The Vietage is the way to ride the rails in Vietnam in style, so we sent a pair of T+L Kids to take the high-end train journey along the country’s beautiful central coast.

INCREDIBLY LONG AND SUPER BEAUTIFUL, Vietnam hasn’t had a really comfy way to get around the country while also seeing its landscape until recently. Now, there’s The Vietage, a luxury train that travels between Da Nang and Quy Nhon, which really is a gamechanger, not just for champagne-sipping grown-ups but also families looking for both adventure and the convenience of not getting on a plane.

So you can visit the adorable, lantern-filled UNESCO World Heritage ancient town on Hoi An, with its pedestrian laneways great for frolicking and cool old buildings fun for exploring; the famed white-sand stretches of My Khe Beach, offering both luxury resorts and, at late-afternoon, a slice of life as local families hit the waters; and the up-and-coming city of Da Nang, now brimming with great restaurants and shops and featuring that photogenic Dragon Bridge… then easily make your way to Quy Nhon, another city with ancient roots, ruins dating back a millennia from the Cham Empire that dominated here, and a stunning seaside that was essentially undiscovered by foreign tourists until the past several years.  

Through the central Vietnam mountains in between, as our T+L kids found out, are a few fun hours aboard The Vietage. Aria indulged in a very-grown-up cheese plate and shoulder massage, and even squeezed in time for a nap.

Watch the video of Aria’s train trip through Vietnam about The Vietage here:

Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia was actually one of the first aboard The Vietage when it opened during covid. Check out our review of the ride here.

The Vietage train through central Vietnam departs from Da Nang Railway Station near Hoi An each morning, and makes the return journey from Quy Nhon every evening. You might want to look into their combination accommodation packages with train ride plus stays at Anantara Hoi An Resort and Anantara Quy Nhon Villas or Avani Quy Nhon Resort.

Ah, the thrill of the open road. Enthusiasts will tell you that two-wheeled road trips are the only true way to immerse yourself in a location’s culture, people and landscape. We scouted out 5 gorgeous countries in Asia for motorbike trips of a lifetime, and the best companies to book your tours with or rent your wheels from.

SCOOTERS, MOTORBIKES, MOTORCYCLES, mopeds, mosai, dirt bikes – whatever your saddle and terminology of choice, it only takes a few seconds on the ground in Asia to realize this continent runs on two wheels. From fitting families of five on the back to entire refrigerators, motorbikes are often more than just a mode of transportation.

But when you buck practicality, they’re made for joyriding. And it seems almost clandestine that some of the world’s best motorcycle routes are in Asia. From the mountains of the Himalayas to the rice paddies of Southeast Asia, these are the best, and some perhaps most unexpected, destinations for hopping on and taking off on the ride of a lifetime. 

5 Countries in Asia With Awesome Motorbike Adventures, and the Best Companies to Book Your Trips With

Vietnam

Spend a day riding around Vietnam, and you’ll encounter everything from frenzied intersections to swaying rice paddies to sweeping mountain vistas. The diversity of landscape and riding options make it one of the best places in not just Asia but the world for motorcycle trips.

No one knows the terrain better than Onyabike Adventures. With trips of up to 21 days, their tours are customizable and all-inclusive, so riders experience everything, including culture and food, and worry about nothing while on a Royal Enfield Himalayan 410cc.

The team at Onyabike Adventures has been roaming Vietnam since 2017, so they know all the best spots. Among their most popular is the seven-day Highlights of Central Vietnam route that rides over the iconic Hai Van Pass and along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka isn’t just for surf trips and train rides. From its palm-fringed coastline to its tea-filled interior, it’s a beautiful place to explore at your own pace.

The crew at Ceylon Motorcycle Tours has a varied fleet of bikes to choose from, including a Baja 250 CC or a Royal Enfield. And while you can rent one and head off solo, riding is always better with a buddy. They’ve got 20 years of experience, local guides and the best motorbike tours and routes for all Sri Lanka’s highlights, Tangalle to Ella.

Bhutan

Switchback roads and mountain-peak views make Bhutan one of the most beautiful countries on Earth for motorbike trips. Ideal during spring and fall, it’s perfect for adventurous bikers who don’t mind dodging the occasional yak or two.

Bhutan T.U.S.K Motorcycle Tours specializes in touring the Himalayan country on two wheels. Fixed trip routes span four nights to 14, taking riders through some of the most famous and the most remote parts of the country.

For a far-flung ride, head to eastern Bhutan, where mysticism and magical views converge. If you’re looking for something shorter, opt for a trip that includes the route from the capital city of Thimphu to the country’s most famous dzong in Punakha.

Kyrgyzstan 

While we stan the Stans, to some folks this motorcycle destination might feel like a roadside cow coming out of nowhere. But as soon as you coast down the Silk Road, you’ll understand why it makes our list.

Nicknamed the Switzerland of Central Asia, the majority of the country is covered by the Tien-Shan mountain ranges. SilkOffRoad Motorcycle Tours has been riding these mountain passes for more than 18 years, roving all over all the Stans. Their most popular Kyrgyzstan trip is the 11 Passes of Tien-Shan that lasts 12 days. The riders mount a Suzuki DR650 and take off on a journey that spans over 2,000 kilometers and reaches nearly 3,000 meters in elevation.

