If you love nature, hiking, taking photos, and spontaneous road tripping amongst various and unreal landscapes, then Iceland is perfect for your dream vacay. You’ve likely seen some #icelandroadtrip breathtaking pics on the interwebs, but nothing compares to seeing Iceland’s nature in person. You need to touch it, smell it, drive it, and hike it all for yourself!

Be it solo travel, with friends, or with that random stranger you meet while buying discounted booze at the duty-free shop in the airport, an Iceland road trip will offer an ultimate adventure to remember!

I was fortunate enough to venture solo on an Iceland road trip. I didn’t have much planned besides driving around and winging it. It was a breeze to run into random sights and go to places I had read about all while jamming to 90’s CDs in my cute little blue car. When the sun finally dipped down for a few hours each evening, I snoozed in campground parking lots to refresh myself for the following day’s adventures. It was perfect!

But looking for things to do? Here are 7 reasons to hop out of your car during your Iceland road trip:

1. Walk around Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, will remind you of a 500 piece puzzle you put together at your grandmother’s house as a child. It is an adorable picturesque town where one-third of the 330,000 Icelandic residents live. It’s a perfect place to relax and wander about for a couple of days as you put together the final touches on your Iceland road trip itinerary.

You’ll find the small town of Reykjavik easy to navigate. Even if you don’t stay in the city center, it’s easy to get around by foot or pop into your car for a quick drive.

One of the first things you should do upon arrival is sign up for the free walking tour to learn a bit about Iceland’s history and culture. This tour will be guided by a vibrant local whose name will have too many syllables to remember. Make sure to ask your guide about Icelandic name culture! The tour is also a great way to meet other travelers and snag a new friend who wants to join in and split the cost of fuel on your Iceland road trip.

You can also head into the gorgeous glass convention center on the water, go for a pricey brew—because you deserve one—at one of the many pubs, and pop into a tourist office if you need any last minute advice for your Iceland road trip.

2. Save $$ and camp

With many campgrounds speckled around Iceland, it’s a breeze to find a place to sleep. You will find camping to be very efficient and affordable compared to snagging a dorm bed or guesthouse.

In Reykjavik you can either rent a tent, camper van, or sleep in your car. Camping across Iceland makes it easy to decide on the spot where you want to get your beauty rest or scout out the northern lights. Although the weather can be unpredictable, camping is a common way for road trippers to see the country. If weather conditions worry you, opt for a camper van rather than a tent to make sure you have a comfortable experience.

Depending on if you are in a national park or not will determine the cost of camping. I stayed for both free and very low prices while sleeping in my car with an extra warm sleeping bag.

3. Bathe in the many hot springs

The natural pools around Iceland, which will warm you up amongst the chilly weather, are perfect for any season. Iceland, being a bit of a colder vacay destination, makes sure to keep everyone happy by offering beautiful warm pools.

Less than an hour from Reykjavik is the famous Blue Lagoon. It’s worth a look if you’re ok with paying loads of cash and getting the same selfies everyone else already has. Not to say you shouldn’t go; but there are many more options that are actually affordable or free!

Seljavallalaug Pool is located in the south amongst a gorgeous backdrop of mountains. Although it can get busy, it’s a perfect place to relax, soak in the tubs, and wonder if this entire trip is all real life.

Reykjadalur hot springs take you on a mild hour-long hike up into a hillside valley. The hike may take longer as you’ll want to snap pics the whole way. Once you make it to the river, you’ll see pop up decks and changing areas and be able to soak in the mountains.

As we can go on for pages and pages raving about Iceland’s hot springs, you’ll have to check out the best ones for yourself! With over 250 geothermal areas across the country, you’ll have to go out of your way to not stumble upon a few of them.

4. Go hiking

What better way to see the beauty of Iceland by foot? Although your cozy car will give you stellar views, you will need to get out and stretch every now and then. Beware the weather and pack layers!

Whether you’re in areas just off of the ring road such as Skaftafell National Park, weaving your way up through Fjaðrárgljúfur, or completely lost in nature near Westfjords Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, you can find a hike right up your alley. You don’t have to be a pro hiker to enjoy Iceland’s nature by foot.

But make sure to pack correctly, leave no trace, and to get out of the car every now and then to truly immerse yourself into nature.

My favorite hike in Iceland was during a late afternoon near the southern town of Vik. If you look just north of the city, you see towering plateaus and a church on the hillside. Behind the church is a trail that extends vertically onto what seems to be the top of the mountain.

I was interested in seeing where it would take me. I ended up traversing the cliff sides as the sun was setting. There was not a soul in sight for the duration of my five-hour hike.

I spied on the town below and the views from the top were mindblowing. The sea to the south and neverending valleys and glaciers to the north. The serenity and peacefulness on that hike was a feeling that everyone needs to experience while traveling.

5. Snap some photos of the waterfalls

As you’re driving, you’ll be gazing at the hillsides and see waterfalls every few minutes. “Look there! Look there!” You’ll catch yourself saying out loud. Iceland promises gorgeous waterfalls all over the country. In fact, more than 10,000 waterfalls drip from the high mountains—you can’t miss them.

It’s definitely worth stepping out of your car and take advantage of that photo op. There is no selfie shame while in Iceland!

While some of those amazing waterfalls, like Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss are busy with tons of tourists year round, you can also find many others along your trip that are worth a look.

6. Picnic at the beaches

You may not be sunbathing amongst the warm seas, but that doesn’t mean you should pass up Iceland’s beaches. With summer weather peaking at a possible high of 70 degrees (25°C), you may get just a teeny glimpse of possible swimwear weather. However, the array of the unique nature of the beaches makes them perfect for visiting even in the winter. Beaches in the tropics don’t compare to the unique beaches in Iceland.

The Black Sand beach near Vik has columns of basalt rock formations. Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon are both Insta-worthy. There’s also the remote Red Sands beach in the Westfjords that will not be overrun with partying tourists. Regardless of your itinerary, beaches will be with you the whole way.

“But I really wanted to surf!” Guess what; you can! Surfing the crisp waters surrounding Iceland may not be everyone’s dream, but if you’ve got the chance, go for it!

7. To top off your Iceland road trip: binge on hot dogs

Iceland is not well known for its delectable cuisine. Honestly, the most efficient way to stay fueled during your Iceland road trip is to BYO-stuff. If you can load up your bag with granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, and snacks, you’re set. The food in Iceland is fairly expensive.

If you are on a budget, you should stop at the mini stops where you will fuel up and chomp on Icelandic hot dogs. “Wait what?!” You ask. Well, Iceland’s hot dogs are a thing! Everyone loves them and can afford to buy them. Those cheap, free-range, grass-fed, organic, lamb-meat, delicious hot dogs will sustain you throughout your Iceland road trip.

“Will those sustain you for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner?” you ask. Welp, worked for me! Now give it a shot.

Pack your hiking boots, swimsuit, and jacket because it’s time to book that ticket for your ultimate Iceland road trip! The drive alone will offer various dashboard views of glaciers, sunsets, fjords, and greenery you’ve never seen before. You can read all about it and scroll all of the pics online, but it truly is worth visiting in person and taking it in yourself.

The country is easily accessible if you have a car or are brave enough to hitchhike. It’s safe, fun, friendly, relaxing, and great for those who need some adventure.

Suggested next reading: 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Going To Iceland

The post 7 Ways To Make Your Iceland Road Trip A Truly Magical Experience appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Some key tips to remember when choosing a travel outfit is to stay neutral, simple, and know that less is more. So say buh-bye to the heels, grab the sandals, and fly off into holiday mode.  

