Seoul, Korea: A Journey Through My Eyes

On the second last day in Korea, which was spent in Seoul (GANDWON-DO & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS) e skipped the usual hotel buffet breakfast and were taken to an eatery instead. Remember, I told you how it's difficult to figure out the names of eateries in Korea, as the signboards are all in Korean? By the time we walked in, it seemed it was almost the end of breakfast. The tables were a mess, created by previous tour groups who had already eaten and left. It felt like we were helping ourselves to the remnants of the dishes, and the staff seemed uninterested in serving us. Nevertheless, we helped ourselves to pumpkin porridge and spinach porridge, along with Kimchi soup and side dishes. Despite the initial chaos, it was a pleasant meal.

Gangwon-do, South Korea: From Mount Sorak to Pyeongchang

Mount Sorak, or Seoraksan, located in the northeastern part of South Korea, marked the start of our adventure-filled day (NAMI ISLAND & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS). This majestic mountain, part of the Taebaek range within Seoraksan National Park, spans the provinces of Gangwon-do, including Sokcho, Inje, and Yangyang. Renowned for its rugged peaks, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls, the park offered us a serene and picturesque setting.

Our group, moving like one happy family, enjoyed fun moments as we walked through the park, passing by towering red pine trees. Our first stop was the Bronze Jwabul Statue, also known as the Tongil Daebul, erected in 1997. Standing 14.6 meters tall, this statue symbolizes the hope for the reunification of North and South Korea and represents the moment of the Buddha's enlightenment. Nearby, we visited Sinheungsa Temple, one of Korea's oldest Zen Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. Joining in the prayers for a few minutes, I felt a profound sense of calm and zen spirituality (KYOTO ZENFUL SIGHTS & VARANASI SACRED GANGES).

Nami Island & Petite France: A Korean-French Experience

Leaving Jeju Island behind (JEJU THROUGH MY LENS), we were off to Nami Island, located 63km northeast of Seoul. After breakfast and packing our bags, we headed to the airport and arrived in Seoul just in time for lunch. Seeing Korean steamboat yet again almost did me in - was it always steamboat or hotplate on these tours? I wondered. Fortunately, Korean side dishes and rice saved the day with their flavors.

Within the hour, we journeyed to Nami Island. This scenic oasis in the heart of South Korea's Bukhan River is celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural charm. Shaped like a half-moon after the construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam, Nami Island captivates visitors with its tree-lined pathways, lush landscapes, and serene lakeside views.

Jeju Island Through My Lens

Our day began with a different kind of start, skipping the usual hotel buffet breakfast for a meal across the harbor in a small restaurant. Ah! The challenge of figuring out the names of eateries in South Korea when everything is in Korean (SEOUL TO JEJU), including this one. Breakfast commenced with toast, butter, jam, and a soft-boiled egg, with the highlight being the abalone porridge. Or at least, it was supposed to be. Noticing the absence of abalone in the porridge and informing the guide, he got worked up as if I was pulling his leg, until the rest echoed. Soon enough, we were served additional bowls of porridge, this time with discernible pieces of abalone. The porridge paired with the soft-boiled egg was an appreciated start to the rainy day.

From Seoul to Jeju: A Solo Traveler's Korean Venture

A complete package tour to South Korea, yet another solo adventure for me, this time with 14 strangers. Without a local Malaysian guide, the tour company representative met me at the airport for a quick check-in and briefing before we took to the skies (OSAKA SUNSETS & KYOTO ONSEN BARENESS) , arriving at Incheon International Airport by 9:00am. Our Korean guide was already there, and I was the first to greet him. Mysteriously, the remaining 13 took an additional 45 minutes.

Our journey commenced at Gyeongbokgung Palace, a magnificent symbol of Korean history and culture located in northern Seoul. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, this grand palace, whose name translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," showcases Korea's rich architectural heritage and royal lifestyle. The sprawling grounds are adorned with meticulously restored halls, pavilions, and gardens. Highlights include the imposing Geunjeongjeon Hall, used for royal ceremonies, and the National Palace Museum of Korea, displaying artifacts that narrate the country's royal history (NEW DELHI REVELATION & RAJASTHAN MAGIC).

Taj Mahal, Agra, India Travel Guide

Speak about India as a whole, especially North India (THINGS TO DO IN JAIPUR, RAJASTHAN) and the city of Agra will immediately stand out for one reason: the world-famed Taj Mahal. Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the Taj Mahal sits on the southern bank of the Yamuna River.

This monument holds two prestigious recognitions. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for its cultural and architectural brilliance. It also remains one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, a title awarded in 2007 through a global poll.