Laos

Landscapes in Laos are like scenes out of Jurassic Park. Lush jungle and leafy peaks dominate this all too underrated country, one of the best in Southeast Asia for spicy food, languid days, and dream-fulfilling motorbike tours. In a country this unique, your road trip should be, too. 

Lao ADV Tours specializes in Dirt Bike trips venturing off-road through the country’s hidden trails. One of their most popular tours is the 10-day Lima Sites and Secret War Trails route, on which military-history enthusiasts can visit Northern Lao sites. Just be prepared to get muddy.

Lede image courtesy of SilkOffRoad Motorcycle Tours.

If you have always dreamt of travelling to Europe without having the hassle of changing flights, trains or rental cars, then we tell you that it is now possible to be on the road on a single bus journey that will take you across Europe in 56 days! An Indian expedition company – Adventures Overland is launching the “world’s longest” bus journey called ‘The bus to London’ starting from Istanbul on August 7 and ending in London on October 1.

At present, the longest bus route runs from Lima in Peru to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil for 6,200 kilometres, according to Guinness World Records.

Highlights of the trip

This almost two-month-long journey will take you to 22 countries beginning from Turkey’s culturally rich city of Istanbul, moving towards the Balkan countries, covering eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and western Europe and finally coming to an end in the capital city of the UK. The passengers on this 12,000 kilometres long journey will be able to board a ferry that will cross the Gulf of Finland, visit the North Cape (also known as Nordkapp), which is the northernmost point in Europe and cruise on the Norwegian Fjords.

“Every single route in each country has been vetted to ensure that the journey is seamless so participants on Bus to London can get on board with the knowledge and confidence that they are in safe hands,” mentions Tushar Agarwal, Co-Founder, Adventures Overland, in a media release.

What can you expect inside the bus?

The thought of being on a bus journey in Europe for 56 days doesn’t sound comfortable till the time we tell you that you will be boarding a special luxury bus that has adjustable recliner seats with comfortable legroom that is perfect for long-distance travel. The bus has foldable trays, bottle and cup holders, along with AUX and USB ports. All passengers can carry two full-size suitcases.

Sharing details on travellers’ comfort and safety, Agarwal said, “The bus on this epic journey is being customised to add all the necessities, comforts and luxuries which will ensure that participants travel in the lap of luxury.”

Cost of the package

The entire package will cost USD 25,000 (HKD 196,243) per person. This includes daily breakfast, 30 lunches and dinners, along with all hotel stays on a twin-sharing basis.

Booking details

Only 30 passengers can register themselves to be a part of this journey.

(Hero and feature image credit: Adventures Overland)

All HKD conversions were done at the time of writing

Are you looking for a quick break to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Whether you want to spend some time in nature or soak in the culture and history, there are plenty of places near Hong Kong perfect for a day trip.

Being a coastal city located at the southern tip of mainland China, Hong Kong has easy access to many neighbouring cities. Thanks to the city’s robust transportation system, many places are within reach by bus, ferry, or train. In addition, Hongkongers and tourists alike can take advantage of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and the Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station, which takes them to their destination in a breeze.

Below, we round up some of the best places near Hong Kong that make for a great short haul.

Please note: Buses, ferries, and trains run on a specific schedule. Therefore, checking the departing and arriving time before you travel is recommended. You can purchase tickets at the ports or the stations. For more information, visit the official websites linked in the “How to get there” section below.

The best day trips from Hong Kong

Macau

Macau is the most popular destination for a day trip near Hong Kong. Our sister SAR might be known for its casinos, but it’s also brimming with UNESCO heritage sites, which we don’t have in Hong Kong. While most Hongkongers know about the Ruins of St. Paul, Lou Kau Mansion and Guia Fortress are also perfect for history and architectural buffs. This sleepy city also boasts various cafes and restaurants, borrowing elements of Portuguese cuisine. Expect to see quaint antique shops, magnificent colonial buildings, and charming coffee shops between cobbled streets.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan. The trip takes about an hour. Click here to see the sailing schedule and fare. Alternatively, you also take the shuttle bus from the Hong Kong Port to Macau in 40 minutes.

Shenzhen

Shenzhen sits just across the border with mainland China, making it an easy choice for a day trip. Many Hongkongers flock here for shopping thanks to the cheap and affordable goods. Luckily, the famous Dongmen Pedestrian Shopping Street is just walking distance from Lo Wu station, the nearest stop in Hong Kong. The place is not only packed with shopping outlets but also food stalls. Those looking for something hip and creative should get to the OCT-LOFT complex, a former TV manufacturing base turned cultural space.

How to get there: Take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station and reach your destination in 20 minutes. You can also ride the MTR and get off at Lo Wu station or Lok Ma Chau station.

Zhuhai

While Zhuhai is closer to Macau, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge made travel to the city easier. Zhuhai is known for its beautiful coastlines, tropical beaches, and enchanting temples. Chill on the beaches of offshore islands like Dong’ao or Hebao, many of which are easily accessible by boat. Explore the bustling city centre and take your pick from the bars and restaurants on Lotus Road or stuff yourself with fresh seafood in Wanzai. We also recommend visiting the New Yuanming Palace, a replica of the same site in Beijing.

