Everyone comes to Asia to eat. Yes, heritage, nature, beautiful traditions and inventive modernity – but, c’mon, really to eat. And the outstanding F&B culture here encompasses all of those facets in delicious spades. It’s one of the top reasons our readers say they country-hop around our region: food quests, hard-to-book restaurants, chefs and bartenders they’ve seen on TV or are hoping to discover. What’s cooking, Asia? Everything! And what better guide to it than your on-the-ground source for insider intel for the past 15 years? That’s T+L, and we can only do it with our amazing network of tuned-in friends and contributors… and this year, our Tastemakers 2023 panelists.

We asked trusted food writers, enthusiastic foodies and merry drinkers for their picks of the best restaurants and bars around the region, and after months of extensive research and deliberation, we nailed a solid inaugural list to guide your foodie travels in Southeast Asia.

Since this ranking is founded on personal encounters, please do not think of it as absolute; nevertheless, we consider it a respectable and exciting overview of present culinary preferences and a reliable gauge of the finest dining and drinking establishments throughout our oh-so-happening region.

Here are our T+L Tastemakers 2023 panelists who gave us their top recommendations for not only where to eat and drink in their home countries, but also the places that have stood out during their travels.

Kee Foong

Freelance writer, traveler and polyglutton who has joyfully eaten his way around the world without necessarily knowing the language of a place. Just as happy with street food and hole-in-the-wall joints as Michelin and World’s 50 Best Restaurants. When in doubt, point and try. @keepicks

Agnes Chee

Agnes Chee is a food columnist residing in Hong Kong. She writes a weekly food column published in Hong Kong Economic Journal and frequently contributes to other publications in China. @yanwei525

Chris Dwyer

I’m a British freelance food and travel writer who has been lucky to enjoy wayyyy too many good meals, from roadside stalls to Michelin-starred temples. @chrismdwyer

Elaine Wong

Elaine is CMO of Tasting Kitchen (TK), Asia’s premier epicurean lifestyle media group. A seasoned brand curator, food and beverage enthusiast and travel connoisseur, Elaine enjoys life as a digital nomad, discovering extraordinary experiences while connecting to cultures and communities around the world in the pursuit of meaning and happiness. She’s mostly in Macau / Hong Kong but is always on the go and ready for spicy noodles or Champagne. @e_for_eat

Jed Doble

After a long stint in banking, Jed transitioned to publishing and is now a highly regarded food writer and publishing professional in Jakarta. Founder of Foodies Media in 2016, Indonesia’s top F&B outlet, he’s dedicated to sharing the pursuit of deliciousness. Jed collaborates with esteemed titles such as Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out Jakarta, SilverKris by Singapore Airlines, and Time Out Singapore. A true food enthusiast, he comfortably enjoys meals at roadside warungs or Michelin-starred establishments. @jed.doble

Aja Ng

From writing menus and reviews to being chef on a private yacht, developing recipes and making content for food networks, to consulting in kitchens and working with restaurants on public relations and marketing, Aja spends much of her work and leisure time researching, planning, analyzing and obsessing over food. Good food equates to pleasure, and she is blessed to be constantly surrounded with nature’s bounty. @aja_ng

Nik Michael Imran

Chef Nik Michael Imran is of Australian-Malaysian heritage and is based in Kuala Lumpur. He grew up under the cooking influence of his chef dad before competing in MasterChef Malaysia in 2011, which ignited a burgeoning career from terrestrial television to regional food channels. Nowadays, he travels the region as a Culinary Advisor for Emborg or cooking at home with his wife and daughter. @nik9_

Monica Tindall

Monica Tindall is the founder and editor of The Yum List, a luxury gourmet travel website based in Malaysia and covering the world. With well over a decade on the job, she has penned more than 5,000 gourmet travel articles, consults internationally for the F&B industry, and is a judge on several industry panels. @theyumlist

Aaron Khor Ching

My passion for food, especially local cuisine, blossomed during family dinners in my modern Peranakan upbringing. Raised in a household blending traditions, my father’s cooking of traditional Peranakan dishes for occasions like Chinese New Year and Christmas was a cornerstone. We embraced diverse culinary cultures at our table, not necessarily fusion but a respectful coexistence of traditional styles. This inclusivity is what I adore about food—it transcends boundaries. I pursued a culinary career at KDU University College in Malaysia, worked at Restaurant Locavore and Dewakan, and now own Fifty Tales, where I celebrate our rich local culture through food. Living in a culturally diverse country fuels my culinary exploration, connecting the past with exciting new tastes. @aarondotk

Alison Christ

Christ, Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers, hails from New York with a long stint in Washington, D.C. After leaving America in 2012, Christ spent five years in Hong Kong working as a natural wine spokesperson, sommelier and consultant. In 2017, she relocated to Malaysia where she continues her passion for organic wine. Alison curates innovative, fun and inspiring experiences and blind tastings. In 2022, Alison founded Cheong Somm Wine Bar in Penang. @christthesomm

Jin Perez-Go

Jin Perez-Go is food and travel content creator and is behind one of Manila’s most followed social media accounts, Jin Loves to Eat, where she documents her meals and travels around the globe. She loves exploring new cities, discovering new flavors, and is constantly seeking the next gastronomic adventure. She has been a constant figure in the Philippine dining scene for over a decade. A respected foodie among peers, Jin keeps her followers satiated with her honest reviews, recommendations, and food advice. @jinlovestoeat

Grace Ma

I’ve been covering the latest trends and interviewing trailblazers in the lifestyle, travel and dining arenas for more than 15 years. While discovering the most exciting dining spots around the world and picking the most brilliant culinary minds on their inspirations are my motivation, what comforts my stomach and soul is a piping hot bowl of minced pork noodles slathered in vinegar and chili. @littlehappyideas

Daniel Goh

Daniel Goh is editor of SpiritedSingapore.com, an online publication covering the drinks and dining scene in Singapore. Daniel is a Certified Specialist of Wine, a French Wine Scholar, and a Whisky Ambassador. @danielgoh

Nimmi Malhotra

I am a wine writer and judge based in Singapore. I also specialize in bar culture, gastronomy, and travel and work with a number of magazines and online platforms including Channel News Asia Luxury, The Peak, and the Drinks Business. I hold a WSET Diploma and a master’s in marketing from Monash University, Australia. @nimmimalhotra.wine

