Welcome to Guangzhou – one of the most important cities and a huge region in the Greater Bay Area in southern China.

It is a unique blend of tradition and modernity that makes this city so attractive. On the one hand, Guangzhou is an important location for production and trade with an impressive modern skyline. On the other hand, the region fascinated me with a deeply rooted culture that is reflected in the cityscape and in the lives of its people.

Guangzhou is an exciting mix of huge skyscrapers – most notably the Canton Tower, the second tallest building in Asia – markets, fascinating temples and, of course, world-famous cuisine: The Cantonese cuisine is one of the four major cuisines of China.

In my Guangzhou Travel Guide, I would like to show you the most beautiful sights and highlights in Guangzhou and inspire you to take your own trip.

P.S. Something I only learned after checking with locals: Guangzhou is pronounced differently than I thought. The ‘zhou’ at the end is pronounced ‘jow’, which reminds me of the name ‘Joe‘, so the correct way to say it is ‘Guangjoe’

How many days should you plan for your stay in Guangzhou?

To explore the most important highlights and sights of Guangzhou, I recommend 2 full days.

For a relaxed exploration with excursions, you should plan for 3 days.

Are you a food lover or interested in Guangzhou’s impressive culture? Then 3-4 days make sense, because there is a lot of cuisine waiting for you here and there are numerous museums.

When is the best time to visit Guangzhou?

Guangzhou has a subtropical climate. Spring and autumn are therefore particularly good times to explore all of Guangzhou’s sights in a relaxed way, as they are mild and dry. Summers (June–August), on the other hand, are very hot and extremely humid. The frequent rain makes sightseeing less pleasant. Winters tend to be cool, but this provides good conditions for a city break as well.

Travel & entry requirements for Guangzhou

German citizens and citizens of many European countries are permitted to stay in Guangzhou for 15 or 30 days without a visa (depending on current regulations, as of 2024). Entry is straightforward, directly at the respective border building, with only short waiting times.

If you wish to enter by land, you can use the bridge between Macau and China. A bus or taxi transfer is available for this purpose. Of course, it is also possible to fly to Guangzhou. Guangzhou Baiyun Airport offers international connections with fast metro and rail links.

My map of the most beautiful sights in Guangzhou

The most beautiful sights and experiences in Guangzhou

Light and Water Show at Canton Tower

At 604 metres (1,982 ft) high, Canton Tower is the second tallest building in Asia and the fifth tallest in the world. It is located directly above a shopping centre in Guangzhou’s business district and is one of the city’s top attractions. A special highlight and one of my best Guangzhou tips is the spectacular evening light and water show at Flower City Square. It offers a great view of Guangzhou’s illuminated skyline, with the Canton Tower in the background – a perfect spot for night photography.

The shows take place every evening, with times varying depending on the season (usually between 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm every 30 minutes).

Chen Clan Academy – a well-known attraction in Guangzhou

The historic Chen Clan Academy was founded in the late 19th century by the Chen Clan, one of the largest families in China during the Qing Dynasty. It was used to train the descendants of the Chen Clan for the imperial examinations. After the imperial examinations were abolished, it was used as a school, among other things. Today, the Chen Clan Academy houses a museum of folk art and is a popular cultural landmark in Guangzhou.

Its outstanding features include the ornate wood and brick carvings and ceramic sculptures on the roofs, which characterise this impressive traditional architecture. The Chen Clan Academy is a quiet retreat in the middle of the bustling city, perfect for taking impressive photos, and for me it is definitely one of the most beautiful sights in Guangzhou.

Shamian Island

Shamian Island is an artificial island dating back to the 19th century, which was built as a foreign concession area. The British and French were granted concession rights to this area after the Second Opium War in 1858. Today, it is a peaceful and picturesque place with buildings from the colonial era, characterised by European-style architecture.

On the wide, green boulevards, you will find many cute cafés and quiet squares – perfect for leisurely strolls and photo spots. Shamian Island is very popular for wedding shoots and definitely belongs on my list of Guangzhou tips.

Dim Sum Lunch – A Must-Do in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the birthplace of dim sum. In case you’re not familiar with it, dim sum are small, delicious bites that are often eaten for brunch, lunch or as a snack. They are usually served in steamer baskets, but also as soups, fried dishes or dumplings, and are perfect for sharing. They reminded me of Spanish tapas. Locals love to meet up with friends and family for dim sum brunch at the weekend. It’s more about socialising than the food itself.

The selection of dim sum restaurants in Guangzhou is huge – from traditional to modern. I was also fascinated by the overwhelming variety, but especially by the sheer endless range of flavours. So don’t miss out on this Guangzhou tip! However, it is advisable to arrive early, as many restaurants fill up quickly.

Shopping in Yongqing Fang

Yongqing Fang is a historic, vibrant arts and creative district with renovated old houses – one of Guangzhou’s most popular attractions. It combines tradition and modernity in the form of beautiful boutique shops, arts and crafts stores, numerous cafés and restaurants. A special highlight for fans is the house of Bruce Lee’s where he used to live as a kid.

My favourite spot in Yongqing Fang is Blan Bunny’s Plant Kingdom – a chic tea house with an adjoining shop. Here you will find hundreds of different types of tea, all of which you can sample for free. As soon as you enter, you are greeted by a breathtaking aroma in a fairytale setting. And, of course, you’ll find every beautiful tea accessory you can imagine here. For me as a tea lover, it was an absolute highlight.

