Facing Reality While Traveling
While traveling through some less developed countries, we’re bound to encounter poverty and lifestyles that are unfamiliar to us.
people
Mr. Chiang’s Taipei
Everyone recognizes one structure in Taiwan, but that’s not the structure I visited–Taipei 101 is beautiful skyscraper that can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Instead of paying a small fortune to ride an elevator near the top of that huge building, I opted for hiking up Elephant Hill for a better view …
Returning to Familiar Tokyo
What has happened makes the world. Live on the edge, looking. -Robert Creeley, “Here” I started my current journey in Tokyo–I had wanted to visit Japan for a long time, and it was my first opportunity to travel to the country. Now, I find myself back in the Land of the Rising Sun, more specifically …
On Departures
I have to say goodbye often–to the places with which I’ve become familiar, to routines I’ve developed, and most of all, to the great people I’ve met.
Getting More Comfortable in Seoul
After a week of feeling a bit overwhelmed, I’ve become more comfortable with my surroundings in Seoul with a little help from beer, baseball, and a friend.
Slightly Overwhelmed in Seoul
After 6 months around East Asia, I finally feel a bit overwhelmed here in Seoul. I can’t pinpoint the reason for this feeling, but I’m still not homesick.
Trying to Enjoy Hoan Kiem Lake
Finding some relaxation while walking around the crowded area of Hoan Kiem Lake in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam.
On Traveling Solo in Asia
Solo travel in Asia has its challenges that are sometimes exacerbated by the balance of life, sightseeing, and work. But it’s still worth traveling alone.
Protest Marches on in Taipei
Encountering the continuation of the student protests (Sunflower Movement) in Taipei as the protesters marched along the street next to Peace Park.
Taipei in Protest
Students protest and occupy the Legislative Yuan in Taipei, Taiwan. They are protesting President Ma’s executive order for a new trade pact with China.
Art of Travel Conversation
Starting conversations with fellow travelers is usually pretty easy, but some people need a reminder of what an appropriate conversation starter is.
Quiet Awe at Ta Prohm
Visiting Ta Prohm (the temple featured in Tomb Raider) in Cambodia’s Angkor Wat complex before the crowds of tourists arrived.
Unexpected Encounters at Banteay Srei
While on a tour of the Hindu temple Banteay Srei in Siem Reap, Cambodia, a monk with an iPhone asked to take my photo.
Biking the Road Less Traveled in Angkor Wat
Biking on my last day in Siem Reap. I took a 40-mile bike ride on mostly empty roads around Angkor Wat and the Cambodian countryside.
Crowds of Angkor
Avoiding the crowds at Angkor Wat is like avoiding motorbikes on the streets of Hanoi. There are really only times when the crowds are a bit thinner.