How to get there: Take the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau-Bridge shuttle bus for about 40 minutes. You can also board the high-speed ferry from Hong Kong China Ferry Terminal or the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal. Another option is to take the train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station, transfer to Guangzhou South station, and head to Zhuhai Railway station. The journey takes about two hours.

Guangzhou

This buzzing metropolis served as the capital of China not once but thrice! One of the country’s largest cities, Guangzhou is loved for its sub-tropical climate. Considered the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, it’s not surprising that Guangzhou has more restaurants than any other Chinese city. Besides being a food mecca, Guangzhou is also a shopping paradise and home to an array of temples.

How to get there: Take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station to Guangzhou South Station. The ride takes 50 minutes.

Foshan

Considered the hometown of martial arts, Foshan is a must for those interested in history and culture. Kung Fu masters such as Yip Man and Wong Fei Hung are from here. Foshan also boasts many examples of Lingnan architecture, such as Foshan Xintiandi, which has more than 20 historical preservations. Further, a trip to Foshan isn’t complete without visiting the Ancestor Temple, Nanfeng Kiln, and the Liang Garden.

How to get there: Take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway station to Foshan West Railway station. The journey takes about 90 minutes.

Dongguan

In recent years, Dongguan is slowly transforming into a travel hotspot for those seeking scenic sea views and interesting historical places. Dongguan is home to 800-year-old Nanshe and Tangwei villages that will make you travel back in time. With 94 historical buildings and 32 ancestral shrines, you will get an overview of the ancient Lingnan architecture. When here, do visit the Keyuan Garden and Hermit Villa as well.

How to get there: Take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station to Dongguan Humen Railway station. The travel time is about 40 to 60 minutes. Alternatively, you can take normal trains from the Hung Hom Railway station, which takes 70 minutes.

Which city are you visiting next weekend?

This story first appeared here. 

(Featured and hero image credit: adrian x/Pixabay)

Related: Overrated Places In Hong Kong And Where You Can Go Instead

One of the most mystical places on Earth is even more awe-inspiring seen through the eyes of children. Come along on our family pilgrimage to Bhutan.

“I HEAR BHUTAN IS a Lemurian place,” comments a friend of mine over afternoon tea, in response to all my stories from my recent adventure. “It’s accessible only to those who are truly meant to go there.” Lemuria, legend says, is a mystical city lost to the depths of the ocean and believed to have been the home of highly evolved, enlightened citizens. And even in its disappearance, through inexplicable energetic lines, it continues to manifest in extremely powerful, transcendental locations around the world. 

The Bhutanese believe in the concept of Ney: spiritually potent, perfectly aligned sites abundant in auspicious natural and esoteric energy. There are few places in this world as mysterious and magical as the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. In this majestic Land of the Thunder Dragon, the boundaries between myth and reality are fantastically fluid. Each gust of wind is pregnant with prayer and good intentions; with every breath, you ascend closer to the heavens. 

There is a tangible spirituality throughout. Physically embodied in the myriad temples, monasteries, chortens, and prayer wheels that dot the mountainous landscape. The iconic prayer flags fluttering in the wind are like persistent rainbows of intercession between man and the universe.  Monks cloaked in scarlet devote their entire lives to chanting for the good karma of the souls of all living creatures. Beyond the visible, there is doubtless a distinct feeling, a vibrating energy that prickles at your skin, tuning into your inner being, recalibrating your soul, leaving you open and peaceful.  

Over eight days in Bhutan, I travelled with my family across four valleys: beginning in Thimphu, making our way to Punakha, then Gangtey, and finally, Paro. Whether it was quaint villages or majestic dzongs, each destination had a special allure with a distinct cultural and historical story to tell. The sheer beauty of Bhutan’s nature is awe inspiring. Steely blue rivers rush through the beds of plummeting mountain facades. Lush pine forests glitter with icicles. The elevation between valley and peak are so extreme, we experienced dramatically different climates within hours. Sunny, warm and breezy valley floors slowly faded into wintery wonderlands as we snaked our way up across perilous mountain passes. Frosty, lichen-covered trees felt like ghostly apparitions – spirits from another realm, guarding the integrity of the natural world. It was a true education in the sublime, all the elements rolled into one to form an incomprehensible greatness. 

I was accompanied by my two sons, Max and Sebastian, aged six and eight. And although I received some raised eyebrows over the appropriateness of such a voyage with two young children, I was resolute they would enjoy it. And to say they “enjoyed” is a gross understatement. They were completely enthralled by the whole experience, so much so that they willingly parted from the digital world and had absolutely zero screen time for the entire trip. They succumbed to every moment wholly and life was extra vibrant when seen through their eyes. 

They say Bhutanese are the happiest people on Earth, and for us that essential sense of joy for life was embodied by the people with whom we spent nearly all our waking hours in the country. Druk Asia helped plan our entire journey, coordinating our itinerary along with a guide and driver. The exceptional tandem of Ugyen and Ugyen went above and beyond to keep my boys engaged and interested. From snowball fights at the top of Lawala Pass, indulging them in a Red Panda expedition (elusive little buggers), and even calling a friend to let us in their home for an unexpected bathroom break in the middle of nowhere, they were always patient and caring. One of the things I loved the most about them was how they shared their culture with us so organically. There were no winding, one-sided touristy monologues; instead they took us to places that meant something to them where we were simply welcomed into the fold.  

At Punakha Dzong, when we visited the famed temple where the King and Queen were married, Ugyen approached the altar, demonstrating to my children how he would prostrate and bow three times to show his respect. I watched my two boys ponder this and then, silently, follow suit. I personally pay homage in all sacred places, regardless of the religion. I believe that spirituality transcends books and scriptures and that being connected with something grander than us can be found in small special moments, in the purity of nature, and in the concentrated energy of places of worship.  

It was in this moment that I realized my children naturally felt the same. They were in awe of the gilded treasures, the solemn rituals, and the palpable “good and peaceful spirit energy,” as Max called it. There is a unique intimacy with the sacrosanct in Bhutan. Centuries-old murals emblazoned on temple walls, secret meditation caves that magically manifest when you wander about, holy men imparting their wisdom to anyone willing to sit and listen… It’s all so tangible. Prayer wheels are the ultimate example of this; touched by thousands over time, with their positive mantras – vessels of amplified well wishes – radiating in the air as they spin. 

Ours was a voyage of good omens and happy surprises. The boys enjoyed close encounters with the Black Necked Cranes gracefully dancing across the fields of Phobjikha Valley during a walk from Six Senses Gangtey. On our drive back to Paro, we witnessed a family of Grey Langurs lazing by the roadside. Both animals, we learned from the Ugyens, are very auspicious in local culture. We rang in the new year not with fireworks, but by lighting candles after an intimate blessing by local monks at COMO Uma Paro. While hiking up Tiger’s Nest, we found a horseshoe, crossed a rainbow waterfall, and beheld the golden sun streaming through the clouds like a portal to the celestial world. Lemuria. Bhutan had summoned us, and we were willing pilgrims. 

While waiting on the tarmac for our plane to depart Paro, I was a washed with a sinking feeling that it was all over too soon. As we sat, wishfully plotting our return, we were surprised by a man who walked slowly down the aisle, smiling and greeting each passenger.

The King.

Yes, His Majesty The Druk Gyalpo Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk was on our flight. He stopped at our seats, conversed with us for a moment, wishing my family well while showing sincere appreciation for Max’s dinosaur headphones. If this wasn’t a sign that our return was ordained, I’m not sure what is. 

How to Plan Your Own Awe-Inspiring Family Trip to Bucket-List Bhutan 

Druk Asia: www.drukasia.com
Six Senses Bhutan: www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/bhutan 
COMO Uma Bhutan: www.comohotels.com/destinations/bhutan 
Bhutan Department of Tourism: bhutan.travel

Travel through Austria in Sisi´s Footsteps—Netflix Series The Empress is Inspiring Travelers to Visit Austria and See the Places Where Empress Elisabeth of Austria Lived

NEW NETFLIX SERIES The Empress has set minds across the planet ablaze with interest in the inspiring royal’s life. It also placed Austria on the travel bucket lists of viewers worldwide, who daydream about seeing the places where the beloved Austrian empress, nicknamed Sisi, lived.

In response to worldwide interest in visiting Sisi’s favorite places, the Austrian National Tourist Office developed a cache of information about the real locations where the beautiful aristocrat lived in Austria to help fans plan trips to the unique historical locations. 

From her exciting life at the strict Viennese court to adventurous travel and extravagant culinary preferences, her life weaved a fascinating journey across Austria. Now, you can follow her footsteps across the land where she lived, loved, and suffered. Enjoy historical highlights, magnificent parks, imperial gardens and much more.

The Imperial Palace in Vienna

There is no better starting point to learn about Sisi than a visit to her private apartment and the Sisi Museum inside Vienna’s Imperial Palace, also known as Hofburg. Visitors discover the monarch’s umbrellas, fans, beauty recipes, and private first-aid kit, providing an intriguing glimpse into the empress’s everyday life. 

Though Hofburg was built in 1279, it still plays an important role in Austrian politics. The former winter residence of the Habsburg dynasty, which Sisi married into, now serves as the workplace of the President of Austria.

No Hofburg visit is complete without viewing the illuminated palace by night and strolling through the beautiful Burggarten, full of hidden courtyards and historical secrets to discover.

When visitors need refreshment, they can savor Sisi’s favorite sweet indulgences at Royal Court Confectionery Demel, which sits near the palace. Inside the neo-Baroque bakery, sample sumptuous cakes and try the purple violet ice cream that even the super-slim Sisi could not resist. 

Schönbrunn Palace

The Habsburg summer residence is where visitors can experience the glamor of Sisi’s dazzling personality. The finest, richly embroidered silk fabrics adorn upholstered furniture and the wallpaper glows in vibrant violet, the monarch’s favorite color.

Sisi’s rooms have been kept exactly the way they were when she was alive, allowing guests to picture her sitting in her private chamber, applying face cream and brushing her ankle-length hair. To experience the palace as Sisi did, take a walk through the beautiful gardens, which Sisi especially loved. 

