When planning my first trip to Istanbul, I spent the most time researching flights—even more than I did on attractions, food, or accommodation. This is because, for long-haul travel, the flight experience directly shapes the start of the entire journey. Istanbul is a long way from many countries, meaning flight times are extensive; factors such …
Travel Tips
Five Hotels in Istanbul: From Historic Old City Charm to Bosphorus Views
When planning my first trip to Istanbul, I spent a lot of time researching accommodation options alongside the usual itinerary of sightseeing and dining. That’s because this city is truly unique. It straddles Europe and Asia, with different neighborhoods possessing completely distinct characters. Staying in the Old City means being surrounded by historic architecture every …
Istanbul: A Culinary Journey from Street Snacks to Traditional Cuisine
When I first planned my trip to Istanbul, beyond the historic architecture and cityscapes, what I looked forward to most was experiencing the local food culture. Before getting to know the city, my impression of Turkish cuisine was limited to kebabs, coffee, and desserts. However, once I actually arrived in Istanbul, I discovered that the …
My Days in Istanbul: An Urban Exploration Spanning Europe and Asia
When I first planned my trip to Istanbul, what I looked forward to most was experiencing firsthand the city that bridges Europe and Asia. On a map, Istanbul is just a name, but upon arriving, I discovered a city with a complex and captivating character. It is a place of ancient mosques, bustling bazaars, ferries …
Busan Gastronomy: A Flavorful Journey from Seafood Markets to Street Food
When planning my first trip to Busan, one of the things I looked forward to most was exploring the local cuisine. Compared to the trendy dining scene in Seoul, Busan’s food culture feels much more connected to the ocean. The city has grown alongside the sea, so its culinary traditions are deeply intertwined with seafood. …
Five Hotels I’ve Stayed at in Busan: From Seaside Getaways to Urban Exploration
When planning my first trip to Busan, I realized that the choice of hotel would significantly shape the entire travel experience. Unlike Seoul, Busan is a city defined by its relationship with the ocean. It features a mix of modern commercial districts, quiet seaside neighborhoods, and traditional markets brimming with local life. Consequently, when choosing …
My Days in Busan: Discovering Another Side of Korea Through Sea Breezes, City Streets, and a Slower Pace
When planning a trip to Korea for the first time, many people naturally make Seoul their first destination. However, after learning more about Korea’s various cities, I became intrigued by Busan. Compared to the hustle and bustle of Seoul, Busan felt much more relaxed to me. It offers vast ocean views, coastal roads, traditional markets, …
Five Coffee Shops I Visited in Seoul: Experiencing Urban Life Through the Aroma of Coffee
When I first traveled to Seoul, I discovered that the city’s charm lay beyond just its tourist attractions, cuisine, and shopping districts. What truly made me fall in love with the city were the coffee shops tucked away on street corners. During my trip, I made sure to carve out time for coffee. I would …
Five Hotels I’ve Stayed at in Seoul: From City Center Convenience to Immersive Korean Living
When planning my first trip to Seoul, I realized that choosing the right hotel was just as important as planning the itinerary. Seoul is a vast city, and its different districts offer completely distinct atmospheres. Some travelers prefer staying in the city center for easy access to shopping and sightseeing; others like being near traditional …
My First Time in Genoa: Travel Secrets I Discovered in This Port City
The moment I set foot in Genoa, I was drawn to its elegance cloaked in a subtle air of mystery. Unlike Rome’s grandeur or Venice’s dazzle, Genoa’s charm is understated but impossible to ignore. From the winding medieval alleys to the magnificent port and the impossibly blue Ligurian coastline, everything about this city kept me …