Here are some go-to packing tips for ladies planning their travel outfit for going abroad.

Must-have clothing for all types of travel:

Regardless of your travel plans, there are a few travel outfit items that you will want to bring no matter the climate of your destination. The following will be some of your go-to pieces:

1. Good quality shoes

No, this doesn’t mean seven different pairs of shoes. Whether you need snow boots, hiking boots, comfy flats, or sandals, you’ll realize quickly how thankful you were to have invested in a good pair of shoes to keep your feet happy and healthy.

2. Black leggings and a cardigan

Black leggings and a cardigan are going to get tons of use no matter where you are going. Even in the hottest climates where you intend to live in your beach clothes and flip-flops, you’ll realize quickly that the aircon can possibly be on full blast on a subway or café and you may end up freezing.

A cardigan can also be used as a backup blanket on those long bus rides or flights. Leggings can save you from nasty bug bites in humid weather. They can also be dressed up or dressed down which makes it easier to pack less in your luggage.

3. Versatile Travel Dress

What’s more versatile than a dress that can be worn 20 different ways? Whether you’re off to the beach, a night out, or cozying up at a campfire, you’ll have the go-to dress-or-top-or-pants that you may just end up wearing every day. Best off, this one is wrinkle free!

 

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4. Plain and comfy t-shirts

Bring a few plain and comfy t-shirts that can go with any outfit. If you can, stay away from 100% cotton as it wrinkles easily and is not always sweat proof for those lugging large backpacks or heading into the humidity.

5. Swimsuit

Don’t forget a swimsuit. Whether you’re relaxing on a tropical beach or warming up at hot springs amongst a winter wonderland, a swimsuit is a must for your vacay abroad.

Keep your main travel outfit items neutral and dark. You can bring some colorful accessories to brighten up your style. Items such as headbands, scarves, necklaces, a watch, and earrings can change up any outfit.

Clothing to bring when traveling to warmer areas:

If you’re off on a backpacking adventure into the tropical heat, you’ll be able to live off of a bit less. The weight adds up quickly and if you plan on backpacking, you will definitely want to minimize. Bring items that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty.

1. Boots/runners and sandals

You will need a quality pair of hiking boots or good runners and a comfy pair of sandals. Yes, two pairs of shoes are really all you need.

2. Non-denims and tank tops

You’ll need a few pairs of non-denim shorts and tank tops. Denim is scratchy and doesn’t mix well with sweat. Flowy shorts, skirts, and tank tops that aren’t going to stick to your body are a good idea. Bring at least one pair of loose and flowy pants. They’ll protect your legs from bug bites, sunburn, and any scratchy bushes that you may trek through.

3. Sports bras

Pack a couple of good sports bras, as you will find sports bras much more comfortable in the humidity. Regular bras are fine, but you’ll realize that sports bras are much more practical, comfortable, and easier to pack.

4. A sarong

 

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A sarong is a must for any backpacker going somewhere warm. The bonus is that these can be used as a beach towel, blanket, pillow, skirt, dress, cardigan, and much more! If you’re visiting a bunch of temples, it can be used to cover your knees or shoulders. It also fits easily into your bags when packing. You will not regret bringing this along for your trip abroad.

5. A rain jacket

Don’t forget a rain jacket. Not just something water resistant to a slight drizzle. Tropical areas have two seasons—rainy and dry. Check the weather beforehand, but you will be thankful for carrying a rain jacket or poncho when you step outside.

6. A hat

Bring a hat or buy one once you are abroad. Whether a baseball cap or a floppy hat, it’ll keep the sun out of your face, saves you from bed head, and is an easy accessory.

If you’re planning to travel in the heat, just accept the fact that you will sweat—morning, noon, and night! No fear, for you have flowy clothing, comfy sports bras, and hats or headbands to save your hair. But with that glistening glow of sunshine, you’ll be looking great no matter the weather.

Clothing to bring when traveling to colder areas:

 

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Off on a cool and wintery holiday? If you are traveling somewhere cold, you will likely be wearing a similar type of travel outfit most days: your go-to jacket, a comfortable pair of pants, and boots to trek through snow or ice if need be.

1. Wear all of your bulky clothing items on the airplane

Puffy coat, sweater, boots, jeans or leggings, scarf, and beanie. Maybe it takes you a while to undress for TSA, but it’s the best way to save space while traveling.

2. No more than two pairs of jeans/leggings

Whether you’re a jeans or leggings gal, you really don’t need to pack more than two pairs. Jeans are a bit bulkier, so if you like to wear both, wear your jeans on the plane and roll up your leggings into your luggage.

3. Sweaters and thermals

As for tops, a couple of easy to pack sweaters and thermals will barely be noticed under your bulky coat. So don’t worry yourself too much about fashion and think practical. Don’t bring all of your fat and chunky sweaters. Try to think thin and simple.

4. Stay neutral

If possible, keep your jacket, boots, and pants more neutral. You can get a pop of color with different scarves, hats, gloves, and leg warmers. These items will pack easily, keep you warm, and give you different options.

Clothing for long-term travel:

For those traveling longer than just a quick holiday, bring the basics and count on shopping abroad for anything else.

No need to shove every item you own into your suitcase.

Most clothing items can be bought once you are abroad. However, some people have their favorites from home.

Crucial necessities you may want to bring from home would be jeans, bras, thermals, favorite dress clothes, and hiking boots. You’ll have less to worry about once you are overseas and can grab that cute vintage floral dress that you keep spotting in that new local shop.

Pro-packing tips:

• Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes on the airplane!
• Either roll your clothes or grab some compression bags to easily fit your clothing into your luggage. Keep in mind, there’s no wrinkle-free method, but you can always bring a travel-sized steamer to attack those creases upon arrival.
• Pack your undies and socks last. They can be shoved into the crevices of your bags where nothing else can possibly fit.
• Leave your super nice trendy designer clothes at home. There’s always a chance of losing something, tearing it, or wanting to leave it behind to buy something else that you would replace it with anyway.
• Don’t overdo it! You will surprise yourself with the ability to live off of less when traveling abroad.

Packing to travel abroad is easy!

Overall, remember why you are off on your adventure away. You can still look and feel great even when packing minimally. Just keep your travel outfit neutral, keep it simple, and change it up with accessories rather than too many different bulky clothing items.

Bon voyage!

Suggested next reading: How To Pack A Suitcase Like A Travel Expert

The post The Ultimate Guide On How To Plan Your Travel Outfit (For Women) appeared first on Modern Trekker.

However, with that first bite ofsai ua along with my dragon fruit smoothie my life changed and now I’m addicted.

If you head to Chiang Mai, binging on street food will be a MUST for anyone who loves food. Unless you decide to stay in a hotel and eat every meal there while experiencing zero of the culture, you cannot miss Chiang Mai street food.

What’s the deal with Chiang Mai street food?

Chiang Mai street food has a unique flavor that’s not easy to come by down south. Thai food is all very regional, and the northern Lanna food has its own obsession with pork, veggies, and adding enough spice to put tears in your eyes.

So if you’ve said….“Ahhhh I loved that pad thai I had in Bangkok,” well….you’ve not experienced the best part of Thai food! Go to Chiang Mai, bring your stretchy pants, and get eating!

My top three favorite foods in Chiang Mai:

1. Pork Curry: Also known as gaeng hang lay, is my all time favorite curry. It’s a thick and soft pork that soaks in ginger, garlic and spices. Eat it at Aroon Rai over rice.

