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  • Cherry Walk at Brooklyn Botanic Gardens
    North America

    Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in New York City

    Byavanid April 15, 2026April 25, 2026

    Did you know that New York City has its own magical cherry blossom season? While many East Coasters make the trip to Washington, DC, you don’t actually have to leave the city to experience those soft pink petals drifting through the air. From iconic parks to tucked-away courtyards, NYC offers no shortage of stunning spots to…

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  • Girl standing infront of Mt. Fuji View
    Asia

    Best Vegetarian Food in Japan: Hidden Gems & Must-Try Spots 

    Byavanid January 25, 2026January 26, 2026

    Japan’s vegetarian scene has grown tremendously in recent years, making it easier than ever to enjoy the country’s incredible food culture while maintaining a plant-based diet. Here’s a guide to some of the best vegetarian and vegan spots I discovered across Tokyo, the Mt. Fuji area, and Kyoto. Tokyo Kyushu JangaraThis restaurant offers multiple locations…

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  • Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan
    Asia

    The Best Places to Stay In Tokyo, Japan by Neighborhood

    Byavanid January 12, 2026January 26, 2026

    When planning a trip to Tokyo, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming. Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world, and each neighborhood offers a completely different vibe. The best choice depends on what you’re looking for: nightlife, shopping, culture, or a more relaxed atmosphere. No matter where you stay, being close…

    Read More The Best Places to Stay In Tokyo, Japan by NeighborhoodContinue

  • Colorful street in Cartagena
    Central and South America

    The Ultimate Cartagena Travel Guide: History, Food, Beaches & More

    Byavanid November 12, 2025November 12, 2025

    Looking for the perfect mix of history, culture, beaches, and nightlife? This Cartagena travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip—from top attractions and island getaways to the best local food, photo spots, and experiences. Cartagena, Colombia, is a city that truly has it all: centuries-old charm, vibrant street life, flavorful cuisine, and sunsets that…

    Read More The Ultimate Cartagena Travel Guide: History, Food, Beaches & MoreContinue

  • Hotel Movich, Cartagena
    Central and South America

    Where to Eat as a Vegetarian in Cartagena, Colombia: A Complete Guide

    Byavanid August 23, 2025August 23, 2025

    If you’re vegetarian or vegan and planning a trip to Cartagena, Colombia, you’re in luck. While the city isn’t exactly a plant-based paradise, it does offer some truly memorable dining experiences—if you know where to look. From upscale tasting menus to casual arepa joints, here’s a curated list of the best vegetarian-friendly spots we discovered…

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  • Girl infront of pink and orange wall in Cartagena, Colombia
    Central and South America

    The Best Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots in Cartagena, Colombia

    Byavanid March 5, 2025March 5, 2025

    Cartagena, Colombia is easily one of the most colorful cities I have ever visited. Cartagena’s walled city is picturesque with colorful houses, ocean views, and vibrant murals. This city is the perfect place for anyone who loves photography, as you’ll find beautiful photo opportunities at every turn. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, here are…

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  • The Rock, Zanzibar
    Africa

    Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Zanzibar, Tanzania

    Byavanid February 25, 2025February 25, 2025

    One of my favorite places in the world to visit is Zanzibar, an island off the coast of Tanzania. The first time I visited was while I was living in Tanzania for a semester during graduate school and I absolutely fell in love with the island. I had the chance to return in 2019, and…

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  • Hvar, Croatia
    Europe

    Ultimate Highlights of Croatia: 7 Days in Split, Dubrovnik, and Plitvice Lakes

    Byavanid February 19, 2025February 26, 2025

    Croatia is a destination that stole my heart. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and beautiful coastlines, it’s a place that offers something for every type of traveler. I spent 7 days in Croatia traveling through Split, Dubrovnik, and Plitvice Lakes, each place offering its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences. I was even able to take a day…

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  • Girl at Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City
    North America

    One Week in Mexico City: The Perfect Guide For Your First Visit

    Byavanid February 3, 2025August 27, 2025

    Mexico City is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers something for every kind of traveler from its rich history and world-class museums to its bustling streets, delicious cuisine, and colorful neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of things to explore. This guide will help you make the most of your one week adventure and experience the…

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  • Girl in front of door at Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakesh
    Africa

