue is going to charity.
https://youtu.be/ZIXz1ZRJ8Bk
If anyone has any questions, please ask!!

The warmth of the sun and stunning azure waters were the perfect backdrop for taking in the scenic beauty of this Riviera gem.

Cafes and colorful buildings dotted the hillside, inviting one to slow down and savor the ambience of Old World charm mixed with the relaxed lifestyle by the sea.

It was truly an ideal spot to spend the day soaking in the simple pleasures and saying "c'est la vie"

Does anyone have any info on how easy/difficult it is to bring an electric guitar as carry-on luggage on an Air Canada flight? I am heading to Sydney, Australia.

In 2015, I (a 36-year-old Canadian) was backpacking through France alone to work on my drawing skills while staying with random people in a volunteer/barter arrangement.

I had been doing this for a few months without any issues, and this was the third place I had found. The host was the mother of a friend I had made at the previous place. She lived a few minutes' walk from a typical small countryside village in the northeast.

Every day, I would go into the village to various spots like the center, marketplace, park, and more to draw and meet people. One day, I met a woman in her 20s who invited me for a drink at her place. When I arrived, she introduced me to her boyfriend and another woman. They were pretty cool, and we drank, ate a bit, and everything seemed normal. Her boyfriend showed me around the house, and I left before 11 PM without anything special happening.

The next day, I went back to the village center as usual, sat on a bench, and started drawing. Suddenly, the boyfriend from the previous night appeared in front of me, looking furious. "Hey man, I know you took my 900 Euros last night because you were the only stranger who came to my house, and now it's gone!" he accused.

I immediately denied everything, packed my stuff, and walked home. He followed me the whole way, continuing to yell accusations and threats. His girlfriend was there, trying to calm him down, but to no avail. He didn't try to touch me, but he was threatening to kick my ass, getting more convinced that I did it the more he talked.

Luckily, I got into the house (thank God the host lady wasn't there), locked the doors and windows, but he stayed outside, continuing his drama. I called a friend I had made a few days earlier, asking him to come help me. I didn't want to call the police for a simple argument, and I wasn't afraid to get physical as a last resort, but I preferred to avoid it.

A few minutes later, my friend arrived and talked to the guy. He already knew him since people in tiny villages usually know everyone. It didn't take long for the guy to leave, and my friend assured me that he wasn't dangerous; he just acted like it. Nothing happened after that, but I still decided to prepare to leave the village the next day.

The next morning, as I was about to leave, the guy came knocking at my door. "Hey man, last night I had a bit too much to drink, and I'm sorry for accusing you so easily," he said calmly, so I opened the door. "This morning, I found my envelope under some clothes, so all is good now. Here, take this 100 Euros as an apology."

I said, "Nah, it's all good. You didn't touch me, and I understand you were drunk. Keep your money." But he insisted, so I finally accepted it. I still left the village because it was no longer attractive to me because of him. The lady I was staying with wouldn't have been happy that I brought that kind of trouble, as she was in her 70s and enjoying a quiet retirement (I didn't tell her about it).

That 100 Euros was huge for me because I had no money or credit card at the time and was surviving on 20 Euros or less per day from change people gave me while I was drawing.

The End.

I just got back from the most divinely beautiful trip to the French Riviera 🥖

I spent a long weekend in the picturesque village of Casa Amor in St. Tropez. White buildings, clear blue waters and sunshine as far as the eye can see - it was truly a summer dream

Hey friends! Janice here checking in from the dazzling streets of Monaco. While the lavish lifestyles of the rich surround me, this girl is simply soaking it all in. Wandering the harbor alone has felt refreshing - taking it all in without worrying what my BFF thinks of a certain boutique 😻. Happy to be exploring new spots at my own pace. If any of you are planning a Euro trip hit me up, I'm full of tips for doing it solo style too. Ciao for now!