2. Khao Soi: For just over $1, you’ll be able to indulge in one of the most famous dishes of Chiang Mai. It’s a thick and spice-filled broth that typically is made with chicken. There are both fried and soft noodles within the soup. You can add lime, spices, pickled vegetables, and shallot to your meal however you feel necessary. Eat it here for just 45 baht!

3. Sai Ua: This is the best sausage I have ever had in my life. It can be found at street cart vendors all over the city. Thai people love their sausages, and no, not that frozen gross processed stuff you buy at your hometown grocery store. The sausage is unique as it is a bit drier than what you may be used to. Mixed in are different bits such as lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and chilis. While some sai ua makes my mouth turn to fire, I find that most are very tolerable for my weak spice buds.

Although that may seem pretty meat-heavy, Chiang Mai is also loaded with tons of vegetarian options and even has a slew of vegan restaurants popping all over the city.

My favorite places to go for Chiang Mai street food:

1. The Chiang Mai Gate food stalls: Every Saturday I head down to the southern part of the city for a $5 foot massage and pork noodle and wonton soup. For just about $1.50 I can slurp my soup in front of 7-Eleven while people watching and drinking a cold beer. Throughout the entire southern part of the moat are tons of street carts selling everything imaginable—meat skewers, fruit shakes, mango sticky rice, corn on the cob, bugs, durian, meatballs, spring rolls…and the list goes on. As you walk around you’ll be swarmed by loads of smells that make you drool with hunger…well, usually, unless it’s that bad sewer smell that lingers throughout southeast Asia. Regardless, you’ll be grabbing snacks for a few bucks while frolicking wide-eyed through the market.

2. The Chiang Puak Market food stalls: If you aren’t too keen on crazy crowds, the street food at the north gate offers a more laid-back vibe. Yes, it may have been made famous when Anthony Bourdain came and munched on pork and rice. Get on over to the Cowboy Hat Lady for one of the top recommendations in town. Throughout the area you can get wonderful treats without feeling too overwhelmed by the tourist crowds.

3. The Night Bazaar: During the week, you should head to Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar to binge on even more goodies. Here you will find a lot of pad see ew, assortments of noodles, different kinds of curries, and skewers a-plenty. Food stalls surround the perimeter of the location where you can listen to live music. Here you won’t find solely Thai food but loads of other mouthwatering eats as well.

4. Thanin Market: There are tons of markets around Chiang Mai where you can buy either on-the-go food or ingredients to bring back home and cook. My favorite market is just north of the old city in the neighborhood of Santitham. Thanin Market has EVERYTHING you need and is extremely local and affordable. As it doesn’t cater to tourists, you’ll be able to eat your meals for much cheaper while supporting the locals who aren’t at the busy markets in the old city. You can weave your way through multiple food stalls and snag wontons, soups, sausage, shakes, fruit, veg, dumplings, and more! These food items will be about half the price as the typical markets. So go for the local feel and head to Thanin Market to binge on more Thai snacks.

BONUS: “Tao Rai?” you ask. Thai locals will LOVE if you can ask for their treats in their language. You may even score a discount if you ask politely.

Reading about Chiang Mai street food is not as thrilling as experiencing it in person. You won’t really know what that smell is until you’ve tasted it. You’ll be drooling with no shame when you pop around the various street food markets in Chiang Mai.

Don’t know what you’re eating? Good! That’s part of the adventure. Support the local vendors who work so hard to make Chiang Mai delicious! It’s hard to miss the street food in Chiang Mai—actually, it’s quite impossible. So grab that ice cream cone from the man waiting in the heat for a sale. You’ll be doing good and eating great!

Suggested next reading: 8 Incredible Outdoor Adventures Near Chiang Mai

The post Chiang Mai Street Food: What To Eat & Where To Find It appeared first on Modern Trekker.

As a waygook—foreigner—having lived abroad in South Korea for two years, I twice took the opportunity of visiting the Korean DMZ, the border that separates the two countries. It was on the top of my Korea bucket list and it is a MUST see for anyone traveling to Korea. While intimidating at first for those who aren’t waving “I love Kim Jong Un” flags, it’s an opportunity to get to know some significant history into why there are two completely separate countries which have many of the same ancestors.

So, being the notetaker I am, I jotted down a few key points I learned while visiting the Korean DMZ. Here are some of the top things that stood out while visiting the Korean DMZ.

What is the Korean DMZ?

The Korean DMZ is a 2.5-mile wide border that spans the 160-mile long peninsula between North and South Korea. Leading up to WWII, the Japanese controlled the Korean peninsula. Later, the area was predominantly communist with hopes of expanding throughout the entire area. However, that was a no-go for some southerners and the two sides fought in what is known as the Korean War from 1950-53. Post-war, 10 million people were displaced from their homes and the borders between the north and south were created and that is where you will find the DMZ. In the area, there are still almost 900,000 landmines remaining from the original million that were planted by North Koreans—so don’t think you can set out and explore this area on your own, cause you can’t.

The tunnels:

Along the DMZ, there have been four underground tunnels discovered as a way to get North Korean troops to sneak on over to the south. The first of these tunnels were discovered in the mid-70s and spans a distance of about two miles in length. Three more tunnels were discovered up until 1990. It’s currently believed that there are dozens more although none have been found. In my tour, we were allowed to walk through the south side of the third tunnel to see what the north had failed to build. The further you got, the tighter the space became and we were not allowed to go onto the northern side. What I found interesting was that the tunnel walls were painted black. The North Koreans needed to cover the fact that they were up to no good and needed to pretend the tunnels were for “coal mining.”

Dorasan Station:

In 2000, there was a ray of optimism for the south and north to have a railway line that could transport goods back and forth. That didn’t last too long. If you’ve ever been to a train station, you know it’s busy. Well, not the case for Dorasan Station just meters south of the DMZ. From 2007-2008 the station was open and would transport goods back and forth to Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. However, in 2008 it was permanently closed due to a South Korean woman’s death by a North Korean soldier (as noted from my Korean tour guide) and hasn’t been open since. However, you can still experience the eerie station and the South Korean guards who are there for your selfie-taking needs. Apparently, a few tourists hop aboard the train today from Seoul, but there’s no way they can speed on over past the border. All we can do is hope that one day it will be useful between the two countries.

 

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Peace or Propaganda Village:

The south will call it Propaganda and the north will call it Peace. Regardless of what it’s called, it’s there. While visiting the Korean DMZ, we hopped on over to an observatory deck where we were not allowed to take photos. The South Korean military would actually confiscate and delete all of your photos if anyone attempted to sneak a pic. From the viewpoint we could peek into a little border village. I peered into my binoculars and saw someone riding a bike. For some reason, it stuck with me and for the first time it hit me that people actually live there. In my opinion, it’s a village set up by the north to make the area look normal, but looking out is still a mystery and who knows what’s really going on. The south thinks it’s fake and the north claims it’s real. And as a western non-Korean gal, I just am along for the ride to view what I see and make no claim as to what is factual or not.

 

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The optimism:

During part of the tour we watched an overly optimistic documentary about how the two countries can one day be united. Of course, as a non-Korean observer it was nice to see that there was some hope for the future. However, as an American who only lived in South Korea for a brief stint, I’ll never understand the complexities and tension of the relationships and how it could be a possibility to unite without a major conflict across the peninsula.