Museum of Modern Art (Guangdong Museum of Art)

The Guangdong Museum of Art is a large art museum with modern architecture, focusing on traditional Chinese painting. However, it also houses modern and international art. You will find a large selection of interesting exhibitions here. For art lovers, this is one of my special Guangzhou tips!

Admission is generally free, but this can vary between different exhibitions.

In the outside area of the museum, you have a fantastic view of the Canton Tower – one of my favourite photo spots in Guangzhou! You can also combine your visit to the Guangdong Museum of Art with a walk along the Pearl River.

Sunset Spot: Party Pier

The Party Pier is located directly on the Pearl River and is one of the most popular Guangzhou tips for night owls. This is where people meet in the evening to experience the liveliness of the city up close. There is a huge selection of restaurants, bars and clubs to choose from. Pure rooftop feeling!

Party Pier also offers the best view of the sunset, which you absolutely must see from here. And if you like things a little more romantic, I have an extra tip: book a Pearl River Cruise – an evening boat tour to admire the city’s illuminated skyline from the water.

Shawan Ancient Town –  a special attraction in Guangzhou

Shawan Ancient Town is located outside the city centre. It is an 800-year-old historic town south of Guangzhou. Known for its rich culture and traditional architecture, it is one of the most interesting sights in Guangzhou for many tourists. It is home to numerous traditional houses and small tea houses, which you can admire in the quiet alleys. A visit to Shawan Ancient Town is perfect for anyone who likes to explore historical places or is looking for special photo spots. Ideal for a half-day trip.

Other highlights in Guangzhou:

Canton Tower – If you decide to watch the evening light and water show, you can combine it with a trip up the Canton Tower to take in a magnificent view of the city. But even during the day, the view is simply breathtaking.

Opera House – This masterpiece of futuristic architecture, perfectly integrated into its location on the Pearl River, is a must-see. It definitely belongs on my list of the best Guangzhou tips.

Beijing Road – Beijing Road has a long history. Here you can marvel at the remains of streets from the Song Dynasty. You walk on glass panels and can view archaeological excavations below you.

Guangzhou, China Travel Guide – My Summary

Megacities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen have something magical about them. I was particularly fascinated by the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that flows together here. It’s actually almost impossible to find the right words to describe my impressions. That’s why there’s only one way for you to experience it for yourself: set off on a journey into a futuristic world that is nevertheless deeply rooted in its culture and will fill you with wonder. Try the diverse delicacies of Cantonese cuisine and see for yourself that I haven’t promised too much. I hope my post with the best places to visit in Guangzhou will be a helpful travel guide for your journey.

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The Forbidden City, Zijin Cheng, is located in the middle of modern Beijing. It looks like a large rectangular island made of huge red walls and shiny golden roofs, surrounded by a wide water moat. A visit in the Forbidden City will take you back to historic times, while its name exudes something mysterious.

However, it is difficult for tourists to get tickets and not so easy to find your way around, as all signs are mainly in Chinese. But in this post I will tell you exactly how to make your visit at the Forbidden City in Beijing an unforgettable experience.

Why is it called the ‘Forbidden City’?

The answer lies in its function. On the one hand, the Forbidden City served as the residence of the reigning emperor and his family in the royal palace and, on the other hand, of course, as the centre of power of the Chinese Empire – for over 500 years. Since its construction (between 1406 and 1420), the strictest secrecy of all proceedings taking place within it was a top priority. Only the emperor, his family, officials and servants were allowed to enter the Forbidden City. The city itself was divided hierarchically. The outer courtyard served political and representative purposes, while the inner courtyard was reserved for the emperor and his family.

After the abdication of the last of a total of 24 emperors in 1911, he continued to live in the Forbidden City until 1924, when it was finally opened to the public as the Palace Museum in 1925. The Forbidden City remains one of China’s most important tourist attractions and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

My map of Beijing:

How much does it cost to visit the Forbidden City in Beijing?

Ticket prices for the Forbidden City vary depending on the season:

• 60 yuan during peak season (1 April to 31 October)
• 40 yuan during low season (1 November to 31 March)

Visitors under the age of 18 can visit the Forbidden CIty free of charge.

Some special areas require an additional ticket, such as the Treasure Palace. However, we skipped this area.

How do you book tickets for the Forbidden City?

(Spoiler: It’s complicated)

The question how to obtain tickets for the Forbidden City is like a big mystery! Tthe online ticket portal is only available in Chinese and is not suitable for tourists. Therefore, there is only one way to get tickets: buy them directly on site at the palace! But you have to come to the right ticket booth!

Important: You must bring your passport with you! Photos or copies are not accepted, as your passport number must be entered on your ticket.

I have marked the exact location of the ticket centre on my map. It is a little hidden in front of the security checkpoint at the entrance –  the ‘Gate of Heavenly Purity’.

My tip: When booking a private tour, your guide will also assist you with purchasing tickets, which will guarantee that you avoid any misunderstandings.

Is a guided tour of the Forbidden City worth it?

