Archives: Destinations

The Marianas is a crescent-shaped chain of 14 islands in the western Pacific, where the spirit of adventure and the warmth of community come together to create a destination that is truly Far From Ordinary. Here, indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian cultures flourish alongside more than 20 ethnicities from around the world, forming a vibrant tapestry of tradition, resilience, and modern multicultural harmony.

At the heart of the Marianas are the Chamorro and Carolinian peoples. The legacy of the Chamorros is visible in ancient latte stone monoliths, towering limestone pillars that stand as enduring witnesses to a civilization that took root more than 4,000 years ago. Carolinian navigators maintain the remarkable knowledge of sailing vast ocean distances without modern instruments, reading the stars, moon, ocean currents, and natural patterns, a tradition passed down through generations by oral history and still practised today. Deep respect for nature and one another is woven into daily life, where close family ties, community gatherings, and shared traditions sustain a strong spirit of unity and resilience.

Yet the Marianas are more than their indigenous roots. Over 20 ethnicities from around the world now call these islands home, creating a rich and vibrant multicultural society. Visitors are warmly welcomed to experience the islanders’ easy-going way of life and are invited to join in celebrations that blend Chamorro, Carolinian, Asian, and Western influences. Here, diversity is not simply accepted – it is cherished.

Remnants of the archipelago’s layered history can still be seen and felt throughout the islands, from prehistoric artifacts resting in remote jungles to customs, language, and cuisine shaped by centuries of Spanish, German, Japanese, and American presence.

Surrounded by pristine seas, sun-washed beaches, and endless skies, the Marianas is only a three-to-four-hour direct flight from major Asian gateway cities, or just 30 minutes from Guam. Daily inter-island flights connect Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, making exploration easy and seamless.

SAIPAN

The largest and most populated island in the Marianas, Saipan offers a remarkable variety of land and sea adventures. Gentle white-sand beaches line its western and southern shores, while its rugged eastern coastline, lush interior hills, and dramatic northern cliffs invite exploration.

In the calm lagoon, visitors can step aboard a traditional sailing canoe and learn the indigenous art of open-ocean navigation using only natural signs such as the stars, sun, moon, and ocean currents. Year-round, Saipan offers a wide range of water activities including swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, banana boat rides, parasailing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. Beneath the surface, divers discover spectacular underwater worlds through easily accessible shore, wreck, cavern, and boat dives. The Grotto, a dramatic limestone cavern opening to the open sea, is ranked among the world’s top cavern dives.

Just offshore, the small island of Managaha rests within a marine conservation area and is a short boat ride from Saipan’s shoreline. Its crystal-clear waters offer award-winning snorkeling, while seabirds nest along its sandy edges.

Several professionally designed golf courses perch along ocean cliffs, offering not only world-class play but also breathtaking sea views and, for the lucky few, sightings of dolphins, turtles, and even migrating whales.

For those seeking history and culture, the Northern Mariana Islands Museum of History and Culture offers a compelling introduction to the islands’ story. American Memorial Park commemorates Saipan’s pivotal role in World War II, while the scenic Marpi area showcases dramatic coastal cliffs, historic battle sites, and sweeping vistas.

TINIAN

Across the channel from Saipan, Tinian is easily reached by a short 10-minute commuter flight. The island’s history is profound and deeply moving. At the House of Taga stand the tallest known latte stones in the Marianas, massive prehistoric monoliths quarried and transported by the ancient Chamorros using techniques still unknown today. Nearby, visitors can walk the very runways and loading docks from which the atomic bombs were loaded aboard B-29s during World War II, bound for Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Beyond its military history, Tinian reveals unexpected treasures, from Japanese temple ruins hidden in the jungle to natural trails leading to historic sites and one of the few known petroglyph locations in the Marianas.

The island is also home to long, quiet stretches of white-sand beach, including Chulu Beach and its famous star sand. The island’s surrounding waters are pristine, filled with colorful marine life and vibrant coral reefs that create ideal conditions for snorkeling, scuba diving, and world-class fishing.

ROTA

Known as “the jewel of the Marianas” for its unspoiled beauty, Rota possesses a quiet charm and character that captivates those who visit. Life here moves at a gentler pace, marked by the customary friendly wave shared between passing drivers on the island’s roads.

