3 Months to India, Philippine's & South Korea.

It's been a long time no see since my previous travel blog of 10 years. I'm back. I'm going to start with my last trip lasting 3 months. You don't want the details, but if you do, contact me!

Best Food

Let's not lie to ourselves, this is important. Out of 60 places visited over 6 countries - Turkey, India, Singapore, Philippine's, Hong Kong, South Korea - there's one that stands out for me. I am vegetarian though so it is a biased opinion, although my boyfriend agreed.

India

Why? Endless choice, cheap as chips, spicy, home-cooked, delicious. And no, it's not curries for breakfast. There's dosas, samosas, and even plain chips if you want them. In all seriousness, the food can't be beat and the chai is to die for. If you don't like spice, it might not be your place. I would google reviews before entering and follow the locals - don't enter quiet places. Don't drink ice, wash your hands frequently and if fruit is your thing stick to ones you need to peel. We did get food poisoning - you're going to if you're there for almost 2 months - and it wasn't pretty, but you survive and you laugh it off eventually. 

• Turkey - eat a baklava.
• Philippine's - don't go for the food.....bananas are good.
• South Korea - If you like fish or raw meat. If you don't, expect to be in a 7/11 like me eating -stunning- pot noodles.

Best Beaches

Goa, India, is a nice beach break but now the tourists seem to have migrated elsewhere across Asia. Businesses are struggling, there's more desperate scammers (and those who argue with them), and bars have closed. The beaches are nice and the sea warm but rough along Calangute's coast.

Philippines

I gained a much larger sun burn in Cebu, Philippine's, which has gained me a zebra stripe for 6 months and counting. The beaches are white, pristine and the sea is stunning. For snorkellers you can visit the sardine run (don't be fooled by local shops, you don't need to do a try dive to see them) in Moalboal and even spot my favourite creature the turtle.

Most Memorable

For me personally it was

South Korea

being the most different from any other country I have visited. 2024 marked my 10th visit to India, I think that's all I need to say. Visiting SK in February was below freezing but the weather was crisp blue skies, dry, beautiful snow and offered less crowds. The country is reserved, peaceful, with a lot to offer. Buses are easy, history is deep and walking in the mountains of Jeonju-si felt like a needed break from a lot of chaos. We did visit the DMZ to spot North Korea, but were met with thick fog along the bordering river. Not worth it from this perspective, but now perhaps more memorable with the disappointment, and panic of the tour guide. The speakers from North Korea brought eerie sounds, seeping into my bones, the lack of sight made me feel the sadness and horror more poignantly. Side note = New Years on a Goan beach is a blast, just watch your heads.

Best Dive Spots

Philippines!

Moalboal offers sardines, turtles and great visibility although unfortunately the coral disappointed. Malapascua island is worth the 6-hour bus journey. There's no confusion as to why it's a diving hot spot - thresher sharks! On a sunken island! They were stunning creatures and is a once in a life time opportunity with it being one of the only places to have them year-round. I used the MBI dive centre and was happy with them, I'd heard scary stories about Dan's Dives. Malapascua also offers good deals with hostels, has an animal shelter, can be walked around in a day, has a vegetarian restaurant and has some awe-striking night skies.

Off the tourist track

Only me would take my partner -first time to Asia- right off the tourist track within 1 week of landing. We set foot in Mumbai (he got scammed but learnt his lesson - always ask for prices, say no to 'ear wax' men) - an exciting, historical and alive city. From there we took a night bus from out of the city where we stuck out like a sore thumb and prices were 60% cheaper to

Aurangabad, India

Where's that? East of Mumbai by 6h in the heart of Maharashtra state (which has a very catchy singing advert). It's the easiest base to see the infamous UNESCO Heritage site the Ellora Caves. Paired with monkeys and forests, the architecture is a must see. There were no other white tourists, we were followed for pictures, Aurangabad itself is deserted with a lot of men standing around empty shops. But prices were fair (as long as you know about the local price vs tourist price), people went out of their way to help us and we saw an underrepresented site. I would book your hotel before you go and ask for restaurant recommendations rather than trying to find one yourself.

Transport

Each country was easy. We did minimal planning, bought flights a week or days before, buses on the day. Istanbul doesn't like cash; you'll need a card that can be scanned or buy their top up card - their metro is super easy and fast. India, someone will always help you or know someone that can. Use the IRCTC Rail Connect app for buses and trains (book trains way in advance) and get yourself a local sim. Tuk tuks, Goamiles (for taxis), and buses will stop anywhere to let you on. Hong Kong is walkable and has an amazing metro system. Philippine's you can use buses, ferries, and 'auto-rickshaw's (uncomfy) and of course inward flights (tip - leave your backpack in Manila and only take a small bag with you). South Korea is modern and easy but sometimes there are language barriers - just ask!

Spending

Flight to and from the UK and flights to all countries mentioned. All food, accommodation, diving and sites over 3 months. Altogether = £3000 each. We didn't eat out in more expensive countries and we didn't say in 5* hotels (other than the free one included with a cheap flight home through China) but we did travel and live.