    Exploring Marrakesh: Your Ultimate Mini Guide to Accommodation and Adventure

    Byavanid March 5, 2023February 20, 2025

    Marrakesh has long been a popular destination for tourists visiting Morocco, and it’s easy to see why it has such a timeless appeal. The city is full of bustling souks, Moorish architecture, gardens, and charming riads. It’s a great place to visit for a short winter holiday or as part of a longer trip to…

    Read More Exploring Marrakesh: Your Ultimate Mini Guide to Accommodation and AdventureContinue

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awaywithavani

If you only have time for one cherry blossom spot If you only have time for one cherry blossom spot in NYC, here are 3 options worth considering📍 Central Park (Bridle Path / West Side Reservoir)
Kanzan cherry blossoms with reservoir views and that iconic skyline backdrop. Super beautiful, but expect crowds since a lot of NYC comes here this time of year. Great spot for a picnic under the blossoms. Come in the morning if you want it a bit quieter.📍 Roosevelt Island
Cherry blossoms with a unique waterfront and skyline view. You’ll find a mix of early and late blooms here. Feels a bit more low key, but weekends still get busy. Weekdays are your best bet for a quieter visit.📍 Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Ticket required, but there are over 200 cherry trees with rows of blossoms that make it worth it. Mornings are best for fewer crowds. Known for late blooming varieties, with some early blooms in the Japanese garden.Which would you choose? 🌸If you want more cherry blossom spots in NYC, link in bio!📸: @dkarkar92 #cherryblossoms #centralpark #springinthecity #cherryblossomsseason
Last Sunday was a rainy day at the Brooklyn Botani Last Sunday was a rainy day at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, but we still made the trip to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom. This is one of my favorite spots in the city this time of year, and the Cherry Walk and Cherry Esplanade looked absolutely beautiful even in the rain.It’s the last week to see them at their peak, so try to go in the next few days or over the weekend. The Garden closes early for Hanami Nights from April 21–24, but regular hours return next weekend from 8 a.m.–6 p.m. You can reserve tickets ahead on their website.📸: @dkarkar92 #cherryblossoms #springinthecity #brooklynny #cherryblossomseason
Everything I ate as a vegetarian in Seoul 👇 If yo Everything I ate as a vegetarian in Seoul 👇If you’re traveling to Seoul and worried about finding veg food, save this:🍜 Jongno 24 Hours Ramen — self-serve ramen spot open all night with customizable options (perfect late night)🍙 Maru Jayeonsik Gimbap (Insadong) for simple, affordable veggie kimbap🥢 Osegye Hyang (Insadong) — fully vegan Korean classics like jjajangmyeon & bulgogi🌿 Vegan Insa (Jongno) — great mix of Korean + Western-style vegan dishes🥐 Cafés for salt bread, pastries, and bingsu🥔 Street food finds: potato twists, tanghulu, tteokbokki, veggie pancakes (just double check ingredients!)🥗 Vegan Kitchen (Myeongdong) — fully vegan menu + robot servers bringing your food🍲 Myeongdong Joomak — vegetarian-friendly menu near the main shopping area🍽️ Plantude (Gangnam) — modern plant-based spot with Korean + global dishesSeoul is way more vegetarian-friendly than people think, you just have to know where to lookSave for your trip ✈️
5 cafés in Seoul you can’t miss ☕✨ From dreamy ae 5 cafés in Seoul you can’t miss ☕✨From dreamy aesthetics to viral salt bread, here’s your ultimate café-hopping bucket list:📍 Nakwon — retro vibes with a unique train station aesthetic📍 Cheonsudang — easily one of the most stunning cafés I’ve visited, with a serene, nature-inspired space full of lush greenery and calming water features📍 Soha Salt Pond — rustic charm, salt bread, and a courtyard inspired by salt fields📍 Café Onion Anguk — a stunning renovated century-old hanok📍 Jaeyeondo Salt Bread — home of the viral salt bread I’m still dreaming about📌 Save this for your next Seoul tripWhich one are you trying first? 👇
Seoul had been on my bucket list for over 10 years Seoul had been on my bucket list for over 10 years. I finally got to visit and still left wishing I had more time.Whether you’re there for the palaces, the k-beauty haul, the café-hopping, the street food, the kpop scene, or just to stand somewhere you’ve seen on a screen a hundred times - this city has something for you.This is the first-timer guide I wish I’d had. What to do, what I missed, and where I’d go again. Saving everything I learned so your trip is easier to plan than mine was.Full guide in the slides, save it before your trip. 🇰🇷Already been to seoul? Tell me what I missed. Planning to go? Drop your questions below 👇
