written by Betty Nguyen We stayed one night in Yamanouchi (advisable over a day trip) to see the monkeys and bathe in the natural hot springs. I received many requests from my Japan Insta story about seeing the snow monkeys, so…
Reykjanes: The Perfect Iceland Layover
written by Betty Nguyen With low-budget airlines flying to and from Reykjavik, it’s the perfect connecting gateway to Europe. If you have more than 6 hours to spare, add an activity in the nearby Reykjanes and make the best of your time in…
Travel Guide: Weekending in Joshua Tree
written by Betty Nguyen Joshua Tree is one of the most interesting and beautiful places in California (and the country, I think). Most people from Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego have visited here. However, I was quite surprised to learn that…
Travel Guide: Our Favorites in Cartagena
written by Betty Nguyen The Caribbean coastal city of Cartagena has all the makings of a perfect getaway: cobbled streets, palm-treed plazas, and colorful colonial buildings. If you’re looking to create a little bit of romance, Cartagena will do all the work…
Travel Guide: Todos Santos
by Betty Nguyen One of Mexico’s “pueblos mágicos,” or “magical towns,” Todos Santos, a bohemian getaway about 48 miles up the Pacific Coast from Cabo San Lucas, offers a nice escape from the latter’s crazy party scene. We were on our way to Magdelena…
Where Should I Stay in Tulum: Beach or City Center?
by Betty Nguyen I get this question A LOT from my customers. When visiting Tulum, you might notice that the beach and the city center are quite far away from each other. The question is – is it better to stay right at the beach or in town? I’ve experienced…
Know Before You Go: Renting a Car in Mexico
If you can avoid renting a car in Mexico, then do it. I personally prefer using a combo of private and public transportation. Popular car rental brands such as Avis, Budget and Hertz doesn’t mean they won’t rip you off in…
Be a Safe and Responsible Tourist in Iceland
by Betty Nguyen After reading about the latest bus accident in Iceland in South Iceland near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, leaving one dead and others seriously injured (all foreign tourists), I felt inclined to forward some of Iceland’s First Lady, Eliza Reid, tips on how to safely and…
Google Maps Tips for Travelers
by Betty Nguyen I still remembered vividly when my father took out the paper map from the old station wagon’s glove department and had everyone get out of the car to assist him with directions. He would glance at the road signs in front of us and…
What You Should Know About New Orleans
By: Ressa Gallardo This past month, I embarked on a summer fun road trip around the U.S. and stopped by New Orleans (aka NOLA), as my first destination. My trip had initially made me realize how much has changed since…
Discover Montmartre like a Parisian
written by Betty Nguyen Every time I’m in Paris, I book a favorite Airbnb in the Montmartre neighborhood and let my itinerary flow. This time, I met with some Parisians and we had a great time exploring the area. Here are the top 5…
How to Travel Iceland on a Budget
By Kelsey Dennison Although budget airlines have made traveling to Iceland increasingly accessible, in-country expenses in this island nation can definitely take a hit on your bank account. Here are my top tips for navigating your Icelandic adventure without going…