We were also unsure how and where to get tickets, as we found different information online. So we decided to book a private tour for our visit to the Forbidden City in Beijing. And we definitely did not regret it! As already mentioned, it is not that easy to find your way around the area. We also learned many interesting facts thanks to our guide and saw the best spots.

We booked our local guide via Get Your Guide – including transport, ticket purchase and a tour of the Forbidden City. A visit to Tian’anmen Square was also included. The approximately 40-hectare public square is located directly in front of the entrance gate.

Conclusion: It is really worth booking a guided tour to enjoy the Forbidden City in a relaxed & informative way!

When is the best time to visit the Forbidden City?

Around 80,000 people visit the Forbidden City in Beijing EVERY DAY. As you can imagine, there are huge queues waiting at the entrance gate early in the morning. Which is why arriving early isn’t a solution. My tip: it’s better to plan your visit in the afternoon. Last admission is at 4 pm (closing time is 5 pm). We arrived at the palace at around 3 pm and passed through the entrance gate at around 3:30 pm.

How much time should you plan for your visit at the Forbidden City in Beijing?

We began our visit to the Forbidden City with a walk around the palace (no ticket is required for this). Even from the outside, it looks imposing and impressive – with lots of great photo opportunities. Standing in front of it, you can really feel its historic past.

The outdoor area is actually a popular photo spot among locals, especially for pictures in traditional costumes. Around the moat, you’ll see people dressed in colorful outfits everywhere. You can rent these costumes almost anywhere – and even book a photographer with them!

Inside the Forbidden City, you basically make your way from the entrance to the exit in a straight flow. Along the way, you pass through different sections with various small palaces and halls – though many of them are quite similar. So you don’t need to stop at every single one. We spent about two hours exploring the whole site.

My highlights inside the Forbidden City:

The central inner area with the main palace – the ‘Palace of Heavenly Purity’ – is particularly well known. It once served as the main residence of the reigning emperor and as the seat of government.

The Imperial Garden was my favourite – with various pagodas and small temples as well as shady trees – some of which are already 400 years old! What a special feeling to be so close to them…

Extra tip: Visit the Jingshan Park for the ultimate view

Jingshan Park (translated as Viewing Hill) was formerly part of the Forbidden City and is located opposite the exit – the ‘Gate of Divine Prowess’. It is a beautiful place for a walk. However, the main reason most visitors come to Jingshan Park is for the fantastic panoramic view of the Forbidden City and Beijing from the pavilion at the top of the hill. During sunset it is an particular unforgettable experience. Although the park is often very crowded, it is not to be missed. The climb is relatively steep but not very long. It took us about 10 minutes to the top.

Important: There is a small entrance fee. Again, it is not easy for tourists to buy tickets on site and they must be booked in advance. Which is why we booked them via Get Your Guide and got a QR code. This got exchanged for a ticket at the entrance. A passport is also required for your visit!

A visit to the Forbidden City in Beijing – My summary

Anyone who decides to travel to Beijing will naturally want to see the Forbidden City. It is surely the most famous sight in Beijing and an overwhelming feeling to enter the centre of power of the former Chinese Empire and immerse yourself in its exciting history. We thoroughly enjoyed our unforgettable stay here, even though getting tickets was a little more complicated than at other places we have visited so far.

I hope my tips for visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing will help you to plan your trip without stress and enjoy a relaxing stay.

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The relatively young city of Shenzhen (founded in 1979) is part of China’s Greater Bay Area – an economic and cosmopolitan region in China that encompasses several cities and is known for its innovative strength and economic cooperation. Shenzhen is a key city in this area and is known as a centre for technology, innovation and finance. This is why the city is often referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of China’. Many major tech giants have their headquarters here. At the same time, Shenzhen surprises visitors with its abundance of green spaces and historic old towns in the surrounding area. There are so many inviting parks, gardens and cafés where you can relax. Shenzhen thus represents an exciting mix of modernity and tradition.

In this Shenzhen Travel Guide, I will take you through this great city and give you lots of tips on the best sights to see. As usual, you will find a map below where I have marked all the spots for you.

How many days should you plan for a trip to Shenzhen?

I recommend 2 to 3 days to get a good impression of Shenzhen and visit the best sights. Planning three full days is advantageous if you are interested in detailed explorations and excursions to the surrounding area.

When is the best time to visit Shenzhen?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are ideal. During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild and there is little rain. In summer (June to August), on the other hand, it is often very hot and humid – less than ideal for sightseeing. In winter (December to February), the weather is cooler, with temperatures reaching up to 11 degrees Celsius, but it is still pleasant for a city break.

My tips for travelling to and entering Shenzhen

Since 2024, China has allowed a 30-day visa-free regime for the United Kingdom and other European countries. Entry into Shenzhen is quick and smooth.

Shenzhen is very close to the border with Hong Kong – you can easily cross it by bus or car. Border control even takes place directly in your vehicle if you are travelling by car. Shenzhen also has an international airport with excellent rail and metro connections, ensuring flexible travel.

Shenzhen can be ideally combined with a trip to → Hong Kong, → Macao or Guangzhou! Take a look at my travel guides with the best tips

My map of the most beautiful sights in Shenzhen:

The most beautiful sights in Shenzhen

1. OCT Harbour

OCT Harbour in Shenzhen’s business district is a huge shopping and entertainment centre and is definitely one of Shenzhen’s must-see attractions. Located directly on the coastline of Qianhai Bay, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the skyline as you stroll along the walkway. The complex includes a large shopping centre – the semi-open OH Bay Mall – with many shops, restaurants and activities. We particularly recommend a visit to the Zhongshu Bookstore with its spiral-shaped shelves. The beautifully arranged design is perfect for taking special photos.

