Side Quest Overland

Southeast Asia is a diverse and fascinating region that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for ancient temples, tropical islands, bustling cities, or rural villages, you’ll find it here. In this blog post, I’ll share some of the highlights of traveling in Southeast Asia, focusing on three aspects: minority villages, the Mekong Delta, and food. Minority Villages One of the best ways to experience the rich culture and history of Southeast Asia is to visit some of the minority villages that dot the region. These are communities of ethnic groups that have their own languages, traditions, and lifestyles, often distinct from the dominant cultures of their countries. Some examples of minority villages you can visit are: The Hmong villages in northern Vietnam and Laos. The Hmong are a hill tribe that migrated from China centuries ago and have preserved their colorful clothing, handicrafts, and animist beliefs. You can trek to their villages and stay overnight with a lo...

Time to Connect In this world of concrete and steel, it's easy to forget the beauty and importance of nature. But when we take a moment to step outside and breathe in the fresh air, we are reminded of the wonders that surround us.  The rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the gentle sway of grasses all serve to remind us that we are part of something much larger than ourselves. We are part of an intricate web of life that has existed for millions of years. Connecting with nature allows us to tap into this ancient wisdom. It reminds us that we are not alone in this world and that there is so much more to discover.  So next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of modern life, take a moment to step outside and connect with nature. You'll be amazed at how rejuvenating it can be. John Muir, a famous naturalist, and conservationist, once said: "Everyone needs beauty as well as bread, places to play and pray, where nature heals and gives s...