At the As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry, recently declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark, visitors can view the largest known latte stones ever discovered, mysteriously abandoned thousands of years ago in mid-construction. On the island’s western side, the natural Rota Swimming Hole offers a refreshing dip in cool, ocean-fed waters. Tweksberry Park provides picture-perfect rows of coconut palms and scenic overlooks, while nearby waters invite fishing for the catch of the day.

Traveling east along beautiful Sasanhaya Bay reveals sweeping coastal views and the iconic Wedding Cake Mountain. A scenic backroad drive leads past well-preserved Japanese swiveling cannons beneath a dense tropical canopy, where the calls of the endangered Marianas Crow and Marianas Fruit Dove echo through the forest.

No visit to Rota is complete without sampling local cuisine. From seasonal ayuyu (coconut crab) to kadun pika (spicy beef soup), meals are best enjoyed in the company of new friends within this warm and welcoming community.

NORTHERN ISLANDS

The rugged and remote Northern Islands remain largely uninhabited and accessible only by boat. Here, true adventurers can hike across raw volcanic landscapes, walk among ancient latte stone ruins from early Chamorro settlements, and experience the untamed beauty of nature in its purest form.

FAR FROM ORDINARY FINDS

Beautiful, tropical beaches may be found across the globe, but the Marianas offer experiences to energize the body, stimulate the mind, and stir the heart. These islands are more than postcard-perfect shores — they are living stories, where culture, history, and nature intertwine in ways that invite every visitor to slow down and connect.

Despite centuries of foreign rule and a diverse modern history, indigenous traditions remain to be explored by the curious visitor. On Rota, the largest Chamorro latte stones ever discovered rise at As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry, silent guardians of an ancient past. Tinian is home to the legendary House of Taga, where the largest standing stones in the Marianas stand tall against time. In Saipan, Carolinian maritime traditions are shared openly — canoes glide across the lagoon to the rhythm of wind and waves, artisans shape wood with traditional skills, and locals pass on wisdom preserved through generations.

For bird lovers, the islands are a sanctuary of rare encounters. Listen for the call of the critically endangered Marianas Crow found only on Rota, or the sweet song of the Tinian Monarch found only on Tinian. In Saipan, the reed warbler sings its island-exclusive melody. With luck, the vibrant plumage of the endangered Marianas Fruit Dove or the shimmer of the Golden White-eye may be glimpsed — treasures of the Marianas forest.

Far offshore lies another wonder: the Mariana Trench, Earth’s deepest frontier. Nearly 11 kilometers (36,070 feet) below the surface, it is a place of crushing pressure, icy darkness, and extraordinary lifeforms that thrive where few humans have ventured. Its mystery mirrors the islands themselves — extreme, resilient, and awe-inspiring.

The Marianas are a land of contrasts and harmony, where extremes of geography and history converge to create balance. Every visitor is offered not just a vacation, but a chance to rediscover connection — with nature, with community, and with themselves.

It was a wedding that propelled me to the Thai island of Koh Samui in 2015. Perched off the east coast of the Kra Isthmas, Thailand, with its pristine stretches of sand and warm turquoise waters, I found it a perfect location for tying the knot. Once the wedding festivities subsided, I stayed on a week longer to explore. I found the little island surpassed my expectations, offering an array of experiences that often came by surprise. Having blended the initial pampering sessions and serenity of the ceremonial affairs with spontaneous wilderness explorations, temple tours with a local and a sunset kayaking session, I found Koh Samui to be pretty all-encompassing. I feel it has something for everyone, and here’s why:

