I went to The Gambia in Spring 2019 and these are 7 Fun Facts about this small, English-speaking and fascinating, West African country. Some of these facts are probably very surprising to most people!
1. The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa
2. The only country with which The Gambia has a border is Senegal
3. In 1964, the prime minister of The Gambia said that one of the reasons they like to have ‘The’ in their name is to avoid confusion with Zambia
Lovely day at the River Gambia
4. The national football team of The Gambia is nicknamed The Scorpions.
5. People cast their votes in elections in The Gambia by dropping stones in holes.
The Gambia’s flag is red, blue and green with two white lines in between
6.The highest point of the country is Red Rock, at only 53 meters (174 feet) above sea level.
7. The Gambia has 80 kilometers (50 miles) of coastline.
In the Bijiro Forest Park in The Gambia with a lot of wild monkeys
The Gambia is such a green, sunny and beautiful destination in West Africa.. Hope to come back again!
Traveled around Iran for 12 days in 2018 and Iran is NOT what you think it is! Touring through Iran is not like visiting Disneyland, but it’s definitely safer.
Varzaneh Desert, Iran
Crazy Start To My Iran Adventure
Me and Alireza, the guy who helped me out, eating in a 400-year-old renovated bath-house, Jarchi Bashi, Iran
I had $150 on me for my 12-days Iran adventure, and what I didn’t think of what the fact it was impossible to withdraw money from any ATM’s in Iran, because of sanctions from the US. Furthermore you can’t use Whatsapp, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram etc., so it was a really worrying start that I had around $50 on me after my visa was paid for 12 days in Iran. Lucky for me I met a super friendly Iranian guy in the Airplane, who helped me out, and with this guy’s help I ended up having the most awesome time in Iran.
1. The People
With a lovely Iranian family, Isfahan, Iran
It’s important to state for me I came here solo, all costs where covered myself and I have no hidden agendas in visiting. I’m speaking my honest travel experience as always, and the Iranian people are incredible. If you take away anything from this blog post, please let it be that Persians are some of the most hospitable, kind and humble people that I’ve met in all my travels to 129 countries.
I interacted with as many locals as I could, and not once on any occasion was I disrespected or even looked at funny. I even told people that I was from Denmark, and it made them even more interested to get to know me. I was invited (dozens of times) into peoples’ houses for a cup of tea and even offered a bed to sleep in. One time in Isfahan, I walked into a tea shop in the evening and the owner wouldn’t let me leave because he wanted to talk to me all night and he kept feeding me tea! I made many good friends while in Iran, and I can’t wait to go back and visit them all someday soon. Iran is very high on my list of countries I want to return to sooner or later, and a big reason for that is the amazing people in Iran.
2. The Historical Sites
The Historical Sites in Iran will blow your mind! Hope to come back soon
Iran is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Human activity in this country dates back 40,000 years — and evidence of these ancient humans can be found in select places in Iran. My favorite historical site was the Shah Mosque in Isfahan. The ocean of turquoise and blue ceramics, with majestic patterns and architecture in Imam (Shah) Mosque of Isfahan, the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wow!
3. The Society
Talking about future and sustainable tourism in Iran, with one of the most important persons in Iran, Mr. Jebali
Being in Iran is like entering a time warp back to the 1970s or 80s (not that I was alive in those decades, but from what I know, this is how the World looked like). The models of cars on the road today don’t resemble anything modern (except for maybe a few neighborhoods in Tehran), there are NO international brands or chains anywhere to be seen except for Coca-Cola (no McDonald’s, Starbucks, Uber, Marriott, etc), and the wifi speed is very slow. You can’t use Facebook, Whatsapp etc. without a VPN!
But that all being said, it is somewhat of a refresher to be immersed in such a society, which is opposite to most countries that are overrun by tourists (like most of South East Asia). There are no scams in Iran. Life is as real and genuine as it gets.
4. The Food
Persian food is yummy
Ah, last but not least — the food! Who doesn’t travel for food? Iranian cuisine is so delicious, and you’ll most likely be invited for dinner many times. The cuisine is based on a combination of rice, meat, vegetables and nuts. Common herbs include saffron, cinnamon and parsley, and fruits include plum, pomegranate, apricots and raisins. Most of the meat takes form of a ‘kebab’ which is minced beef/lamb/chicken served on a plate alongside fresh vegetables like tomato, cucumber, olives, onion and lettuce.
5. The Love
Getting asked for a lot of photos in Iran
Iran is a country of love, not hate, when we talk about the super friendly population. I’ve been lucky to witness the breathtaking mosques, ancient history and the untouched nature. But it’s by and large the people that leave the most lasting impression. Iranians take you under their wings and their hospitality is the stuff of a legend.
Will never forget you Iran and I hope to revisit soon and travel more around this beautiful country!
