Posts in CITY LIFE
FOODIE FRIDAY: BURNING RICE
 

FOODIE FRIDAY: BURNING RICE

Written by Rachel Yue

Featuring: BURNING RICE

www.thatblondetravels.com


Rating: 8.5/10 (the best bibimbap I've had my entire life, but I have yet to go to South Korea)

 Website: BURNING RICE

I had heard of this place opening up in Frisco recently and had passed by it multiple times, but never got the chance to try it until recently when a couple of church family friends asked me to go with them. I did not really have high expectations for this place, but what I ended up eating here blew me away (like literally). The restaurant has a very simple and clever setup (I would call it the "Korean" Chipotle). You walk in and go up to the cashier and order your food. The menu is also very simple, which consists of just bibimbap (either hot stone bowl or regular bowl), but you can choose meat and other toppings to put in the bibimbap. The cashier will then give you a number and you can go sit down at a table. There is a self-service counter in the middle of the restaurant where you can get different types of Korean sauces, free salad, and free miso soup and seaweed vermicelli soup! There will be someone to bring you your order when it is ready. Overall, the food was delicious as I will go into more detail below and the service was top-notch. On another note, the portions are HUGE. (you can order one bowl and share between two people and be very full).

FOODIE FRIDAY-FOODIE-FOOD BLOG-DALLAS FOOD BLOG-BURNING RICE-NEW RESTAURANT-GOOD  FOOD-WINE

HERE ARE MY RATINGS FOR THE SPECIFIC ITEMS ORDERED:

 LA Kalbi Regular Bowl (pictured above, around $11): this is more like a salad type dish that is not hot). The toppings for this one included zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, and an egg on top. The kalbi at this place is one of the most well-cooked I've had in my life. The kalbi (korean short rib) didn't have a lot of fat in it and was all meat, and it was grilled and marinated to perfection. I enjoyed the regular bowl, but I prefer my bibimbap hot rather than cold.

 Bulgogi Hot Stone Bowl (pictured above, around $10): this is what I prefer in terms of the food being in this sizzling hot stone bowl with rice at the bottom. The bulgogi was very delicious, seasoned and cooked perfectly as well. This bowl consisted of carrots, zucchini, mushroom, spinach, kimchi, and bean sprouts. I love the crispy rice at the bottom. I would recommend getting this hot stone bowl more than the regular bowl unless you prefer eating a cold dish vs. hot dish. I would also recommend getting the LA Kalbi with the hot stone bowl and adding all the toppings onto it.

FOODIE FRIDAY-FOODIE-FOOD BLOG-DALLAS FOOD BLOG-BURNING RICE-NEW RESTAURANT-GOOD  FOOD-WINE

Pineapple Kalbi Steak Hot Stone Bowl (around $11): Another meat choice is something called pineapple kalbi steak, which is basically pineapple with kalbi meat without the bone. If you want something both savory and sweet then I would recommend this choice of meat. The toppings are similar to the ones mentioned above. This was also very delicious as the meat was tender and grilled to perfection with some sesame seeds sprinkled on top. 

 Please check out this place if you LOVE bibimbap. I promise it won't disappoint! 


About me:

I fell in love with food and all the intricacies about it at an early age and after that my passion for food just kept growing. Two of my favorite things to do if I’m not training for a marathon is checking out a variety of restaurants (after doing a lot of research and studying the menus way beforehand=p) and trying out new recipes. My favorite cuisines are Japanese and Cuban but I’m always excited to try a variety of cuisines. Be sure to check out my Instagram page for frequent stories of endless food adventures!

Follow me: @rachrun11 


 
ULTIMATE ICELAND RING ROAD ADVENTURE
 
Iceland-land of fire and ice-ring road adventure-ring road-self drive-hiking-active travel-travel-adventure travel-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-traveling
Iceland-land of fire and ice-ring road adventure-ring road-self drive-hiking-active travel-travel-adventure travel-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-traveling

ICELAND - the land of FIRE and ICE. When I first starting looking into going to Iceland, I was entranced by it’s natural beauty and the idea of being in a remote area and having it all to myself.


ICELAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY:
DAY 1: Arrive into Reykjavik + Golden Circle
DAY 2: Fimmvörðuháls Hiking Trail
DAY 3: Seljalandsfoss + Skogafoss Waterfalls
DAY 4: Svartifoss + Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
DAY 5: Lake Mytvan
DAY 6: Dettifoss + Husavik + Godafoss
DAY 7: Kolugljúfur Canyon + Snaefellsnes Peninsula
DAY 8: Glymur Waterfall + Reykjavik + Blue Lagoon
DAY 9: Leave Iceland for home

Iceland-land of fire and ice-ring road adventure-ring road-self drive-hiking-active travel-travel-adventure travel-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-traveling

Arrive into Reykjavik and head to pick up your camper van at Cozy Campers. Grocery shop at the local Bónus. Once you’re loaded up and comfortable, head out to begin your roadtrip!

TIP: It is recommended to get to know your camper van and rest before heading out on the Ring Road. We had limited time to explore so we headed out immediately.

Begin your week long Iceland adventure with the Golden Circle Drive. Along the way, you will check out Flosagjá fissure, Öxarárfoss Waterfall, Geysir - Geothermal area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin). This drive takes about 4 to 6 hours to complete.

End day one with the Reykjadalur hike - ~45 min to 1 hr hike that ends in a hot spring river!

Iceland-land of fire and ice-ring road adventure-ring road-self drive-hiking-active travel-travel-adventure travel-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-traveling

Iceland-land of fire and ice-ring road adventure-ring road-self drive-hiking-active travel-travel-adventure travel-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-traveling

This morning drive to Seljalandsfoss/Gljúfrabúi base for the Fimmvörðuháls Hiking Trail (25 km trail; 15.5 miles) if you’re feeling up to it with Southcoast Adventures. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can do one of their superjeep tours thru Þórsmörk.


Solheimasandur Plane Crash

Get up early this morning and beat the crowds to see Seljalandsfoss. While there, continue north to the waterfall Gljúfrabúi, which is found partially hidden behind a rock face. The rest of the morning is spent sightseeing - Seljavallalaugh Swimming Pool, Skogafoss, Solheimasandur Plane Crash, Loftsalahellir Cave, Dyrhólaey, and Reynisdrangar.


 
Iceland-land of fire and ice-ring road adventure-ring road-self drive-hiking-active travel-travel-adventure travel-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-traveling
 

After all the beautiful sights, head into Vik to have a yummy lunch at Halldorskaffi.

Continue on from Vik, stopping at Laufskálavarða, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (3 km round trip hike), and Systrafoss.

End the day at Skaftafell campground, which is the perfect location to begin tomorrow’s adventure!


Today starts bright and early in Skaftafell National Park with a 3.4 km hike to Svartifoss (Black Falls) and Sjónarsker viewpoint.

TIP: If you have time to burn, then spend an entire day in Skaftafell National Park. There are tons of hikes in this area!

Svartifoss

Svartifoss

After your hike, head to the town of Hof to get some groceries and then continue to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Next is the town of Höfn for lunch at Pakkhús Restaurant and stop at Hoffell hot tubs if you have time.

After lunch, take Scenic Fjord Route 92 towards Egilsstaðir. Along the way, you will see, Djúpivogur (Lighthouse), Breiðdalsvík, and Litlanesfoss/Hengifoss (40 min detour for a 2.5 km hike).


Starting off over half way around the Iceland Ring Road today! Head over to the Lake Mytvan area for today’s sights!

Dimmuborgir Lava formations

LAKE MYTVAN SIGHTS:
Leirhnjukur Lava Fields and Geothermal Area
Krafla/Viti Crater
Myvatn Nature Baths
Grjotagja Lava Cave and Geothermal Spring
Dommuborgir hike to Hverfjall Cinder Cone and Crater
Dimmuborgir Lava formations and “The Church”
Skutustadir Pseudocraters

Dettifoss

This morning head to Dettifoss, which is said to be the most powerfull waterfall in Iceland.

