Kyoto
My first time traveling Japan solo was an experience to remember and I did most of my exploring without the Canon. For a short amount of time, I was able to see a bit of Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Yoro, and Okinawa. The only shots I took were a few from the Gion Matsuri festival that took place outside my hostel in Kyoto. If you’re in Kyoto, be sure to find this hidden gem called the sotlylaisse. It’s a well hidden spot, with only a neon sign to signify it’s location. They have the best yakitori for a late night fix.
Queen Sirikrit Gardens
We spent almost a full day at the Queen Sirikrit Botanical Gardens and still was not able to explore every part of it. It’s the biggest and most amazing garden that I’ve ever visited with some really beautiful greenhouses and canopies that you can explore.
Thailand
During our trip to Thailand, we did a tour of all the temples in Bangkok, Changmai and Changrai. Each temple was unique and beautiful in all its intricate, gilded details. There were golden ones, silver ones, wooden temples, a black temple and a white temple. I could have spent hours at each one and still be amazed at its beauty.
Vietnam
I’m so glad I was able to take a big Asia trip before all this Covid hit us. It’s been almost a decade since I was able to last visit my home country and this time, I made sure to explore more parts of Vietnam. My family and I made plans to see more scenic spots in Vietnam with the beaches in Nha Trang and the majestic Ha Long Bay being on top of our list. And even after a whirlwind trip to Thailand and Japan after visiting Vietnam, I still miss home the most and wish I had more time to spend in Vietnam. The familiar feeling of just being home, the smell of fresh rambutans and mangosteen in the mornings, street vendors in front of my aunt’s house who still recognize me as a babe and cafe su da every morning; these are a few things that make my heart swell a little bit every time I think of home.
