A Luxury Weekend With Friends In Bali

As we were *almost* in their part of the world (Perth) we wanted to meet up with our great friends Stef and Anna for a long overdue catch up and a plush private villa in Seminyak on Bali seemed like a worthy venue. Now we’re not talking five star luxury here but our digs for the weekend were a serious upgrade from the plain rooms we're starting to grow accustomed to. Private pool, double sunbeds, a manicured lawn, huge bedrooms, bathroom and an open plan kitchen/living area plus, a mandatory fridge full of Bintang, prosecco and wine. Everything was in place for a fun four days!

Top Seven Things To Do In Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai despite its size as Thailand's second biggest city after Bangkok maintains an easy going, welcoming vibe and has plenty to offer its visitors. Within the old city walls are numerous temples, great restaurants and lively bars, but outside of the city is lush, green jungle perfect for some more adventurous excursions. Here are our seven favourite things to do in and around Chiang Mai. 

A Touching Day In Elephant Rehab

Despite what some people say Facebook still has its uses and we discovered a fantastic organisation based near Chiang Mai through our good friend Chris. Elephant Nature Park was founded by Sangduen “Lek" Chailert in 2003, its a unique sanctuary and rehabilitation centre where abused elephants rescued from the tourism industry or logging trade, can live in like the wild elephants they were meant to be. We felt compelled to visit and show our support to this inspiring woman who has been rescuing elephants since 1993 and meet the rehabiliated elephants, bracing ourselves for some heartbreaking truths.

Cooking Thai In Chiang Mai

After two and a half months backpacking we finally managed to find a cooking school that fit in to our travelling movements. We had scheduled a visit to Chiang Mai, Thailand's second biggest city and also home to some top rated Thai cooking schools. It was the perfect opportunity to explore our love for Asian food, we often attempt curries such as Massamans at home and have missed cooking since being away.  

Island Living On Beautiful Koh Lipe

When we caught our first glimpse of Koh Lipe from our crowded speedboat it was love at first sight and we were very excited to be back in Thailand. The bright turquoise sea, ribbon adorned longboats and white sand soon made us forget the uncomfortable 75 minute journey we'd just endured. We'd been crammed into the back of a small speedboat along with 28 other passengers (plus luggage) and grimaced to a relentless rhythm of "1, 2, 3, BANG! 1, 2, 3, BANG!" all the way from Langkawi to Koh Lipe.

"Land Ahoy!"

A Guide To Pantai Cenang Langkawi

Following our lazy and luxurious Christmas at the Berjaya resort we returned to our backpacker status (and budget) in Langkawi's major beach resort Pantai Cenang. The beach here is beautiful, 2km of silky white sand and clear turquoise sea, its lined with low rise bungalow resorts, water-sports companies, laid-back bars and palm trees. Its an ideal location to relax for a few days, reading and working on a tan - everything you need is within walking distance plus, the breeze you get from the sea keeps you sane in the intense humidity.