Stretch your legs on a 5.5 mile hike to see Hafragilsfoss and Ásbyrgi Canyon both located in Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon or Vatnajökull National Park.

Stop in Husavik for lunch and a whale tour if you have time.

After lunch, head to Godafoss via scenic route I-85 (~40 min off the ring road).


 
Godafoss
 

Once you leave Godafoss, you will head to the town of Akureyri where you can spend some time exploring Akureyrarkirkja church.

Last stop of the day is Sundlaugin á Hofsósi (Hot pool by the ocean) for some relaxation.


Begin the morning with a short drive to Grettislaug Pool, then spend some time relaxing and enjoying your last day on the ring road!

Once you’re good and relaxed, head over to Kolugljúfur Canyon for some breathtaking views.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is your next stop and where you will camp out tonight.

 
Arnarstapi

SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA SIGHTS:
Gerðuberg Cliffs
Búðakirkja
Budhahraun
Arnarstapi
Snæfellsjökull
Londrangar
Djúpalónssandur beach
Saxhóll Crater
Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufell
Berserkjahraun


Today is your last day in Iceland and we are going to make the most of it! Leaving the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, head towards Glymur Waterfall (~2 hour drive) for a short waterfall hike.

 
Glymur Waterfall
 

Grab lunch and head out to Reykjavik. If you have time, why not do a free walking tour of the city. If not make sure to check out these well-known sights: Sun Voyager Sculpture, Harpa Cultural Center, and Hallgrimskirkja Church.

 

TIP: Don't miss the hot dogs at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur! They are world famous!

Reykjavik

Finally, drop off your trusty van and head out to the Blue Lagoon. Why not treat yourself after spending an entire week in a campervan? Tonight, we are having dinner at the Moss Restaurant, which was recently recommended by the 2019 Michelin Guide, followed by a stay at the Silica Hotel.

Your stay includes entrance into the Blue Lagoon as well as a mud mask. Treat yo-self!

 
Blue Lagoon, Iceland
 

Say your final goodbyes to Iceland and head to the airport for home today.


This is the itinerary that I have planned for my husband and I’s trip to Iceland at the end of August. If you have any suggestions as to anything that we MUST see or do, please leave them in the comments below! I know that this is an over-zealous itinerary so I will let you know how it goes!


ABOUT ME:

I was born in Mississippi but raised a Tennessee girl! I attended undergrad at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where I received my degree in Biochemistry. I then proceeded to go to pharmacy school at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center with my last 3 years in Knoxville. (Go VOLS!) 6 years ago I followed my sweetheart to Dallas, Texas, where I have been ever since!

I am currently a practicing Inpatient Pharmacist with a love for traveling. I love to get off the beaten path and go places/do things that are not the normal “tourist” thing to do. I love hiking and adventure travel!

Follow me: @thatblondetravels


 
FOODIE FRIDAY: SACHET ALL DAY
 

FOODIE FRIDAY: SACHET ALL DAY

Written by Lauren Bailey

Featuring: Sachet

www.thatblondetravels.com


 
 

Sachet is a new Mediterranean restaurant that just opened in Highland Park. We went last weekend for a friend’s birthday!

When you first walk in, the ambiance of the place is outstanding. I loved the air plants that were hanging over the bar. We sat down at the bar while we waited for our table and ordered a couple cocktails. My husband was super excited that they had the beer Mythos because it took him back to when he visited Greece with one of his best friends. I ordered the Xoriguer Mahon to start and I was not disappointed!!

 
sachet-dallas-foodie+friday-foodie-food-dallas-texas-travel+agent-travel+blog-foodie+blog
 

Sachet was not the traditional Mediterranean food that you think of when you think Mediterranean. I felt it had a more Middle Eastern Flare. The food was very light and fresh. We did family style when ordering and by the time it came to order a main meal we were stuffed!