Sarah Huang Benjamin

Sarah is a culinary creative and chef based in Singapore and KL. Her recipes and content showcase modern, approachable ways to recreate flavors from across Asia. With a background in sociology and heritage research, Sarah believes that food is a vehicle for storytelling, and that beyond just delicious food, eating and cooking are ways of understanding other people and cultures. Sarah has previously hosted cooking shows on the Asian Food Network and elsewhere. @sarahhuangbenjamin

Christian Barker

During two decades as a journalist and editor, Christian Barker has covered style, culture, entertainment, travel, business and luxury for publications including the FT, SCMP, GQ, Forbes, Esquire, CNBC, and Travel+Leisure, among others. He also established luxury website BLLNR.com, and was founding editor-in-chief of classic menswear bible, The Rake magazine. Passionate about sharp tailoring, tasty tipples and good food (from authentic hawker fare to the fanciest fine dining), Sydney-bred Barker has lived in Singapore for 18 years. @christianbbarker

Litti Kewkacha

A food enthusiast turned F&B entrepreneur, I’ve spent the past 25 years traveling the world, particularly indulging in fine dining. Starting as a Tastemaker (social media ambassador) for 50 Best, I now proudly serve as the Chairperson for the Southeast Asia region. @litsfree

Nalina Suranakarin

Nalina, a prominent luxury marketing and branding specialist in Thailand, is a lifestyle connoisseur with a deep passion for gastronomy. In the past year, she has explored the finest hotels, upscale dining venues, and local gems across Asia and Europe. Known for impeccable taste, meticulous attention to detail, and a love for luxury brands, storytelling, and craftsmanship, Nalina is set to share her insider’s knowledge on the crème de la crème of international luxury experiences. @nalinalifestyle

Mapeng Phongsila Commak

As a food activist and avid traveler, I’ve dedicated the latter half of my life to savoring the culinary delights of northern Thailand. While some associate good food with luxury, I believe it’s a reflection of place and people. It involves reacting and harmonizing local ingredients, promoting the health and welfare of the community. Recognizing and respecting this philosophy is the essence of my travels. @phongsilacommak

Mario Tolentino

Chef Mario Tolentino, founder of Point of View Hospitality, is a culinary veteran with more than two decades of global experience. With a portfolio spanning NYC, Miami, LA, San Francisco, Hong Kong and most recently Bangkok. Mario has successfully created and rebranded numerous hospitality concepts. His journey, beginning at the California Culinary Academy, includes winning appearances on “Chopped” and “Recipe for Deception.” With his “cool, calm, and creative” mantra and a keen eye for emerging trends, Mario’s leadership and adaptability continue to redefine the evolving dining landscape. @chefmariotolentino

Vincent Vichit-Vadakan

I write about food because I am endlessly curious about what we eat and what it says about us and our outlook on life. People who are passionate about making and sharing food are almost always generous souls with good stories to tell. In addition to writing about food, I am a versatile cook, whether at home or in professional kitchen. Chances are that I am thinking about my next meal. I’d love it if you could join me. @vincentinparis

Megan Leon

For the last decade, I’ve been surrounded by the F&B industry through culinary school, working as a cook and currently as a writer. The love of food through culture has long been ingrained in my roots thanks to my mom who also comes from the industry and has taught me everything I know. This quote resonates always: “good food is the common ground shared by all and immigration is fundamental to good food.” @lagringabkk

Daniel Hoai Nguyen

Daniel Nguyen is the founder of Song Cai Distillery, a Vietnam distillery and winery. He has nearly a decade of experience working in agriculture in Vietnam, encompassing highland forestry to lowland fisheries. His work spans fermentation, the documentation and conservation of heirloom species, as well as the production of world-class spirits and wines. He is the Vietnam country host of Roads and Kingdoms, founded by Anthony Bourdain, specializing in immersive culinary and cultural experiences. @rhizome7

Nhi Nhan

Nhi Nhan is a food blogger and writer, sharing her passion for culinary exploration through captivating storytelling. With a keen eye for detail and a discerning palate, she crafts engaging articles for a leading food magazine. Her unique blend of creativity and expertise shines through her delectable tastes and insightful reviews. Nhi has cultivated a loyal following who eagerly anticipate her next mouthwatering discovery. Through her work, she continues to inspire and delight food enthusiasts worldwide. @anotherfoodaddict

Jovel Chan

For the past 2.5 years, Jovel has tracked Vietnam’s dining scene, featured on platforms like TODAY, Our Grandfather Story, and Epicure. Beyond writing, she’s an industry speaker (Meet the Experts 2022) and F&B judge (Diageo World Class Finals Vietnam, Vietnam Whiskey and Cocktail Festival). In 2023, the Singapore Tourism Board appointed Jovel ‘Vietnam F&B Consultant,’ leading chef collaborations. As an F&B consultant, she offers invaluable insights to Golden Gate Group, PepsiCo, and Kantar. Lastly, she founded SAIGON SOCIAL, organizing food and drink experiences, including #SaigonSupperClub. @jovel.chan

‘World of Frozen’ is finally open at Hong Kong Disneyland! Visitors are now able to explore Arendelle, Elsa and Anna’s hometown. Even more exciting is the fact that it is the world’s first and only Frozen-themed attraction.

Inspired by the hit movies Frozen and Frozen 2, the attraction consists of Elsa’s Ice Palace and Arendelle Castle. With this new themed land, the Hong Kong theme park has the most castles among all Disney parks! What are you waiting for? It’s time to visit the Town Square and forest area that were seen in the Oscar-winning animated film.

World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland: What you need to know

There are two new rides in the area, one of which is a revamped version of the Frozen Ever After ride at Walt Disney Resort in Orlando. On this ride, visitors can visit Elsa’s Ice Palace during Summer Snow Day. The other is a family-friendly roller coaster, Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs, which takes riders through a scenic journey around the mountains. It is powered by Olaf and Sven!

Meanwhile, Playhouse in the Woods serves as Anna and Elsa’s childhood playhouse. Visitors can have a unique playing experience here in celebration of Summer Snow Day. Golden Crocus Inn is the go-to place for dining while Tick Tock Toys & Collectibles will be selling keepsakes and merchandise.

Tokyo DisneySea will open its own version next spring while Disneyland Paris will follow in 2025.

The park is now open for more days a week

Hong Kong Disneyland is now operating six days a week. Previously, it was only open for five days due to the pandemic. With this expanded opening and a new attraction, there is hope that more tourists and locals will visit.

This year, Walt Disney also celebrates its 100th anniversary as well as the Hong Kong park’s 18th year. As such, beloved characters from various Disney stores appeared in a series of events during the centenary festivities. The Walt Disney and Mickey House statue Dream Makers was recently unveiled on October 16.

