guides
Guides for travelers who prefer depth over distance.

See more than Sea from Bondi to Tamarama
Muz swaps Dusty Boots for sandals as Sculpture by the Sea transforms an iconic walk.

A Weekend in Clancy Country – The Man from Snowy River Festival
Mark takes us to a thoroughly Australian experience – the annual Man from Snowy River festival in Corryong, Victoria. Akubras, RMs and camping in style. Book early, it is a popular event.

Norfolk Island – A Slow Pace of Life
First-time contributor Louise shares her impressions of Norfolk Island – a slow-paced destination with a strong sense of its own history.

Hat Yai, Thailand – After the Floods
Recently I visited Hat Yai, in southern Thailand. The town experienced dreadful flooding in late 2025, and I had a brief opportunity to view recovery efforts and talk to some local people. And to take in some viewing highlights near the city.

Memories Rusting Away – the Siem Reap War Museum, Cambodia
A short ride north of Siem Reap township is a large garden full of rusting military equipment from the Cambodian civil war. The place is barely maintained and the locals don’t seem much interested. But it is worth an hour or so.

Buddhas by the Beach
I don’t know why I didn’t think about this before…many of the most spectacular Buddhist temples and statues are by the ocean. So I will start a collection.

Travelling from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Penang? Consider the Bus
I recently travelled from KL to Penang. Having done the trip a couple of times before, my initial instinct was to fly – Air Asia has about 8 flights per day and it is not over-expensive. But at the suggestion of a friend we took the bus – and it was a very good experience.

Tips for Travelling on the Death Railway Tourist Train from Bangkok Thonburi to Nam Tok
The Death Railway tourist train runs twice daily from Thonburi station in Bangkok. Here are some hints and tips to help you be prepared and enjoy the journey.

Under the Arches at Pule Arena, the Heart of Croatia’s Roman Ruins
Beneath the Istrian sun lies a 2,000-year-old stone skeleton. Explore the Pula Arena, recall the brutality of the Roman games, and learn some history through the limestone pillars and underground chambers.

Komodo Island: See the Dragons and Stay Overnight
Most visitors just take the day trip to Komodo to see the dragons. But you can stay overnight and be hosted by a friendly family. This is an update of an earlier post, with 2026 advisory information, including some important detail on the new requirement to book in advance via a digital app.

Renting a Scooter in South East Asia – Staying Upright and Legal
Don’t let a scooter rental ruin your trip. From IDP requirements to the ‘character test’ for rental shops, here is how to stay legal and safe on two wheels in SE Asia.

The Wall in the Wilderness. Derwent Bridge, Tasmania
Discover The Wall in the Wilderness at Derwent Bridge. A massive Huon Pine carving depicting Tasmanian history, found in the heart of the wilderness. Worth every cent.

The Art of the Light Pack – For the Slow Traveller in South East Asia
The greatest myth of travel is that you need a heap of different outfits, ‘just in case’. In Southeast Asia, where the humidity is high and the culture is informal, overpacking is a tax you pay in sweat and baggage fees.

The World’s Biggest Pile of Bricks
A short boat ride from Mandalay takes you to a massive crumbling edifice, and one of the world’s biggest bells.

Go to Malta, See the George Cross
The National War Museum at Fort St Elmo, just outside of Valetta, provides insight into the courage and determination of the Maltese people during World War 2. Getting there is a big part of the enjoyment. Bring sunscreen.

East Coast of Malaysia: Mersing and Tioman
Catch a bus to the east side of the Malay peninsula. Meet the locals and take a ferry ride to Tioman. Be careful not to over-indulge on fried chicken, and don’t expect swanky accommodation.

Tips for Travelling on the Daytime Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
The Special Express Train 7 runs daily from Bangkok KTA terminal to Chiang Mai. Here are some hints and tips to help you be prepared and enjoy the journey.

Mexico City to Guadalajara: Highlights, Transport & What to See in Both Cities
Mark shares his impressions from Mexico City and Guadalajara. Ancient temples, fine museums, tequila and fiestas.

How to Spend a Day In And Around Mae Sai, Thailand
If you find your way to the northernmost point of Thailand, there are plenty of things to occupy and interest you. Rent a motorcycle or a car and driver and have a great day out along the shores of the Mekong.

Monte Piana, Italy: An Unplanned Climb, an Unexpected Find
During a trek through the Dolomites, Allan found himself snowed in for a day. Instead of sitting around drinking hot chocolate, he and his friend walked up a 500 metre escarpment to explore the remains of a 100 year old battlefield.

Something Excellent To Do Near Chiang Rai And Something Not So Excellent
If you go to this wonderful part of Thailand, you should spend an hour or two at the Baandam House art estate. Whether you go to see the long-necked tribal ladies is up to you.