WHAT WE ORDERED:

MEZE:

PISTACHIO AND MARCONA

BROCCOLINI

SPICY CARROT TABBOULEH

SPICY ROASTED EGGPLANT

COMPRESSED MELON


PITAC/O YELP

PITA

C/O YELP

 

SALAD:

GREEK

APPETIZER:

PITA

ARANCINI


ARANCINIC/O YELP

ARANCINI

C/O YELP

 

PASTA:

SPICY GOAT RIGATONI

SPELT FUSILLI


SPICY GOAT RIGATONIC/O YELP

SPICY GOAT RIGATONI

C/O YELP

 

If you’re into wine, have the Sommelier come over and recommend something to you! I ordered a glass of the Belle-Vue “La Renaissance/Le Chateau” Cabernet, Mt. Lebanon, Lebanon 2011. It was so refreshing and light. I am a huge fan of red wine, specifically Pinot Noir, and when we were in Budapest I had one that was amazing. That is all I said to the Sommelier and he delivered!

if you’ve been thinking about checking Sachet out, then do it ASAP! 😋

See my review on Yelp!


About me:

I'm a full-time pharmacist that loves to travel whenever I get the chance and eat great food while doing so!

Follow me: @thatblondetravels


Dallas-Texas-City-Skyline-Food-Eating-Travel-US
 
FOODIE FRIDAY: MEMPHIS VEGAN EATS PART 2
 

FOODIE FRIDAY: MEMPHIS VEGAN EATS PART 2

Featuring Global Cafe, City Silo, RP Tracks

Written by Ashton Few

www.thatblondetravels.com


memphis-vegan-foodie friday-memphis eats-tennessee-food

Global Cafe is another fabulous restaurant at Crosstown Concourse. They offer Syrian, Sudanese, and Venezuelan food made fresh by immigrants and refugees. Not only are you eating delicious food with fresh ingredients, but you are also helping to transform the lives of the ones that work there.

memphis-vegan-foodie friday-memphis eats-tennessee-food

Not everything is vegan or vegetarian so don't go in and order one of everything, but I do suggest getting one of every vegan thing! The falafel and hummus are the absolute best! Grab some stuffed grape leaves, the traditional Venezuelan meal, a yummy drink from the bar, and enjoy them outside if the weather permits. Most items are made vegan and then you can add meat, but be sure to ask!

memphis-vegan-foodie friday-memphis eats-tennessee-food

Mostly vegetarian but also offers local farm raised chicken, City Silo is the perfect spot to go with your friends that think they can't have a meal without meat. Compromise, right?

C/O MRS HIPPIES BAKED GOODS

C/O MRS HIPPIES BAKED GOODS

It is difficult to pick a favorite salad because they are all SO. GOOD. If I am eating out, I don't typically pick a salad because, when you're vegan, you can usually make it better at home. After your remove all of the toppings that aren't vegan, you are often left with lettuce and oil and vinegar dressing. The salads here are not those salads! Make a small modification to make it vegan and you will still have plenty of toppings to satisfy all of your cravings. You will not be disappointed by any of their burgers or sandwiches (get the vegan bun) either. I can't begin to tell you how delicious the BBQ Bowl and Buffalo Tempeh + Sesame Cauliflower Bowl are! Pick a base of quinoa, brown rice, or zucchini noodles with any of these. City Silo also has smoothies, juices, acai bowls, kombucha, coffee, local beer, wine, cocktails, and more. You might want to visit this place twice in one day!

C/O BIANCA PHILLIPS

C/O BIANCA PHILLIPS


I may have saved the best for last because you can't beat the BBQ Tofu at R.P. Tracks.

C/O @lacomidajeremie

C/O @lacomidajeremie

If your meat-eating friends have a taste of this, they will regret ordering anything else. The BBQ Tofu Nachos are always a favorite (you could share these, but you will not want to!) but be sure to order without cheese and sour cream for the vegan version.