Visiting the Korean DMZ:

 

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From Seoul, it’s easy to sign up for a tour and head on over to the DMZ. Even if you are a free-spirited tour hating traveler, you’ll want a guide for this one. You learn from a local and can make pals along the way. Here are some of the top tours if you plan on visiting the Korean DMZ. You only need a day to tour the DMZ and it will be a unique experience that you can’t get anywhere else. Yes, people love to travel for the friends, food, drinks, museums, and beaches, but where else can you get up close and personal with the Korean border? Nowhere! When you finish up your tour, there are plenty of other fun things to do while in Seoul, but make sure to get cultured and learn about the controversy that still creates tension today.

Suggested next reading: 5 Incredible Places To Visit In South Korea Other Than Seoul

The post A Totally Unique Experience Visiting The Korean DMZ appeared first on Modern Trekker.

When you stay in Chiang Mai, opt for accommodation in the Old City. It’s a one-mile-by-one-mile square inside of a moat and old gated walls that still subtly remain. It’s where tourists flock, vendors set up street food carts, and where you can find little cafés and massage parlors nestled between mazes of alleys. There’s luxury hotels, adorable guesthouses, and backpacker hostels for any type of adventurer.

Here are 7 top things to do in Chiang Mai.

1. Visit The Temples

There’s no shortage of stunning temples in and around Chiang Mai. In fact, there are approximately 300 Buddhist temples. Near the old city you will find beautiful shiny temples peeking out around various corners and entrances. While entry is typically free or just a small fee, make sure to bring something to cover your knees and shoulders. A must-see temple just on the mountain to your west is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. You can hike for 30 minutes along the Monk’s trail from the base at Suthep Alley Road and stop for a coffee at Wat Pha Lat. From there you can either snag a Songthaew (red truck) for just 40 baht from the main road or hike the remainder of your journey. The temple on top has views of the entire city.

2. Bike Around The City

You can easily rent a bicycle and peddle your way through the town. The city is small, flat, and easy to navigate. You may find yourself popping into little remote corners where you can find cute hidden gems. You can bike northwest to Huay Kaew Waterfall or bike east towards the Mae Ping River. If you’re feeling that you want a bit of guidance on your cycling venture, sign up for a city bike tour or mountain biking expedition.

3. Shop At The Night Markets

Chiang Mai is all about the markets. It would be impossible to visit the city and avoid them. Every day there’s lively evening markets offering street food, massages, clothing, trinkets, and art. If you make it to Chiang Mai on the weekend you can join the heaps of crowds looking for their sweet deals. You’ll be jam-packed shopping side by side with fellow tourists. In this case, you may fancy grabbing an hour foot massage on the streets for about $5 while watching people go by. The Saturday market is a bit less hectic as it is just south of the old city and nearby the delish street vendors. It’s a bit more spacious and if you head far enough south, you can catch the police officers singing karaoke! Even if you don’t make it on the weekend you can head to the Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar any day of the week, Warorot Market or Jing Jai Market for even better discounts, and the markets near Chiang Mai University that cater to the local youngsters in the area. Want to test out your haggling skills? “Lot dai mai?” will be your key phrase to get a better deal.

4. Eat The Street Food

Northern Thai food will transform your taste buds. Thai food is more than just your go-to pad thai dish that your order from your favorite chain restaurant back home. From Khao Soi to Sai Ua to Gaeng Hang Lay you’ll have to test out the food yourself. Although the food may be a bit spicy for your liking, it’s all worth a shot. “Mai pet” means to not add spice if you’re feeling a tad sweaty already. Whether you are meandering around the north gate of the old city and make it to the famous “Cowboy Hat Lady’s” stall for some pork or are eating yourself into a food coma around the south gate, you’ll have plenty to keep your taste buds entertained. Pork noodle soup, spring rolls, mango sticky rice, fruit shakes, mystery meat sticks, and more! The second best part of eating street food in Chiang Mai is that each dish will typically be in the $1-$3 range, which makes eating all the authentic food one of the top things to do in Chiang Mai!

5. Take A Thai Cooking Class

Now that you ate all of that street food you need to learn to make it, right? RIGHT! Thai cooking classes will make you feel like a professional chef, even if only for a day. Sign up for a local cooking class and learn all about the food you love to eat. Many cooking classes in Chiang Mai will offer full or half day excursions which include shopping in local markets, hearing the background on different ingredients, and giving you step-by-step guides on how to cook like a Thai. Not only that, you’ll be able to take recipes home with you and give it a go when you feel that you crave a bit of that spice.

6. Come For The Festivals

If your vacay plans are somewhat lenient, check your calendar and plan accordingly as two of the best festivals in Thailand are worth celebrating in Chiang Mai. In mid-April is Songkran festival which is a three-day nationwide water fight welcoming the new year and rainy season. November is brightly lit by the famous lantern festival, Loy Krathong. Watch thousands of lanterns float up to the sky or along the river. For Thai locals, it signifies a new fresh beginning into the new year.

If possible, avoid coming from the end of February through early April. It is the smokey season and is not as glamorous to travel up north when the rice fields nearby are all being burned to prep for a new season of crops.

7. Sabay Sabay

Or in other words, relaaax! Chiang Mai doesn’t need to be go-go-go. It’s great to spend time here and unwind on your refreshing trip away. You can go for a lazy picnic in the huts at Huay Tung Tao, you can do free yoga at Buak Hard Park in the mornings, you can find various pools around the city, or you can simply go for massages all day long. The city is small enough to not feel overwhelmed by having too much to do. So enjoy some R&R while traveling through Chiang Mai.

Overall, don’t over-plan your Chiang Mai adventure. There are many top things to do in Chiang Mai not mentioned here, so you can go with the flow and find many things to do upon arrival. Eat the food, explore the markets, and take photos of the temples.

Also, if you want to get out of the city for a bit and dive into nature, Chiang Mai offers loads of outdoor adventures for your perfect vacay.

The post 7 Wonderful Ways To Make The Most Of Your Trip To Chiang Mai appeared first on Modern Trekker.

I recently had a twelve-hour layover in Taiwan. I did a quick Google search and saw that I could easily lock up my bags at the airport and take an airport shuttle to the city. My goal for the day was to make it over to the top of Taipei 101 before miming to the street food vendors what I would like to eat. Why? Because why not!? As much as I would have loved to explore Taipei for more than a couple of hours, it wasn’t an option at the time. So why not head out into the city for an afternoon rather than scrolling through Kardashian memes all day?

Everyone’s long layover situations are different. You may have a layover in the middle of the night, you may not have a visa to head out of the airport during your layover, or you may just be in the mood for a good ole’ Netflix binge while surviving your long layover.  

Here are 9 tips to make the most of your long layover:

1. Go sightseeing

What better way to kill a few hours than by touring the city? Many airports will have lockers that you can rent so that you can leave your luggage behind for a few hours. Just the same, most big-city airports have shuttles that can get you to the city center for a decent price. Before arrival at your layover destination, see if there are any city tours that can entertain you with snippets of the local culture.

If you go this route, be cautious of time and immigration. If you need a specific visa to exit the airport, you may want to reconsider this idea. Make sure to plan accordingly of how long you will stay in the city. If you have a majority of the day, you may ambitiously want to see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Sacre Coeur while frolicking through Paris. But is that all realistic? Try to pick one main activity so that you don’t miss your flight.

2. Explore the airport attractions

Airports are no longer boring! You don’t have to just sit at a bar with a triple priced beer and waste time away. In fact, some airports will have enough entertainment that you’ll want to have an extended layover. Some of the best airports have amenities that make travel easier than ever. Incheon Airport near Seoul is where you can go for a nice relaxing spa day or twirl around an ice-skating rink. Kuala Lumpur offers a lush outdoor atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re prancing through the great outdoors. Singapore Changi Airport offers theaters with free movies 24/7! Before you get to your layover destination, make sure to do a bit of research on your airport’s attractions.

