Johannesburg: Wildlife Safari & Exotic Game Meat

The day began with excitement (JOHANNESBURG WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS & CAPE TOWN THE TRAVEL STEALER) as we headed to Sun City, where the plan was to spend our time at leisure, exploring as we wished. The main highlight was the Open Jeep Safari to Pilanesberg National Park, but the day promised plenty of other adventures in Sun City itself.

Nestled in South Africa's North West Province, about two hours' drive from Johannesburg, Sun City is a premier holiday destination known for its luxurious resorts and vibrant entertainment options. Often referred to as Africa's Kingdom of Pleasure, this sprawling complex offers attractions (JAIPUR TRAVEL MAGIC & CHENNAI AWAIT) like the renowned Valley of Waves water park, world-class golf courses, and a bustling casino.

Best Things to Do in Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg, also known as Joburg, is South Africa’s largest city and a key destination alongside Cape Town. Known as the “City of Gold” due to the 1886 gold rush, Johannesburg is rich in history, nature, and unique travel experiences. If you're flying from Cape Town (TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN CAPE TOWN), expect a two-hour flight into O.R. Tambo International Airport. Depending on how long you stay, even two days is enough to explore some of the top things to do in Johannesburg, South Africa. Here are three must-visit attractions.

The Lion & Safari Park

Located in the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park offers a scenic bushveld backdrop and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Established in 1966, it has grown into a popular tourist and conservation center. Don’t miss the Cub World, where visitors queue up for a rare moment to interact with lion cubs,  one person at a time, with just two to three minutes allocated per visitor (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA).

Top Places to Visit in Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, one of the most visited cities in South Africa, is packed with attractions (THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN). From scenic landscapes and wildlife to good food and coastal drives, there’s so much to see and do. You could easily spend a week exploring Cape Town. While the list of tourist spots is long, a few stand out as must-visit highlights, both for sightseeing and experiencing the essence of the city.

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is the main highlight of Cape Town, a must-see for every visitor. But take note: your visit depends on the weather. On rainy or misty days, the cable car doesn’t operate. Once the weather clears, you can buy your ticket, queue up, and take the cable car ride. It lifts you 1,086 meters above sea level, with stunning views of the sea and the city below (SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING SPOTS).

Things To Do in Cape Town, South Africa

Nature lovers, brace yourself. Cape Town will sweep you off your feet with its unspoiled landscapes. Whether it’s cycling in nature, hiking, a gentle walk, or just a drive along mountain slopes that open up to sea views and green hills, Cape Town has it all (CAPE TOWN TRAVEL GUIDE). You can easily spend a full day soaking in the natural beauty without rushing. Still, there are a few must-visit attractions in Cape Town you shouldn't miss.

Mouille Point to Muizenberg

A drive from Mouille Point to Muizenberg feels like an adventure on its own. The road winds through mountain slopes, with high-up views of the sea and even glimpses of the harbour. It’s the kind of drive where your eyes do all the work, looking around and appreciating what’s there (COLOMBO SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).

Cape Town, South Africa Travel Guide

Located at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa is known for its natural beauty, diverse cultures, colonial history, and the end of apartheid in 1994. Over the years, it has become one of the top tourist destinations in the world (HOKKAIDO, JAPAN SIGHTSEEING). When people think of South Africa, they often imagine wildlife, scenic landscapes, cultural diversity, and local cuisine. Among all the places to explore, Cape Town stands out as one of the country’s most visited and vibrant cities.

Signal Hill

One of the must-visit Cape Town attractions, Signal Hill offers sweeping views of the city, the harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean. Located beside Lion’s Head, it’s a popular spot for watching sunsets, taking photos, or simply relaxing in nature. The historic noon gun still fires daily, a tradition from the colonial era used to signal ships in Table Bay. From here, you’ll also see the Sea Point suburb, Green Point Stadium, and the city skyline. Visitors often drive or hike up for the best views, especially in the late afternoon (MYANMAR -ACROSS CHIANG RAI).

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).