You can get the BBQ Tofu in a quesadilla, a sandwich, or as sticks. Speaking of sticks, you can get these lemongrass style or buffalo. They even have Imagine Vegan Cafe ranch for dipping! If a burger is what you're feeling, the Veggie Melt is a patty melt with a Beyond burger patty (go sans cheese for vegan). They even have the Beyond Brat so you can order their Homewrecker Dog.

memphis-vegan-foodie friday-memphis eats-tennessee-food
memphis-vegan-foodie friday-memphis eats-tennessee-food

You'll want a side of waffle fries and regular fries, because who can choose?! Wash it all down with a local draft beer such as Meddlesome's 201 Hoplar. This place stays open until 3:00 AM so it's great for those late-night munchies!

memphis-vegan-foodie friday-memphis eats-tennessee-food
memphis-vegan-foodie friday-memphis eats-tennessee-food

While Memphis may not have a ton of options for vegans, they are evolving daily and restaurants are becoming more aware of the demand for plant-based menu options. Memphis is a great city with lots of history, multiple venues with local and world-famous musicians playing nightly, great food, eclectic people, and good ole southern charm! It's worth adding to your travel list at least once!


About me:

Hey there, I’m Ashton! I’m 30 years old and living in Memphis, TN with my hubby and adorable Frenchie, Psilo! I love traveling anywhere our RV will take us, and places far beyond. I have recently found a love of yoga and can’t wait to see where that takes me! I have always had a passion for food so I love getting creative and making vegan versions of childhood favorites for our family!

Follow me: @smashton901


vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday
 
FOODIE FRIDAY: MEMPHIS VEGAN EATS PART 1
 

FOODIE FRIDAY: MEMPHIS VEGAN EATS PART 1

Featuring Imagine Vegan Cafe and Crosstown Arts Cafe

Written by Ashton Few

www.thatblondetravels.com


vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday

Being vegan or vegetarian in, arguably, the BBQ capital is not always easy, but these five restaurants give you more than the go-to of a bland salad and fries. If you think you can't eat your southern comfort foods just because you're vegan, these restaurants will quickly prove you wrong!

vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday
vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday

First up is the only completely vegan restaurant, Imagine Vegan Cafe. Their menu may say things like steak burger, cheese, and bacon but no animal products can be found in any of their food. Their menu urges you to go ahead and order whatever you want since it's all vegan and, trust me, you will want some of everything!

vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday

With that being said, the Appetizer Sampler is a great start to give you a little of a lot of things: Dogs 'n Blankets, Potato Skins, Wings, Chicken Nuggets, and Hush-puppies! You don't want to leave here without getting the Cheese Sticks, though! They are house breaded and deep fried and absolutely amazing! You better come hungry because the Chicken Drumsticks are a must as well! These are also house breaded and deep fried and the guys at Imagine do it right! They make and bottle their own honey mustard and ranch dressing and you'll want one of each for those drumsticks, and a bottle of each to take home! Leave a little room for dessert or take some home with you if you're too stuffed.

vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday
vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday

Next up is Crosstown Arts Cafe at Crosstown Concourse. This cafe is vegetarian, but they label everything that is vegan (as well as gluten free) and most items can be made vegan with a simple modification. Crosstown Concourse is an amazing space with restaurants, a brewery, shopping, living spaces, and more. If you are in Memphis, this is a must see! Take some time to visit each area, admire the art, and read about the history of the building. There are some really cool things here!

Crosstown Arts Cafe has an ALWAYS menu, and a TODAY menu with specials of the day. I recommend getting “Let's hear it faux the boy” off the ALWAYS menu. It's a fried oyster mushroom po' boy with lettuce, tomato, onion, and remoulade on a baguette. You're still in Memphis, but you'll think you've jumped a train to New Orleans! The Big Ass Salad changes daily and always delivers. Since the TODAY menu is always changing, I can't tell you what to get, but I can tell you that I have loved every single thing I ever had here. Seriously, it's all ridiculously good! If they happen to have fried green tomatoes, don't miss out on these! Grab a sweet treat off the counter if you have room for dessert!