Honest Thoughts About Seoul After Visiting the Fir Honest Thoughts About Seoul After Visiting the First Time 🇰🇷⁣ 👇⁣Seoul had been on my bucket list for over 10 years, ever since my early K-drama phase. Finally visiting felt surreal.⁣⁣Here are my honest thoughts after experiencing it for the first time.⁣⁣𝗪𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞: 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞.⁣I expected to struggle finding Korean food that was vegetarian-friendly. Instead, I found so many fully vegetarian restaurants and an impressive range of options, from traditional Korean dishes to modern fusion and café-style brunch spots. It was far easier and more diverse than I imagined.⁣⁣𝗪𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝: 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐌𝐙 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫.⁣Walking through Gyeongbokgung in a hanbok felt like stepping into a historical K-drama.⁣The Secret Garden at Changdeokgung was peaceful, beautiful, and absolutely worth booking in advance.⁣⁣The DMZ tour was a completely different experience. It was informative, sobering, and one of the most impactful parts of the trip. It adds context to modern Korea in a way you cannot get from exploring the city alone.⁣⁣𝗪𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐭 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝: 𝐁𝐮𝐤𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐧 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐤 𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐞.⁣Visiting Bukchon Hanok Village is nice for seeing traditional Korean houses, but the area is small and often very crowded. It felt more like a photo stop than an immersive cultural experience. If you go, go early in the morning. I would not go out of my way to prioritize it.⁣⁣𝗪𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐩 𝐨𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤: 𝐆𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐦.⁣Gangnam was interesting to see once. The Starfield Library is visually impressive, and the Gangnam Style statue is fun for a quick photo. But I wouldn’t dedicate a full afternoon there again unless I was specifically going for shopping or nightlife.⁣⁣Overall, Seoul feels layered, deeply historical and ultra-modern at the same time.⁣⁣If Seoul is on your list, what do you want to know? I’ll answer it in the next posts. 💫
London will always have a special place in my stor London will always have a special place in my story.It’s where I studied abroad in college and where my love of travel really took off. It gave me the confidence to explore new places on my own, the obsession with planning detailed itineraries, and the realization that travel could be more than just a vacation.2025 was a transition year for me. A new career, a lot of change, and honestly, a year that asked for a lot of resilience. There were times when it felt difficult to show up consistently here, especially when engagement was low. But the love for travel never really went away. I still love documenting it, sharing what I learn, and holding onto the places that shape me.Even in a year of uncertainty, I got to finally check a few long-time bucket list places off my list.So this feels like the right way to begin 2026. Looking back with gratitude and looking forward to what’s next. I can’t wait to share more from Seoul and the travels ahead this year.I’ve also been putting more into my blog lately, with longer guides and more details, if you are planning trips of your own. Link in bio 💫
Is Dyker Heights worth adding to your NYC bucket l Is Dyker Heights worth adding to your NYC bucket list? I finally went and here’s what you should know.Would I recommend it if you’re short on time or visiting NYC for the first time? Honestly… maybe not.
But if you love Christmas lights, local traditions, and something different from Midtown chaos, Dyker Heights is a fun detour.Good to know before you go:
• Dress warm, as everything is outdoors
• Please be mindful that it’s a residential area
• They have hot chocolate and snacks for sale during the weekends
• Guided tours are available, or you can take the R train to Bay RidgeCrowds can get intense, so weeknights are the best time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience. #christmasinnewyork #holidayseason #dykerheights
Did you know NYC has another iconic Christmas tree Did you know NYC has another iconic Christmas tree—right in the heart of Wall Street? 🎄Tucked outside the New York Stock Exchange, this tree has been lighting up the holidays for decades. I finally got a chance to see it in person, and it felt like a quiet holiday moment in the middle of the city’s hustle.Will you add this spot to your NYC holiday bucket list?📍11 Wall Street#christmasinnewyork #holidaydecor #christmastree #winterinnyc