The complex also features an impressive artificial lake and canals. The main attractions include a daily water and light show, the Dream Aquarium and a large Ferris wheel from which you can enjoy a fabulous view of the city and the sea. OCT Harbour is a perfect place to take a break between sightseeing stops, especially in the evening hours. It is also a good introduction to the modern side of Shenzhen.

2. Futian – Futuristic Light Show

The light show in Shenzhen’s Futian District is a gigantic event in which all of the city’s skyscrapers, equipped with millions of LED lights, shine in a synchronised show, providing every visitor with a unique visual experience. All the tall buildings seem to be immersed in the same sea of lights – simply breathtaking. I felt like I was on a journey into the future – a Shenzhen tip you shouldn’t miss.

The show lasts about 15 minutes, so take enough time to enjoy it at your leisure. You won’t regret it. My tip: the best view is from the street in front of the bar ‘Riad by the Theatre’, which is located next to a large shopping centre.

When does the light show take place? Only on Fridays, weekends and public holidays, hourly from 7 p.m. (November to March) or 7.30 p.m. (April to October).

3. Museum of Contemporary Art & Planning University (MOCAUP)

The MOCAUP is located in the heart of the Futian Cultural District and is actually a combination of two museums. Opened in 2016, it is considered a landmark of the city’s modern identity and is, of course, one of Shenzhen’s top attractions. I was fascinated by the futuristic combination of urban and architectural planning and contemporary art. Highly recommended for people interested in architecture and design!

4. Talent Park – drone delivery

Talent Park in Shenzhen is both a technology-focused district and a popular recreational area for visitors and locals alike. It is a mixture of parkland with paths and a lake, as well as modern elements such as art installations and new technological achievements. Large play areas for children are also integrated. Known for its beautiful landscaping, Talent Park is definitely one of the best sights in Shenzhen in my opinion. It’s the perfect stopover if you want to explore Shenzhen’s high-tech side and relax in green surroundings at the same time.

Don’t miss: You can order food and drinks here via a drone delivery service – it’s easy to do via the app. Futuristic and exciting.

5. OCT Loft Creative Culture Park

The former industrial district has been transformed into a popular cultural and artistic centre and is now green and hip. Here you will find street art, small shops, vintage stores and unique cafés. Be enchanted by the flair of this district and relax amid green avenues and renovated buildings. The OCT Loft Creative Culture Park is ideal for spending half a day or a whole afternoon strolling and exploring, and is of course one of my Shenzhen tips for you.

6. My insider tip for Shenzhen: Gankeng Ancient Town

Gankeng Ancient Town is a historic site with restored buildings in the old Chinese style. It was developed from a 350-year-old village of Hakka culture. It offers a mixture of traditional architecture and modern entertainment. Here you will find, among other things, authentic houses, tea houses and bookshops.

A special highlight: you can even borrow and wear traditional Chinese clothing from different dynasties – with matching styling, of course. I really wanted to try this out and chose a costume from the Song Dynasty (960–1279). It was a great feeling to see myself like this and stroll around this fairytale place. Gankeng Ancient Town impressed me greatly and was one of my top sights in Shenzhen from the very first moment. Don’t miss out on this journey back in time.

Where is Gankeng Ancient Town? Just outside Shenzhen – accessible by metro line 10 (Gankeng station) or by taxi/Didi (Chinese Uber). The journey takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

7. Restaurant highlight: Chan’an Pavilion

Trying hot pot is an absolute must when visiting China. I thought it must be particularly good here at Chan’an Pavilion because when we arrived, we were greeted by a huge queue of people who had the same idea as us. But it was worth the wait! Chan’an Pavilion is actually one of the hottest hot pot restaurants in Shenzhen and, for me, one of the best sights. From the outside, it looks rather inconspicuous, but as soon as you enter, you are captivated by its enchanting ambience. Hundreds of lanterns glow in various shades from white to red, giving the beautiful building a cosy atmosphere. Its unique architectural design extends over several floors.

So, how was my first hot pot experience? Several people sit at a round table with numerous small bowls containing different fresh ingredients. You order a hot broth of your choice. Using small ladles or skewers, you can now cook the fresh ingredients in your broth – like a kind of fondue. Absolutely delicious! The locals love to meet up with their family or friends to enjoy this.

Another restaurant tip:

If you would like to eat vegan, then I recommend the signature restaurant Qing Chun Pumen (in MixC World). It is a completely vegan restaurant and you can enjoy the signature dish Black Truffle Fried Rice, among other things. Of course, there is also a large selection of other vegan dishes. A must-try! However, it is advisable to book in advance.

Address: 3F, Wanxiang Tiandi Lane, Nanshan District, Shenzhen

Shenzhen Travel Guide – Your journey to high-tech China with hidden charm – My summary

Shenzhen is much more than a high-tech metropolis – it offers an exciting interplay of technology, green surroundings, modernity and historical roots. Whether it’s futuristic cityscapes, creative neighbourhoods or quiet tea houses in old alleys, there’s something for every traveller here. I really enjoyed my time here and can definitely recommend a trip to Shenzhen.