New Delhi - North India: A Soulful Revelation

On the last two days in New Delhi (TAJ MAHAL & VARANASI) before returning home, I enjoyed a relaxed morning on the second-to-last day. After breakfast, I stayed in my room, sipping coffee and having a light meal from the buffet. While the rest of the group went shopping, I took advantage of the hotel's fast Wi-Fi to catch up on social media (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST).

For lunch, we headed to "Flavour Of Southvala" in Karol Bagh. Despite the cramped seating, the food was exceptional. We shared a Paper Tosai, a Non-Vegetarian Thali Set, and India's beloved Bru Coffee. The curries were rich and flavorful, thanks to the spices used, and the presentation was appetizing - unlike some eateries that overlook the importance of plating. This meal was a clear winner, making up for the less enjoyable dining experiences elsewhere (CHENNAI & KODAIKANAL).

Taj Mahal Agra - (North India)

The journey from Jaipur (JAIPUR LOVE CITY & VARANASI SACRED GANGES) to our destination was about five and a half hours, and I was glad to have the company of some lively ladies on this tour. With jokes and laughter filling the bus, time flew by until our first comfort break. These breaks can happen anywhere, often at roadside shops where a bathroom stop is a must. Here’s the thing: you have to brace yourself. Sometimes there's water, sometimes not, so always carry tissues. Out in the outskirts, you can't afford to fuss; no one’s going to hear you anyway.

For men in India, bathroom breaks are even more informal. They relieve themselves wherever they please, and it's a sight that's hard to miss. I'd seen enough in North India to know it wasn't just a South Indian phenomenon (MYSURU & CHENNAI) . At some sightseeing spots, the smell is impossible to avoid as you walk in.

Jaipur, Rajasthan - The Love City (North India)

My first day in Jaipur was heart-melting and soul-touching (JAIPUR: TIMELESS TRAVEL). The city, famously known as the Pink City, is renowned for its distinctive pink-colored buildings and architecture. This unique hue dates back to 1876 when Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh ordered the city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). Pink, symbolizing hospitality, continues to dominate the old city's landscape, preserving its historic charm.

For me, Jaipur is the Love City. The day began with a visit to the Birla Mandir, also known as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple. Built by the Birla family in 1988, this modern architectural marvel is made entirely of pristine white marble and dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Nestled at the base of Moti Dungri Hill, the temple's intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, saints, philosophers, and historical figures (VARANASI: SACRED GANGES)

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Timeless Travel Magic

Bidding farewell to Varanasi (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) was a deeply sentimental moment for me; it's one of those places that etched a profound meaning into my soul. But reality dictates that we must move on, so from Varanasi Airport, we flew back to New Delhi, landing at the bustling Delhi Airport before heading to Hotel Sohi Residency for our one-night stay. I wish I had more positive things to say about this hotel, but when you’re informed that accommodations will be three-star, expectations are modest. While I am far from being a travel diva, the bedsheets, pillow covers, and blanket left me questioning the cleanliness. The one redeeming feature was the super clean bathroom, a small consolation.

Varanasi - North India: The Sacred Ganges

One more place to go for the day (VARANASI - EXPERIENCING SACREDNESS), and it’s said to be the best highlight: the Night Aarti at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple). Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the twelve holiest Jyotirlingas. Its golden spire stands out against Varanasi's skyline, symbolizing divine light. The night aarti, a revered ritual, draws devotees and tourists with its elaborate chants, hymns, and offerings, creating an atmosphere of profound devotion. Constructed in 1780 on the Ganges' western bank, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a key stop on Varanasi's Heritage Walk, attracting thousands to its nightly ceremony.

Varanasi - North India: The Gateway to Experiencing Sacredness

Having explored South India (CHENNAI & KODAIKANAL) before, this time my journey took me to North India. It was another solo trip, joining a tour group (COLOMBO & KANDY, SRI LANKA) organized by the same friend, though comprised of strangers. Despite the option to share a room and cut costs, I chose, as always, to pay extra for the privacy of my own room.

We arrived at Hotel Arch in New Delhi around 2 AM, greeted by the early winter chill. My room, though small, was clean and comfortable, including the bathroom. The next morning, breakfast was served before 7 AM, a thoughtful gesture despite the limited choices. The highlight was undoubtedly the Bru coffee, a beloved staple in any part of India, whether at street stalls or in hotels.

