The UK's Daily Mail previously selected the "Top 10 Most Dangerous Travel Destinations for Women," and Thailand made the list due to the tragic murder of a British couple on Koh Tao last year by foreigners. This incident elevated Thailand's danger ranking to fourth place, surpassing even Egypt, Colombia, and Mexico.
During my time on Koh Tao, I go for a brisk walk every day to stay fit and end the day with a relaxing Thai massage. However, I must admit that nothing compares to the benefits of practicing yoga. On the third day of my stay here, I found a yoga studio and didn't hesitate to walk in.
Loving Koh Samui so much is closely related to the resort where I stayed.
A few years ago, while on vacation in Hua Hin, I had my first encounter with Kung Chae Nampla at a seafood restaurant. Kung Chae Nampla is a Thai salad made from fresh raw shrimp marinated in Thai fish sauce and served with chunks of gourd, cloves of garlic, chilies, and spicy sauce. After trying it once, I couldn't forget the taste, and for the next few days, I had it with rice every evening. This time, while visiting Thailand again, especially on the island near the coast, I naturally resumed my daily ritual of enjoying this delightful dish.
Going out early and returning late, crossing mountains and rivers, and taking a four-hour round trip boat ride, all to visit the heart of the emerald green sea, nestled within Talay Nai. Here, you can explore the depths of the underwater world through diving or venture to the mountaintop for breathtaking views of the mysterious mountain lake in Ang Thong National Marine Park.
In bustling Bangkok, there are numerous night markets that make the city's vibrant nightlife. Among them, the largest and most popular tourist night market, which opens every day, is the riverside market known as "Asiatique The Riverfront" located along the Chao Phraya River.
This July, I visited Pamplona, Spain. It was my first time participating in the Running of the Bulls, and my first time witnessing up close the life-and-death struggle between the bull and the matador in the bullring. Six bulls' lives were taken right before my eyes, and the artificially created jubilation made me feel even more alienated from my surroundings.
Segovia, located to the north of Spain's capital, Madrid, boasts an old town and an aqueduct, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Acueducto de Segovia is not only the best-preserved ancient Roman relic on the Iberian Peninsula, but it is also an iconic symbol of Segovia. Two kilometers away from the aqueduct stands the Alcázar de Segovia, which gained fame as an inspiration for Disney's castles.
Every July 6th, Pamplona, Spain, plunges into nine days of revelry. The highlight of this celebration is the world-famous Running of the Bulls Festival, also known as Los Sanfermines.
Descending the stairs and tracing my fingers along the uneven stone walls, I feel a sense of history comes from the cellar.