The city can be ideally combined with a trip to → Hong Kong, → Macao or Guangzhou! Check out my travel guides with the best tips

I hope my Shenzhen Travel Guide has given you a little taste of what to expect if you decide to explore this unique city for yourself. I hope it will also help you to tailor your stay in Shenzhen to your wishes.

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The Macao Peninsula is located approximately 70 km from Hong Kong and is a special administrative region of China – with its own legal system, currency (pataca) and even its own passport. Until 1999, it was a Portuguese colony for almost 450 years, which can still be seen today in its architecture, cuisine and lifestyle. The mix of Chinese culture and Portuguese heritage makes Macao a unique destination in Asia – often described as ‘Europe meets China’.

Macao is also known as the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’. Did you know that there are around 30 casinos here, which generate more revenue than the 100+ casinos in Las Vegas? But we were more interested in the Macao’s impressive flair and its hidden gems. This also included an extra large dose of adrenaline – but more on that later.

In this post, I will share with you to the most beautiful sights and highlights of Macao to inspire you to take a trip to the city of contrasts. As always, you will find a map below where I have marked all the spots for you.

When is the best time to visit Macao?

To really enjoy Macao’s many impressive sights, I recommend visiting between October and December. During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild, dry and sunny. Spring (March to May) is also beautiful and therefore a good time to visit, but it can be a little more humid. Summer (June to September) is hot, humid and can be affected by typhoons, which is why travelling to Macao at this time is less recommended.

How many days should you plan for your trip to Macao?

In my opinion, two to three days are enough to explore Macao’s main sights, the historic centre, the modern casinos and quieter places like Coloane at your leisure.

If you enjoy photography or want to experience the city at a slower pace, it is better to plan for three full days.

What is the best way to get to Macao?

Macao has its own international airport, but there are no direct flights from the United Kingdom or other European Countries. Most flights land in Hong Kong, from where you can reach Macao by ferry (the journey takes about an hour). Since 2018, there has also been the 55-kilometre-long Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge which makes the connection by car or bus super easy. 

My Map with the best sights in Macao:

The most beautiful sights and highlights in Macao

Historic Centre of Macao

The Ruins of St. Paul’s

The Historic Centre of Macao forms the heart of the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ruins of St. Paul’s, the remains of a 17th-century church, is probably the most famous landmark in Macao and one of its top sights. The church was built between 1602 and 1640. In 1835, a major fire broke out, destroying everything except the front wall and facade. The ruins were finally restored at the end of the last century and still stand today

Monte do Forte Fortress

Another highlight of Macao is the historic Monte do Forte Fortress (Fortaleza do Monte), also built in the 17th century. From here, you can enjoy one of the best views of the city, the ruins of St. Paul’s and the iconic Lisboa Casino. Access is via stairs or, if you prefer a more comfortable option, via the escalator at the Macao Museum, which leads directly to the fortress. My tip: it is particularly beautiful up here at sunset. Admission is free, by the way. Please note: the escalator closes at 6 pm, after which you can only go up and down on foot.

Photogenic streets with European flair

The narrow streets surrounding Macao’s historic centre captivate visitors with their fascinating Portuguese-Chinese architecture and are perfect for strolling and taking photos. I found Calçada de São Francisco Xavier particularly photogenic, with its beautiful European-style houses and picturesque view of St. Paul’s Ruins. The street is a very popular photo spot in Macao.

The modern part of Macao – Cotai Strip

The Cotai Strip in Macao –  a sight that attracts millions of people every year – is actually inspired by Las Vegas. The long, wide boulevard is located in the new, glamorous part of the city, lined with gigantic casino resorts and themed hotels.

The most famous casinos include:

• Studio City
• The Parisian (with its own Eiffel Tower)
• The Londoner
• The Venetian Macao

Even if you don’t like to indulge in casino games, it’s worth spending an evening here. You can expect fantastic night scenes, shows, great restaurants and, of course, plenty of shopping opportunities.

Macao Tower

At a height of 338 metres (1,109 ft), the Macao Tower towers over the city skyline as another Macao landmark and attraction. From the platform, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. If you’re feeling brave, you can also venture out onto the outer ring and walk around the tower. There is no railing, but you will be secured with safety harnesses for the so-called Sky Walk.

If that’s still not enough adrenaline for you, then I recommend trying a bungee jump from the tower, as I did. It’s the highest bungee jumping facility in the world! A 200-metre free fall is no small feat. I would be lying if I said it was one of my easiest exercises. Just before the jump, my knees were really shaking and I wondered what I had gotten myself into. But there was no turning back for me… And what followed was simply amazing!

My conclusion: the Macao Tower is ideal for adventure seekers or for taking impressive panoramic photos at sunset.

Coloane Village

Coloane Village is located in the south of Macao and is a charming, quiet village with European architecture, small churches and narrow streets – ideal for a relaxing stroll away from the hustle and bustle. For me, it is definitely one of the most beautiful sights in Macao. The contrast between traditional Coloane and the view of the modern skyline of mainland China on the other side of the bay is particularly charming and very impressive.

Don’t miss: the famous egg tarts at Lord Stow’s Bakery – inspired by the Portuguese pastéis de nata but with a slightly different recipe. They are considered the best in Macao.

My insider tips in Macao

Hac Sa Long Chao Kok Trail

This is a coastal hiking trail that leads along a footbridge over red rocks. Walking on it was a very special experience, with the huge, bright red stones next to and below me, almost like in a fairy tale. The landscape reminded me a little of the Seychelles.

The Hac Sa Chao Kok Trail is ideal for nature lovers and relaxation, as it is very quiet here. We only encountered two local fishermen and were able to really enjoy our walk – making it a real insider tip in Macao.

A-Ma Temple

The Taoist A-Ma Temple – my top insider tip for Macao – is located in the south of the city and is one of Macao’s oldest temples, built in 1488 during the Ming Dynasty. It is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu (A-Ma). The temple is built on several levels on a rock and reminded me of an enchanted place out of a fairy tale.

Fun fact: A-Ma Temple is said to be the namesake of the city. According to legend, the name ‘Macao’ has the following origin: Portuguese sailors asked locals what the place they had arrived at was called and received the answer ‘A-Ma-Gau’ (‘Bay of A-Ma’). This later became ‘Macao’.

If you like, you can take a glimpse into the future while visiting the temple with the Kau Chim ceremony – a traditional method of divination in temples that is very popular with the locals.

Taipa Houses Museum

The historic villas of the Taipa Houses Museum are located on a large water lily pond with a wooden walkway. There are five houses from the 20th century that reflect the life of the Portuguese elite at that time. You will also find exhibitions on local history and culture here.

My insider tip is to take a walk on the wooden footbridge that crosses the pond, offering a photogenic view of Macao’s modern skyline with the casinos in the background. The Taipa Houses Museum is also a quiet place to enjoy and relax.

My hotel tips in Macao:

The → W Macau Studio City is ideally located on the Cotai Strip, within walking distance of the most beautiful spots and offering fantastic views from the rooms and the rooftop bar. The hotel is super modern and stylishly furnished, and the breakfast was amazing! A top address for your trip to Macao.

→ BOOK IT HERE!

Do you prefer something more traditional and close to the old town? Then I recommend the → Sofitel Macau. It has a well-known large casino where you can watch the Chinese gambling or try your luck yourself. My highlight, however, is the great outdoor pool with a view of mainland China. Great for relaxing!

→ BOOK IT HERE!

The most beautiful sights and highlights in Macao – my summary

Macao is truly a city of contrasts that could hardly be more closely intertwined. On the one hand, it is the mixture of different cultural influences that impressed me, and on the other hand, the dense encounter, almost fusion, of history and modernity. In Macao, it is possible to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a cosmopolitan city and then escape it in the next moment to find peace and quiet in a temple or in nature. Both had their own special, irresistible charm.

If you feel like following in my footsteps and experiencing the unique flair of Macao for yourself, I hope that my article on the most beautiful sights and insider tips in Macao will help you with your travel preparations.

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The Great Wall of China is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is a symbol of China’s millennia-old history and winds its way through mountains, valleys and deserts. Its numerous sections were once built to protect the empire from invaders. Even today, the Great Wall of China is one of the most famous sights in the world and attracts millions of visitors every year. So it’s no wonder that the most popular sections are often crowded. But imagine if you could experience the Great Wall of China all to yourself, without getting up for sunrise…

In this post, I’ll tell you my absolute insider tip how to discover the Great Wall of China in the most unforgettable way. Experiencing this monument without the tourist crowds is an overwhelming feeling that cannot be put into words.

Why was the Great Wall of China built?

Construction of the Great Wall of China originally began to protect the empire from attacks and raids by nomadic peoples from the north, especially the Mongols. The first sections were built as early as the 7th century BC. Under Emperor Qin Shi Huang, in the 3rd century BC, construction became more and more standardized. However, the Great Wall of China did not only have a military function. It also served to control trade routes such as the Silk Road, for communication and, of course, to demonstrate the power of the empire.

How long is the Great Wall of China?

It may be a myth that the Great Wall of China is so huge that it can be seen from space, but its length is still unbelievable! If you add up all the preserved and reconstructable sections, you get a total length of no less than 21,000 kilometres / 13,000 miles. It would take about a year and a half to walk this distance on foot! Even though not all parts are in such good condition that you can actually walk on them, there are some well-preserved sections with various access points. And that’s exactly where the difference lies!

You should avoid this section of the Great Wall of China:

Tourists usually book their tours to the Great Wall from Beijing. The major tour operators mostly go to Badaling – the most famous access point.

+ Advantage: This section is only an hour (about 70 km) away from Beijing by car or bus and is easily accessible by express train. You can basically step off the bus and onto the wall, so there’s not much walking involved. In addition, this section has been completely restored and is easy to walk on.

– Disadvantage: No matter what time of day, the Great Wall at Badaling is always crowded! One tourist group follows another. There are also strict opening hours between 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., making it almost impossible to relax and enjoy the sunrise or sunset. Drone photography is also not permitted.

My insider tip: Here you have the Great Wall of China all to yourself

After some research, we came across Jinshanling. A section of the Great Wall of China that turned out to be a real insider tip.