This story first appeared here.

Related: The Best Times To Visit Disneyland For Fewer Crowds, Gorgeous Weather, And Lower Prices

With the festive season in full swing, India is decking up in lights, sparkles and divinity. The end of the nine-day Navratri celebrations and Dussehra makes way for the eagerly awaited Diwali, or Deepawali, which falls on November 12, 2023. 

The Hindu festival is celebrated by millions worldwide across a series of occasions, signifying good over evil, prosperity and the triumph of light over all our dark desires. 

Diwali, which derives its name from the Sanskrit word ‘Deepa,’ meaning clay lamps, and ‘āvali,’ meaning a row or continuous line, also goes by the names of Jain Diwali, Bandi Chhor Diwas, Tihar, Sowanti, Sohrai, Bandna and so on.

The festival occurs in the Hindu months of Ashwin and Kartik (coinciding with mid-October to mid-November of the Gregorian calendar). The celebrations, spanning five days, include Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali, Diwali (the main festival falls on the third day), Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj, each carrying its own significance. 

According to ancient texts, although Diwali started as a harvest festival, it has transcended to incorporate themes like removing spiritual darkness, embracing one’s inner light, the triumph of good over evil and ushering in prosperity and wisdom over centuries. 

Know more about the significance of Diwali, how it is celebrated and what does it mean

Diwali celebrations in different parts of India

Though Diwali is celebrated across the country, each region holds distinct connotations and rituals, all rooted in the rich mythology of ancient India. 

Northern India celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile, during which he defeated the demon king Ravana. People decorate their houses with lights, diyas (earthen lamps) and flowers, just the way the people of Ayodhya had welcomed their king, as described in the ancient texts. They worship Goddess Lakshmi for wealth and prosperity and Lord Ganesha for wisdom.

On the other hand, South India celebrates the Festival of Lights to commemorate Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. In the western part of the country, Diwali marks the day when Lord Vishnu sent the demon Bali as the king of the nether world, while Goddess Kali is worshipped in eastern states like Bengal.

Whatever the significance is, the threads of togetherness, cleaning the house to remove dark shadows and welcome the deity, buying traditional clothes, exchanging gifts and enjoying a time of fun and frolic unite everyone during Deepawali.

Diwali celebrations: Traditions, rituals and lores

Lighting lamps, making colourful rangolis (decorative designs made with ground rice and colours), arranging flowers on doors and windows, exchanging sweets and dressing up in bright traditional clothes are some of the essentials of celebrating Deepawali. Every Indian household starts prepping for the festival by sprucing up their abode and decorating it with lights and flowers. Many also opt for renovating their homes and buying new appliances and decor items.

The five-day festival starts with Dhanteras (November 10, 2023), where ‘dhan’ and ‘teras’ mean wealth and number 13, respectively. The occasion falls on the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha during the month of Ashwin in the Hindu calendar. It is considered auspicious to buy utensils, gold jewellery and home appliances on this day.

On Dhanteras, there is a custom of lighting up the house with 13 used diyas from the previous year’s celebrations. Each of these diyas has its own significance in Hindu tradition. For instance, the first one is lit in the southern corner on the outer side of the house to ward off death, while the second one is lit with ghee and kept at the altar inside the house. The third is placed at the goddess Lakshmi’s idol for prosperity and good fortune.

The day before Diwali 2023, the second day of the festivities, is fondly known as Choti Diwali (November 11, 2023) and serves as a grand rehearsal for the main event. Also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, it falls on the 14th day of the Hindu calendar month of Ashwin or Kartik. It marks the day Krishna defeated Narakasura (the lord of hell). Homes are decked up with rangoli, flowers and earthen lamps. Final touches are given to decorations, and last-minute errands are taken care of. 

In the eastern regions of the country, a custom similar to the lighting of 13 lamps on Dhanteras is part of the various rituals performed on Choti Diwali. Bengalis usually light 14 diyas on this day. Known as ‘chothyo prodeep‘, the diyas are lit to pay respects to ancestors, and a meal called ‘chothyo saag’ is prepared with 14 varieties of green leafy vegetables and is served with rice. 

Goddess Kali is the worshipped deity. Legend has it she was born to save the earth and heaven from the clutches of notorious demons. However, after defeating them, goddess Kali lost control over her fury and started a slaughtering spree, not sparing anything that came her way. Lord Shiva had to intervene and lay on her path. When the goddess stepped on him, her tongue came out in shame, and she finally calmed down.

Family members get together to prepare ‘bhog’ (food offered to deities) for the devi and later distribute it among the devotees.

With the arrival of Diwali (November 12, 2023), the festive spirit is at an all-time high as people adorn themselves in their finest attire. The homes come alive with decorative lights, welcoming the gods and goddesses. As the sun sets, deities Ganesha and Lakshmi are worshipped. 

Although some do burst crackers with their friends and family, many have become aware of their impact on the already depreciating air quality in India. Along with worsening air pollution, the loud noise caused by fireworks affects everyone, including animals. 

Some people also play cards and gamble as a mark of inviting wealth and good fortune, followed by a Diwali bash. And, how can there be any party without delicious food? Sweets, snacks, dry fruits and a whole lot of other delectable fare make the occasion scrumptious.

The fourth day is Govardhan Puja (November 14, 2023), or Annakut Puja or Balipratipada, which marks the victory of Lord Krishna over Lord Indra. Food items like wheat, rice, curry made of gram flour and leafy vegetables are prepared to offer Lord Krishna.

Customs on this day differ in various regions. In North India, people dedicate their mornings to worshipping the tools of work, businessmen worship their ledgers and artists express their gratitude towards their brushes and colour palettes.

The fifth and final day of Deepawali celebrations is celebrated as Bhai Dooj (15 November 2023). Also known as Bhau Beej, Bhai Tilak or Bhai Phonta, the day is much like Raksha Bandhan and sisters put a coloured dot (called tilak in Hindi) on their brother’s forehead as a mark of love and respect. They exchange gifts, and while brothers promise to protect their sisters, sisters pray for their well-being.

Deepawali and other religions

In the diverse Indian culture, Deepawali celebrations also have varied significance for different religions and faiths. For the Jain community, Diwali is the period of enlightenment of Mahavira, the Jain Tirthankara (leader), to attain moksha or liberation.

For the Sikh community, the festival period is the time of Guru Hargobind’s return to Amritsar from captivity in Gwalior. This 18th-century tale resonates with the spirit of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.