3. Edit photos from your trip

You’ve got more photos than you can count from your travels and it’s a bit overwhelming. Use your long layover to edit those photos so that when you get back home they are ready to print and hang in your apartment. Even if you aren’t photo-savvy, you know you’ve at least got some iPhone photos that you need to sort through and spiff up. You know your grandma has been asking all about your travels and she will be happy to see some top-notch photos from your exotic adventures abroad.

4. Polish up that blog you forgot about

Friends back home keep nagging, “Are you gonna blog about your trip?” And you nonchalantly reply, “Nah…..” But in the back of your mind you are secretly wishing you could be the next Nomadic Matt. Lucky for you, you’ve got a long layover to learn all about WordPress and get at it! Start organizing your photos and stories and get a free website online where you can start sharing your experiences. Who knows where it will lead? You can’t be the next famous travel writer of your generation without at least starting a fun-loving blog.

5. Read that book you never picked up

You promised yourself at least 1,000 times that you would take some time on your travels to unwind, relax, and read. But everything went by so quickly, you didn’t really “feel” like it, and you were just too busy. Well, luckily you have a long and not-so-thrilling layover to get through and can finally lounge with your book. Try to post up at a quiet airport café or lounge where you can relax undisturbed.

6. Download games

We can’t all put our phone or tablets down. But why not do something productive rather than scrolling through mindless social media and getting jealous over strangers’ insta-pics? Download some crossword puzzles, sudoku, or mind games to get your brain flowing. You can listen to podcasts, audiobooks, and music. If you really want to just relax and let time go by, make sure you have some brain games to keep your fingers busy.

7. Make friends

Take a seat and start people watching. It’s ok to scout out who your new airport bestie will be. Meander on over to a stranger and strike up a “Heyyyy, did I meet you at that bar in Bangkok?” kind of conversation. (No, you didn’t, but hey that’s a convo starter!) Guess what? Travelers love talking about travel. Maybe you will find a new friend for your next expedition. Also, you are lugging that heavy backpack around and really want someone to watch your stuff when you need to go to the toilet. Airport pals will make the time go by a little quicker!

8. Study the lingo

Are you heading to a brand new country where you know zero words in the language? Stop, grab your phone, go to the play store, and find a free app. You should not enter a new destination and not know how to say “hello, please, thank you, and where is the bathroom?” Try to get some basic phrases down before you arrive on new soil. Yes, it’s very easy to travel while speaking only English. But out of respect, locals love if you can test out a bit of their native language when asking for basic help abroad.

9. Catch some shut-eye

Do you have a long overnighter? Rest those eyes and take a snooze. You don’t necessarily have to leave the airport for this. Do some research on your airport layover and see if they offer cozy lounges or sleeping pods. Some places may have a nice corner near a wall charger where you are on alert while others may be a bit more luxurious. Sleeping in an airport is bound to be checked off the travel bucket list at some point for anyone who travels extensively.

Are you convinced that you actually want that long layover now? There’s plenty to do and no need to worry! No one cares if you haven’t changed your clothes in over 24 hours or forgot to brush your teeth. You’ll be in a cozy bed before you know it. Make it productive, have fun, relax, and just know that it’s all part of the wonderful journey that comes with traveling.

Suggested next reading: 15 Awesome Travel Gadgets That Will Make Travel So Much Easier

The post 9 Clever Tips That’ll Actually Make Your Long Layover Worthwhile appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Tip: The best way to get into the city is to take the Link from the airport to one of the downtown stops. For about $3, you’ll be in the city center in 45 minutes.

Here are 6 things to do when you travel to Seattle:

1. Go people-watching at Pike Place Market

In the heart of downtown is the country’s largest farmers market which was founded in 1907. Year round, this market wakes up early and awaits the 10 million tourists that flock in each year. You’ll find vendors selling seafood, produce, comic books, flowers, “I love Seattle” shirts, and more. You can weave your way up the various staircases that bring together the local mom-and-pop shops. Just across the street from the famous Pike Place Market is the world’s—yes, WORLD’s—first Starbucks. As you’re tucked on the sidewalk in line trying to grab a fresh cup, you’ll have outstanding opportunities for people watching. “Who’s that wacky haired person? Cool piano man! Is that a clown? No, you can’t have $1 for weed, sorry!” You can stay preoccupied all day watching the fishmongers throw your next meal, getting hyped up on caffeine, and shopping. Once you need a breather from the chaos, grab a beer from Old Stove Brewing while basking in breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains just west of the Puget Sound.

2. Learn about Seattle’s history

Once you finish stuffing your face with delish piroshkis at Pike Place Market, walk it off during the Underground Tour in Pioneer Square. If you’re a first time Seattle exploring newb, you may have not yet heard about the great Seattle fire in 1889. Back in the day, a pot of glue spilled and caused flames to encapsulate the entire town. The pavement we are all stomping on today is built above the original and the Underground Tour takes you below the city into the “old” Seattle. This tour has a comical twist and goes into depth about the pre-fire era and how Seattle became the wonderful city it is today.

If you can’t get enough of Seattle history check out the Museum of History and Industry on Lake Union, the Museum of Pop Culture near the Space Needle, the Museum of Flight, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Entrance is free on the first Thursday of every month!

3. Go on a bike and brew tour

If you’re feeling a bit hoppy, Seattle has more than 170 breweries for you to discover. A brew and bike tour is a wonderful pass time for local Seattle-ites. Some of my personal favorite breweries are the outdoorsy Fremont Brewing, the perfect-for-a-party Optimism Brewery, and the hidden Seapine Brewing Company. Get your tastebuds stoked with some unique and tasty ales. You can either rent a bike and map out your own destinations or you can hire a guide for Seattle’s Cycle Saloon! Just remember to be safe and download Lyft if you feel you maybe had too many brews to get back safely to your guesthouse.

Seattle’s eastside also offers great outdoorsy vibes among some larger venues. You can cycle along the Burke-Gilman Trail for about 20 miles and land at the front entrance of Chateau Ste. Michelle winery and Red Hook Brewing.

4. Kayak through Seattle’s picturesque neighborhoods

From Lake Washington lining Seattle’s eastern border you can leisurely paddle your way westward past the Washington Arboretum, University of Washington, and through the canal that spills into Lake Union. Along the way, it’ll be normal to feel a bit envious of those adorable floating houses that made their way into “Sleepless in Seattle.” While splashing through Lake Union you’ll be able to watch the seaplanes take off and land, watch giddy tourists on the duck tour, shout out hellos to neighboring boaters, and watch sunbathers relax at Gas Works Park. All of this will be provided with Seattle’s skyline as your stunning backdrop.

5. Picnic at one of the amazing parks

After your arms feel numb from kayaking around the blue Seattle waters, pop on over to Gas Works Park for a picnic overlooking the city. You’ll be able to wander around the vast hilly expanse that offers the postcard view of Seattle’s growing skyline. It’s a perfect place to bring a book, Frisbee, or just listen to music and lounge.

A post shared by Frank Macri (@frankmacri) on Aug 22, 2018 at 4:46pm PDT

Although Gas Works is my personal favorite, Seattle has tons of parks worth visiting. In fact, there are over 400 parks! Discovery Park makes you feel as if you have escaped the city. Seward Park in Columbia City is a peaceful getaway that offers little trails inside of a two and a half mile paved loop. On a clear day Mt. Rainier peaks out from down south. Closer to downtown is the Olympic Sculpture Park which is on the northern end of the city’s waterfront and just a quick jaunt from Pike Place Market. On Queen Anne is Kerry Park which is a perfect photo opp for the Insta-famous. Green Lake Park is excellent for jogging, walking, coffee-ing, volleyball-ing, and paddling around. You’ve got the picture, right? Seattle has GREAT parks and you should go play in them.

