Tom Bradley

Take the THSR high-speed rail from Taipei to Chiayi (90 min), then the Alishan Forest Railway from Chiayi station—the famous zigzag climb through forests. Book the forest railway weeks ahead online. Alternatively, stay in Chiayi overnight and catch an early bus to Alishan; it takes 2 hours but passes through tea plantations.

on Getting from Taipei to Alishan - what's the most scenic route with no car?

Explore the white‑washed village of Monsaraz, the cork forests of the Alentejo Natural Park, and the historic town of Évora’s Chapel of Bones. Rent a bike to discover quiet vineyards and stunning plains off the main tourist trail.

on What hidden gems should I visit in Portugal’s Alentejo region?

Most street vendors use fresh ingredients and high heat cooking, which makes food safe, but choose stalls with high turnover and avoid raw salads if you have a sensitive stomach. Carry hand sanitizer and stay hydrated.

on Are there any health concerns when eating street food in Bangkok?

Petra is generally safe for solo women, but it’s wise to travel with a reputable guide, especially after dark, and to stay aware of your surroundings.

on Is it safe for solo female travelers to explore Petra alone?

Start by offering about 50‑60% of the asking price and smile while negotiating; a friendly tone keeps the interaction light. If the seller won’t budge, thank them and walk away—often they’ll call you back with a better price.

on Tip: How can I haggle effectively in Marrakech’s souks without offending vendors?

US passport holders enjoy visa‑free entry to Georgia for up to one year, no visa required for tourism or business. Just ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Keep a copy of your entry stamp; you may be asked to show it when leaving.

on Do I need a visa to visit Georgia as a US citizen, and how long can I stay?

Yes, spend at least 2 full days in Cusco (3,400 m) doing easy walking and drinking coca tea before the trek. Most altitude sickness symptoms hit within 12–24 hours and usually settle by day two. The classic 4-day Inca Trail itself tops out at 4,200 m at Dead Woman's Pass.

on Do I need acclimatisation time before hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Cusco sits at 3,400m and most trekkers feel some effects, so plan two acclimatization days there. Altitude pills like acetazolamide help but aren't mandatory — stay hydrated, avoid alcohol the first day, and chew coca leaves if uncomfortable.

on Do I need altitude sickness medicine for Machu Picchu?

You should check out the Mausoleum of Tamerlane in Shahrisabz and the Gur-i Amir Mausoleum in Samarkand. Both are grand and hold spiritual significance for Muslims.

on What are the top free attractions to visit in Uzbekistan?

Jordan is welcoming and diverse. Dress appropriately, use common sense, and enjoy exploring historical sites with local guides who can be a great companion and safety measure.

on Any tips for solo female travelers in Jordan?

Absolutely! Samarkand has a thriving arts scene and offers beautiful bazaars and historic sites like Afrasiai Madrasa.

on Is there anything interesting to do in Samarkand outside of visiting Bibi-Khanym Mosque?

Don't miss: Ubud rice terraces and yoga, Uluwatu clifftop temple and sunset, a Nusa Penida day trip and beach clubs in Seminyak/Canggu. Leave a little buffer for wandering — some of the best moments in Bali are unplanned.

on First-timer must-dos in Bali?