While Memphis may not have a ton of options for vegans, they are evolving daily and restaurants are becoming more aware of the demand for plant-based menu options. Memphis is a great city with lots of history, multiple venues with local and world-famous musicians playing nightly, great food, eclectic people, and good ole southern charm! It's worth adding to your travel list at least once!


About me:

Hey there, I’m Ashton! I’m 30 years old and living in Memphis, TN with my hubby and adorable Frenchie, Psilo! I love traveling anywhere our RV will take us, and places far beyond. I have recently found a love of yoga and can’t wait to see where that takes me! I have always had a passion for food so I love getting creative and making vegan versions of childhood favorites for our family!

Follow me: @smashton901


vegan-memphis, tn-memphis eats-foodie friday
 
HOW TO PLAN AN ULTIMATE THAILAND ITINERARY
 

HOW TO PLAN AN ULTIMATE THAILAND ITINERARY

www.thatblondetravels.com

Written by: Lauren Bailey

If you have any suggestions for can’t miss places to see or places to eat, please leave them in the comments below!


Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia

When I was in school, I spent an amazing 5 weeks in Thailand learning about their hospital system and pharmacy practices. It was such an amazing 5 weeks that I have been dying to go back ever since I left. The people, the food, the scenery were all so amazing and all came together to make an ever-lasting impression on my mind and heart.

Outlined below is my version of the ultimate Thailand itinerary with some can’t miss stops along the way.

Phuket, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia
Phuket, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia

PROPOSED 11 DAY/10 NIGHT ITINERARY

Here’s what a typical 11 day Thailand itinerary looks like:

Bangkok (2 nights)

Chiang Mai (3 nights)

Chiang Rai (1 night)

Phuket (4 nights)

Total days: 11

Phuket-Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai-Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia

BANGKOK

Where to stay:

Riva Surya Bangkok

Anantara Riverside Bangkok

Grand Hyatt Erawan

What to do:

Bangkok Highlights: City, Temples and Klong Tour:
In the morning, visit two of the most impressive sights in the city. The Reclining Buddha at Wat Po is an enormous Buddha covered in gold leaf, lying majestically on its side. The Grand Palace has no equal and is a must-see for every visitor to Bangkok. Built by King Rama I in 1782, it was the centre of power for more than 150 years; today it is Bangkok's most celebrated landmark. Within the compound is the Temple of The Emerald Buddha - Wat Pra Kaew - which houses Thailand's most precious image of the Lord Buddha.

In the afternoon, travel along the picturesque Chao Phraya River through the klongs (canals) of Thonburi. Observe and photograph the serene family homes and temples along the waterways which gave the city the name Venice of the East. Finally, pay a visit to one of the city's most photographed sites, the shimmering Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). The majestic shrine has a pagoda of 79m high. It is decorated with glazed ceramic pieces that reflect the sun's rays and give the temple its name.

Phuket-Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai-Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia
Phuket-Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai-Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia

CHIANG MAI

Where to stay:

Akyra Manor

Siripanna Villa Resort and Spa

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

What to do:

Chiang Mai City Tour:

Your afternoon tour takes you around the famous city for an up-close and personal look at some of its most notable temples, as well as stops at its old city walls, gates, and moat. The highlight of this trip is Wat Pan Tao, built in the typical wooden northern-Thailand architecture, with exquisite fine carving on the eaves and door. Proceed to Wat Jet Yod with its seven spires and incredible architecture commemorating the year 2000 of the Buddha era. Then drive up to Doi Suthep to visit Wat Phra Dhat Doi Suthep (built in A.D. 1384). Wat Doi Suthep is the most sacred temple in northern Thailand, containing a holy relic of Lord Buddha.