Taj Mahal History

Commissioned in 1632 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal stands as a symbol of love and loss. It took over 20 years to complete and involved thousands of skilled artisans and craftsmen from across the empire and beyond. The structure is known for its white marble finish, detailed stone inlays, and precise symmetry.

 

The charbagh-style gardens, the long water channels, and the central dome form a layout that reflects balance and order. From every angle, the monument presents a different visual - shaped by light, shadow, and sky (TOURIST SPOTS IN KERALA, INDIA).

How It Begins at the Taj Mahal

A visit begins with purchasing a ticket. If you’re with a tour group, it’s handled for you. Otherwise, tickets are available at the counters or online. Queues are long, especially during peak hours.

 

Security checks are strict. Bags, personal items, and even water bottles are screened. Large bags and food items aren’t allowed. It’s best to keep your belongings minimal.

 

Once you’re cleared, you can choose to walk or ride a battery-operated cart toward the main entrance. Either way, there’s more walking ahead (HOKKAIDO JAPAN WINTER SIGHTSEEING).

(Visitors walking through the Darwaza-i-Rauza (Great Gate) toward the Taj Mahal in Agra, India)

Tour Guide Reality

As soon as you step through the entrance and face the Taj Mahal, your guide’s voice may get drowned out, not literally, but by the rush of people aiming for photos and better views. It’s a moment where visitors want to get their shot before the crowds swell.

 

Once the photo rush settles, the guide usually resumes with historical background and facts. Whether you listen or not depends on how much you want to know beyond what you see.

Taj Mahal Experience
There it is, plain and grand at the same time. The white marble seems to glow, even under harsh sun. The entire structure stands tall, quiet, and complete. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen before, the real view stays in the mind.

Some visitors focus on the architecture, others on the story behind it. Most just move from one spot to another, snapping photos, reading the expressions of fellow travelers, and walking the paths around the monument and gardens.

 

Inside the mausoleum, photography is restricted. The mood changes. It’s quieter, more orderly. People pause, move along, and step back outside.

 

(High visitor volume at the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO site in Agra, India)

How Much Time to Spend

There’s no fixed time limit, but generally, visitors spend around 2 to 4 hours. That’s enough to cover the walk-through, photo stops, the inner chamber, and a stroll in the gardens.

 

The crowd is steady. Whether it’s morning or evening, weekday or weekend, the flow of people doesn’t stop. Expect to see families, school groups, solo travelers, couples, locals and internationals alike.

 

Be prepared. Wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and don’t rush. For many, this is a one-time visit. And one visit is enough to remember the experience.

Things to Do in Jaipur, India

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is famously known as the Pink City, a name earned for its pink-hued buildings and royal charm. In 1876, Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh ordered the entire city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, a gesture of hospitality that still lives on in the city's old quarters. A trip to North India feels incomplete without visiting this vibrant city (VARANASI INDIA TOURIST SPOTS).

But Jaipur isn’t without its chaos - expect traffic jams, narrow roads, and heavy crowds, especially during tourist season. Yet, beneath the bustle lies a beautiful city filled with history, culture, and unforgettable sights (KERALA INDIA SIGHTSEEING).

Varanasi, India: Top Things to Do

India is a vast and diverse country, made up of many states and cities, each with its own identity. Broadly, the country is often viewed in two cultural regions — North India and South India. While united under one nation, there are distinct differences between the north and south, particularly in social customs, cultural traditions, languages, architecture, and food. Although some similarities exist and elements do overlap, each region offers its own uniqueness (HOKKAIDO JAPAN THINGS TO DO).

 

In North India, one of the most meaningful and enriching places to visit is Varanasi. Often referred to as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi draws millions of visitors from all walks of life. For Hindus, the city holds deep religious significance for paying homage to the gods. For other travellers, it’s about experiencing Varanasi.

Tourist Places in Kochi, Kerala, India

Down to the last two days in Kochi (THINGS TO DO IN KOCHI), we spent our time visiting tourist spots, walking the streets, and taking in daily life. It was also a chance to see what Kochi had to offer in terms of local culture and lifestyle.

Kumbalangi Chinese Fishing Village

Kumbalangi, known as India’s first model tourism village, is famous for its “cheena vala” - Chinese fishing nets. Introduced by Chinese traders centuries ago, these nets still stand as a symbol of traditional fishing methods in Kerala. The area is calm, surrounded by backwaters, and gives a feel of how the local fishing community lives. We saw coir making and crab farming demonstrations. Most of the time, we were just standing around observing. Street vendors were around too, selling snacks and small items on the roadside (ALLEPPEY BOAT CRUISE).