Deepawali may not be a significant occasion for the Buddhist community, but it marks the day when Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism in the third century BCE. Vajrayana Buddhists celebrate by lighting lamps and decorating monasteries. 

What do people wear on Diwali

The festival of lights is all about brightness and sparkle. People wear traditional clothes like ornate sarees, lehenga and choli, salwar suits and dresses. Traditional jewellery and flower garlands to adorn the hair are also part of the significance of Deepawali. Men, on the other hand, opt for kurtas and sherwani suits to usher in the festive joy. 

Deepawali delicacies 

Diwali is a time to gorge on mouth-watering snacks, seasonal dishes and loads of sweets. 

From savoury snacks like samosas (a triangular savoury pastry fried in oil, containing spiced vegetables, especially potato) and aloo tikki (fried potato patties) to farsan (Gujarati snack made of gram flour) and dhokla (Gujarati snack made of rice and split chickpeas), the Festival of Lights is also a festival for foodies. Daal (lentil curry), naan (an Indian bread), chole bhature (spicy chickpea curry with fried bread), nankhatai (flaky slated biscuit) and chai are some of the most awaited foods of the season. 

However, desserts undoubtedly steal the show.

People love to treat themselves with ladoos (fried and sweetened gram flour balls), gulab jamuns (flour balls deep fried and served in a sugar syrup flavoured with roses), jalebis (spiral-shaped sweets made of flour and sugar syrup) and barfis (milk-based fudgy blocks of sweets). Halwa (semolina boiled with milk, almonds, sugar, butter and cardamom) and kheer (rice pudding) are also relished by many.

This story first appeared here. 

(Hero image credit: Sash Sriganesh/ @sashwathi/ Unsplash; Feature image credit: Joshuva Daniel /@joshuvadaniel/ Unsplash)

Related: Is This the Most Luxurious Wellness Festival in Asia?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What is the significance of the Diwali festival? 
The festival of lights is a celebration of light over darkness, good over evil and represents wealth and prosperity. The Hindu festival represents the spiritual victory of all things dark, gloomy and evil and ushers in prosperity.

-What are the five days of Diwali? 
The five days of Diwali are Dhanteras, Choti Diwali, Diwali, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj.

-Why is Diwali important to us?
Diwali is celebrated to pray for happiness, prosperity and fortune. People light lamps to eradicate darkness and evil spirits and usher in light and sparkle.

-What is the meaning of Diwali? 
Diwali or Deepawali is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘deepa’, meaning lamp and ‘avali’, meaning rows or series.

Raise your glasses to Stellenbosch, an adorable 350-year-old town in the Cape Winelands — the birthplace of winemaking in South Africa that’s just 50 kilometers from Cape Town.

IF YOU’RE THINKING OF visiting ‘wine country’ in a great wine country, I have two words for you: South Africa. My family and I recently took an Adventures By Disney vacation that included awe-inspiring days on safari, but also gifted us with great opportunities to see other parts of the country and, importantly, drink well! Stellenbosch, located just 50 kilometers outside of Cape Town, is the capital of what’s known as the Cape Winelands, with some of the best vineyards South Africa has to offer. Yet visiting Stellenbosch offers so much more than wonderful wineries; there are also interesting museums, fabulous art galleries, and a variety of delightful coffee shops. 

Getting to Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa dating back to 1679, was an easy hour’s drive despite the rain and gray sky. From the moment we arrived I knew this was a place where you could spend an entire day and still have more to see. Unfortunately, the morning greeted us with a cold rainstorm that was not ideal for walking around. We quickly decided that we were not dressed appropriately for the weather–providing a lovely excuse to shop. We wandered into a number of stores where we found stylish, made-in-South-Africa clothing that was also functional.

As we wandered through the town, we encountered beautiful works of art on display inside and outside of galleries. It felt like we were in an immersive museum experience. Part of the charm of Stellenbosch is rooted in the wonderful displays of history and art depicting and rooted in everyday life. A highlight was seeing a display of Nelson Mandela’s tennis shoes that he wore when he walked out of prison. But this was not in a museum – rather in a store selling that brand of shoe. One of the government buildings has an exquisite map sculpture in its courtyard depicting Mandela’s face.

The chill and dampness of the air was also a wonderful excuse to try one of the many coffee shops available in town. We treated ourselves to steaming hot teas and lattes. Our barista eagerly gave us an elaborate demonstration of his artistic expertise. We excitedly sampled a hot rooibos tea latte. Rooibos tea is such a staple in South Africa that if you ask for simply tea, rooibos is what you’re likely to get. I found it absolutely delicious.

After a few wholesome cuppas, we realized that it’s always five o’clock somewhere and it was time to really take advantage of being in the Cape Winelands. This region of rolling vineyards was the birthplace of the South African winemaking industry, and has some of the oldest wineries in the country, including our destination, Spier Wine Farm. We eagerly walked up the gravel road to the main entrance of the Spier Estate, and, climbing the steps to the manor, we knew we were going to be treated to an elegant experience. The ambience provided a beautiful aesthetic and picturesque backdrop. We began with a lavish buffet lunch featuring several South African dishes. The wine tasting included six wines at each place setting: three red and three white. South Africa is known for its own blend of wine, the Pinotage, and this turned out to be a clear fan favorite. We left Spier with cheerful smiles as we headed back to Cape Town from Stellenbosch. 

It felt like we had spent the day deep in the countryside when in actuality we were right outside of Cape Town. For a few hours we were whisked away to a part of South Africa that is a perfect complement to both the stunning city of Cape Town and the serenity of the bush on safari. And my whole family cheers to that.

Lede image by Merten Snijders/The Image Bank/Getty Images.

Kaikoura, on the northeast of the South Island of New Zealand, is one of the world’s best spots for seeing sea life and eating seafood, and it’s just a quick roadtrip from Christchurch. Come take the dolphin-, bird- and whale-watching journey with us in pictures.

New Zealand certainly has no shortage of natural attractions, but South Island’s Kaikoura peninsula seems to have it in extremes. Credit that to its unique geography that includes both towering mountains and deep undersea canyons. Bordering from the west, the 2,608-metre-high Kaikoura range forms a majestic backdrop of misty snow-capped peaks. To the east, a 60-kilometers-long trench plummets 1,200 metres below the waves. Down there, warm and cold currents converge to push nutrient-rich water up to the surface, thereby sustaining a rich food chain that features the ocean’s biggest creatures.

