Cat Ba Island, the women's island, was named for the rediscovery of the island when only women were seen. The men were out fishing, of course. The largest island in Halong Bay is an UNESCO World Heritage site and national park, not to mention a great add-on to the standard cruises. After one night … [Read more...] about Photo Friday: Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
What I Want in a Halong Bay Cruise
When planning a trip to Vietnam, I heard too much information about Halong Bay cruises. I was inundated with information, so it became hard to know where to start. While I'd heard lots of good things about the Hanoi Backpackers Castaways cruises, it became clear to be that I would be expected to … [Read more...] about What I Want in a Halong Bay Cruise
Vietnam’s Street Food Culture
When I went to the travel doctor to get shots for my trip to Asia, she specifically told me that I wasn't to eat anything from street vendors or anything I hadn't seen cooked. I smiled at her and then mentally laughed. How could I possibly go to Asia without trying any street food? I'd already … [Read more...] about Vietnam’s Street Food Culture
Living the GTL Life in Koh Samui
Gym, Tan, Laundry. The term was popularized by the show Jersey Shore as a part of the daily routine for those controversial guidos living in Seaside Heights. But for me, I developed a similar system for my week in Koh Samui, which I might call Thailand's shore-esque island that … [Read more...] about Living the GTL Life in Koh Samui
Streetside Beer in Hanoi
Images from my college days are immediately conjured, of pumped kegs and frothy brews. But my current experience couldn't be farther from Charleston parties. Rather than handing someone a wad of cash for a red Solo cup full of Miller Lite, surrounded by acquaintances, I'm sitting on a plastic stool … [Read more...] about Streetside Beer in Hanoi