6. Watch the sunset on the beach

A Seattle summer sunset is something that you can’t miss. The sun stays up late and paints the Olympic mountains in beautiful colors. At even the height of summer it doesn’t get super dark until after 10pm. If you look at a map of Seattle, it’s lined with beaches on both the east and west sides. Whether you want to have a bonfire at Golden Gardens or check out the boardwalk and restaurants that parallel Alki beach you’ll have stunning views. You can also head to the east side to relax at the beaches near Magnuson Park, Madison Park, and Denny Blaine. Summer offers swimmable water throughout Lake Washington and plenty of chances for sun-bathing wherever you want to go.

Seattle is a perfect destination for those who love a mix of city vibes along with outdoorsy. You will have loads of vibrant views and find the people watching to be quite entertaining. There’s tons of great food, festivals year-round, and little-hidden gems you’ll have to go on and discover for yourself.

Suggested next reading: Amazing Outdoor Adventures In Washington State You Can’t Afford To Miss

The post 6 Things To Do That’ll Make You Fall In Love With Seattle appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Be it taxi, subway, bus, or by foot, it’s easy to get all over Seoul. Even if you only have a few days, you’ll be able to easily pop around the exciting city and take advantage of witnessing an area of the world that has been up and coming since the 1950s.

Here are seven things you must check out in Seoul.

1. Walk Everywhere

One of my favorite things to do when exploring a new city is walking around and getting lost. However, with our little internet sources attached to our bodies it’s basically impossible to really get lost. Although Google Maps is not efficient in Seoul, downloading Seoul Map Offline will keep you on track if you are a bit worried about a wrong turn. Walking is a great way to see parts of the city that aren’t accessible from your taxi window or subway commute. Also, it’s free! While wandering through Seoul you’ll bump into adorable little spaces that would otherwise be unknown if commuting by wheels. Whether you discover one of the various cutesy cafés, heart-shaped photo booths, test out some new street food, or workout at one of the various outdoor stations with a local ajumma, you’ll have plenty to entertain you by foot. If you don’t know where to start in this big city, check out this app to help you navigate a Seoul self-guided walking tour.

On the other hand, Seoul public transit is top notch. If you’re feeling a bit like your feet may fall off by days end, squeeze on into the subway with millions of Seoulites.

2. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Start that walking tour with a leisurely morning stroll through Gyeongbokgung Palace. It’s a ginormous Confucian designed structure sitting on the northern side of the city that was originally finished in the late 14^th Century. It was later reconstructed in the 19^th Century but soon enough almost completely destroyed again during the Japanese occupation after the turn of the century. However, in more recent years, Gyeongbokgung Palace has been partially restored and now contains about one-third of the 500 buildings that were originally located on site.

Once inside, you’ll have a chance to weave through the multiple passages while watching Koreans dressed in traditional Hanbok clothing to make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. You can get your mix of history, culture, and architecture all in one quick afternoon at Gyeongbokgung Palace.

3. Meander through Bukchon Hanok Village

Speaking of history, you can mosey on over to this authentic neighborhood in the city. The Bukchon Hanok Village is just a stone’s throw from Gyeongbokgung Palace and contains the country’s best-preserved hanoks. The hanoks are the traditional Korean style houses that were first constructed in the 14^th Century. Back in the day, depending on your style of hanok you lived in determined your class. Today you’ll see people walking around in traditional clothing, be able to visit the various outdoor markets popped up everywhere, and take pics of the unique architecture. This neighborhood brings together a unique history that is still seen in the present day. It’s a fun area to check out and view more of the older Korean culture.

4. Hike in Bukhansan National Park

If you need a break from the city, no need to go far. Just north of Seoul is that mountain your craving. It’s hikable year long, but spring and fall will be the best weather. At just 2,744 feet above sea level is Baegundae peak, the highest in the park, and it’s not a very difficult trek. However, there are multiple trails, so you can choose your length of hike and difficulty level before you head into your outdoor jaunt. You’ll only need some good shoes, full water bottles, and some snacks for your adventure.

If you want to hike the mountain true Korean style, be sure to bring your brightly colored windbreakers, visors, trekking poles, and a bottle of makgeolli for the summit.

5. Head to the Bangs

Bang in Korean means “room”—and there’s a room for it all. It’s fun to get a taste of Korean culture by experiencing at least one of the various bangs. If you’re feeling sore from that hike or walking all day then you can head to a jimjillbang. Here you can relax in a nice bubbly spa or get a scrub down from an elderly Korean. If it’s rainy and you can’t go outdoors, head to a DVD-bang. This is otherwise known as your own private movie theater where you pick a film from the ‘90s that you forgot existed. Want to party? Grab some friends and sing your heart out at a karaoke room—also known as a noraebang. Nothing screams Korean culture like screeching along to some famous K-Pop tunes.

If you’ve seen these symbols “방” then you know you are on the right track for a banging time.

6. Shop at the Gwangjang Market

Are you longing for a smell that you’ll never forget? Of course you are. Try and spend an afternoon grabbing lunch in one of Korea’s oldest traditional markets: the massive Gwangjang Market. Walking through Gwangjang Market will be a whole new kind of culture shock. You can easily spend an entire day here squeezing through loads of locals and tourists. You’ll be wide-eyed and entertained while watching locals stir up buckets of kimchi, quickly flip Korean pancakes for hundreds of hungry customers, and witnessing live octopus get chopped to bits.

There are over 5,000 various shops throughout this 450,000 square foot market that will get you everything you need and more. Be it clothing, cosmetics, food, juice, crafts, and more. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, make sure to at least test out a new type of food just for the experience. You will love walking through this crazy-busy-wonderful-colorful-pungent market.

7. Eat Everything

My mouth was watering for some bulgogi the second I stepped off of the airplane at Incheon International airport after four years. I had one main goal for my few days back in the ROK and that was to EAT. Eating your way around Seoul is an event in itself. Not only is Korean food absolutely delish, but I love that the Korean food culture allows you to sit at restaurants for hours without being rushed out the door. All you need to do is push a button and—voila!—the food magically appears before your eyes.

Be open to trying everything in front of your eyes. Seoul offers loads of unique spicy, savory, sweet, and smelly snacks. Best of all, you get loads of free side dishes with your meals.

Here are just a few things I make sure to binge on when traveling in Seoul.

• Before a night out: Korean BBQ, Dakgalbi, or Shabu Shabu
• On a rainy day: Pajeon and Makgeolli
• Street food hopping: Kimbap and Dukbokki
• Sit down fast food: Bibimbap, mandu, and doenjang jjigae
• For the brave: Raw octopus
• Dessert: Patbingsu

Best of all, none of these meals will break the bank. Eating local food (and drinking local soju) in Korea is very affordable so that you won’t have to hold back. Another side of Gochujang, please!

Remember to slow down and take in all of the people that go by. You’ll see cute couples hand in hand in their matching outfits, aspiring K-Pop artists dancing in the streets, and men in suits competing for who can throw back the most soju. It’s quite a sight for those who have not yet been to this little peninsula in Asia. You’ll love witnessing the cultural pride of South Korea while exploring Seoul.

Suggested next reading: 5 Incredible Places To Visit In South Korea Other Than Seoul

The post 7 Awesome Things To Do In Seoul That Even Locals Love appeared first on Modern Trekker.