The stars of Kaikoura’s marine wilderness are its resident sperm whales, which live in these waters and are easily seen all year. There are also other leviathans that may be spotted if you’re lucky enough—migrating blue whales and humpback whales, for instance, or a pod of visiting orcas. Closer to shore there are more animals to behold, like giant wandering albatrosses, playful dusky dolphins and adorable fur seals. On the other hand, those who like their nature trips on terra firma can check out the many scenic walks inland and along the coast. You’d think a place with such a well-preserved environment would be somewhere remote, but it’s not.

Kaikoura is just a leisurely 2.5-hours’ drive north of Christchurch via 180 beautiful kilometers on State Highway 1. Have a look at photographic evidence of the awesomeness this town full of natural wonders has to offer.

01 – Hemmed in by snow-capped mountains on one side and the open sea on the other, the town of Kaikoura in South Island, New Zealand, hosts picture-perfect views and a pristine marine environment.

02 – The waters off Kaikoura are a feeding area for sperm whales, a fact that made it a bountiful whaling site from the 1800s to the 1960s. Since then, the town has remade itself a major ecotourism destination, and is now known for its popular whale watching expeditions (whalewatch.co.nz).

03 – A sperm whale’s distinctive tail fin above the water signals the start of a deep dive into the undersea canyon below. Kaikoura is the best place in New Zealand—and probably the world—to see these amazing creatures up close.

04 – The Gibson’s wandering albatross, one of the largest seabirds in the world, is the main attraction of the Albatross Encounter wildlife tour. This outfit operates small group birdwatching tours on a 13-seater motorboat.

05 – Dusky dolphins often accompany boats cruising the waters off Kaikoura. These curious animals like to show off with playful jumps and underwater acrobatics. Not surprisingly the tourists love them!

06 – Kaikoura’s wild residents include a few thousand fur seals who live in colonies all along the coast. This one decided to leave its protected area and take a stroll along the nearby parking lot.

07 – Still going strong after four decades, this humble roadside shack serves up fresh seafood caught from the seashore behind it. Nins Bin found its spot along the coastal highway in 1977, and has since then become one of Kaikoura’s famous pit stops.

08 – If you eat only one local meal in Kaikoura, make it this: paua shelfish and crayfish fritters, served with a dash of lemon juice over wheat bread. The Kaikoura Seafood BBQ kiosk on Fyffe Quay cooks it fresh, hot and fast.

09 – Cetacean bones at the Fyffe House bear witness to its history as a whaler’s home during the 1840’s. Now a museum, its preserved interiors and artifacts gives a glimpse of life in a bygone era.

10 – Set amidst a 500-acre deer farm, the picture-perfect Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses offers sustainable luxury to complement Kaikoura’s natural attractions. The hotel boasts 12 gorgeously designed rooms, a full-service spa and a restaurant that serves entrees created from locally-sourced ingredients.

11 – A resident seal takes in the stunning views and the fresh air from the comfort of its breeding grounds. Kaikoura’s unfettered natural charms—and its breezy road connection to  Christchurch—make it an ideal spot for a quick and easy outdoor adventure.

Photographs by Lester V. Ledesma, lede image by Kyle Mulinder/Courtesy of New Zealand Tourism, and unless otherwise noted.

If you haven’t been to Unzen Onsen, near Nagasaki, you’re missing out on one of the hottest under-the-radar towns in Japan. Come with us to this little spot in Kyushu, where the bubbles blurb, the ancient pines tower, and the tomatoes are served singularly and cold. It’s primal healing through hot lava.

IT’S 7 A.M. IN Unzen Amakusa National Park, about 50 kilometers from Nagasaki on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands. I’m half asleep still but somehow power-walking with a group of tracksuit-wearing Japanese strangers over a volcanic landscape that’s burping gaseous steam and bubbling gray mud. Our guide’s morning enthusiasm is high—and borderline criminal. 

This wasn’t just basic power walking. It was Jigoku style—Hell Power Walking! Fitting, since the network of snakelike boardwalk trails was the only thing separating me and my powerwalk posse from scalding hot steam vents and hissing fumaroles fed from a lava lair deep below us. One snoozy misstep and it’s sayonara. 

In Japan, these volcanic areas are aplenty and often called “Jigoku” (hell). What made Unzen’s so different was its almost electric-green lushness and, as I would later learn, its dedication to nature, with sign-posted trails listing local flora and fauna. 

To be honest, 7 a.m. power walking isn’t my normal jam. I’m more of a last call for breakfast kind of guy. But I’d been on the road in Japan for a few weeks overindulging nightly on marbled yakiniku, sake, and 7-Eleven snacks, which I began referring to as “R&D,” and it was turning me soft and plump. So I was grateful for the chance to burn off some fat and partake in some onsen and wellness, which Unzen is all about. 

The sleepy microtown itself is home to about a dozen restaurants, thankfully none of them like the smokey sake dens I’d been hanging out in. I walked up and down the town’s main drag in about 10 minutes and wondered what I would do there for two nights. A few shops sold onsen eggs, local yuzu koshu paste and numerous salts and lotions. There were refreshingly no tourist buses or groups anywhere in sight, an increasingly hard find in Japan. 

Earlier, I’d checked in at the Hoshino Kai Unzen (from JPY13,000 per person per night), a 51-room hotel that opened in November of 2022 and is decorated with stained-glass art, a reminder of the region’s Christian heritage. It overlooks the spectacular volcanic landscape. The hotel’s acid sulfuric onsen water, rich in acidic hydrogen sulfide, was a highlight. I disrobed and stepped into my private balcony onsen, where I soaked before dinner while watching the steam puffs rise and evaporate into the sky like ghosts. Later at their public onsen, a basalt pool surrounded by ferns and trees, I watched the lanterns reflected in the rippling water and listened to melodic and piercing bird calls echo from the surrounding forests. I could feel myself sinking into a state of deep relaxation— the kind of state you don’t realize you need to be in until you’re in it. 

There’s something magical and healing about these volcanic areas. I felt it on Etna, in Iceland, and on Hawaii. Knowing that a tsunami of orange molten lava could cascade into town any minute adds an excitement to the drudgery of the everyday, but also makes you appreciate the delicacy of life. 

It also makes food taste amazing. The restaurant choices in Unzen are limited, but what I had was outstanding. At Kai, I feasted on lobster and beef shabu shabu made with a daishi of flying fish broth and daidai, a bittersweet local citrus that burst with flavor thanks to the lava. Simmered whelk, a pot of spongy pumpkin tofu, and a slab of dense foie gras with dried persimmon rounded out the meal. Visits to local joints were also rewarding. At Kinugasa Cafeteria I ordered hiyayakko, a cold block of mineraly tofu garnished with black soy, fresh ginger, katsuobushi flakes, and spring onions. I also ordered a single cold tomato, which turned out to be a highlight—lightly salted, bursting with tomato flavor, and carved ornamentally into a rose. 

Best of all were my hikes in the area, home to several trails including one starting at Manmyoji Temple, dating back to 700 AD. Along the trail were 88 moss-encrusted statues and three needled pine trees, rumored to have been first planted here by famed monk Kobodaishi, who brought Buddhism to Japan in the 9th century AD. Another brought me around aquamarine Oshidorino Pond, where Daikokuten Magaibutsu (a stone carved Buddha with mysterious and allegedly ancient origins) is etched into a giant rock. I walked the sun-dappled trail for a few hours one quiet spring afternoon and enjoyed it all to myself.  There was nothing hellish about this Jikogu. But maybe sometimes you need to go to hell to truly reach heaven. 

Lede image by pnphotos/Getty Images.

While many may assume that dollhouses are only made for children, these expensive dollhouses in their most original forms require high attention to detail and come at a staggering price.

Barbie houses are not what you will see here. The original dollhouses came into existence in the 1500s, used as representations of royal courts, palaces, and manors. They’re built and decorated with valuable materials and precise design. Far from being just toys for children, these most expensive dollhouses are representative pieces of wealth.

Some of the Most Expensive Dollhouses in the World

Japanese Dollhouse

Huguette Clark, daughter of an American senator and industrialist William A. Clark, commissioned craftsmen for this expensive dollhouse in the early 1900s. Among the valuable toys and dolls she owned; this special Japanese dollhouse had to gain permission from the Japanese government to use the imperial-building-grade cedar in this model.

Price: USD 80,000 (HKD 626,720)

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English Gothic House

Peter Riches, owner of a construction company, took 15 years to complete this Victorian-style mansion. After years of delicate building, piece by piece, the artwork was finally completed with 23 rooms, a servant quarter, a game room, a grand piano, a pool table, and a library room. The house was later sold to a Canadian dollhouse enthusiast.

Price: USD 82,000 (HKD 642,388)

Titania’s Palace

It is said that Sir Nevile Wilkinson designed Titania’s Palace for his daughter, Guendolen, who wanted to give fairies a home. The dollhouse is more like a palace, comprising 18 rooms and over 3,000 miniature works. It was bought by Legoland in Denmark in 1978 and is now placed at Egeskov Castle.

Price: USD 256,500 (HKD 20,09,422)

Chicago’s Fairy Castle

Chicago’s Fairy Castle is an iconic dollhouse that took seven years and over 700 craftsmen to complete. One of the participants was Walt Disney, who took part in painting the murals on the wall. Antique Chinese royal jade and quartz, as well as gold and diamond chandeliers, decorate the house. There are paintings of fairy tale scenes from Cinderella and Snow White & the Dwarfs all around. These days, Chicago’s Fairy Castle is on show at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

Price: USD 500,000 (HKD 39,17,002)

The Stettheimer Dollhouse

The Stettheimer Dollhouse was created by one of the Stettheimer sisters, Carrie, over the course of 25 years. The sisters were friends with some of the well-known artists in the Jazz Age, like Louis Bouché, Gaston Lachaise, and William Zorach, who contributed by adding small details to the house. It was a reflection of the Stettheimers’ fashionable apartment, now on show at the Museum of the City of New York.

Price: USD 1 Million (HKD 78,34,005)

The Astolat Dollhouse

The Astolat Dollhouse is considered by some as the most expensive dollhouse in the world. It was built by Elaine Diehl between 1974-1987, consisting of over 100,000 handcrafted pieces. The dollhouse has a very realistic look, given that the artist used a 1:1 scale. Inside, it is filled with gold chandeliers, oil paintings, a library, a wine cellar, a fireplace, and a lighting system to light up the whole house. The house is now owned by Dr Michael Freeman and his wife Lois, now on show at Nassau County Museum of Art in Long Island, New York.

Price: USD 1.1 Million (HKD 86,17,405) 

Queen Mary’s Dollhouse

Princess Marie Louise and Sir Edwin Lutyens gifted this dollhouse to Queen Mary for her dedication to World War I. It was a portrayal of what the aristocratic homes must have been like at that time. The details include copies from famous companies, like Coleman’s Mustard, Cadbury chocolates, a Cartier clock, Rolls-Royce cars, a bottle of Chateau Lafitte 1875, famous paintings, and more. The dollhouse is now on show at Windsor Castle in England.

Price: invaluable

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[Hero and feature image credit: The Astolat Dollhouse]

Related: Pretty In Pink:15 Places Around The World To Live Out Your Real-Life Barbie Fantasy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What is Barbie Dreamhouse made of?
Cardboard

What is an original Barbie Dreamhouse worth?
Around USD 100-200 (HKD 783-1,566)

When were Barbie Dream Houses made?
In 1962

Which dollhouse is the most expensive?
Astolat Dollhouse Castle

Not long ago, we had the chance of a tête-à-tête with three of the best chefs in Asia. That’s not just our bias, the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list is a testimony to that as well. We grabbed the opportunity to get an insight of what makes them the best and of course, we got some recommendations as well.

At the Asian Invasion, we spoke to Chef Tonn of Le Du, a fine-dining Thai restaurant in Bangkok which took the number one spot. Also, on the panel was Varun Totlani of Masque, one of the most famous restaurants in India, which is on the 16th spot on the list. We also got the opportunity to speak with Chef Pam, whose restaurant Potong is number 35.

Here’s what the best chefs of Asia had to say to us

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Chef Pam Pichaya Soontornyanakij of Potong

 

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A post shared by Pam Pichaya Soontornyanakij (@chef.pam)

Owing a barbeque delivery service to hosting a cooking show, what is the one thing that is constant in all your endeavours?

My love for food and passion for cooking are constant. I grew up with my mom in the kitchen who loves cooking, I just enjoy in the kitchen, it’s not work and I love the adrenaline in a professional kitchen. It feels like it is my zone, my happy place.

Potong is situated in your family home which is a 120-year-old building, so how does the history of that building influence the menu?

Actually, the building influences many aspects of Potong, from the storytelling where we talk about the heritage and where my family comes from to the cuisine which is progressive Thai Chinese. We are the first Thai Chinese restaurant to do it on a fine dining level because it is generally Thai cuisine or Chinese cuisine but from me, Thai-Chinese is a cuisine of its own because of the long immigration of the Chinese people who came to Thailand over 200 years ago and they brought their food and intertwined with the food here. The building and the history of my family, I try to portray and tell the story through food.

