Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen

Asia travel specialist with over a decade of experience exploring Southeast Asia, Japan, and the Indian subcontinent. Sarah brings deep cultural knowledge and insider tips to every piece.

Articles by Sarah Chen

A dramatic alpine valley with steep limestone peaks, coniferous forest, a winding path or road, and a mountain stream, photographed under partly cloudy skies. - Photo by Mat Scott on Unsplashdestination guide

Beyond the Swiss Postcard: Hiking Slovenia's Julian Alps

Slovenia's Julian Alps deliver Matterhorn-grade drama — glacial lakes, via ferrata summits, and hut-to-hut trails — at a fraction of the Swiss Alps' price and crowds.

Sarah Chen
a city with many buildings - Photo by Ollie Tulett on Unsplashquick guide

Prague Quick Guide: Beer, Bridges & Bohemian Charm

Prague enchants with fairy-tale architecture, world-class beer culture, and remarkable affordability. Discover Gothic spires, baroque palaces, and the iconic Charles Bridge.

Sarah Chen
a pool in a backyard - Photo by Kody Goodson on Unsplashdeals promotions

Exclusive: 40% Off Santorini Luxury Villas This Summer

Score 40% off luxury Santorini villas with infinity pools and caldera views. Seven exclusive properties in Oia and Imerovigli from €3,200/week through August.

Sarah Chen
a road with mountains and a body of water - Photo by Reuben Boiser on Unsplashbest of list

Best Hiking Trails in New Zealand: A Ranked Guide

From the iconic Milford Track through pristine Fiordland to the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro, discover New Zealand's most spectacular hiking trails ranked by scenic beauty and unforgettable experiences.

Sarah Chen
White-washed buildings cascading down steep limestone cliffs above turquoise Mediterranean waters, with a fishing boat anchored in the foreground. - Photo by Ryan James Christopher on Unsplashtrip report

A Week in the Amalfi Coast: Sun, Lemons & Coastal Magic

Seven perfect days exploring Italy's most beautiful coastline, from hiking the Path of the Gods to savoring fresh pasta in clifftop villages.

Sarah Chen
A bright yellow 'LISBOA' sign in the foreground with a panoramic view of Lisbon's cityscape, including a prominent church on a hillside, the Tagus River, buildings, and green landscaping in the background. - Photo by Felicia Varzari on Unsplashdestination guide

Lisbon Quick Guide: Everything You Need for a Long Weekend

Discover Lisbon's perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy. From historic Tram 28 rides to authentic fado performances, this hillside capital offers unforgettable culture.

Sarah Chen
A TransNusa Airbus A320 aircraft with registration PK-TLB on a wet runway, with a distinctive orange-roofed building visible in the background. - Photo by Jeffry Surianto on Pexelsbreaking news

Bali Implements New Tourist Tax Starting April 2026

Bali introduces $10 tourist tax starting April 2026 for all international visitors. New fee funds sustainability and infrastructure improvements.

Sarah Chen
Terraced rice paddies with palm trees and tropical vegetation under a partly cloudy sky, showing traditional agricultural landscape typical of Southeast Asian rice-growing regions. - Photo by Stefan Meier on Unsplashtravel tips

Bali on a Budget: How to Spend Two Weeks for Under $1,000

Bali doesn't have to be expensive. Here's how to experience the island's temples, rice terraces, and beaches without breaking the bank.

Sarah Chen
A street food vendor stall with two workers in red uniforms behind an orange counter displaying food items, with Japanese katakana signage and menu boards visible above. - Photo by Polina Kuzovkova on Unsplashbest of list

Bangkok Street Food: 15 Dishes You Must Try

From fiery som tum to silky boat noodles, Bangkok's street food scene is the best in the world. Here are the essential dishes and where to find them.

Sarah Chen
A vibrant nighttime street scene in a densely packed urban entertainment district filled with neon signs in Japanese characters, crowded with pedestrians, featuring magenta and cyan neon lighting dominating storefronts and signage. - Photo by ALEXANDRE LALLEMAND on Unsplashdestination guide

The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo: Beyond the Neon Lights

Discover the hidden side of Tokyo — from serene temple gardens to underground jazz bars and neighborhood sushi counters that locals swear by.

Sarah Chen