Many travelers will tell you West Africa is the toughest part of the World to travel solo. I traveled West Africa solo over several months, just me and my back-pack, no own car/motorbike and with 0 flights on my trip from Senegal and all the way to Togo. Here’s what it was really like!
Lost 7 kg and reached Togo.. Senegal to Togo, MADE IT!
West Africa Is Forgotten?
On the hunt for wild chimpanzees in Liberia.. Joined by a corrupt police officer
Traveling for the sake of traveling and seeing as much of this kaleidoscope of a world we all live in is about the only reason most of us ever need to travel. Variation is always the inspiration for me. It’s amazing how different (and of course similar) life is across the globe. It’s a great feeling to know this first hand and at least get a foot on each of the World’s major regions. With this in mind, West Africa with all its mystic, alluring place names and sense of adventure is somewhere ignored… or perhaps just tucked away in a corner, way off any round-the-world ticket and just waiting to be explored.
Dangers of West Africa?
In a small village with wild crocodiles in Burkina Faso
For most English speaking travelers it’s way down the list. Let’s be fair, it’s hot, on the whole comparably expensive (flights, visas) and with few noteworthy attractions. What you’ll read about West Africa – the crime, malaria, disease, conflicts, poverty, corruption and lack of infrastructure – might also worry you to a certain extent. Having noted all this, many are still very much attracted to the region and what they imagine will be a lot of virgin ground, few travelers and many of those friendly African smiles you’ll encounter. For me traveling West Africa solo has been one of the greatest adventure travels ever!
Lots of Challenges On The Way
Getting my back fixed in Gambia for 0,30 dollars.. Lots of challenges on the way
Traveling West Africa solo with no car over a long period of time will bring you a lot of challenges. Cars will most certainly break down, there’s always complications of getting around, basic facilities, lack of tourist infrastructure, etc., and from a budget independent travel perspective is on the whole not fun, not easy, not cheap and certainly no picnic. But.. Traveling West Africa has been one of my favorite travels this year. I have been to more than 130 countries in total, and this year I have visit +40 countries (new and old ones,) but West Africa stands out as something really special to me. Maybe because it was the most challenging trip, where I also lost 7kg, but also because of many other things. This trip was memorable!
Most Scary Incidents of My Life
With a Police Officer from Mali, the day after a terrorist attack where 140 people were killed 30 km away from me
I will honestly never forget this West Africa trip, both for the good and for the bad. A big terrorist attack in Mali, a near-death experience (read the story here!) and getting caught in the middle of shootings and explosions in Liberia (read here!,) but I will also remember West Africa for so much good stuff.
So Cool – No Tourists Around?!
Kambadaga Falls in the middle of Guinea.. One of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve seen!
Tell me one other region in the World, where you’ll hardly meet any other tourists? There are very few people traveling in West Africa. Not a great place to go if you want to meet other people, but if you want the most unique adventures, it’s a perfect place to go. Like being the only tourist at the Kambadaga Falls, after riding a motorbike for hours through some very difficult jungle terrain with terrible roads. So rewarding!
The Hardest Area In The World To Travel?
Stunning views over Freetown, capital of Sierra Leone
Let me be honest with you, West Africa is the hardest area I’ve traveled in. I still remember crossing from Guinea-Bissau to Guinea after a bumpy ride through the jungle on a tree platform in the middle of nowhere during the night. The story is here: The Scariest Border Crossing From Guinea Bissau To Guinea
Closing in on Mali.. Always two guys on 1 seat in West Africa
It didn’t make it much easier to not have my own car, but having to jump on trucks, shared cars, mini busses etc. I loved the adventure in that and getting to live 100% like a local West African-citizen, but to be fair you’re packed in like no where else. I remember we sat 2 guys and a kid on the front seat next to the driver when crossing into Mali, and I had the shift in between my legs, so the driver had his hand in between my legs most of the ride and it was so painful with so little space. My back hurt! In West Africa the car/bus leave when it’s FULL, not one minute before.. And you can always squeeze in one extra person!
Some places the roads are good, some places the roads are bad and some places the roads are non-existent.
What Is Good To Know In West Africa?
Only person at Banfora Cascades Waterfalls in Burkina Faso
1: French Speakers
Remember they speak French in most of the West African countries. I spoke absolutely zero French before coming here, but I taught myself a bit a long the way, because it is very helpful to speak in West Africa. Very few people in the Francophone countries speak English. Now, even with reasonable French, it can be quite hard to get a bottle of water! You can still survive without speaking French (I did,) but I must admit it would’ve been pretty helpful to speak a bit. But again, I learned the necessary on the road as always.
Speaking a bit of French now in Grand-Bassam, Ivory Coast
2: Avoid Scams – Be Patient
I’m very proud to say I didn’t get scammed in West Africa (on a large scale), first of all because I’ve spent a long time in Africa and I know when to be patient and when to be mad, and I make sure to always know the price before I buy anything, because if there’s no price list it can happen sellers will try to charge you a huge amount of money. I have written a really helpful guide on: How To Avoid 7 Scams In Africa
Taking a cap in Abidjan, Ivory Coast
3: Rip Off
Don’t get me wrong, I’ve met so many lovely people in West Africa. But the problem in some countries/areas is that you’ll meet police or people who wants to rip you off. Behind this is the culture of ‘the rich SHOULD give to the poor’. So if you’re asked for 2 dollars for water, it’s not seen as a rip off, just rebalancing the money distribution. If you are on a tight budget you will have to work pretty hard to get the right price on things. I remember taking a photo of a flag pole in Ivory Coast that a local Ivorian guy had just taken seconds before me without any problems. When I took the photo the police yelled “no, no, no!” and took me to the Police Station for 5 hours, where I had to talk to so many different Police Officers.. I kept my patience and explained myself well, and therefore I managed to not pay anything. You’ll most likely meet cops, who are like ‘Devils in Uniform’ who’ll try to rip you off in any way possible, but as long as you’re not scared and keep your cool, you can manage situations like this. It’s a patience game.
I try to always agree a price before I go anywhere! On a motorbike in Togo
4: Bring Cash
There are plenty of working ATMs, but don’t rely on everyone in every town to work. Bring a big amount of cash reserves with you. The CFA currency is used almost everywhere in West Africa and it really cuts down hassle.
No ATM’s here.. On my way to the Kinkon River in Guinea
5: Be Happy And Enjoy
The real West Africa, the music, age old traditions, dances, mystique and big smiles. West Africa is an experience in itself. Go with a positive attitude and don’t let delays or anything destroy your mood. When being in West Africa you just have to go with the flow, and see what the day brings. Be happy and enjoy!
Chilling with a nice family in English-speaking Ghana
Ready To Travel West Africa?
Accra, Ghana
You’re now ready to travel West Africa. To be fair, it’s an adventure of a life-time and I honestly hope I’m able to do it again one day, because I made some memories I’ll never forget on this trip, both good and bad, but I still get a big smile on my face when I think about how raw and cool it was to travel West Africa solo.
Nestled in the heart of Africa, Malawi offers an exciting explosion of culture, arts, history and beautiful landscapes. These are 5 Weirdly Cool Facts About Malawi!
Malawi, 2018
1. Malawi is a country with an amazingly diverse population
A variety of different ethnic groups reside in this small African country. Some of the most well-know tribes are the Chewa, Lomwe, Ngonde, Ngoni, Nyanja, Sena, Tumbuko and Yao.
2. The capital Lilongwe is something of a child
In my new hand-made Malawian shirt in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi
Lilongwe is younger than Blantyre. Pretty much. While there has been a fishing village on the banks of the Lilongwe River for centuries, the modern city was only officially founded as a trading post in 1906 – and only recognized as a town in 1947. It became the Malawian capital even later, in 1975 – when kingpin status was taken away from Zomba, which had stood as the administrative hub in the colonial era. In truth, Lilongwe is not a place which will detain travelers for too long, but it was still pretty cool and I still remember the dangerous tree bridges in town crossing the Lilongwe Weather and the colorful markets.
Do you like my Malawian shirt?
3. Malawi is Africa’s 2. Largest Tea Producer
Malawi has a variety of fair trade coffee and tea plantations, including ones at renowned Satemwa and Thyolo, which were established almost 100 years ago. The country is the second largest tea producer in Africa after Kenya.
4. Mt. Mulanje is Africa’s Highest Peak south of Mt. Kilimanjaro
Walking around Malawi which can be very mountanious
Malawi can be very mountainous at places. The majestic Mt. Mulanje rises to 3000 metres providing incredible views of the surrounding landscape from its heights. Here with some curious followers in a small Malawian village!
5. Malawi is home to the popular pet fish Cichlid
A lot of different fish in Malawi. This is a pet fish
Cichlid, a very common pet fish, resides in Lake Malawi. The lake is estimated to have close to 3000 species of cichlids, the most of any lake in the world.
These Were 5 Weird Facts About Malawi
These were in fact 5 weirdly cool facts about Malawi, a green and lush country I went all the way through in 2017 and had a pretty epic time in when it didn’t rain. But a little rain won’t stop the guys from posing!
Did you know any of these weird facts about Malawi? Have you been there?
Some countries are very popular and are floating with tourists everywhere, but it’s not the case with these 7 countries. These are 7 UNDERRATED COUNTRIES I enjoyed a lot, and you should maybe consider these as your next travel destination!
These are 7 countries that I find really underrated, and you might consider to visit these in the near future!
7. Saudi Arabia
Edge of the World, Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a very underrated place with a lot of misconceptions. While some may hate it because of its relatively strict rules, there’s a lot of good in it too. These are 20 Things I Like About Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has some unique landscape you won’t see anywhere else. But is it safe to go to Saudi Arabia?
A lot of people from my country goes to Sunny Beach or Golden Sands in Bulgaria to get super drunk and party, with some of the cheapest alcohol in Europe. But Bulgaria actually has a lot more to offer. The capital Sofia and the two very beautiful cities Plovdiv and Varna are cool places to visit + the fascinating mountains which exists in Bulgaria and the fact that Bulgaria is a diamond in the spa crown of Europe changed my mind about this country. Yes, you can have a great party in Bulgaria, but Bulgaria is so much else. Bulgaria is rich with natural resources – mineral water, healing springs, pure air (at most places). The mountains and the plains offer different opportunities for rest, relax and heal yourself.
I can recommend to visit the spa Sapareva Banya. Not many towns can say they have their own geyser. Sapareva Banya welcomes its guests by its steaming geyser in the center of the city. The town attracts us with its closeness to Sofia, its friendly locals and its huge amount of pools and thermal delights for resting and getting prettier. It should be named SPApareva Banya. Consider exploring Bulgaria properly!
5. Tajikistan
Tajikistan is beautiful
Tajikstan is very underrated. Its array of cultures, languages, valleys and mountains makes it interesting. The Pamir mountain range, aka the “Roof of the World”, located west, is Tajikistan’s main attraction, with its beautiful mountainous landscape and magnificent trails. Some really nice mountains in general and you have to make time for scenic stops and spontaneous detours by striking moonscapes, glistening lakes, wandering yaks, and the imposingly large, snow-capped Hindu Kush mountains. Tajikistan was a big surprise!
4. Belarus
Brest Fortress, Belarus
Belarus is one of those destinations that has most people scratching their heads and reaching for Google maps. But it won’t be long before travellers from around the globe figure out that it’s one of Eastern Europe’s unsung heroes. I traveled around Belarus in 2017, and to be fair it’s maybe the cheapest country in Europe alongside Ukraine. You get a lot of value for your money here and there’s quiet a lot to see.
My only problem here was the language barrier, when I left the capital Minsk and explored the country. If you don’t speak Belarusian or Russian it’s a little hard to communicate, especially with the older generation. Anyway, I found Belarus, the sights and the prices very underrated! Cheapest in Europe!
3. Ghana
Accra, Ghana
I traveled around Ghana in early 2019, and while the visa was a pain in the arse to get, it was such a great country on the inside. One of Africa’s most peaceful countries and a lot of cool cities like Tamale, Kumasi and Accra and a beautiful country side and nice beaches. The best thing about Ghana is the people, the music and the vibes, I loved the atmosphere in Ghana and enjoyed the characteristic way Ghanaian people speak English. Here pictured at a street celebration in Accra, and I must say the people in Ghana certainly knows how to throw a party and dance to a Sarkodie, Stonebwoy and Kweli Artur-Ghana-banger.. You name it! Great times in Ghana! Some would maybe think it’s a dangerous African country.. Not at all, one of the most underrated and awesome African countries!
2. Iran
Iran, 2018
It’s almost a cliché by now, but Iranians are perhaps some of the friendliest people in the world, and just about anyone that has been will testify enthusiastically to this. Furthermore Iran offers varied and dramatic landscapes, with beautiful mountains, forests and deserts and a lot of Natural Wonders.
Political situation is a little complicated in Iran, but let’s not forget this is truly a remarkable country; super friendly people, inimitably rich in history and natural beauty, and home to some of the oldest civilizations on Earth. All those places that you’ve heard about—Persepolis and Shiraz, the mosques of Esfahan, the Silk Road, the desert city of Yazd, the ski slopes of the Alborz and the otherworldiness of Qeshm island—they’re absolutely worth the hype.
1. Pakistan
The Pakistani people are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people I’ve encountered in my travels. For me Pakistan is the most misunderstood and most underrated country in the World. With mighty mountains, lush green plateaus, golden sand deserts, some of the oldest cities in the World and the emerald colored Arabian sea etc. The list go on! I still have the Hunza Valley in the North of Pakistan stuck in my head. BUT IS PAKISTAN SAFE? Check this video I made there: ‘Is Pakistan Safe?’
Furthermore I received so many gifts and free stuff in Pakistan, which lead me to the BIG question in this travel video: ‘Is Everything Really FREE In Pakistan?’
Pakistan is an experience you don’t want to miss out on and is for me the most underrated country!
These were in fact 7 Underrated Countries that just came to my mind.. Can you name any?
In Doha, Qatar. Almost every night I do a to-do list for the next day!
Almost every night I write a to do list on my phone for the next day. It’s not every time I manage to do it all, but it helps me to get an overview of what’s needed to be done and usually I try to do the most important things first. It has helped me a lot to be more productive, even though science says it’s not always good to do a to-do list. For me it is.
2. Silent Sleeper
Baku, Azerbaidjan. Maybe I’m sleeping behind the glasses – who knows?
I sleep very silently (I was told) – and one time I was forgotten on a kindergarten trip, because nobody could hear me sleeping, so they just left without me. Lucky for me they came back 30 minutes later, when they realized they had forgotten the silent sleeper.
3. White Hair, Everywhere
In a little village in the west of Uganda. I have a lot of white hair
I have the most hairy legs and arms, you’ll ever see (tons of white hair.) I’ve only seen one guy with the same amount of white hairs as me, my Danish/American friend Alfred Thomas @partyalf on Instagram. We are in our own blonde, hairy league 🏆
4: Introvert
Having the time of my life at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany.. But also I’m a big introvert!
I’m actually a BIG introvert! When I travel I become more extrovert, but I’m an introvert with great pleasure in spending time alone. I need social breaks often. I personally think everyone should spend some more time alone, to better understand themselves and their direction in life, and if you’re an introvert like me, you should see it as a strength and not a weakness, because you’re able to reflect alone, while others need to be social all the time! As long as you don’t become lonely (I rarely have that feeling), being an introvert is super awesome!
5: I’m A Lonely Child
In Seoul, South Korea. +90% of my trips are self-paid! Spoilt? Maybe I am a little, but not that much!
– I’m a lonely child! Maybe it made me more introvert, who knows? I’m used to being alone and I love it. ‘You’re a lonely child, so you’re spoilttttttt!’ Heard that comment a lot, but actually not really! I have some very loving parents, but I come from a normal Danish family and my parents told me from the beginning: “If you want to travel you’ll have to pay yourself,” and hard work and smart thinking has been the key to my traveling. Sometimes I had the money, sometimes I didn’t (then I just saved more and worked harder,) but somehow I always found a way to travel! Lonely child or not, things were never given to me, selective decision making has been the key for me, and I’ve worked hard to be able to travel.
If you’re willing to make the sacrifices it takes, you can do it too!
6: LITTLE TV TIME
Dead Sea, Israel. Rather make some unforgettable moments, than sitting in front of a TV
– I watch very little TV! I only really like watching my favorite team (Real Madrid) play football! I simply need to watch them play wherever I am in the World, weird habit, but it’s a must! It does happen I watch documentaries I can learn something from and I watch the News once in a while if they’re not too sensational! UGH, hate it! I think it’s mostly a waste of time to watch TV and I’m more of an active person than a passive person, so I would rather do something productive. I did watch some episodes of Fresh Prince of Bel Air on a flight trip recently and that was pretty hilarious! All being said, time you enjoy wasting is never wasted, and it happens I have something totally stupid reality TV playing in the background when I’m home, while I work on my computer, but in general I watch way less TV than the average person and I’m not updated on any TV-Series! SO SORRY! But ask me any travel questions and there’s a good chance I know 😉
7: ROUTINE KIND OF GUY, HMMMMMM NO
Badab-e Surt, Iran. Impulsive trip to Iran with nothing planned?! Let’s do it!
– I’m not a routine kind of guy. I honestly wish I was, it would make a lot of stuff easier. But I usually never have 2 similar days in a row. Having a 9-5 job, a house, a girlfriend, a nice car, two kids and a dog would be super nice, but even though I might soon have the age for that (27 now,) I think I will wait a bit. I STILL WANT ADVENTURES! I don’t have 2 of the same days after each other and to be fair I actually like it! If I make a travel video, I usually never produce it the same way as the last one I did. I don’t wake up the exact same time 2 days in a row. Impossible! And 60-70% of my time, I don’t put an alarm for the morning or schedule too much. Maybe I should get better at this! Will improve my routines in 2020…. I promise!
8: A True Night Owl
Enjoying Bahrain at night in 2017. But I work more focused in the night!
I work better in the night than I do in the day. I easily get distracted during day time, but when the night comes and I have the feeling everyone is doing nothing or sleeping, I’m more focused and more motivated to work! It’s a thing I work daily on changing, because it’s better to get a proper night of sleep, wake up a bit early (not too early, right?) and then get something out of the day. Another one for the upcoming year!
9: Family Guy
My father turning 60! BIG DAY! My best friend and idol in being a good person!
I’m a big family guy with my nearest family, and in between my travels, work etc. I always make time to visit my parents and grandparents and spend time with them. Would never make up excuses to not see my family, because they did so much for me as kid and I really like spending time with them. You never know what tomorrow will bring and I don’t want to live my life with any regrets!
I LOVE MY FAMILY AND I’M NOT EMBARRASSED TO SAY SO!
10: Influencer? Wait… What?!
West Baray, Cambodia! Just a normal Danish guy who loves to travel
– I don’t consider myself as an influencer, and I think most people calling themselves influencers are quiet annoying and usually not very inspiring! I’m just Gustav, a Danish guy who loves to travel and loves to inspire others to see the World 🌍
11. Irritated Eyes
In Tbilisi, Georgia! Sunglasses are always good to hide your irritated eyes
I have irritated eyes a lot of the time, maybe it’s because of my perfume, grass and dust allergy, but sometimes my eyes get red and sometimes I can’t look too long on people, because my vision gets blurred and my eyes get dry. It’s annoying when you want to take a good selfie or make a good video somewhere, but you look like someone who drank all night yesterday, yet the reality is just different. My eyes are just irritated sometimes!
12. Looong Hair
Cyprus 2016. I had long hair back then!
I started getting long hair in the early 2015, and remember getting many comments in Australia that I look liked Kurt Cobain! I honestly prefer my short hair, but it was a fun time and I think everybody should try some new styles out and do whatever they want and try stuff out, without thinking about what other people say or think!
Live your life, take chances, becrazy. We only have this one life to live, so why worry about what others think? Let’s make some funny memories and enjoy this life while we’re here!
13. Not Perfect
Rainy day on a motorbike through Ivory Coast.. Perfect life? Not at all, but some good stories to tell in the end
Sometimes I seem to have the most perfect life, because I travel a lot, but I’m not perfect and my life isn’t either. I struggle with a lot of the same problems as you might do. What makes me ‘different’ from others is I’m an optimistic person, and if I fail in one thing, it doesn’t mean I have to fail in the next thing. More smiling, less worrying. Keep going! I’ve failed plenty of times, but your hardest times often lead to the greatest moments of our lives. Tough situations build strong people in the end! You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward, take it step my step, we all have our own clock! Maybe you find your passion at 25, maybe you find it at 80, just never give up and always be grateful for the small things in life!
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. Keep going, even in the hard times!
Now you maybe know me a bit better.. Did you enjoy reading my honest truths?
Currently traveling around Saudi Arabia, a country I’ve heard a lot of bad stuff about in the media. But is it all true? Hanging out with local friends, doing more research and observing things in the daily life here in Saudi Arabia has made me write these: “20 Things I Like About Saudi Arabia.”
These are the 20 things I like about Saudi Arabia (Edge of the World, Saudi Arabia)
1. They have high employment rate.
2. Free health care for all residents.
3. Free education for all (attending Universities for most Expats’ children is complicated).
4. Tax-free salary for all.
5. Mostly modern infrastructure.
Museum of Athayibat and Home Art, Jeddah
6. One can literally walk around anywhere at any given time feeling safe.
7. “Ladies first” is a reality there. In public, if men and women are walking towards each other the man would move aside while the women keeps on walking. They respect women in that matter.
8. For the most part, law and order situation is pretty decent. Murder rate is pretty low.
9. Food is very cheap (and good!) with countless restaurants everywhere.
10. Every Friday families would go to the beaches, parks, restaurants etc.
With Saudi friends in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
11. Very rarely you’ll hear about war/terrorism here, only small problems with Yemen.
12. 33+% of its population are foreigners. Very diverse.
13. There are plenty of luxury malls.
14. I was never afraid that someone would steal from me, no matter where I was here.
15. In a 10-year period things has changed positively in KSA.
The 302.3 m skyscraper, Kingdom Centre, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
16. As far as I can tell, Saudis don’t dislike their government and King Salman
17. Most Saudis have a good heart and are generous people. They don’t lose their
temper fast!
18. Overall people seem happy and live a simple life
19. A lot of the Saudi people are very welcoming and helpful from my experience
20. Some of the most fascinating desert landscapes I’ve ever seen (Edge of the World)
Al Masmak Fortress, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Is Saudi Arabia A Dangerous Country?
Both Saudi women and men can be very conservative, especially in Riyadh, where Jeddah is more liberal and open-minded. The questioner have a very exaggerated picture of Saudi Arabia. In my opinion, the scariest thing in Saudi Arabia is probably the road traffic, certain people tend to drive recklessly.
Edge of the World, Saudi Arabia
Of course there are things that can improve here, but these are the 20 things I like about Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has an interesting cultural influence from all over the Middle East, which is super cool
Still in Pakistan, and Lahore was my 2. destination on my Pakistan round-trip, and what a place it is! These are 5 fun facts about Pakistan’s 2nd largest city and also Pakistan’s cultural heart, Lahore.
Lahore is for me the most beautiful city of Pakistan
1. One City, Sixteen Dialects
The old city of Lahore, Pakistan
Lahore is the biggest city of Punjab region, and its commercial hub makes Lahore’s culture ever more colorful since folks from across the province come to work here. At any given time there are more than sixteen different dialects of Punjabi being spoken here including Majhi, Pothohari, Dhani, Shapuri, Jhangochi, Jangli/Rachnavi, Chenavari, Thalochi, Hindko, Chhachi, Jandali, Multani/Saraiki, Derawali, Riasti, Ghebi, Dogri/Darhab. I can’t tell the difference, but I know this place is full of action and colors for sure!
2. More International Flights!
More international flights than domestic in Lahore
Do you know that Allama Iqbal Airport which is Lahore’s biggest airport handles more than 20,700 international flights each year which are actually more than the domestic flights from Lahore that it manages i.e. 16,700!
3. City Of Gardens
Lahore has so many lovely parks and gardens to walk around
Lahore is the city of gardens. Lahoris love their parks. The bombing at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in March 2016, which killed more than 70 people, struck at the heart of this love. Parks are the few egalitarian spaces left to the poor and the middle-class. I personally really like the atmosphere in the lovely parks, where I can mention the Mughal-era Shalimar Gardens and its disused fountains and the beautiful Bagh-e-Jinnah and its botanical garden. Lahore is clearly the ‘The City Of Gardens,’ in Pakistan.
4. Food Capital of Pakistan
Trying out the different local food in the cozy streets of Old Town, Lahore
Lahore has long anointed itself the food capital of Pakistan. Punjabi culture is all about food; it’s a fundamentally agrarian society, and the traditions of its Mughal kitchens, as well as the ethnic Punjabis with roots in Kashmir, have left their mark on the city’s food. It’s in Lahore where you can pick up the seemingly odd food pairings of boiled eggs with chickpeas, or naan with pakoras, fried vegetables in a gram flour batter. From dessert to offal, Lahore is the answer to all your food aspirations.
Lahore has a never-ending supply of naan! And don’t forget about the lassi!
5. Lahore, Not LaWhore
It’s all about the pronouncation. Lahore, not LaWhore
Nope, don’t call it LaWhore. You have to use the right pronunciation! Using this nickname means you’re either an overgrown schoolboy, or a bitter Karachi resident. On that note, if that’s you, Lahore actually has a red-light district (dubbed the Diamond Market). This district was originally formed as a neighborhood for the Mughal emperors’ harem, and generations of courtesans worked there until it was banned in the 1950s. As a result, the sex trade spread across the city, but this area is still operating. While the dancers and sex workers only begin work after hours, it’s actually during the day that the district is worth seeing: Shi’ite symbols, men bragging about their political connections, boys glancing at the few women on the streets, and the shuttered windows of the houses where sex workers work their shifts.
Beautiful city of Lahore
I shouldn’t have mentioned number 5 to some of my friends, now they all want to go to Lahore. Anyway, Lahore, (not LaWhore,) is such a beautiful city with magnificent sights! A prosperous cosmopolitan, where every nook, corner, building and street is steeped in history and has a story to tell; all you have to do is step outside. Thanks for this time, Lahore <3
I just spend 2,5 days in Karachi for my round-trip around Pakistan. These are the 5 things you’ll love about the biggest and most hectic city in Pakistan, Karachi.
Karachi with my friend Azlan
1. City On The Move
Karachi is such a crazy, but cool city
I have been to many big cities around the World, and if you go to most big cities there are usually higher risks of criminals trying to harm you, scams, etc., but in Karachi it felt different to me. It has the distinct feel of a city on the move, but people are still greeting you with a welcoming feeling. People seem to be on the go in Karachi, and it gives a wild energy, and it’s really fascinating to observe this city on the move.
2. Food And Cuisines
Karachi is known as the city by the sea, so it has some mouth-watering fish markets and restaurants.
You can find food from all over Pakistan here in Karachi, to match your tastes. Go to Hyderabad Colony for the most authentic Hyderabadi achars, or go to Burns Road for the best kababs, haleem and other desi foods. Or, if you like to have karak dhoodh patti chai, then head to the tea shops around Cantt Station. For gola ganda head to Dhoraji Colony, if you like spicy ‘disco aaloo’ go to the thelas in Kharadar, or if the legendary Bihari Kabab is more to your taste, you should head to Meerut Kebab house.
3. Cosmopolitan Feeling
Beautiful architecture and cosmopolitan feeling in Karachi
Karachi is relatively young, but it has some of the most interesting architecture. A good way to explore this is to drive around the Old City — Kharadar, Mithadar, Saddar, Elphinstone Street, M A Jinnah Road, Napier Road, and their surrounding areas. I was in Karachi mid October, and would strongly recommend to do your city tour early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the insane heat in the middle of the day.
I was told you will find far more women drivers in Karachi than in any other Pakistani city, and in general Karachi has a distinct cosmopolitan and urban feel to it, which is super cool. This city is alive!
4. The Prices
Karachi is such a cheap city
Karachi is among the world’s top 10 cheapest cities in the World again in 2019, and the megalopolis called home by over 16 million people, has remained in the top 10 cheapest cities in the World consistently over the past decade, even ranking as the cheapest city a few times. The surveys are measuring the comparative cost of more than 200 items in each location, including housing, transport, food, clothing, household goods and entertainment, and Karachi is just unbelievably cheap! Furthermore the Pakistani hospitality is unreal, so you’ll have so much free stuff, and when you sometimes try to pay for something or split the bill, it happens that a Pakistani person won’t let you. Hospitality is great in Karachi!
5. The Adventures
Karachi is for the adventurous soul
Karachi is a city for a traveler who loves a wild adventure. Jump on the colorful buses, take a rickshaw ride, throw yourself out in the wild, hectic and lively streets of Karachi, and just breath in the cool craziness of this huge city. Karachi is an experience well-worth it, and I’m honestly so excited to explore the rest of Pakistan after some adventurous days in Karachi.
Some would say don’t go to Karachi, and I would say go to Karachi! If you only visit Lahore, only visit Islamabad or only visit Karachi, you haven’t been to Pakistan. Then you’ve only been to a city in Pakistan! Try out the biggest city in Pakistan and promise me to explore the rest of Pakistan too. That’s what I’m planning to do, because it’s such a beautiful country. I’m feeling the good vibes and beauty already!
With Pakistani police man inside the Tomb of the Founder of Pakistan, Karachi
Pakistan Zindabad… Next stop: Lahore! Before heading to the mountains.. Can’t wait to see what this country has in store!
I just spend 10 days traveling around Indonesia, my country number 125, and these are 7 reasons why I love Indonesia. A country I know I’ll return to sooner or later again!
1. The Friendly Locals
Jakarta, Indonesia
One of the biggest reasons why I love Indonesia is because they have such friendly locals, and I experienced that on all of the islands I visited in Indonesia, even in Bali, where I maybe thought it would be too overcrowded with tourists, so the locals maybe wouldn’t be that nice any longer. In fact, they were very friendly there too! I’ve traveled to over 125 countries, and I’ve only experienced very few countries, as friendly and welcoming as in Indonesia. The locals are genuine without wanting something in return. You feel welcomed wherever you go if you show respect towards the locals.
Even the staff at the border control were chatting with me and smiling. They were extremely helpful and always had a smile on their face, when I was entering Indonesia – something that’s very unusual at border controls.
Indonesia is definitely one of the friendliest and nicest countries I have visited in the world!
2- Nature
Stunning view in Nusa Penida Island, Indonesia
The nature in Indonesia is incredible. The views are spectacular and the country is rich in both flora and fauna. Here live many species of animals and plants that are endemic – which is awesome!
Whether you’re looking for hiking among beautiful mountains, an amazing wildlife or just wants to relax on the beautiful, sandy beaches – Indonesia offers everything and much more, it’s so scenic, and one of my favorite places to visit was this picturesque beach in Nusa Penida Island, which was so visually perfect.
Whether it is buying a $1,5 dragon fruit in a market in Bali, renting a $5 scooter for the whole day in Nusa Penida island or shopping in Jakarta, prices are relatively cheap in Indonesia. Indonesia is a friendly, beautiful and affordable destination with good value for your money. It’s cheap to take a taxi, go on guided tours, eat food, accommodation and much more! Remember to download Grab, which is the perfect transportation app for all over Indonesia. If you compare the standard to other destinations in Asia, you’ll understand what I mean by saying that Indonesia offers good value for the money you pay!
4. Wildlife
With a Komodo dragon in Komodo island, Indonesia
The fascinating Komodo dragon, the Sumatran tigers, the Javan rhinoceros, the Borneo elephant, the Sumatran orangutan, the exotic babirusa or the Black Macaques.. The list goes on! The wildlife is on another level in Indonesia. Here sitting with a Komodo dragon, which only can be found on a few Indonesian islands in the World. There are only 5,000 komodo dragons left worldwide. Psychical features of a dinosaur, a deadly lethal venom and they can grow up to nearly 4 meter long with a top speed of 20 km/h. One of the craziest animals I’ve ever been close to!
5. Relaxed Muslim Country
One of the largest mosques in the World, Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta
Islam is the most adhered to religion in Indonesia, with 87.2% of Indonesian population identifying themselves as Muslim. Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the World, with approximately 225 million Muslims all over the country. In fact, Indonesia is a very relaxed Muslim country and as long as you don’t do totally stupid stuff, it’s a very open-minded place to be, where you can still drink alcohol and have a bit of fun if you feel in a party-mode. Indonesia is relaxed, not super strict and I kind of like that!
6. Thousands Of Islands
Padar Island, Indonesia
Bali, Komodo, and Gili islands are some of the most famous ones, but the fact is that Indonesia is almost entirely made up of islands in various sizes. Each island has its own charm and their own experiences to offer. There are total number of 17,508 islands of which about 6000 are inhabited in Indonesia, so there are plenty of adventures to take. Padar island was memorable to me for the incredible sights!
7. Everyone Is Family
Indonesians are so friendly
No matter who you are and where you’ve been, you’ll find yourself a new family in Indonesia. Whether it’s friendly neighbors, hospitable coworkers or happy kids, everyone belongs to a community that takes care of each other. Sure, the archipelago has countless attractions to entice tourists, but it’s the warmth and sense of belonging that invites people to stay.
Thank you for this time Indonesia and I’m already excited to come again back here soon.