Which is your favourite cuisine, apart from Thai?

Apart from Thai cuisine, I am a fan of Japanese and Italian and I love Indian food too. It’s very hard for a chef to pick. I loved eating dosa and sambhar.

Which is your favourite culinary destination – In Bangkok, I love to go to Yaowarat Road, in Chinatown. It is around a one km long walking street which is full of street food.

Your soul food – Pad kra pao — It is a simple stir-fried protein, with some basil, garlic, lots of chillies, rice and fried eggs, it is delicious.

Your favourite restaurant – There is Lao Tang in a very small alley near my restaurant so I can walk there any time. They sell roast goose and it’s not very famous so there are not a lot of tourists and it has been open for over 50 years and I know about that place because I used to go there with my parents when I was young.

Your favourite cafe – I don’t go out to cafes a lot because most of the time, I am in the restaurant but if I have to pick one, there is this one in the Samphanthawong area, it’s called FV cafe, it’s a small cafe but in that cafe, they bring the whole Thai house in the cafe.

Your favourite bar – Bangkok Social Club

Your preferred street food – There is this noodle restaurant near my house where they put a lot of chilli, lime and minced pork but there is always a long queue.

Your favourite place to shop – I don’t shop a lot, for me shopping means Kitchen tools. I like to go to the kitchen tools market, the latest one I went to was in Japan – Kappabashi – it’s a whole road that sells kitchen stuff.

Chef Tonn of Le Du

 

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Your list of achievements is really long and one of them is that you are a certified sommelier as well, could you share your favourite drinks that have been crafted at Le Du?

We have a wine pairing that I love, we also have a Kombucha pairing the first drink that we give at the beginning of both these pairings is called Siam Sunrise. It’s a simple but very refreshing drink. There is no sugar and it comprises two different kinds of organic tea from Chiang Mai in the North, which are white and green tea and infused with a few different kinds of Thai herbs and flowers. It’s a beautiful cold brew tea with a layer of herbs and flowers. It feels like you are in the forests of Thailand.

What is the one Thai dish which is overrated according to you?

I think Pad Thai is overrated. I am not saying it is bad, I feel it is just overrated. You know it is the newest dish in Thai cuisine, it is only maybe 60 years old and it was forced to create by a dictator in Thailand. He believed that we had to have a national dish so he had people come and cook different recipes and this recipe won and he called it Pad Thai. Pad means stir-fried. So Pad Thai has noodles which are from China and stir-frying in the wok is also part of Chinese cuisine, then people put in tofu which is even more Chinese. The only thing that is Thai in there is the fish sauce, I have nothing against it but I just think it is overrated.

Which is your favourite culinary destination – My favourite country to go and eat is Taiwan because I love the culture of street food and eating there, it is quite similar to Thai-Chinese cuisine. I always enjoy noticing the differences and similarities between the two. I love the people there as well, they are very genuine, it’s a beautiful country with amazing seafood. Their seafood is as good as Japan just more pocket-friendly.

Your soul food –I love Pad kra pao and pork noodles.

Your favourite restaurant – If I talk about restaurants around, I have to say Potong and there is also Err: Urban Rustic Thai, it’s a casual restaurant.

Your favourite bar – Opium and Mahaniyom cocktail bar

Your preferred street food – My favourite street food stall is Jay So in Bangkok, they do Som Tam with grilled chicken and it is so good.

Your favourite place to shop – I am a chef, so I love going to Samyan market, it’s where we but stuff for the restaurant as well.

Chef Varun Totlani of Masque

 

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A post shared by Varun Totlani (@varuntotlani)

Which Indian dish according to you is the most versatile and can be created with a lot of spins?

I think Indian food is like that, it has never been documented in that detail. You know Garam Masala is not like 5 gm of this and 5 gm of that, everyone has their own versions and that is what I would say is the speciality of Indian cuisine. It can be unique depending on the region you are in, depending on culture and depending on where you are born and brought up. There are a lot of factors.

Which Indian dish is the most overrated?

I am not really a fan of greens so I don’t like Sai Bhaji, people tend to love it, but for me, it is just a mix of all green things.

Where do you find inspiration?

For me, inspiration is everywhere, we travel a lot and every time we go on a research trip, we try a lot of food and we find inspiration in that or we find inspiration in people. It can come from anywhere, it’s all about how you connect, like people who cook traditional food for you. At Masque, we have this series where we let home cooks take over, they are the major source of our inspiration.

Barbequed Pork happens to be one of your signature dishes, what is the one element that makes it stand out?

I would say the whole process, a lot goes into it. We first brine it for two days. The spice mix and the ratio of the brine is something that we have worked on as a team for the last seven years and are still working on it. Then there is another seasoning that we put on it. There is a customised smoker that we built seven years ago, especially for this. Everything together makes it what it is. The process is what makes it unique.

What inspires you to cook every day?

My team.

Which is your favourite culinary destination?

Japan, I have never been though, I still think it’s my favourite and I have been dying to go.

What is your soul food?

Pav Bhaji, but I am not a fan of the one that is cooked at home, I enjoy Pav Bhaji at Sukh Sagar, which is in Chowpatty, Mumbai. 

Your favourite restaurant – Sukh Sagar

Your favourite bar – ZLB in Bangalore

Your preferred street food – Pav Bhaji/Dahi Poori

Your favourite place to shop – Can I say supermarket? I was in Singapore recently and I went to a Japanese supermarket where I bought myself Ramen and some Japanese sweets. That is the only shopping I did.

Hero Image: Courtesy of varuntotlani/Instagram; Feature Image: Courtesy of Nishtha Grover

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Related: 10 Michelin-Starred Chefs In Asia That You Should Know About

Even without pandemic border closures, there are some places unfortunately unopen to tourism. Allow us to introduce you to travel hero Fatima Haidari, who wants to share all she knows and loves about one of the most beautiful countries on Earth: Afghanistan.

ON OCTOBER 10, Fatima Haidari will guide a group of tourists on a journey through Central Afghanistan, taking in the bustling streets of the capital Kabul, the sweeping landscapes of Bamian and Ghor province, and the ancient sights of Herat, the country’s third largest city and a place that’s been a center of culture, art and poetry for centuries. As the first female tour guide in Afghanistan, these are all places Haidari knows well.