There’s no better time to visit, as the palace has recently installed its first virtual reality experience, letting visitors immerse themselves in the world of the Habsburgs and the former empress in a 24-minute experience.

Imperial Villa in Bad Ischl

Just two hours from Vienna by train, fans can explore the picturesque village of Bad Ischl, where Sisi and Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria’s legendary love story began. It is said to have been love at first sight, and Sisi soon accepted his betrothal bouquet. A year later, the wedding was celebrated in Vienna and the couple was gifted this villa in Bad Ischl.

Travelers can visit this villa, where Sisi experienced some of her happiest and saddest moments today. It is where she fell in love and had her final meeting with her husband. She arrived in Bad Ischl as a young, impetuous girl and left as the future Empress of Austria.

After taking in the culture of Bad Ischl, relax at Confiserie Zauner. The nearby court confectioner combines tradition and indulgence and made some of Sisi’s favorite treats.

Laxenburg Palace

Sisi’s honeymoon location is a half-hour train ride away from Vienna, but it wasn’t the romantic escape she hoped for.  Her new husband worked while she strolled through the palace park, full of temples, grottoes, old trees and meadows. Today, it is one of the most beautiful historic landscape gardens in Europe and a pleasure to visit.

Whichever of Sisi’s footsteps you follow in Austria, you’ll experience a place rich in history, nature, and cuisine. Austria is a country of friendly people that embrace history alongside modernity and live in harmony with nature.

www.austria.info/en

Article sponsored by Austrian National Tourist Office.
Hero Image Credit: Franzensburg Castle, Laxenburg. Courtesy of Österreich Werbung x Media Redaktion

The best way to travel responsibly in Australia is with aboriginal-owned and -operated tour guides who have 500-million-years’ worth of history, legends and learnings to share.

“WHEREVER YOU CAN LOOK AROUND, 360 degrees on this hill, is my backyard,” my indigenous tour guide Vinny says in his raspy voice as the coppery sun gilds the sky over Adnyamathanha Country, in South Australia. Adnyamathanha, the aboriginal name for this Mars-like landscape roughly translates to ‘people of the rock,’ and fittingly so. Almost every inch of the horizon is tumbling mountain ranges.

I stand at the lookout, wind whipping my hair into my face as we observe the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park at sunset. Far off in the distance, I can’t yet make out the cupped-like shape of the mighty attraction we’ve come here for. But through the interpretation of the Yura people, the traditional owners of this land, Wilpena Pound magically comes to life.

“There is scientific proof that this is the oldest land formation on earth,” says Vinny, a travel guide at the aboriginal-owned and -operated Wilpena Pound Resort in Flinders Ranges, South Australia, which offers bush glamping at Ikara Safari Camp on the edge of the Pound. As well as being a traditional Yura owner, Vinny is the son of the first Aboriginal head ranger in this national park.

In stats, Wilpena Pound, Ikara as it is locally known, sounds pretty impressive. The natural amphitheater has a geological history that dates back 630 million years, it once reached higher than the Swiss Alps and Himalayas combined, and it is eight times the size of Uluru and 300 meters taller. Regardless, it is a privilege to be able to understand the formation through the eyes of the Yura, without all the superlatives.

“That’s the head of the female serpent,” Vinny says while pointing to St Mary’s, the tallest peak in Wilpena Pound. “If she’s asleep, the last place you want to be is on her nose. If she wakes up, I’m running to Broken Hill,” he says, emphasizing why the traditional owners ask us not to climb her. In a nutshell, the Yura people believe the Aboriginal Dreaming story that two giant Akurra – or rainbow serpents (one male, one female) – formed the gorges, valleys and ranges of this landscape when they followed Yurlu the kingfisher into Ikara for a ceremony and started circling the people inside before feasting on them. Afterwards, the giant Akurra laid down to rest, forming Wilpena Pound.

The profound knowledge, affinity and respect Australia’s indigenous have for nature has been something that most Australians, including myself, have long disregarded. When I was a kid, there was, shamefully, no education around indigenous culture in schools. I learned Japanese in kindergarten, yet I couldn’t tell you much about whose ‘country’ I was on.

Indigenous tourism is booming in Australia, but there has been a growing movement to raise indigenous voices and change the course of the stolen narrative of this country. As a writer, I now, too, feel a responsibility in how I share and write about the land where I was born. One of the ways travelers can educate themselves and at the same time provide a better economic future for Australia’s First Nations people is through tourism.

“Others try to tell our stories but they don’t have the deep knowledge of place,” says Jason Eades, a Koori man and CEO of Welcome to Country, welcometocountry.com, a not-for-profit online marketplace for indigenous-owned tourism experiences. “Look for tours, experiences and immersions that are owned and run by Aboriginal people,” he says. “It’s not about showing someone a pretty landscape and throwing a boomerang. ‘Indigenous-owned’ means that you are hearing first-hand the knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people while also providing an income to individuals, families and communities.”