Elephant Nature Park:

This tour begins by picking you up at your hotel in a private vehicle. Once you arrive, you will have a quick safety briefing and then you will be taken across the river to meet the magnificent elephants. These elephants have been rescued from distressing situations all over Thailand. The team at the park have worked hard towards building trust with the animals by showing them love, respect and care as many of the elephants have experienced harsh mistreatment from humans in the past. Because of this, riding the elephants is not allowed at the sanctuary.
As you meet the elephants, you will be taught basic language and signals to help to communicate and interact with the elephants throughout the day. After the group takes a break for lunch, continue practicing your elephant communication skills and walk them to the nearby river.
If time remains, you will go the Elephant Kitchen before departing from the Elephant Nature Park. In this kitchen food is prepared for the elephants. Many of the elephants that live here don't have strong digestive systems, so special food must be prepared for them.

Streetfood-Phuket-Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai-Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia
Phuket-Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai-Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia

CHIANG RAI

Where to stay:

The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

What to do:

Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: On the way, visit Hot Spring Baan Pong Nam Ron. Visit Wat Rong Khun or the "White Temple". This temple is unique from other temples in that it has been constructed entirely in a radiant white color with sparking reflections from mirrored glass mosaics embedded in the white plaster. Continue on to take a long-tailed boat cruise approximately 1 hour to visit Karen hill tribe village.

Chiang Rai to Phuket: Drive through the Golden Triangle area where the mighty Mae Khong and Ruakrivers meet, forming a natural boundary between Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. Visit the Opium Museum before moving on to the old city of Chiang Saen (A.D.1260), where you can marvel at the magnificent ancient ruins and temples. Drop off at Chiang Rai Airport for flight to Phuket

Elephant-Phuket-Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai-Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia
Phuket-Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai-Bangkok, Thailand-traveling-luxury travel-travel agent-thailand-southeast asia

PHUKET

Where to stay:

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas

Paresa Resort Phuket

Angsana Villas Resort

What to do:

Phi Phi Island Tour by Join Speedboat:

Take a speed boat to Phi Phi island. Enjoy a swim/snorkel stop at its beach. Drive to Phi Phi Ley, famous for its birds nests.

Depart for Maya Bay and Phi Phi Island. Relax at Maya Bay (where The Beach was partially filmed). Snorkel and swim in clear water at Loh Samah and Pileh Cove. Visit the Viking Cave, now home to nest producing swallows. Feed the local inhabitants at The Monkey Beach. Appreciate the magnificent marine life at the Hin Klang (Great Coral Reef). Lunch will be served at Phi Phi Natural Resort (Private beach). After lunch, explore Bamboo Island, a flat beautiful island blending white sand and very clear water. Relax on the beach or swim and snorkel. There is also a nice coral reef near the beach.

Thai Cookery School from Phuket:

Learn how to prepare your ingredients, how to portion the herbs and even a little about the effects of certain herbs.

Phang Nga Bay and Khai Island from Phuket by Speedboat:

This special full day trip offers you the excursion for exploring Phang Nga Bay and visit Khai Nai Islandby speedboat. The discovery of Phang Nga Bay will make you excited with lot of fascinating islands and limestone outcrops.

Along the bay you will enjoy with the scenic views of fauna and flora at Panak Island and and visit the amazing limestone mountains at Hong Island by canoes. This trip also offer you the visit to Tapu Island also known as James Bond Island. Afterwards go to through Mangrove swamp and pass Tham Lod Noi and Lod Yai.

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FAQS

What time of year is best to visit Thailand?
Dry season is typically between the end of November and the end of April. While Thailand's rainy season typically begins after July and runs through October, it isn’t unlikely for major storms to arrive as early as May. April and early May are considered the “hottest” season in the hot, hotter, and hottest classification of Thai climate. Temperatures can surpass 104 degrees, so if you can’t handle the heat, plan your trip for a few months earlier. [T+L]

What was your favorite city in Thailand?
My favorite city in Thailand was Chiang Mai! I loved all the night markets and delicious food. Also, it helped that it was one of the cheaper cities amid the tourist destinations in Thailand.