+ Advantage: Here, the wall winds its way through a picturesque, mountainous landscape as far as the eye can see. A fantastic backdrop for photos! Jinshanling is only partially restored and has therefore remained wonderfully authentic. And best of all, you’ll encounter significantly fewer or no other visitors here. Although there are opening hours at the ticket office, no one checks when you leave the wall. This allowed us to enjoy the sunset in peace and then stroll back to the exit at our leisure.

– The Only Down part: Jinshanling is located about 150 km / 93 miles from Beijing and is difficult to reach by public transport.

– My Tip: We therefore booked a private driver and it took us just under 2 hours from the city centre in Beijing.

As we wanted to see the sunset, we didn’t leave Beijing until around midday. The driver not only knew his way around very well, but also waited for us at the entrance to the Great Wall until we returned to drive us back. From the entrance, you hike uphill for about 20 minutes, but the path is paved and easy to find. You can expect restored as well as original passages with some stony steps and paths. Sturdy footwear is therefore important!

Don’t miss out on this experience: standing all alone at sunset on this epic monument, with no other soul in sight, feels like stepping into an adventure movie.

Another tip: it’s worth booking an accommodation in Jinshanling and spending a night right by the wall. (You can find my hotel tips below.)

The perfect route on the Great Wall of China in Jinshanling

There are also several entrances to the Great Wall in Jinshanling. After the ticket office, follow the main path to a fork, where it is best to keep to the right. Once you reach the wall, you can walk in either direction. You will pass various watchtowers with windows and great views. We started at Brick Crenel and walked west to Six-Window Tower. From here, you have a spectacular view of the untouched part of this section of the Great Wall, which is covered in dense greenery. We then walked back, past Brick Crenel again, and hiked about 8-10 towers further east until dusk set in. For our return journey, we chose the second access point to the wall from Shalingkou Tower.

You don’t like to travel alone? Simply book a guided tour in a small group or a private tour in Jinshanling:

My hotel recommendations at the Great Wall of China in Jinshanling

Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to spend a night at the Wall, but we will definitely make up for that on our next visit!

I linked the best hotels with a perfect location and top reviews:

→ Jinshanling Great Wall Hotel

→ Black Stone Great Wall Lodge

→ Gubeikou Great Wall Yunyeshu Boutique Guesthome

A few more tips for your visit to the Great Wall of China:

Can you buy food and drinks at the Great Wall of China in Jinshanling?

Yes and no. There are a few small shops and even a restaurant on the main path, but everything was closed when we visited. I suspect this was because we were in Jinshanling on a Monday – the shops probably open more on weekends or public holidays? However, some locals had set up small stalls in the towers where they sold souvenirs, snacks and even cold drinks. And at fair prices! However, you shouldn’t rely on this. Be sure to pack enough water and maybe a few snacks – especially in summer.

When is the best time to visit the Great Wall of China?

The spring and autumn months are ideal. The temperatures are pleasant and the nature is absolutely beautiful. Summers are very hot with intense sunshine. Winters, on the other hand, are very cold and there may even be snow in the mountainous regions. We visited the Great Wall of China in August. Sunscreen with a high SPF, a sun hat and sunglasses were therefore essential.

A visit to the Great Wall of China from Beijing –  without the tourist crowds! My summary

I had been looking forward to visiting the Great Wall of China for a long time, but what I experienced exceeded my expectations by far! Not only due to its imposing size, but mostly due to all the unforgettable moments we had! Standing alone on this epic monument, with a breathtaking view of the endless landscape, overwhelmed me. Jinshanling turned out to be an absolute insider tip.

I hope my recommendation for the perfect tour of the Great Wall of China and my personal insider tips will help you plan your trip.The Great Wall of China should definitely be on your China bucket list!

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Where future meets nature and countless activities: The city state Singapore is definitely one of the most unique travel destinations in South-East Asia. Either as a stop during a longer layover or as your final destination. Even after our third visit we were still surprised by how many highlights Singapore has to offer and how much there’s to see!

This Singapore itinerary includes all the best places in Singapore, which you simply can not miss during your trip, including secret spots and restaurant tips!

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My Singapore Itinerary – All highlights you need to see

Where to stay in Singapore?

Singapore has a larger number of amazing hotels all around the city. During our last visits we stayed at these two hotels which we absolutely loved:

Parkroyal Collection Pickering

This hotel has a great location in the center so many attractions and sights are located within walking distance or short taxi rides. Another plus is the amazing pool with a view and the lush design with thousands of plants which turns the Parkroyal Collection Pickering into a green oasis in the middle of the city.

Pan Pacific Orchard Road

This new green hotel, also with an urban garden, was built directly on the Orchard Road shopping street. The various mezzanine levels are lined with green columns reminiscent of the famous Super Trees from Gardens by the Bay. Even the cheapest room category in the hotel has its own balcony with a fantastic view. You can also enjoy a fantastic view from the pool. In the evening, when it is beautifully illuminated, you will find a great photo motif here.

Map with all Singapore highlights & photo spots:

Singapore Itinerary Day 1:

• Katong
• Art & Science Museum
• Rooftop Bar

Katong

One of the most photogenic & colorful neighborhoods in Singapore is Katong. This vivid area of the city state got famous thanks to its historic Peranakan houses from the early 20th century. You will find the most beautiful ones at the 9 Koon Seng Road – they make such a beautiful photo location!