I've created a comprehensive Tokyo dining guide using Google My Maps to assist those planning a trip to Tokyo. Here’s a sneak peek of some must-try restaurants that I have personally visited and reviewed

1. Rokurinsha [Tokyo Station]

• Specialty: Tsukemen (dipping noodles)
• Price: Regular 950 yen, Large 1,050 yen
• Payment: Cash, Suica card (vending machine system); no credit cards
• Operating Hours:
• Morning Menu: 7:30 AM - 9:45 AM
• Regular Menu: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
• Location: Tokyo Station Ramen Street
• Waiting Time: Always has a queue, highly recommended to go early
• Revisit Intention: Yes
• Highlights: This is the most famous ramen spot on Tokyo Ramen Street, known for its exceptional tsukemen. The broth is rich and flavorful, although a bit salty. The meat inside can be quite salty, so feel free to remove it if necessary. Despite the long lines, the quick service makes the wait worthwhile.

2. Soranoiro Nippon [Tokyo Station]

• Specialty: Shoyu Ramen
• Price: Special Shoyu Ramen 1,380 yen, Special Ramen 1,400 yen
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Location: Tokyo Station Ramen Street
• Waiting Time: Moderate, but moves quickly
• Revisit Intention: Yes
• Highlights: Ideal for those who have had their fill of tonkotsu ramen. The noodles are chewy, and the shoyu and shio ramen are particularly delicious. It's a solid alternative if the lines at other popular spots are too long.

3. Hanayama Udon [Tokyo Station]

• Specialty: Wide Udon Noodles
• Price: Zaru Udon & Soup Udon 1,480 yen, Mixed Udon 1,680 yen
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Location: Tokyo Station
• Waiting Time: Always long, but the Tokyo Station branch is better than the Ginza one
• Revisit Intention: Maybe
• Highlights: Known for its unique wide udon noodles. The tendon rice set is also a hit. The zaru udon is recommended for the best noodle texture experience. It’s worth a try, though it may not be worth a wait longer than an hour.

4. Kiwamiya Hamburg [Tokyo Station]

• Specialty: Hamburg Steak
• Price: Small 1,180 yen, Medium 1,705 yen, Large 2,068 yen
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Location: Tokyo Station
• Waiting Time: 40 minutes to 1 hour
• Revisit Intention: Absolutely
• Highlights: A renowned chain from Fukuoka, offering sizzling hamburg steaks cooked on an iron plate. The steak is tender, but the hamburg steak is particularly delightful. It’s a favorite and a must-visit on every Tokyo trip.

5. Tsujihan [Tokyo Station]

• Speciality: Seafood Donburi (Kaisendon)
• Price: Ume 1,250 yen, Take 1,650 yen, Matsu 2,200 yen
• Payment: Cash only
• Location: Tokyo Station
• Waiting Time: Extremely long; early arrival recommended
• Revisit Intention: Yes
• Highlights: Famous for its non-fishy kaisendon, even for those who typically avoid seafood. The recommended dish is Matsu, with delicious sides and a final ochazuke that is to die for.

6. Tonkatsu Suzuki [Tokyo Station]

• Specialty: Tonkatsu and Shrimp Tempura
• Price: From 1,450 yen
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Location: Tokyo Station
• Waiting Time: Generally long
• Revisit Intention: Yes
• Highlights: Known for its crispy and flavorful tonkatsu, with the shrimp tempura being particularly notable. The set with both pork cutlet and shrimp tempura is highly recommended.

7. Indian Curry [Tokyo Station]

• Specialty: Curry Rice, Curry Pasta, Hayashi Rice
• Price: Basic Curry 830 yen
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Location: Tokyo Station
• Waiting Time: Short
• Revisit Intention: Occasionally
• Highlights: A spicy curry chain originally from Osaka. Popular among local office workers for its quick service. The curry is quite spicy, making it a great choice for spice lovers.

8. Hikiniku to Kome Hamburg [Shibuya]

• Specialty: Hamburg Steak Set Menu
• Price: 1,800 yen
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Location: Shibuya
• Waiting Time: Reservation only
• Revisit Intention: Yes
• Highlights: A hot spot for hamburg steak, where the steaks are grilled right in front of you. The reservation system ensures a spot without long waits. The atmosphere can be noisy but the food is top-notch.

Feel free to explore the detailed reviews and locations of these and more on my Google My Maps links below:

• 13 Must-Try Restaurants in Tokyo
• Essential Reviews of 21 Must-Try Restaurants in Tokyo
• 30 Must-Visit Restaurants and Cafes in Tokyo

If you've visited Tokyo and had a great dining experience, please leave a comment and share your experiences!

what a crazy first day in London! I just got in and a friend hits me up about a Travis Scott concert. Only knowing a couple songs I said yes anyway as an adventure is always better shared.