How long do I need for a trip to Thailand?
If you really want to experience Thailand and the culture, then I wouldn’t go for less than 10 nights. You can definitely fit in a lot in a short amount of time but you will need a vacation from your vacation when you get home!

What’s the best way to get around in Thailand?
In the city, the best way to get around is either walking or getting a Tuk-tuk to take you form A to B.

From city to city, you can take an overnight bus for very cheap. We did this to go from Chiang Mai to Bangkok for the weekend and it was super cheap! We even upgraded to first class and watched Bridesmaids in Thai.

Otherwise, flying is also available for a very reasonable price via local airlines!


This is just one example of an ultimate adventure to Thailand! There are so many places to see and so many foods to try that it is hard to put everything on a list in one place!

If you’ve been to Thailand before, leave a comment below about what your favorite thing that you did was and why!


About me:

I'm a full-time pharmacist that loves to travel whenever I get the chance.

Follow me: @thatblondetravels


Need help planning and booking your own Thailand Adventure? Send me an email!


 
FOODIE FRIDAY: WAITING FOR LUCIA
 

FOODIE FRIDAY: WAITING FOR LUCIA

Written by Lauren Bailey

Featuring: Lucia

www.thatblondetravels.com


 
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My husband and I decided to make a date night at a local restaurant called Lucia. I don’t know if you guys have ever been there, but it takes about 2 months to get a reservation! I put in my reservation for July in May!

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WHAT WE ORDERED:

For starters, they bring out homemade sourdough bread with fresh butter and sea salt. I love bread and this is seriously some of the best that I’ve ever had. The sea salt butter really kicks it up a notch!

For an appetizer, we ordered the Merry Goat Round with arugula. Fantastic!

PRIMI:

We ordered two primi courses:

Risotto bianco with shrimp, pancetta, and corn

Gnocchi with basil pesto, Texas red potato, and green beans

The gnocchi was by far my favorite thing that we ordered! Definitely give it a try! I’m not a huge fan of risotto so I’m not sure why I ordered it, but it was still delicious. If you’re not a huge risotto fan either, then give this a try and it might change your mind!

C/O YELP

C/O YELP

C/O YELP

C/O YELP

SECONDI:

We ordered A Bar N Wagyu coulotte with Texas purple hull peas, kohlrabi, soubise & salsa verde.

The meat was so tender and juicy and cooked just the way I like it!

 
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If you are thinking about trying to get a reservation at Lucia, set a reminder in your calendar to book the date that you’re looking at 2 months in advance! It is definitely worth the wait!

See my review on Yelp!


About me:

I'm a full-time pharmacist that loves to travel whenever I get the chance and eat great food while doing so!

Follow me: @thatblondetravels


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VACATION PLANNING: SOME UPDATED OPTIONS
 

VACATION PLANNING: SOME UPDATED OPTIONS

Written by Lauren Bailey

www.thatblondetravels.com


HELLO!

I am excited to announce that I have partnered with a travel wholesaler to specialize in luxury safaris and south pacific adventures! These will be custom bespoke itineraries that are tailored specifically to you!

I am working on some preliminary itineraries right now and will post some examples soon!

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You can find information about custom African vacations here. These locations include: South Africa, Botswana, Kenya/Tanzania, Uganda/Rwanda, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles/Mozambique. You can find information about budget and how long you would need for a trip to that location.

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You can find information about custom South Pacific vacations here. These locations include: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, and the Cook Islands.

I am also working on a South East Asia page as well and will update it here as soon as it is finished! These locations will include: Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos, Hong Kong, Japan, and China.


For more information, please visit the pages linked below or send me an email at lauren@thatblondetravels.com.

Thank you!


About me:

I'm a full-time pharmacist that loves to travel whenever I get the chance.

Follow me: @thatblondetravels