The sun hasn’t yet pierced the sky when I wander out of my glamping tent the next morning and arrive at the airstrip in darkness. From the vintage 4-seater American Cessna, the Dreaming story of the Akurra serpents comes to life as the layers of her sediment; orange, red and grey rock catch the first ray of light. Soaring high above the ranges, I get chills observing the snaking gorges, valleys and peaks of Wilpena Pound, and finally begin to visualize the story woven into her ancient grooves.

Later that day, I’m cruising down Brachina Gorge on a 4WD tour with Wilpena Pound Resort’s resident archaeologist, Mick Mckenzie. Rock nerds go crazy for this 20-kilometer stretch of earth known as the Corridor Through Time, because geology exposed along here are between 500 and 650 million years old and feature some of the earliest forms of life.

Some of the rocks are caramel and creamy, others are deep cherry and intricately layered. “That’s why I like to eat before I get to this area, because it looks like a black forest cake,” jokes Mick. He shows us a fossil hidden under a rock ledge; an ancient rippled rock that proves there was once a reef here older than the Great Barrier Reef; and ‘the dead finished tree,’ explaining: “When there’s a drought, this tree will be the only one standing. It means the land surrounding is dead, so that’s why this is a dead finished tree.”

When I ask Mick why tourism is so important to the Yura community, he’s matter of fact: “What better way to have a traditional owner do a tour for you guys and have the truth in it? There’s a difference between reading and knowing.” Before I head back to the comfort of my luxe tent and that night’s dinner of emu, camel and kangaroo sausages, he poses a question that will linger with me long after I’ve left.

“What do you see when you look at this landscape? 

“Do you look at it culturally first or geologically?

“I look at it culturally, because that’s what we believe,” says Mick.

“Everyone else is on a race to find the oldest. We just sit back and look at the stars and go, What are they?”

5 More Awe-Inducing Indigenous Australian Travel Adventures

TASMANIA

Wukalina Walk

This four-day Aboriginal-guided walk takes in the larapuna and wukalina areas of Tasmania, otherwise known as the Bay of Fires, and will deepen your understanding of palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) culture. Feast on traditional dinners of mutton, bird, seafood and damper and fall asleep in unique timber dome accommodation.

wukalinawalk.com.au; tours from A$2,495 per person

CANBERRA

Dhawura Aboriginal Cultural Tour

Join a local Ngunawal guide in Canberra on this two-hour tour to learn about the significant local Aboriginal sites in Australia’s capital. Visit Mount Majura to discover the indigenous significance of Canberra’s highest peak, find hidden rock art, identify historical artefacts and learn about bush food.

thunderstone.net.au/copy-of-services; tours from A$45 per person

NEW SOUTH WALES

Yuin Retreat

Immerse yourself in the world’s oldest living culture at this two-night indigenous glamping experience on the idyllic South Coast of NSW. Participate in traditional wellness sessions, walk to various Yuin sites and experience traditional sound healing, didgeridoo and cooking demonstrations.

welcometocountry.com/products/yuin-retreat; tours from A$880 per person

Art Workshop with Kate Constantine

Award-winning contemporary Aboriginal dot artist Kate Constantine invites you into her private home in the Northern Rivers region of NSW for a three-course lunch and art workshop. Kate’s home overlooks the hinterland in Mullumbimby and she uses a traditional yarning circle to explain the significance of color in her style of art.

welcometocountry.com/products/aboriginal-artist-kate-constantine-lunch-and-workshop; tours from A$700 per person

Sand Dune Adventures

Cruise up sand dunes as high as 30 meters on this Aboriginal-owned and -guided quad-biking experience to the Worimi Sand Dunes at Stockton Beach. Located about three hours north of Sydney, you’ll ATV from the bush to the beach and learn about the indigenous history of this sweeping landscape along the way.

welcometocountry.com/collections/sand-dune-adventures; tours from A$110 per person

Hero Image Credit: Courtesy of South Australia Tourism.

This month, T+L celebrates travel by highlighting all the wonder and awe you can find in this great, wide world of ours.

I RECENTLY READ AN article that inspired me. It was about how injecting awe into your life can change everything for the better. Awe, according to Dacher Keltner, a psychologist at the University of California, Berkeley, is a powerful emotion that can generate a positive physical response and the amazing thing about it is we can find it everywhere if we just take a minute to be mindful.

“Awe is the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your understanding of the world,” Keltner told the New York Times in an interview about his book, “Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life,” and what better way to describe the essence of why we travel. Shift your worldview, change your perspective, and guess what. Not only do you think you’re washed over with a sense of calm, your heart rate actually slows, your breathing deepens, you release oxytocin, your digestion eases, and – perhaps best of all in this hyperconnected world – you quiet that self-critical voice in your head.

I bet we could all think of a favorite travel experience that meets some of the top examples of experiencing awe. Small sightings of singular beauty. Immersing in nature. Participating in collective movement. Going on a pilgrimage. Witnessing the world through a child’s eye is a good one, and I need only think of watching my toddler nieces and their pure joy in the waves in Phuket. “Hoorayyyy!” rings in my ears. and brings a smile to my face.

The vastness of the universe? For me, that would be during the inky nights of a weeklong sailing in the Mergui, the archipelago off the west coast of Burma where there’s zero cell reception but there are a gajillion stars. It made me think in wonder of the real intrepid sailors who centuries ago navigated our world’s waters just by the celestial patterns so far away and so much older than we could imagine.

