Accommodation · Asia · Review · Travel

A Bed in Boracay – Mad Monkey Boracay Hostel Review

“Ladies and Gentleman of Mad Monkey Boracay, there are free shots at the bar. Let’s go!” So echoes the call that pierces the air every hour while the bar is open at Mad Monkey Boracay. And what a welcome call it is for the budget traveller. It is just one of the things that makes… Continue reading A Bed in Boracay – Mad Monkey Boracay Hostel Review

Africa · Travel

8.5 Reasons You Will Love Backpacking in Egypt

When you think of cheap, budget travel destinations a few ideas might spring to mind. India, Vietnam, Eastern Europe; but have you considered Egypt? Backpacking in Egypt won’t break the bank (even an all-inclusive can be a bargain), is packed with amazing experiences and you will be blown away by the stunning landmarks in Egypt.… Continue reading 8.5 Reasons You Will Love Backpacking in Egypt

Accommodation · General · Travel

Why Staying in Hostels is NOT as Bad as You Think

Let me start by saying, I have stayed in all manner of hotels, guesthouses, hostels, campsites and apartments. I have nothing against any accommodation option (although I may skip camping in deepest, darkest winter). I think that, of all of them, hostels have the worst reputation and I would love to change the mind of… Continue reading Why Staying in Hostels is NOT as Bad as You Think

Asia · Five Month Trip · India · Travel

Celebrating Diwali & Kali Puja in Kolkata – A Double Whammy

Our time in Kolkata was very special. A very happy diary clash meant that we were in Kolkata for Diwali and Kolkata for Kali Puja. These happen at around the same time, and so we were able to join in with all of the festivities. Kali Puja in Kolkata is something you will never forget!… Continue reading Celebrating Diwali & Kali Puja in Kolkata – A Double Whammy

Asia · Five Month Trip · India · Travel

Kolkata, India – A Glimpse of the Past

There is an expression about Kolkata, “Where Kolkata leads, India will follow”. Well that’s the gist anyway. This can be seen throughout its recent history. Kolkata, then known as Calcutta, was the centre of the British Raj until the capital was moved to New Delhi. During this time money poured in from the British Empire… Continue reading Kolkata, India – A Glimpse of the Past

Asia · Five Month Trip · India · Travel

Bodh Gaya – Buddhas, Boys and Balls

From one holy city (Varanasi), to another and this time it is Bodh Gaya. An unassuming town that holds the most holy sight for Buddhists in India. Bodh Gaya (or Buddhagaya) For such an important location, Bodh Gaya is quite a modest place. It definitely has a small town feel about it, with the touts… Continue reading Bodh Gaya – Buddhas, Boys and Balls

Asia · Five Month Trip · India · Travel

Vibrant Varanasi

Writing about vibrant Varanasi has been surprisingly difficult. My memories of this extraordinary place were so jumbled, more a feeling than a narrative. After struggling with this concept, I decided that Varanasi, with its colourful collage of life and confusing lanes, is the inspiration for the structure of this piece. Let’s call it a maze of… Continue reading Vibrant Varanasi