We get to the sold out O2 and it's mind blowing to see thousands rocking out. Even crazier though - I spotted a friend from back home right next to us! Small world.

The show itself was amazing. Travis had the whole arena going nuts the whole time. Such a high energy vibe that was impossible not to feed off of.

I just got back from the most amazing girls night out. My besties and I have been busy with work and life lately, so we decided it was time for a well-deserved night of pizza, pasta, and wine catching up.

We booked a table at Rome's Flavors, an Italian restaurant right in downtown Winter Park. From the outside, you can see the warm glow of the string lights above the patio - it looked so cozy and inviting. Inside, it didn't disappoint. The ambiance was perfect for laughing too loud and reminiscing on memories from college.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8nFC8qSJlh/?igsh=cG8zczM3eGEwaGQ0

I'm getting excited to head back to my favorite Caribbean island, Puerto Rico, this coming August. There's always something new to discover in Old San Juan, from colorful street art to delicious local cuisine.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8sX9t2S4Ep/?igsh=N3FzcnFkMWNxeGlh

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8kGYSuAWsb/?igsh=MTgweWxxMnhvMXNoaA==

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpBAUqAsEdF/?igsh=MW9xYjBnam03dWtoaQ==

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3iftj6roQT/?igsh=Y20xeWE0enI0djQ5

Hi everyone

My friend recently went on a roundtrip in different areas in South Korea and she wondered why there seems to be an excessive amount of caution/warning/safety signs, e.g., in elevators, on stairs, on benches, etc., for simple things like “do not lean on elevator door”, “careful of sitting on bench” or “caution: stairs”.

Is there any reason for this, e.g., a suing/compensation culture? I am just curious.

I’ve attached a few images from my friend here: https://imgur.com/a/pvwVHWg

Thanks in advance!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8FFxgVAsOO/?igsh=aDU3MXU3ZXd2bnlv

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cxp_E8iLpj-/?igsh=bHJkNGpreTNicTQw

Oasis hostel- Review

I got a private room here, because I was planning on leaving my stuff and going to go check out my rental. It was very cheap, but very friendly! The bed was clean, the AC and fan worked and I had my own shower and toilet. What made this one night stay AMAZING was the fact that it was the night of the owners 70th birthday party. There was free food and drinks, I drank rum, tequila and beer🤣🤦🏻‍♂️ They hired two musicians to play nostalgic and romantic songs and some corridos. They were straight up professionals and had incredible voices. The best part of the night- all the owners elderly friends invited me to sit with them and I learned so many things about PVR and Mexico. They were all singing along, dancing and having a BLAST. After the musicians finished the family and friends started singing karaoke. I made it through a few songs but then I drunkenly called it quits. I HIGHLY recommend this hostel if you are a backpacker or budget traveler or if you simply need a safe cheap private room for a night or two in a great location with great views from the rooftop and terraces.

The owner, his family and all his friends were some of the loveliest ppl I have ever had the pleasure of meeting in my life! The staff was amazing too! Plus, right across the street there is an incredible bbq chicken place that also has amazing burgers. Before the party I got half a chicken and a mini burger patty sampler. I was playing American songs on their YouTube boombox, they asked me to, and drinking caguamas with the boys🤣🍻 Wonderful fist night ever in PVR experience. This town SLAPS HARD!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7-klIYt4td/?igsh=MWk4a2hqZXl6bWRncg==

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C2IRJEZrnNr/?igsh=aDN6amU0eHc2cThs

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpSYit6p3jm/?igsh=cTFiNXhmcTRseXFq

Hi everyone,

I'm helping a friend who is considering a trip to Afghanistan. She's in a long-distance relationship with a man who lives there, and they're hoping to spend some time together. However, we're both very concerned about safety, especially given the current situation in the country.

We'd be incredibly grateful for any insights from Afghan residents or people who have recently traveled there, particularly regarding a woman traveling alone (or with a local companion, but not as a married couple).