She’ll lead her guests to favorite spots like Bamian’s Buddhist caves, lakes the colour of lapis lazuli in Band e Amir, the 800-year-old Minaret of Jam in a remote valley in Ghor province, and Herat’s intricately tiled Great Mosque, imposing Citadel and the towering minarets of the Musalla complex.

But Haidari and her group won’t physically be in Afghanistan. The excursion is part of a series of virtual tours that she’s organizing with Untamed Borders, a travel company specializing in off-the-beaten-track adventures that has been working in the country since 2008, pioneering the first skiing and kayaking trips, and founding the Marathon of Afghanistan. 

Haidari left Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover in 2021, and is determined to continue showing the beauty of her country from her current base in Italy. She’s also raising awareness and funds for charities that are continuing to offer education for girls – in secret – in Afghanistan, with proceeds from the tour’s US$60 participation fee supporting this work.

She hopes that the one-hour virtual tours will give her guests a sense of what they would experience if they joined her in person, as well as an insight into the realities of the current situation in the country. And for Haidari herself, although she’s conducting her tours from some 5,000 kilometers away, they still feel ‘real,’ she says: “I feel like I’m continuing to do my job.” 

She credits an unusual source as being the inspiration behind her career as a tour guide – the sheep she herded through the mountains of Afghanistan as a small girl. With nobody else to speak to, she started talking to them about nature, the mountains and waterfalls, and anything else that struck her as beautiful. “It may sound a little strange now, but when I started (working as a tour guide), it really connected back to when I was guiding a group of sheep,” she told Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia in an interview. “Being a shepherd helped me to be a good leader.”

Her family moved from the mountains to Herat, where she researched Afghanistan’s potential tourist attractions as part of her university studies. “I knew that when people around the world heard the name Afghanistan, only pictures of mines, explosions, terror and war came into their minds,” she says. “I really didn’t like that, so I decided to introduce Afghanistan in a positive way to the world, from the perspective of a woman.” 

Starting small, Haidari created a Facebook account that she populated with regular photos and posts. Her page gained traction among a community of curious travelers, and in early 2020 she was approached by two Ukrainians who asked her to guide them around Herat. 

“I was able to introduce the beauty of Afghanistan to them in a positive way, without the negatives of explosions or terror or bombing,” she says. Her hope was that her guests would go home and tell their friends about the country and what they experienced there. “I was a woman who, for the first time, didn’t think about what would happen after that,” she says. “That day was so nice and I was feeling so positive.”

Becoming a tour guide was not a decision that Haidari took lightly, and she struggled to convince her family to let her take on a job that was not generally accepted by society for a female in Afghanistan. “I was the only one of my siblings who was educated, and our neighbors and society judged me a lot for doing such a job,” she says. 

Her mother also opposed her decision at first, but eventually convinced the rest of the family to let her get on with it. Haidari understands her mother’s concerns all too well. “In a country where you go out in the morning and you’re not expected to come back alive, it was her right to be worried,” she says.

Haidari describes herself as “a changer, not a victim.” As she says, “I decided to change my life, to not accept being the victim of superstition, tradition, and what this society or community decides for us.” She hopes the sentiment can help to motivate others, and it’s this spirit that has carried her through times when the criticism and negativity around her career choice became almost too hard to bear. 

“I was telling myself, Fatima, what they are doing is just asking you to be stronger,” she says. “It means you are just not strong enough yet, and you have to be stronger than they are.”

In the course of working as a tour guide in Afghanistan, Haidari faced stares and insults, and had stones thrown at her. “Even the educated people were telling me it was so dangerous for me as a girl, and that if I wanted to continue this job I should have a male colleague,” she recalls. But she was determined to carry on, believing that as a female tour guide, she could bring about a different understanding of her country for the many visitors who were as interested in Afghan women’s stories as they were in historical places. 

“I have lived these stories and can tell them in a way that men can’t,” she says. “These stories are not my own, but the stories of millions of women.”

To join Fatima Haidari and to support her chosen charities for women’s education, book your place on her next virtual tour of Herat on October 10, 2023, at 7 p.m. GMT through Untamed Borders.

Shopping till you drop in Italy or eating the best food in Tokyo? We seek the expertise of “master wanderluster” Loui Lim for our next adventure. 

When it comes to travelling, Loui Lim has traversed the world. As one who helms the ins and outs of Genting’s Dream Cruises, the urban ‘voyager’ is no stranger to experiences la dolce vita — offering insights into some of the most exotic places in the globe. 

Seeking wisdom from the luxury lifestyle guru himself, we ask Loui for the best places or countries he’d visit based on your travel objectives — to eat, to heal or to have the adventure of a lifetime. 

Relax — Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Located 50 minutes away by flight from Tahiti, Bora Bora is one of nine islands within the Society Islands, formed many million years ago by a volcano. Surrounded by the coral reef or atoll, Bora Bora boasts majestic turquoise waters that glisten in bright blues and greens. Known as the pearl of the Pacific, the place is magical with many luxury and overwater resorts. Find yourself kicking the wind sands at the beach or just gazing into the still waters for pure relaxation. 

Party — Bangkok, Thailand

Get your dose of a high-energy quick city getaway in Bangkok city where the fun never ends. Indulge in music, booze and party with the coolest people in the Thai capital — we’d say go to Sing Sing Theatre, Sugar Club or Onyx. 

Travel Solo — South America

South America is a safe place for solo travellers but be sure to plan ahead and research before heading there. If you’re thinking of where to start, Colombia and Argentina are both great options — offering great diversity in culture, Michelin-approved food and architecture. Another country often overlooked by solo travellers is Bolivia, a great place to make new friends and meet other travellers from all over the world!

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Eat the Best Food — Tokyo

It is hard to pinpoint one thing that best represents the food scene in Tokyo but rising on top of the podium is definitely sushi. With the most number of Michelin-star restaurants in the world, you’d need more than just one trip to Tokyo to truly experience its gastronomic adventure. Of course, a visit to the Toyosu Market is compulsory but exploring the small streets around the area will get you to sushi-ya and izakaya approved by the locals. Unless you’re a good navigator, it’s always a good idea to sign up for guided food tours and cooking classes to check out the best Tokyo has to offer. 

Shop ‘till You Drop — Italy

Beyond its art and architecture, Italy is also known for its fashion and luxury brands. When in Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, check out Via Montenapoleone which is also the most expensive street of all Italy. If you find yourself in Rome, Via del Corso is the city’s most famous shopping street that runs from Piazza Venezia all the way to Piazza del Popolo. Another famous street is Via de’ Tornabuoni in Florence where you are sure to shop to the very last penny.

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