1. It serves the romantics. My sister’s wedding couldn’t have been more beautiful and unique. The affair took place at Sareeraya Villas and Suites in Chaweng, in front of one of many beachside resorts. Thai drummers led the bridal party to a canopy on the beach that housed the ceremony, backed by the ocean. After the “I do’s”, an elephant joined for photographs. Fire dancers wrapped the evening. Though Chaweng is the busiest area, the beachfront set-up caters for peace and relaxation. Wooden huts line the sand, where Thai massages and the likes of facials or manicures are a-plenty. Several small restaurants are dotted in between. The sunsets along this slip are gorgeous. You can enjoy them with a Mai Tai, watching as the dusk gives way to balmy evenings, the lulling sound of waves ever-present.
   (Above: A perfect backdrop for tying the knot.)
2. It excites the socialites. Along that same main strip, an opposing world exists: one for those who fancy a bit of nightlife. After-all, Koh Samui’s nightlife is world-renown, owing to its beach bars, discos and the infamous full-moon party. If you’re lively after dusk, then you will enjoy Chaweng’s diversity, from sophisticated restaurants to Thai dancing and transgender cabaret shows.
   I happened to arrive in Chaweng on the week of Thailand’s Water Festival (Songkran), the celebration of Buddhist New Year that permits a national week-long water fight.
3. It pleases the R & R’s (rest and relaxation goers.) Being a tropical island, relaxation is inevitable. I enjoyed daily massages and swims in the ocean whilst staying at Chaweng. Chaweng Beach is approximately 7km long, so gentle days can easily be spent walking its soft sands. One evening we hired kayaks, and slowly explored the shoreline.
   (Above: Chaweng Beach.)
   After the week of the wedding, a friend and I relocated to the north, where we stayed at the first-class Prana Resort, Nandana. A sharply seclusive and quiet location in comparison, the luxury of this beachside resort was a treat, with its rooftop restaurant and private spa. Sunbathing with a book was broken up with dips in the pool and relaxing sessions in the spa.
   (Above: Prana Resort, Nandana.)
4. It caters for the adventurous. I discovered this to be true through a couple of spontaneous outings. One was an impromptu visit to Samui Go-Kart. Set amidst one of the island’s coconut groves, people of all ages can enjoy this opportunity to let loose and put pedal to the floor. Second was Namuang Waterfall, a “secret waterfall” by word of recommendation. We had a driver drop us at the supposed location, an elephant park, where this mysterious waterfall apparently lay 20 minutes beyond. Walking through the jungle (cobra sighting included), we arrived at the foot of the most magical waterfall I’ve seen. Crossing small drawbridges along the way, we climbed up the waterfall, stopping at a great pool where we swam beneath its downpour. To top it off, we had a go on the Namuang waterslide, which shoots you down so quickly that you lose your breath.
5. It pleases the shoppers. Near to our resort in Nandana was the Fisherman’s Market, which comes to life every Friday at Fishermans Village, Bophut. I thoroughly enjoyed perusing the diverse range of jewellery, handbags, clothing and souvenirs, all on offer at very low prices. Though many dubious goods can be found, there are exceptions, and the lively atmosphere makes for a good experience. Quality, authentic Thai dishes can be bought from the stalls as well.
   Second to this, Chaweng is great for bazaar-like shops selling DVDs and electronics, beachwear, clothes and souvenirs.
6. It feeds the culture-hungry. A drive around the North-East part of the island bought us some unique sites. Big Buddha temple is a golden shrine perched majestically on the headland. Golden Pagoda sits just around the corner. The area is Godly, showcasing vibrant colours and richly detailed sculptures. For a genuine experience, you can watch Thai boxing nearby. In Chaweng I went along to a transgender cabaret, a famous part of the culture. If you follow local recommendations, you will be able to find the best places for authentic Thai food. (You’ll notice the difference when you do!)
   

   (Below: Golden Pogoda.)

   Koh Samui is Thailand’s second biggest island and a cosmopolitan hotspot, thus allowing for the craze and culture of Phuket or Bangkok. Given that it is an island, however, you’ll still experience the seclusion and serenity of palm-fringed beaches and that tropical island feel. Koh Samui attracts budget travellers and wealthy holidaymakers alike, thanks to the fact it’ll enthral all types!

Bali has become a famous holiday destination, seeing a vast and sudden increase in popularity these past 25 years. The Indonesian island, just 5,780 km in size, is of particular interest thanks to its unique, rich culture, friendly locals, surf, excellent weather and gorgeous, diverse scenery. In summary, I’d say Bali is that typical tropical experience with a twist; the twist being the indelible little idiosyncrasies in the landscape and culture that make Bali both a place of relaxation but also one of exciting foreign exploration.