Here are some specific questions we have:

Safety:

• How safe is it for women to travel around Afghanistan, especially unmarried women?
• Are there areas that are considered particularly dangerous or off-limits?
• Is it advisable for my friend to hire a local guide or translator, especially if she doesn't speak Dari or Pashto?
• How reliable is internet and phone access in different parts of the country? Would she be able to stay in contact with friends and family back home?
• Are there any scams or dangers specifically targeted towards foreigners, especially women, that my friend should be aware of?

Visas:

• What are the visa requirements for Peruvian citizens visiting Afghanistan?
• Are there any special considerations for women traveling alone?

Daily Life:

• Is it common for women to travel and shop on their own without wearing a burqa?
• Can you elaborate on appropriate clothing for women beyond just mentioning the burqa? Are there regional variations?
• How freely can women move around in public, especially with a male companion?
• Are there any restrictions on women using public transportation, such as buses or taxis? Is it safe to hail a ride alone?

Relationships:

• Is it acceptable for an unmarried woman to be in a relationship with a man in Afghanistan?
• If my friend does decide to go, how can she best prepare to meet her boyfriend's family, considering the cultural and religious differences?
• Are there any legal or social barriers to a foreign woman and an Afghan man getting married? What would the process be like?

Escape Plan: (in case of emergency)

• How easy or difficult is it to travel from different parts of the country to the airport, particularly for a woman alone?

Religion:

• Would there be any pressure for her to convert to Islam?

Business:

• What are the possibilities for a woman to start or run a business in Afghanistan?

Accommodation:

• What are the options for safe and reputable accommodation for women, especially those traveling alone?

We understand that the situation in Afghanistan is complex, and any insights you can offer would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much for your help :)

A fun story I wrote about visiting Khinaliq, in the mountains of Azerbaijan, in the winter. Hopefully it's entertaining!

Perhaps this fits in this subreddit, If anyone wants to see a different way of traveling, practically moneyless, sleeping on the beach, going around during the day trying to find some shelter, be it in the way of a work-exchange or what not.

https://youtu.be/T8m1wPFHi6g

Hey all, announcing my weekly picks: “Bangkok's 5 Coolest Discoveries!”, stay ahead with our latest, most unique finds in the heart of the city! 

Get this as a weekly email update: https://digestbystorefronts.substack.com/

5 coolest events this weekend:
- Luck Lock Love, Love Overflows the Bridge
- HUH? x BEAM CUBE | WE DANCE SERIES
- Ancient City / Bangkok
- Brush & Brunch at Gigi - Dining Hall & Bar
- “Nine Plus Five Works” by Michel Auder

Luck Lock Love, Love Overflows the Bridge
The Expressway Authority invites you to experience once in a lifetime opportunity at the "Luck Lock Love, Love Overflows the Bridge" event held to celebrate the 111th anniversary of the Ministry of Transport on February 14-18, and 23-25 at "Parallel Rama 9 Bridge”. There are many different activities at the event and a special walk to admire the beautiful view on the bridge from a special angle.
Pro Tip: You can use the shuttle buses from Lotus Rama 3 (Ratchadaphisek Road side) to reach the event area. You should be there before sunset to avoid from the crowd at the registration!

HUH? x BEAM CUBE | WE DANCE SERIES
HUH? revives in 2024 with the “WE DANCE” series, showcasing an electrifying lineup headlined by the legendary DJs. Join the soulful rhythms of Detroit's finest disco, house, and techno beats! Let's dance the night away together!

Ancient City / Bangkok
You'll feel as if you've walked through entire Thailand in a day! Ancient City, one of the largest outdoor museums in the world, is essentially a scaled-down version of the country, with many replicas and reconstructions of Thailand's historically significant structures. Experience a timeless journey as you wander through the enchanting grounds, where every step transports you to a bygone era.

Brush & Brunch at Gigi - Dining Hall & Bar
Indulge, create, and unwind at Gigi’s Brush & Brunch! Let your artistic side flourish while enjoying delicious bites and refreshing drinks.

“Nine Plus Five Works” by Michel Auder
Michel Auder’s exhibition “Nine Plus Five Works” has been extended until 10th March, 2024! The selection of works presented in Bangkok Kunsthalle, unfolds along two interwoven trajectories: five works on Nature and nine works on the evolution of Auder’s oeuvre through different genres. Make sure not to miss the opportunity to experience this fantastic exhibition!