Kochi/Cochin, Kerala, India: Things to Do

Approximately five hours on the road (TRIRUVANANTHAPURAM, KERALA) - including breaks and lunch - we reached Kochi. Also known as Cochin, it is a major port city on the southwest coast of India, in the state of Kerala. Kochi has been an important trading post for centuries, attracting traders from Europe, Arabia, and China. Its natural harbor gave it an advantage, and the result is a mix of cultural influences still visible today (ALLEPPEY BOAT CRUISE).

Dutch Palace/Mattancherry Palace

We started in Mattancherry. The area is a mix of old buildings, shops, and narrow streets. It’s a place for browsing  -  clothes, souvenirs, local snacks, and spices are available in small stores. One main attraction here is the Dutch Palace, also called Mattancherry Palace. It was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch before being handed over to the local ruler.

Kerala, India: Thiruvananthapuram Tourist Spots

It’s not over yet in THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/TRIVANDRUM, KERALA. There’s more to see, more to do. This part of our Kerala trip continued with a city tour, followed by key sightseeing stops -  the must-visit places and experiences in Thiruvananthapuram (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE, SRI LANKA).

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kerala, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a must-visit in Thiruvananthapuram. This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is famous for its ancient Dravidian architecture and spiritual significance. Built in the 18th century by Travancore Maharaja Marthanda Varma, the temple houses the deity in the unique "Anantha Shayanam" posture - reclining on the serpent Anantha.

Kerala Travel Guide - Thiruvananthapuram

From Alleppey (BOAT CRUISE IN ALLEPPEY) to Thiruvananthapuram, the journey led us to the vibrant capital city of Kerala. Known also as Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram sits at the southern tip of India, facing the vast Arabian Sea and boasting a stunning coastline. With a rich history as the former capital of the Kingdom of Travancore, this city offers travelers a unique mix of nature, culture, spirituality, and heritage - making it much more than just a typical tourist stop (COLOMBO SRI LANKA ATTRACTIONS).

Boat Cruise in Alleppey, Kerala, India

Updated in 2025

No trip or any trip to Kerala, India,  is complete without experiencing their houseboat cruise. It’s a must. Those who’ve done it will vouch it's one of the best things Kerala offers for your things to do in Kerala list or sightseeing in Kerala (COLOMBO SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).

 

As for the three of us, this backwater tour in Kerala was already part of our Kerala travel itinerary, all necessary payment included. We opted for an overnight stay in a houseboat, which also included all meals. Ours was a two-room private houseboat, just for the three of us.

Hokkaido, Japan: Attractions and Sightseeing Guide

Back to Hokkaido, Japan (HOKKAIDO TRAVEL GUIDE) and sadly, winter and snowfall were severe, dropping to -0 degrees Celsius. Many things to do in Hokkaido during winter were halted due to heavy snowflakes blanketing everything, which also risked our flight back home being canceled (OTARU WHAT TO DO & SEE).

 

Best Tourist Sightseeing Spots in Hokkaido

Okurayama Viewing Point
It was definitely disappointing that our visit to Okurayama Viewing Point, the famous 1972 Winter Olympic Games ski jumping venue in Sapporo, was canceled. Okurayama Viewing Point is well known as a top Hokkaido sightseeing spot, where visitors can take a chairlift to the top for panoramic city views and the ski jump. There’s also a small museum showcasing winter sports history and ski jumping. It’s an interesting stop for both the view and winter sports enthusiasts. Unfortunately, it didn’t materialize for us.

Otaru, Hokkaido: What to Do and See

Updated Version

A day in Otaru, a charming port city on Hokkaido’s west coast, is all it takes to see why it draws visitors year-round, especially during winter (WHAT TO DO IN SAPPORO). Otaru’s roots date back to the late 19th century, when it thrived as a major trading and fishing hub. Today, it remains famous for its preserved architecture, scenic spots, and local delicacies.

 

We spent a full day in Otaru, quickly catching the highlights and popular attractions while also admiring from our coach (SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).

What To Do In Sapporo, Japan: Winter Travel Guide

Updated Version

An appreciated winter holiday and the travel journey so far in Hokkaido, Japan. We still had two more destinations to cover. From Noboribetsu (THINGS TO DO IN NOBORIBETSU) we arrived in Sapporo. Winter had mellowed, making it more conducive to explore what Sapporo has to offer - especially for those wondering about things to do in Sapporo during winter.

 

This stop in Sapporo was part of our multi-day Hokkaido itinerary. It showed us that Hokkaido winter travel doesn’t feel complete without experiencing Sapporo (SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING SPOTS).