I was immediately hooked by Bali when I first went there in 2004. I haven’t since been able to shut up about the place to anyone who asks. Due to a three day flight delay the first time around, I was blessed with free tickets to return the following September. With two visitations under my belt, here’s what I deem the best bits, and the reasons one wants to go back… again, and again:

That tropical experience. Remembering Bali, I first think of the dense, humid air that carries hints of frangipani and the smoke from incense carriers, left in offering on the streets. I think of the huge contrast between the air-conditioned inside of my hotel room, to the blast of heat that hits you when you step outside. I’m then reminded of the 28 degree ocean, with it’s colourful fish and (harmless!) sea snakes. Sarongs, fresh fruit, coconut and banyan tree’s also spring to mind. If you’re after that tropical experience, Bali ticks all the boxes.

The unique culture. Those incense carriers I mentioned (canang sari) are an indication of the unique Balinese culture, that which makes it memorable. Bali is a predominantly Hindu country. These daily offerings are seen smoking outside temples, shops and houses. They line the streets and smell glorious. They are made by Balinese Hindus in praise and prayer.

Art is omnipresent in Bali, where they make art out of the basics of everyday life, most of which seem to have an underlying spiritual offering.

I adore the quirky Balinese Gamelan music, which you’ll often hear playing in restaurants and shops.  Balinese dancing is a must-see, a beautiful and gentle expression of Balinese nature. Dancers will often perform at hotels and local restaurants, where you may be invited to dance too!
The architecture, with the jagged outlines of roofs, and the detailed woodwork and tile that forms the buildings, demonstrates the great care and effort that goes into all that the Balinese do. There are some uniquely atmospheric temples to see in Bali. One of many that I visited was Besakih Temple, a lovely architectural illustration.
The landscape. Akin the culture is the varied landscape. Bali seems to have everything, from volcanoes (Kintamani, for one) to rice fields. Nusa Dua, the peninsular in the south of the island where I stayed, hosts a long, white-sand beach, and there are several more that form the perimeters. Amed black sand beach makes for an interesting contrast, a somewhat secret location in the North-East, also known for its great snorkelling and diving! I’ll mention here that snorkelling is another must in Bali. My favourite spot was Tulamben Beach, where you can see an old ship wreck, surrounded by stunning coral gardens.

The food. I still get cravings for nasi goreng, a rice-based dish, and mei goreng (the difference being noodles). These are Bali’s delicious signature dishes. Bintang is Bali’s beer- a great one to cool off, whilst having a chat with the locals. There was always an abundance of fresh fruits available at breakfast. The Balinese cater well for Westerners. I’ve never had tastier banana pancakes than those at Shangri la, Candidasa! I’m putting it down to that care and effort prior mentioned, which leads me to-
The hospitality. The Balinese are warm, gentle and welcoming people. I found them to have a good sense of humour, and had a laugh with them on several occasions. They are generous and keen to share their culture. They provide comfortable and luxurious hospitality. I stayed at Peninsular Beach Resort in Nusa Dua, known for it’s enclave of 5 star resorts stretched along the white sand of the southern coast. Here, I enjoyed morning walks along the beach and afternoons by the pool. On more adventurous days, I dabbled in water sports: jet skis and banana boats. A ride on a glass bottom boat took me to Turtle Island, where I dodged turtles in their attempts to nibble my toes!
Shangri la Resort in Candidasa, on the East coast, provided a quainter, more serene experience. Resting on the edge of a large freshwater lagoon, I took walks in the town, perusing local shops.

The arts and crafts. Bali is known for it’s woodwork, textiles and paintings. Ubud is Bali’s artistic centre, where you can observe skilled artists as they carve, weave and piece together exquisite items of uniquely crafted silver jewellery. A perk to Bali, as with many South-East Asian countries, is the affordability of it all- especially if you barter! You can support the locals through purchasing their work without hurting your wallet.

The adventure. I loved the contrast between relaxation and adventure. Whilst I spent a good handful of days quietly soaking up the culture, I found there was also an enormous amount of fun to be had. The Elephant Safari Park in Taro is a must, which we coupled with white-water rafting down the Ayung River, amidst the rainforest. If slides are your thing, Bali’s Water Bomb is one of the best waterparks in the world. Bali is also known for a handful of good surf spots, particularly along the sandy south-west coast.

