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  • One Week in Guatemala: Itinerary for Antigua and Lake Atitlán
    Central and South America

    One Week in Guatemala: Itinerary for Antigua and Lake Atitlán

    Byavanid February 22, 2023February 25, 2025

    Planning a visit to Guatemala? Check out this one week itinerary for Antigua and Lake Atitlán, two of the most popular sites in Guatemala. Spend the week visiting historical landmarks, enjoying delicious Guatemalan coffee, learning about Mayan culture, shopping in the colorful markets, hiking volcanoes, and relaxing by one of the world’s most beautiful lakes….

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  • The Complete 7-Day Maui Itinerary: Hiking, Beaches, Waterfalls and more!
    North America

    The Complete 7-Day Maui Itinerary: Hiking, Beaches, Waterfalls and more!

    Byavanid May 9, 2022May 10, 2022

    Maui is the second largest Hawaiian Island and known as the “Valley Isle.” Whether you are looking for hiking, waterfalls, or beaches – Maui has it all. This one week itinerary is perfect for those looking to experience a bit of everything Maui has to offer. Day 1: Hiking in West Maui Iao Valley Start…

    Read More The Complete 7-Day Maui Itinerary: Hiking, Beaches, Waterfalls and more!Continue

  • Girl infront of greetings from Austin mural
    North America

    Mini Guide for a Weekend Girls Trip to Austin, Texas

    Byavanid March 16, 2022March 16, 2022

    Planning a weekend trip to Austin, Texas with friends? Check out this mini guide for a list of recommendations on places to eat and drink, cute photo opportunities, and things to do while visiting. Where to Eat Brunch / Lunch 1886 Café & Bakery is located in the historic Driskill Hotel and is great brunch spot…

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  • Sunset at Haleakala
    North America

    A Complete Guide to Visiting Haleakalā National Park

    Byavanid February 16, 2022February 17, 2022

    One of the absolute must-sees during a trip to Maui is Haleakalā National Park. This park is named after the now dormant volcano, Haleakalā which means “house of sun” in Hawaiian. Legend has it that the demi-god Maui stood on the summit of Haleakala and lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky to…

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  • Top 10 Holiday Gift Ideas for Travelers in 2021
    Other

    Top 10 Holiday Gift Ideas for Travelers in 2021

    Byavanid December 7, 2021March 15, 2022

    Are you looking for a present for the traveler in your life this holiday season? Check out these 10 holiday gift ideas below that any traveler in your life is sure to love. This gift guide has something for every type of traveler in your life including budget travelers, luxury travelers, solo travelers, and female…

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  • view of Golden Gate Bridge between two trees
    North America

    Best Viewpoints of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Byavanid November 29, 2021December 4, 2021

    Planning a trip to San Francisco and looking for that insta-worthy shot of the Golden Gate Bridge? Check out these viewpoints for some beautiful and unique places for your Golden Gate Bridge photography. 1. Langdon Court / Battery Godfrey This viewpoint gives you a unique framing of the Golden Gate Bridge and is a beautiful…

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  • North America

    Coming Soon!

    Byavanid November 28, 2021November 28, 2021

    Hi everyone! Thanks for visiting my page. I’m excited to share some new travel content with you all very soon! In the meantime please visit my Instagram to follow along my latest adventures.

    Read More Coming Soon!Continue

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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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