Myanmar - Across the Border From Mae Sai

A business trip to Chiang Rai turned into the adventure of a lifetime  (COLOMBO) when I decided to squeeze in a visit to Myanmar. With no plans, I found a tour company through my hotel and jumped at the chance to join two others on a trip to Tachileik, starting from Mae Sai in Chiang Rai.

The van arrived with my new travel buddies and our Thai lady guide, a humble and amazing soul. Thrilled to explore (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST), we headed to Mae Sai. After our guide handled the permits at the border, the real adventure began. The sun was blazing, but I didn’t care - I was too pumped. Crossing the border, I was hit by the raw energy of everyday life. People hustled about, street vendors manned their stalls, and no one gave us a second glance. Our guide filled us in on Tachileik and our stops (KOCHI KALEISCOPE). 

Tourist Places in Kochi, Kerala, India

UPDATED VERSION

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).

Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan: Things to Do

Updated Version

Located in southwestern Hokkaido (THINGS TO DO IN HOKKAIDO) and roughly a two-hour drive from Hilton Niseko Village, Noboribetsu is part of Iburi Subprefecture and sits within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Known for its volcanic activity and natural hot springs, this small town is a popular wellness destination. Snowy winters add a magical touch to its rugged terrain shaped by past eruptions. 

 

Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Village

This 25-year-old theme park recreates the Edo Period (1603–1867) - a significant era in Japanese history. Though often linked with Emperor Meiji, the Edo era actually preceded his reign and was defined by samurai rule under the Tokugawa Shogunate, before Japan began modernizing (NUWARA ELIYA SRI LANKA).

Things To Do in Hokkaido, Japan (Winter)

Updated Version

Winter is the season that draws travellers to Hokkaido, Japan - and for good reason (HOKKAIDO TRAVEL GUIDE). While destinations like Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano, Yuzawa, and Nozawaonsen also boast winter charm, Hokkaido stands out as one of the top spots for snow-filled adventures. From thrilling snow activities to comforting local cuisine, here’s a closer look at what makes a Hokkaido winter experience truly special (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE, SRI LANKA).

 

Snow Activities in Hokkaido

Winter in Hokkaido is synonymous with snow adventures. While skiing is a popular choice among visitors, snowmobiling offers an equally exciting alternative. Near Hilton Niseko Village, a designated area offers snowmobile rides suitable for beginners and thrill-seekers alike.

Hokkaido, Japan Travel Guide

Updated Version

Hokkaido, located at the northernmost tip of Japan, is one of the most popular destinations among Malaysians (KERALA INDIA TOURIST SPOTS). Particularly during winter, Hokkaido becomes a magnet for travellers thanks to its soft powder snow, ski resorts, snow festivals, hot springs, and comforting local food. A winter holiday in Hokkaido for Malaysians is truly an unforgettable experience. We were amongst the thousands enjoying winter in Hokkaido - and there’s more to do and explore beyond the snow.

Colombo, Sri Lanka: Tourist Attractions

Updated in 2025

Finally, here I come - Colombo, Sri Lanka (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE). Two days before flying back to Malaysia. Without a fixed itinerary, I just went with the flow - exploring places to visit, see, and do. Thankfully, I still had my travel guide, who doubled as my driver, to point out the sightseeing highlights. And yes, even before reaching Colombo from Galle, there were stopovers worth mentioning.

 

Tsunami Honganji Vihara Memorial
I paused briefly at the Tsunami Honganji Vihara Memorial - built in remembrance of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami victims. A somber moment. Ten quiet minutes, standing in silence, paying respect before resuming my road trip (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA).

Things to Do in Galle, Sri Lanka

Updated in 2025

Honestly, I knew nothing about Galle when I left KATARAGAMA SRI LANKA. It was a blank slate - no expectations, no images in my mind. But once I arrived and explored, I understood why this city draws thousands of visitors year-round. Galle is a blend of cultures shaped by Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. From colonial buildings and forts to churches and quaint streets, it’s where East meets West - yet still proudly Sri Lankan at heart (PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA).