A calm home for real travelers.

Woke up at 4:30 for the Batur sunrise hike. Met three other solo travelers on the trail — we ended up sharing a driver back to Ubud and now we're doing a cooking class together tonight. This is exactly why I travel alone.

Anyone in Lisbon this weekend? Thinking of a Sintra day trip on Saturday and a Time Out Market dinner on Sunday. Open to a small group.

For anyone chasing the Northern Lights — skip the tours the first night. Rent a car, drive 30 mins out of the city, and check the aurora forecast app. Saw a Kp7 storm for zero krona last night.

Cherry blossom is peaking earlier this year. My favourite quiet spot: the Kamo river north of Demachiyanagi. Bring convenience-store sake and a picnic — you'll thank me.

Snorkeled with a whale shark off Koh Lipe today. Our boat captain didn't charge extra — he just grinned and said 'lucky day, mai pen rai'. Sometimes travel gives you these moments for free.

Best coworking in El Poblado is Selina (200 Mbps, great community nights) but rent an apartment in Laureles — quieter, closer to real Colombia, and half the price.