Many experiences of awe are tinged by fear. Skydiving – check! But also getting up close to wildlife; animals are unpredictable and nature doesn’t necessarily follow rules. I’ve swum with mantas in the Maldives and dolphins in New Zealand, both in the middle of the open ocean. Both were awesome experiences I couldn’t stop gushing about for months after. Both put me in check about how much of the world is a mystery to me.

Witnessing random acts of kindness. Well, I could likely find awe in that every day if I looked up from my phone more, but I certainly notice it almost every time I travel, when a local person takes time to offer directions, translate for me, or not only allows me to use the bathroom in their home but then offers a parting snack – thank you to the Mexican grandmother in the wooden house on the mountain pass between Oaxaca and Mazunte; you really saved that roadtrip.

So, now that travel is truly back for almost all of us, let’s take this month to think about how awesome it is. February at Travel+Leisure Southeast Asia is all about the #awefactor. We hope it’ll help change your perspective and inspire new journeys.

Image Credit: swissmediavision/Getty Images Signature/Canva.

One of the most luxurious trains in the world, Seven Stars Kyushu is getting an upgrade in time for your autumn trip to Japan. All aboard!

JAPAN’S NEW PLAN to test tourism is officially underway, so now may be the right time to start looking into your luxurious return to Japan by rail. And your overnight train ride through one of Japan’s most scenic islands is about to get an upgrade.

In April, Seven Stars, the luxury sleeper car experience by Kyushu Railway Co., announced plans to upgrade its already spectacular train. The new-and-improved train will hit the railroad in October 2022. It currently operates on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu.

The railway company will refurbish its luxury sleeper service, including reducing the number of guests on board at one time to ensure improved service for passengers. The upgrade plan, the company shared in a statement, will reduce the number of guest rooms from 14 to 10, and will now set the maximum capacity to 20 passengers per ride.

Beyond reducing the number of guest rooms, Seven Stars will also get a new tea room and salon so guests can spread out even more on the train.

According to Japan News, this is the first refurbishment for the Seven Stars train since its introduction to service in 2013. Beyond the new tea room, the train’s dining area, which was housed in the first and second cars, will now be found in just the first car. There, guests will dine on seasonal fare prepared by the train’s master chefs. The second car will also be transformed into a gorgeous salon, allowing guests to move smoothly between dinner and drinks. The third car, which was previously one of the passenger cabins, will now feature a lounge bar alongside a premium shop stocked with crafts and goods sourced from around Kyushu.

The train’s interiors harken back to a slower, more magical time in travel thanks to its use of rich, dark woods, luxurious fabrics, and soft lighting that seems to sway with the train’s subtle movements. Its massive picture windows allow guests to take in the epic views from every single seat. Or, guests can choose to retire to their rooms, which come with the same throwback styling as the rest of the train but include the modern amenity of a private bathroom.

Seven Stars in Kyushu offers one-, two-, three- and four-night packages. Following the completion of the update, rates will start at US$5,085 (¥650,000) per passenger for a one-night journey.

Images courtesy of Seven Stars Kyushu.

We all love a private jet, but that’s just about getting from point A to B with ease. Seaplane flights, however, offer the best way to not just access but take in the outstanding views of numerous cities and waterways throughout Asia. They allow you to see the familiar from a fresh perspective, and more in a day than is possible in any other way. 

From tropical beaches to vibrant reefs, and jungle-clad mountains to winding rivers, Asia is awesome from the air. And while the words majestic, magical and awe-inspiring for these water-based aerial experiences all hold, it’s the feeling of building up speed and ‘unsticking’ from the water as you become airborne that makes a seaplane trip, unlike any other flying experience. 

Whether a short flightseeing hop, a full-day charter or a gorgeous point-to-point transfer, our list of the best seaplane flights in Asia is sure to inspire you to get back in the skies.

The best seaplane rides in Asia

Vietnam, Hạ Long Bay

When you are talking about one of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia that encompasses 1,550 square kilometres of water and hosts close to 2,000 islands and islets, it’s easy to understand how seaplane flights might be the best way to visit Hạ Long Bay.

On a 25-minute flight from Tuan Chau Marina (eight kilometres southwest of Hạ Long City), you’ll get to see the mountain peaks of Bon Ho Island, and limestone cliffs plunging into the deep blue of Dong Tien Lake. 

As the entire area is protected, you’ll be greeted by a perfect blue canvas below, dotted only by unspoiled karsts (only 40 islands in the archipelago are permanently inhabited) and unhurried local boats. T+L Tip: For a unique experience try going in the morning or late afternoon; the low angle of the sun makes the views truly striking.

Eight flights per day: VND 2,870,000 (USD122) per person, or VND 1,500,000 (USD 64) for Vietnamese nationals and foreigners residing in Vietnam for more than six months. seaplanes.vn

Sri Lanka

Take off from Colombo Waters Edge (Battaramulla) to Nuwara Eliya Gregory Lake or Castlereagh Reservoir for a 25- or 30-minute aerial adventure, respectively. Seaplane flights are one of the best ways to explore Sri Lanka’s renowned hill country, home to some of the most beloved tea in Asia. 