I discovered this myself when I moved to Chiang Mai in search of a slower-paced lifestyle. In between bites of authentic northern Khao Soi and “Sai Ua” sausage I was scrolling through my good friend “Google” to figure out where to hike next. The outdoor playground that neighbors the city is my new boundless backyard. The Chiang Mai province alone contains 13 national parks. The ability to escape to splash in various waterfalls, visit serene Buddhist temples dotted all over the forests, or play in the mountains are all within reach. For me, having a bit of city life without sacrificing the option to trek out into nature is why Chiang Mai is a perfect destination.

No matter your length of stay in northern Thailand, you will want to take advantage of some of these fun outdoor adventures near Chiang Mai.

1. Hiking up to Doi Suthep:

Those famous golden spires you see perched on the mountain west of Chiang Mai are part of the famous Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Temple. You can’t miss it. You’ll look up and wonder “Hey, what are those golden spikey things that are peeking out among the trees? Better go check!” The temple of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is a beautiful golden temple that overlooks the city. Although you can easily get there by Songthaew, the adventurous way to explore this temple is to make it a trek! If you love hiking and are ok with getting lost—wait, is that just me?—then make it a day-long excursion. Be sure to bring water, good shoes, and go for it!

From Chiang Mai, you can walk about 40 minutes to the trailhead if you’re feeling ambitious. Otherwise, you can take a Songthaew or Grab (the Uber of southeast Asia) if you want to quickly get out of the city. You will want to go to the entrance of the Monk’s Trail at the end of Suthep Road. Some people, like myself, make the mistake of starting from the Chiang Mai Zoo. However, then you have to pay entry even if you’re just trying to sneak past it to access the trail. From the Monk’s trail you will have a clearly marked trek up until Wat Pha Lat. This temple is a serene hidden escape that spies on the city below. You can then take a quick rest on your hike, get an iced coffee, and sit near the stream with views of the city off in the distance.

Once you continue your way up toward the golden spires, the trail becomes less clear. You will find some steep slopes that aren’t as clearly marked as the beginning. However, this hike is the most common in Chiang Mai, so you likely will run into someone who can trek the path with you.  Once you make it to the top, you’ll be greeted by loads of food vendors, elephant pants, and the bright dragon-faced staircase that leads you to the temple you saw from the city.

2. Climbing at Crazy Horse Buttress:

In the old city of Chiang Mai is CMRCA—Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures. Although there is a small indoor bouldering wall for training, the outdoors is likely what you really want for an ultimate Chiang Mai climbing adventure. You can either book a group tour, private tour, or hire a songthaew through CMRCA to get you out to Crazy Horse Buttress for your climbing excursion. Even if you are going solo, it’s easy to find a belay buddy through CMRCA. There’s also no need to feel overwhelmed by bringing all of your climbing gear across the world to Chiang Mai as you can rent out everything you need from the shop before you take off. The limestone climbing crag of Crazy Horse Buttress is located in Mae On, about 45 minutes from the city. It’s the highlight of Chiang Mai’s climbing scene. Once you arrive, you’ll have over 150 routes to conquer!

The beauty of Crazy Horse Buttress is that you have options for outdoor pitches, multi-pitches, and climbing inside a cave. You’re sure to find like-minded climbers upon arrival which makes it easy to make new friends. Whether you’re brand new to the sport or have been climbing for years, you will love your experience with CMRCA.

3. Visiting One of the Various Waterfalls:

Chiang Mai may not have beaches, but there are great waterfalls to enjoy nearby if you’re needing to cool down. Whether you want to lounge in the sun and have a picnic, swim in the crisp waters, or just be out in nature, you’ll be pleased with the options nearby. A great recommendation for those passing through is the Bua Tong “Sticky” Waterfalls. It is not nicknamed that by accident. The falls are sticky due to the limestone rock that allows you to literally just climb on up! At the base of the waterfall, you can go for a swim, but it’s really mostly known for the fun and sticky climb. Through the different tiers, there are spots to relax or put up a hammock. You’ll think you’re on a movie set with the lush backdrop of mountains that look at you across from the falls.

Chiang Mai has many other amazing waterfalls as well. There’s the ginormous Mae Sa Waterfall which is a fun motorbike ride up north. If you want a quick half day trip, then check out the local Huay Kaew Waterfall near the Chiang Mai Zoo. Just past that is the Monthathan Waterfall. And if you have time to trek in the jungle and camp for a day or two, check out the Mae Takhrai Waterfall.

4. Trekking in the Jungle:

Chiang Mai offers various eco-tours for those who want an ultimate hiking adventure with a local guide who can immerse you in a cultural trek. The great part of booking a tour is that you get to be with experienced local professionals who are familiar with the area. Whether you are wanting to do a home-stay, see elephants, or just experience the jungle, you’ll have a trekking adventure that will fit your needs. These tours can either be private or group tours so you can tweak your adventure to whatever suits you best.

If a guided trek is a bit too “planned” for you, go for a hike! Grab a pal from your hostel and get lost in nature. I personally like a mix of guided trekking and solo hiking to get a variety of different experiences.

Many treks may offer the opportunity to visit an elephant sanctuary or ride elephants. However, be wary of companies that offer elephant riding as it is very bad for the animals. Some tour companies take advantage of profiting off of these gentle giants.

5. Camping at Doi Inthanon:

Just a two-hour drive from Chiang Mai is Doi Inthanon National Park. The park is home to Thailand’s highest peak at over 8,000 feet. You can either grab a motorbike, hire a taxi, or rent a car to take you to Doi Inthanon. All you need to do upon arrival is head to the Campground Headquarter. From here you can rent all of your camping gear. It’s a breeze. There’s no stress and it’s clearly accessible for tourists.

Once you are there, you will have access to loads of trails, waterfalls, and the famous image you see all over Google, The Royal Twin Pagodas. If you don’t have much time or aren’t keen on overnight camping, you can easily do a quick day trip and still have time to hike and see the Pagodas.

6. Ziplining:

If you want to fly with the birdies, zipline your way around the jungles near Chiang Mai. There’s no better way to get the adrenaline pumping than by swinging through the trees. Everyone needs to fly like Superman at some point, right? Chiang Mai offers many ziplining adventures throughout its nearby national parks. You will need to book a tour for this experience and there are many to choose from. Why not get rid of your fear of heights in the tropics near Chiang Mai with a fun group of like-minded flyers? You’ll be guided by professionals and be experiencing the jungle in one of the most unique ways possible.

7. Mountain Biking:

A while back I did my first mountain biking tour in Chiang Mai. I didn’t really know what to expect, but I figured I knew how to ride a bike. I showed up to Mountain Biking Chiang Mai and was given all of my protective gear. I rolled my eyes as I put on my elbow pads, shin pads, hand pads, and all that good protection I thought I was too cool for. Little did I know what I was really getting myself into. We took off for the mountains and I immediately realized the truth behind a mountain biking adventure. Although a bit intimidated at first, there were options for the more “newbie” types to ditch the steep hills. I only fell three times and was thankful I was all geared up.

Overall, it was a blast. We cycled through coffee plantations, had stunning views weaving our way through mountains, and had great guides. Eventually, we rode down to Huay Tung Tao Lake for a late lunch and time to relax.