Bali was as close to paradise as I feel I’ve ever gotten; the entire experience encompassed me. The richness of the sites and smells left a profound impression on my senses. Just two weeks on this beautiful island, and I returned feeling deeply rejuvenated, which is what a holiday should do.

Where to stay:

• Lifestyle Retreats
• Puri Villas Indonesia
• Nusa Dua & Tanjung Benoa
  • Ayodya Resort Bali
  • Grand Hyatt Bali
  • INAYA Putri Bali
  • Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa, Bali
• Jimbaran & Uluwatu
  • The Edge
• South Kuta & Legian
  • The ANVAYA Beach Resort
• Seminyak & Canggu
  • W Bali – Seminyak
  • The Seminyak
  • The Samaya Seminyak
  • Ametis Villa
  • Amadea Resort & Villas
  • The Trans Resort Bali
  • Kembali Villas
  • Nagisa Bali Villa Management
  • Villa Air Bali Boutique Resort & Spa
  • Javana Bali Villas
• Sanur
  • Hyatt Regency Bali
• Ubud
  • Viceroy Bali
  • Hanging Gardens Of Bali
  • The Royal Pita Maha
  • The Samaya Ubud
  • Griya Shanti Villas & Spa
  • Sanctoo Suites & Villas
  • The Kayon Jungle Resort
  • The Kayon Resort
  • Dwaraka Villas
  • Kupu Kupu Barong Villas
  • Senetan Villas
• North Bali & Other Regions
  • Tauch Terminal Resort Tulamben & Spa
  • Balitamansari Hotels

Films such as Blue Lagoon (shot on Turtle Island, Fiji) and Cast Away (Monuriki, Fiji) have painted that typical image of an island paradise: white stretches of sand, coconut groves, and a clear sky reflecting turquoise waters. Such an image speaks perfection: luxury, peace and serenity. We endeavour to find such a place, to lose ourselves in its simplicity and beauty and let it wash away the complexities and demands of our daily lives. When I first visited Fiji one September, I was met with the reality of this visualisation. I found it to be true.

I spent the first week at Plantation Island Resort, a vibrant hub on the 553-acre Malolo LaiLai Island off Fiji’s South West coast. Nicknamed the “island of dreams”, it embraced tropical gardens, endless expansions of white sand and clear waters teeming with exotic sea-life.
We got there via a boat ride from Denarau (25 minutes from the airport) and were colourfully greeted by a clad of drummers and dancers, grass-skirts a-plenty. The resort was spread along the beach, fully embracing the charm of that picturesque ocean view. We stayed amidst the coconut trees, in a straw-roofed beachside hut. The accommodation was fresh and comfortable, the perk being the ability to walk out the door and almost directly onto the beach.

(Above: Greeted warmly by the island’s staff and locals.)

A central restaurant area sat at the forefront, overlooking the catamarans and kite-surfers enjoying the water. We discovered several other beachside restaurants within walking distance of the resort, with an abundant selection, from seafood to curries. Plantation Resort itself, however, offers a food package, which allows you to enjoy the succulent goods of its buffet.

There is a diverse range of things to do and see, from walks and solitude to water sports’, a game of tennis or scuba diving. Having snorkelled in a few locations in the Southern Hemisphere, I found Fiji’s most memorable. We were escorted out to a sand bar, where we discovered a world of ocean flora and tropical fish. I recommend sourcing a waterproof camera, as you’ll want to revisit the unique sights you’ll see!

On another occasion, we took a boat ride to a section of the island where the locals lived and traded home-made trinkets. Here I grasped a snapshot of Fiji’s authenticity.  Another lazy afternoon was spent kayaking around the blue water lagoon, capturing glimpses of the fish or masses of coral along the way.

We were surprised by fire dancers one evening whilst enjoying dinner and drinks on the beach. Vibrancy and a warm reception never failed to impress. Diversity also never ceased. When recalling my time on Malolo LaiLai Island, ‘colourful’ and ‘satiating’ are the words that come to mind. I believe many of Fiji’s island’s would offer a similar experience, catering for families, individuals or romantic’s alike, in search of that dreamy island holiday.

I spent the second week at the Outrigger Beach Resort, on Fiji’s Coral Coast. The Outrigger was everything 5-star accommodation promises to be, with impressive interiors, spacious and impeccably maintained grounds, two large swimming pools and friendly Fijian hospitality. It boasted all the features necessary to enable the relaxation and luxury one desires from a tropical holiday.