Did you know the Upper East Side goes all out for Did you know the Upper East Side goes all out for the holidays? 🎄
Festive stoops, classic NYC charm and way more relaxed than the usual holiday crowds.While you’re here, make a full day of it:
• The Frick Collection
• A winter walk through Central Park
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Shopping along Madison Ave• Butterfield Market for gourmet treats
• Ladurée for something sweet
• Glacé hot chocolate ☕️
• Ralph’s Coffee for a cozy break
📌 Save this for your holiday plans.
#UpperEastSide #NYCHolidays #christmasdecor #holidaydecor
This is the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, a US Navy This is the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, a US Navy DC-3 that crash-landed here in 1973 after running out of fuel.Thankfully, there were no casualties. What remains today is the skeletal shell, slowly weathering against the volcanic landscape.You’ve probably seen it before — featured in commercials, documentaries, and even the Gerua music video from Dilwale. But standing here in person feels surreal. The contrast of the wreck against the black sand makes it one of Iceland’s most mysterious and unique landmarks.Getting there:Located right off the Ring Road, near Sólheimajökull glacier and just a few miles from Skógafoss. The walk from the parking area takes about 1 hour each way, or you can take a shuttle to save time.Would you add this to your Iceland bucketlist?#iceland #icelandtrip #sólheimasandur #geruasong
We almost drove right past this stop…and it ended We almost drove right past this stop…and it ended up being one of my favorites. From the parking lot, Sólheimajökull feels quiet and unassuming, but as you walk in, the glacier slowly rises into view, bigger and more surreal with every step.Raw, peaceful, and nothing like the busy waterfalls everyone talks about. You can kayak the lagoon or trek across the ice, but honestly, just standing there was enough. Sometimes the best places are the ones you never planned for.📌Save this for your Iceland road trip📸: @dkarkar92 #icelandtravel #solheimajokull #visiticeland #icelandroadtrip #glacier
Your Iceland bucket list starts here. Which stop w Your Iceland bucket list starts here. Which stop would you choose first? 👇1) Kvernufoss2) Skógafoss3) Gljúfrabúi4) Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck5) Sky Lagoon6) Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon7) Seljalandsfoss8) Gullfoss9) Sólheimajökull Glacier10) Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach#visiticeland #icelandtravel #iceland #travelreel
Your sign to rent hanbok in Seoul ✨ Because wander Your sign to rent hanbok in Seoul ✨Because wandering Gyeongbokgung’s courtyards dressed like royalty hits different.If you’ve ever watched a historical K-drama and imagined yourself stepping into those scenes, this is the closest you’ll get—silk, color, and centuries of history all around you. And the best part? It’s way easier (and more affordable) than most travelers think:✨ Free entry to the palaces when you wear hanbok📸 Option to book professional photographers🏮 Tons of rental shops around the palaces, or pre-book on apps like Klook for guaranteed availability🎎 Staff help style you so you look photo-readyEach corner of Gyeongbokgung feels like a different chapter of the same story, and wearing hanbok lets you live inside it for a moment. 🇰🇷Would you try this on your Seoul trip?📸: @dkarkar92 #seoulkorea #gyeongbokgung #hanbok #southkorea #girlslovetravel
Seoul felt like stepping into a city I’ve loved fr Seoul felt like stepping into a city I’ve loved from afar for a decade 🇰🇷✨The kind of place where ancient palace walls meet neon-lit streets, where you can walk centuries-old pathways at golden hour and end the night in Gangnam’s glow. I wandered through Gyeongbokgung’s grand courtyards, got lost in Changdeokgung’s tranquil Secret Garden, and felt the weight of history at the DMZ. Wore a hanbok like I’d dreamed about since my first kdrama marathon in 2014. Watched the city light up from Namsan Tower and found quiet moments by Cheonggyecheon Stream.Every corner felt like a scene I’d already lived in my head, but better.Just a little highlight reel for now. More Seoul coming soon to the feed. If this city’s on your list, consider this your sign.#visitseoul #southkorea #travelcreator #seoultravel
