When you need a travel expert…
After 14 years running Smiling Albino, we don’t think it’s a stretch to say that we know Asia pretty well. From Thailand’s beaches to Nepal’s peaks to Vietnam’s jungles to Cambodia’s back alleys, we’ve explored, led, written, filmed, eaten and made friends in nearly every type of place you can think of. And had fun, […]
Planet Asia Podcast: What makes a great boutique hotel?
Hotels are an integral part of a trip. Finding one that suits your budget and style can really make or break a holiday. In a day and age when the word ’boutique’ has been over and misused, what really makes a boutique hotel great? On this episode of Planet Asia Podcast we chat with David […]
Angkor Historical Park
Angkor Historical Park march 2022 Angkor Wat and the temples of the greater Angkor complex are one of the world’s greatest sites. A must-see for any seasoned traveler who wants to say they’ve truly seen the world. Built using mostly Laterite and Sandstone, more than 70 major temples are within the Angkor Archeological Park proper, which covers roughly […]
Thailand’s Beach Scene: Ko Samet & Ko Chang
by Greg Jorgensen When asked which one of Thailand’s islands is the best, it’s easy to shrug your shoulders – there are so many! Choosing a favorite island or beach is very subjective – it’s like asking someone what the best ice cream flavor is – there’s no one answer (even though everyone knows […]
Bargaining in Southeast Asia
by Greg Jorgensen Some of you may remember that classic scene in Monty Python’s Life of Brian where Brian, running from pursuing Roman soldiers, tries to buy a disguise from a vendor for full price. The vendor, insulted at Brian’s disinterest in haggling, schools him on the rules of getting the best price. It’s a hilarious scene […]