Our room was in the main hotel block, giving a birds-eye of the tropical gardens and huts that made up the rest of the resort, as well as an open view of the vast Pacific ocean.

The resort alone was pleasant enough to mooch about, yet the beach and street beyond welcomed other visions: some touristic pleasures, but also, a taste of Fijian village life.

I recall spectacular sunsets and afternoon dips in the pool whilst gazing out at the Pacific. The resort’s Beachside Sundowner Bar offers elegant dinners and cocktails. Though for many of our meals we ventured next door to a village restaurant, drawn by the genuineness of the experience and the opportunity to chat with locals.

One day we wandered across to Kula Eco Park, a delightful reptile park housing goannas, parakeets and more. I loved holding Fred the iguana, with his inquisitive eyes and soft, textured skin.

On another occasion we drove to Biausevu Village on the mid-Coral Coast to visit a waterfall. The Village was situated inland, 4km in on a rough dirt track. We were welcomed graciously by local women, and escorted by a merry and chatty guide to the waterfall. The path was muddy due to a recent tropical storm (that are exquisite in themselves.) Therefore, we were encouraged to walk barefoot, which we did; trekking with sticks through the tranquil rainforest. We couldn’t have experienced it more authentically! It’s certainly true that “difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations,” as after a few hours we were met by the waterfall in all it’s glory. We cooled off in the pool of the waterfall and ate fresh coconut collected and cracked by our guide. It remains one of the best days of my life.

I look back on my fortnight in Fiji with longing and gratitude. Bula! is how you’re happily greeted, a word which also translates to ‘love’ and ‘life.’ I feel it’s a perfect word to summarise it’s birthplace. I also feel that returning to Fiji would be returning to paradise.

Kuta is the best known tourist resort area on the island of Bali in Indonesia and has a great surfing beach.

Here, tourists and locals alike come together to surf, take evening strolls and share a cold beer, making for a perpetually relaxed and fun-loving atmosphere. We recommend bringing a beach towel and settling in for sunset views around 6pm. If higher viewing points are more your thing, you may prefer to watch the sunset against Bali’s iconic Tanah Lot temple.

Not only is Kuta Beach a top sight to see whilst in the area, the amount of things to do here are limitless. Start by sun bathing on the buzzing beach, then get your hair braided or enjoy a short Balinese massage and end your beach day on a high note with a swim or some adrenaline-boosting water sports.

Aside from the beach, the famed upscale shopping mall, Beachwalk, is steps away. Featuring over 200 luxurious retail shops in an open-air setting, guests of the resort enjoy easy access to the second best thing to do in Kuta – shopping. There are many local shops and markets specializing in handicrafts, artwork and souvenirs lets you see and experience the best of Kuta.

Local rugby matches can be a lot of fun, so try to catch one when you visit. Participating, however, might not be a good idea because you could get hurt unless you know what you are doing. If you want something less rough, you can head to the golf course for a round, or one of the many swimming pools for a relaxing swim.

You can catch local, Bollywood and Hollywood movies at the Damodar Theater at a very low cost and enjoy air conditioning if you want to get away from warm afternoons on the street. Beach and beachside activities are not very common and easily available.

For shopping, you can check out either the municipal market or visit one of the many flea markets around the city. They offer interesting and beautiful good at great prices, but you will have to bargain a lot before buying to ensure you are not being overcharged.

The local cuisines has strong Indian and Chinese influences that are evident from the cuisines and the number of restaurants with these cuisines on their menu. A good chuck of the population in the city is India, and their influence on the restaurant culture does not go unnoticed. From street and small food places like Singh’s Curry House, to more upscale restaurants like Ashiyana and Maya Dhaba, there are a lot of places to get authentic and tasty Indian food.

Scott’s is known for its steaks, which are considered to be the best in all of Suva. It serves high end European cuisine. There are places where you can buy excellent fish and chips, bistros with all day breakfast menus, and coffee shops with great snacks and finger foods. If you are looking for something less expensive, head to the food courts at Tapoo and MHCC. They have a good variety in cuisines and are very affordable. McDonalds also makes its presence felt in the city with two outlets.