Would you believe this is New York City? 🍁 Spent Would you believe this is New York City? 🍁Spent the weekend chasing fall colors in Prospect Park, catching sunset right as the light turned everything gold. Between the bridge, the waterfall, and the trees reflecting in the water, it didn’t even feel like the city.Swans were gliding past the boathouse, music drifting over from a nearby wedding — a perfect little reminder that even in busy NYC, there are pockets of calm if you know where to look. If you haven’t been yet, definitely add Prospect Park to your fall list.📸: @dkarkar92 #prospectpark #nycphotography #brooklynny #fallinnyc
Exploring Kyoto and looking for vegetarian-friendl Exploring Kyoto and looking for vegetarian-friendly eats? Here are 6 spots where you can enjoy local flavors and plant-based dishes, from serene teahouses to cozy ramen bars.1) Ogura Cha-Ya - A charming stop after exploring the bamboo grove. Try their comforting udon, refreshing kakigori, or a cup of tea in this peaceful teahouse setting.2) Kyoto Engine Ramen - A popular place so expect a dinner crowd, but they offer two tasty veggie ramen options that hit the spot after a day of exploring.3) Vegan Sushi Kyoto - Don’t miss the kaiseki set, a beautifully presented, innovative take on traditional sushi. Every bite is a little surprise.4) Gion Tanto - You might have to wait a bit here, but it’s one of the few spots where vegetarians can try dishes like okonomiyaki and yakisoba which can be a nice change from the usual ramen.5) Rokujuan Teahouse - A 100-year-old teahouse where you can try hanawarabi mochi — delicate, flower-shaped, and picture-perfect. Come for the experience (and the aesthetic!).6) Moon and Back Ramen Bar - Just a short walk from Nishiki Market, this cozy ramen bar serves rich, flavorful bowls with vegetarian options.📌Save this post for your next Kyoto trip!Which one would you try first? 👇#kyotojapan #kyotofood #visitkyoto #vegetarianfood
Planning a trip to Mt. Fuji? Don’t make these 3 co Planning a trip to Mt. Fuji? Don’t make these 3 common mistakes 👇1. Visiting in the summer = low visibilityMount Fuji is notoriously shy in the summer months — hot, humid air and clouds often block the view, especially in July–August. If you’re after that postcard-perfect shot, aim for late autumn (Nov) or winter (Dec–Feb) when the air is crisp and clear.2. Only doing a day trip from TokyoYes, it’s possible to visit Fuji Kawaguchiko in one day… but you’ll barely scratch the surface. The Fuji Five Lakes area has so much to offer — it’s worth at least an overnight stay (or two!).3. Not booking your bus/train tickets in advance Public transport to Kawaguchiko is reliable but popular — especially during peak seasons. Highway buses from Tokyo or return trips back can sell out fast. Book your seats online in advance to avoid last-minute stress.📌 Save this for your Japan itinerary #mtfuji #kawaguchiko #japantravelguide #visitjapan
Just a few hours from Tokyo, Fuji Kawaguchiko offe Just a few hours from Tokyo, Fuji Kawaguchiko offers the most breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak—plus peaceful lakeside vibes, cozy cafés, and postcard-worthy moments around every corner.Things to Do in Fuji Kawaguchiko:— Snap the iconic shot at Chureito Pagoda — Stroll the lakeside paths with Fuji always in view — Ride the Panoramic Ropeway for breathtaking vistas — Visit the famous Lawson with Mt. Fuji perfectly framed— Relax in nature at Oishi Park— Walk through the torii in the sky at Tenku no Torii🛻 How to get here: Highway bus or train from Shinjuku🕓 Pro tip: Fuji is clearest early morning or on cold, crisp days📅 Best time to visit: Late autumn to winter or early springWould you do this as a day trip or stay overnight?👇#MtFuji #FujiKawaguchiko #ChureitoPagoda #JapanReels Fuji Five Lakes, Tokyo Day trip
📍TeamLab Planets Tokyo – one of the most unforgett 📍TeamLab Planets Tokyo – one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ll have in Japan 🇯🇵 ✨This immersive digital art exhibit has you walking through water installations, floating flower gardens, and massive glowing rooms that respond to your movement.🛑Things to know before you go:There are 2 TeamLabs in Tokyo:— TeamLab Planets— TeamLab Borderless 👣 TeamLab Planets is a barefoot experience with water and mirrored floors — wear something you can roll up and avoid sandals without heel support or high heels, as some areas may be inaccessible with that footwear.🍜 There’s delicious vegan ramen available onsite from @vegan_uzu 🎟️ Tickets must be purchased online in advance — they are not available at the venue.Tickets open around 2–3 months ahead via the official website.🚌 There’s a shuttle service from Ginza, and tickets can be booked through @klooktravel. 🕒 Give yourself 2.5–3 hours to explore without rushing.#japantravel #tokyojapan #teamlabs
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  • About Me
  • Travel Guides
    • Africa
    • Central and South America
    • Europe
    • North America