Both bodies of water, which would by car take six hours’ worth of hairpin turns from Colombo to reach, are not just easy on the eye but also ensure the journey is as rewarding as the destination. Flying over national parks, you’ll spot everything from tropical mountains to rushing waterfalls to vibrant flower gardens.

The waters at both locations are crystal-clear, great for canoeing. You can also cycle in the surrounding hills, or just relax and picnic. And thanks to the elevation, you’ll enjoy cool breezes year-round in this tranquil part of Sri Lanka.

Private charter/scenic flights from USD 288 per person, minimum six people. cinnamonair.com

The Philippines, Palawan

With the options of quick jaunts up in the air to lengthier sightseeing trips taking in the expanses of Puerto Princesa Bay, Honda Bay, and Ugong Rock, you get to choose between mountains swathed in tropical greens or vast blue bays that are, arguably, the most beautiful on earth.

Yep, there are many good reasons Palawan has been named best island in Asia in years past, and seaplane flights over this multi-terrain paradise are a great way to see them all, and perhaps choose where to go next, be it the karsts of El Nido or the longest stretch of beach in the Philippines, in San Vincente.

While you don’t have to be airborne long to understand why this region has been recognised as the cleanest and greenest in the country, from the air, you can spy numerous coral-fringed islands and hidden lagoons – which would take at least a full day of boat travel – within minutes.

Scenic flights from 10 to 45 minutes cost PHP 2,850 to PHP 9,990 (USD 51 to USD 179) per person. Horizon Sun Charters also offer transfers to resorts in the region. seaplane.ph

Dubai

When it comes to unique aerial views, it’s hard to surpass Dubai. From expansive dunes to bold architecture and a shimmering sea, it’s all laid out before you as you climb skyward.

The 20-minute Seawings ‘snapshot tour’ flies over Dubai city, the Burj Khalifa (, you know, the tallest building in the world), and the Arabian coastline. But you’re in Dubai, so go big or go home, right? Opt for the 45-minute ‘signature tour’ to view all of this plus Port Rashid and return via the Palm Jumeirah, the largest group of man-made islands in the world.

Scenic flights from AED 940 to AED 1,780 (USD 256 to USD 485) per person. seawings.ae

Maldives

The Maldives are known for gin-clear waters, luxury overwater villas, and being home to more stunning dive sites than there are bubbles in a bottle of Moet. And while the views below the waves are more than well and good, we’d argue it’s just as exhilarating taking in several atolls and white-sand beaches in the space of an hour or so, and from a few hundred meters skyward.

Book a 20-minute scenic/photo flight from the capital Male’s seaplane port, and take in the nearby atolls and islands. Another option is to go on standby to see if you can get on a return flight to one of the resorts; these flights can often be done cheaply, depending on availability and distance.

If your resort isn’t within boat distance of Male, though, you’ll have to take a seaplane transfer anyway. While these can be a significant expense added to an already high-ticket vacation, we like to think of them as an aesthetically awesome luxury travel experience in their own right. Oh, and think of the IG likes!

Scenic flights from USD 250 per person (minimum six). Transfer flights (one way) from USD 370 per person + 23.2% service charge & GST; for example, a transfer flight from Male’s seaplane port will see you beachside at the Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru in 35 minutes.   transmaldivian.com

India, Ahmedabad

If big things are on your radar, then a seaplane flight from Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Riverfront to India’s Statue of Unity (the largest statue in the world) in Kevadia, Gujarat, should go on your bucket list.

The flight is around 40 minutes each way, covering 200 kilometers between each destination. Floating jetties have also been built on the riverfront, so you can easily alight to access the statue.

Spice Shuttle has also inked plans for a further 17 seaplane routes throughout India. Using Delhi as a hub, some of the planned routes include the backwaters of Kerala to the south; Haridwar and Rishikesh in the north, landing on the Ganges; and to southwest Udaipur, in the vibrant, historic state of Rajasthan.

Flight price has yet to be confirmed, but according to industry insiders, it’s likely to be around the USD 100 mark, each way, once they restart after Covid suspension. spiceshuttle.com

ON THE HORIZON:

If you’re wondering why two of the best ocean-oriented tourist destinations in Asia aren’t on this list, well, good news as seaplane flights are coming to Thailand and Indonesia soon. 

Siam Seaplane intends to fly from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang airports to some of the most picturesque locations in the Gulf of Thailand, from Koh Tao to Koh Chang, and from a second base in Phuket to service beachfront destinations in the south of Thailand. 

Meanwhile, look out for two seaplane companies in Indonesia, with SamaSama Seaplanes planning private charters to resorts. Surfers will be psyched about the Padang to the Mentawai Islands routes, and flights from Bali to its surrounding islands are in the cards, too. Some competition for the latter: Bluewater Seaplanes will be Bali based, with flights to the islands of Gili Air and Gili Trawangan, turning a 2½-hour speedboat ride into an easy 20 minute hop. 

Prices are set to start from THB 60,000 (USD 1,778) per flying hour for private charters and THB 10,000 (USD 296) per person for a shared flight. siamseaplane.com

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