8. Relaxing at Huay Tung Tao:

If mountain biking isn’t your thing, head over to Huay Tung Tao for an afternoon on the lake. It’s a quick 20-minute drive from the city. The reservoir is speckled with over 100 little private huts that can easily fit small groups of friends. Each area provides local snacks and drinks in exchange for a space to sit. Bring a deck of cards, a book, some sketchbooks you’ve been meaning to get out and relax on the lake. It’s peaceful, you can paddleboard or swim—despite the somewhat murky waters—and take in the beautiful mountainous surroundings. You can also walk or cycle the perimeter if you want a bit of exercise.

So many adventures near Chiang Mai await! Chiang Mai is both a great place to get a mix of blood pumping outdoor exercise on top of complete relaxation. After a day of working up a sweat, you can go relax at the night bazaar while getting a foot massage, fruit shake in hand, to heal those sore muscles. What are you waiting for?! A Chiang Mai outdoor adventure is calling your name—go and book those tickets!

Suggested next reading: How To Go Rogue And See Southeast Asia By Motorbike

The post 8 Incredible Outdoor Adventures Near Chiang Mai appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Regardless of season, there’s plenty to enjoy during all twelve months of the year. Here are some adventures in Washington you can’t afford to miss:

1. Climb in the Cascade Mountain Range

Washington state has multiple summits that tower over 10,000 feet. Some of the world’s best mountaineers have used this area as their regular training base. The beauty and size of Mt. Rainier, one of the country’s highest peaks, offers stunning views from all parts of western Washington. You will not want to miss an opportunity to explore Mt. Rainier National Park while traveling in Washington. For those who prefer a mild hike, explore the area of Paradise. If you’re looking to sweat a bit, trek to Camp Muir. If you’ve got time to kill, hike the 93-mile Wonderland Trail around the mountain’s base. And if you have the stamina, throw on your crampons and reach the 14,411-foot summit of Mt. Rainier. To unwind after your mountainous adventures, treat yourself to Copper Creek’s amazing blackberry pie and relax in their cozy rental cabins.

Bonus tip: Why not climb Mt. Rainier while supporting a cause? Each summer, there is a charity climb through the Mitrata Foundation that supports education in Nepal for underprivileged children.

Yes, everyone must experience Mt. Rainier, but the adventures in Washington Cascades don’t stop there. You can ski at Mt. Baker, climb Mt. Adams, rock climb near Exit 38, and hike up Mt. St. Helens to check out the views of the half blown mountain.

2. Camp in the Olympic National Park

Green mossy trees and nature are densely packed in the Olympic National Park’s 1,442 square miles of rainforest. The mountains west of the Puget Sound are perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. You can take a ferry over to the peninsula and make your way through Port Angeles toward the Olympic National Park. There’s plenty of different options for beach or park camping. Third beach is a hidden destination just past the Olympic National Park. The beach is a simple mile and a half trek from the trailhead. You’ll love wandering around during low tide exploring the beach and rocky paths. Another beach campground is Mora, which is a bit more built up than Third Beach. You can also camp at Lake Crescent located just off of the main highway near Port Angeles or the Hoh Campground which is smack dab in the mountains. Regardless of where you camp, make sure to check out the trails and beaches. How many places offer bright green rainforests, snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and not-so-crowded beaches all within one park?

Bonus tip: The majority of campgrounds don’t accept reservations and are first-come, first-served. If going to the Olympic National Park during the summer, try to camp during the week to escape running into crowds.

3. Raft near Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a Bavarian modeled town in the mountains just two hours east of Seattle. Although the population is just about 2,000, over 2 million tourists flock to this destination each year. It’s perfect for those who want to camp, hike in the Enchantments, or go white river rafting. This cutesy town is easily walkable and you’ll likely run into some live outdoor music. After a day of your favorite outdoor excursions, head to one of the many restaurants that offer German sausages or just relax and float down the river. Leavenworth is filled with activities year-round. Spring and summer are prime for hiking and rafting, fall has a huge event for Oktoberfest, and winter is brightened up with Christmas lights and loads of trails for cross-country skiing.

Bonus tip: Just a forty minute drive from Leavenworth is Stevens Pass. During the winter you can hit the slopes and in the summer you can go mountain biking.

4. Kayak in the Puget Sound

Imagine yourself out on the water while watching the sunset change colors over the mountains. You’ll have 360 degrees worth of snow-capped views from the Cascade and Olympic ranges. Mt. Baker pops out from up north and the gigantic Mt. Rainier down south will leave you breathless. Take advantage of those long summer days in the Pacific Northwest by kayaking in the Puget Sound. You have tons of starting points where you can paddle around. Tacoma has the beautiful Point Defiance Park, Alki Beach is an ideal spot in Seattle, Bainbridge Island starts your adventure on the west side, and up in the north are the San Juan Islands. You’ll be able to spot tons of wildlife such as seals, otters, eagles, jellyfish, and maybe even an orca. Kayaking tours are offered year round in the Puget Sound.

Bonus tip: Feeling a bit apprehensive at the idea of heading out in a tiny boat in big waters? Check out a sailing tour. Tours out of Seattle are affordable and convenient. Best of all, you can bring your own food and drinks and let the experts do all of the work!

5. Sip wine in central Washington

Drinking wine is definitely outdoorsy when it happens after your yoga class. Wine and yoga have become a big event in some of Washington’s prime vineyards. Overlooking the rolling hills nearby, you can relax and take in the beauty while enjoying a glass of your fermented grape of choice. After you get that last drop you can spend the day exploring the hilly trails or go for a swim in Lake Chelan or the Columbia River.

Bonus tip: If you want a mix of the outdoors and music, head to the Gorge Amphitheater during the summer for a concert. A concert at this outdoor sunset venue in central Washington is something that every Washingtonian takes part in.

6. Water-ski in Lake Roosevelt

If you’re lucky enough to get to the middle of nowhere eastern Washington, rent a boat (or find a friend), pop on your skis, and dive in. Lake Roosevelt is a hidden gem in Washington state that not many travelers know about. This 130 mile long lake has places for camping, fishing, hiking, cliff diving, swimming, boating, and all your lake loving needs. You can grab a group of friends and rent a houseboat on the lake if you can stay for a few days. You’ll be able to sleep under the massive stars, grill hot dogs over the fire, and light off fireworks nearby.

Bonus tip: If you’re a fan of ginormous concrete structures—which, we all are, you just might not know it—do a tour of the Grand Coulee Dam on the southwestern end of Lake Roosevelt. It powers about 2.3 million homes across eleven western states. It is one of the world’s largest concrete structures that was constructed in 1942. Check out its free laser light show in the summer for snippets of the history.

7. Bike the Centennial Trail

Eastern Washington’s Centennial Trail is perfect for a scenic and leisurely bike ride. It’s a forty mile paved path along the Spokane River that offers little adventures along the way. The bike path is not crowded which makes it easy to enjoy. On one end is Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, a fun and walkable lakeside town. From there you can bike to the Spokane Valley and sip a glass of wine on the hilltop of Arbor Crest Winery. Continue west weaving along the river toward downtown Spokane and grab lunch at any of the riverfront restaurants or have a picnic in Riverfront Park. Eventually, you can make your way to Riverside State Park where you will be back in nature.  

A post shared by Davenport Hotels (@staydavenport) on Apr 27, 2017 at 11:45am PDT

Bonus tip: Lock up your bike near the Bowl and Pitcher in Riverside State Park. This area of the Spokane River has amazing views of the river and small hidden trails.

These are just a few of the many outdoor adventures in Washington state. These places won’t be packed with crowds and offer relaxation on top of your outdoor adventure of choice. What are you waiting for?! Rent a car, pack your hiking boots, and grab a friend for an ultimate road trip full of adventures in Washington state.

Suggested next reading: The Perfect West American Road Trip

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