Another good reason to visit Katong are the little shops, cafes and restaurants which can be found all around the neighborhood. 

Restaurant Tip ($ of $$$): If you would like to try a typically Singaporean dish, you have to visit the Michelin awarded 328 Katong Laksa which is famous among locals as well! Laksa is a spicy noodle soup with a coconut milk broth with shrimps and fish. It is ideal for a lunch snack and is affordable as well!

Marina Bay – Art & Science Museum

There are many reasons to visit the Marina Bay Area in Singapore! It is an excellent area to stroll around, go shopping and see Merlion statue – Singapore’s official mascot which is half lion and half fish! One of the most iconic shops is the spherical Apple Store in the middle of the Marina Bay – definitely take a look at its exceptional futuristic design.

The weather in Singapore can change super quick so if you’re looking for an indoor activity during a rain shower, you should check out the Art & Science Museum where art, science, culture and technology come together. The Future World is an interactive exhibition for young & old with a photo highlight as well: The Crystal Universe – An installation with 170.000 LED’s in a mirrored cabinet which look like a million stars with changing colors! A ticket for the Future World exhibition costs 21,-S$ / 14,40€ per adult.

Rooftop Bar

Bar Tip ($$ of $$$): For some pre dinner cocktails you simply have to visit the Smoke & Mirrors Rooftop Bar which is located on top of the National Gallery. It has an amazing terrace overlooking the skyline and the world famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel. I would recommend to go shortly before sunset to experience the changing colors of the sky and watching how the city lights get lit up.

You don’t have to pay an entrance fee for the rooftop bar but a reservation is highly recommended for the evening – especially on weekends. The Smoke & Mirrors signature cocktails are all inspired by art pieces inside of the National Gallery and cost around 15,-€.

Restaurant Tip ($ from $$$): Not far from our hotel, we found a little restaurant inside of a mall which serves the BEST noodle soups! It’s called Tongue Tip Lanzhou Beef Noodles. Make sure to try their signature beef noodle soup for just 9,90 S$ / 6,70€ per bowl at least once during your trip to Singapore – It is delicious!

Singapore Itinerary Day 2:

• Pulau Ubin
• Singapore River Boat Tour

Pulau Ubin

During three trips to Singapore we discovered so many different faces of the city state! A big surprise has been our visit of Pulau Ubin – an island located at the north east coast of Singapore. It is just a short ferry ride away from the mainland. After a short 10 mins ride from the Changi ferry station, you will already reach the jetty of Pulau Ubin!

Good to know: The ferry service doesn’t operate at specific times since the driver waits until the boat is full before he departs. A fee of 4,-S$ / 2,70€ per person and direction has to be paid in cash!

Pulau Ubin is a natural & green getaway which is ideal for hiking, biking, camping, fishing and kayaking – and all this so close to the bustling metropole! On the island you’ll find a small village at the ferry dock where you’ll find some shops and renting points for bikes and kayaks.

We decided for a kayak tour around the island and through the surrounding mangrove forests! I would highly recommend to do the tour with a guide since the current can get quite strong at specific points and you don’t want to get lost! We booked the tour with Adventures by Asian Detours and loved it! Our guide showed us all the best spots, gave us some information about the history and nature of Pulau Ubin and we even had a little walk during a stop on the island!

→ Here you find the link to our Kayak Tour!

Good to know: Bring a hat and sun blocker if you’re planning to go kayaking! The water reflects the sunlight strongly and you don’t want to get completely burnt during your vacation! Also make sure to bring some reusable water bottles – you can refill them with drinking water at the office of Adventures by Asian Detours.

We absolutely loved this trip to Pulau Ubin but have to admit that we have been sad to see the amount of trash at some spots which got washed to the shore or stuck in the mangrove forests… We tried to pick up some bottles and fishing ropes while kayaking, but the amount and sizes have simply been to big to collect it all.

Boat tour on the Singapore River to Marina Bay

A popular tour on the Singapore River leads into Marina Bay. You can enjoy a relaxing trip on a bumboat – a traditional wooden boat with a drawn eye on the bow. These used to be trading boats, but are now powered by modern electricity.

From the river, you have a unique view of the city. I was particularly impressed by the contrast between the traditional houses on Boat Quay and the modern skyline of the skyscrapers in the banking district behind them. This boat tour is worth doing at any time of day, even after sunset when the city lights up so beautifully.

Starting point: Clarke Quay

Journey time: approx. 40 minutes with audio guide

Cost: approx. 17 euros (it is best to book your ticket online in advance, as there are often long waiting times at the ticket counter)

Singapore Itinerary Day 3:

• Fort Canning Park
• Local Tour
• Gardens By The Bay
• Legendary Bars

Fort Canning Park

In the early morning we visited the green Fort Canning Park. It is a beautiful park which offers great views over Singapore.

My Tip: For a unique photo spot in Singapore do not miss the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel! If you look up from the bottom of the staircase you’ll see a huge tree through the tunnel, which grows at the top and almost looks like a painting!

A wide angle lens makes this staircase look even higher and more spectacular than it actually is!

Good to know: This photo spot in Singapore is quite famous so you might need to wait in line for a bit to take a photo – or come early in the morning.

Local Tour

To experience how the Singaporeans live like and to see the local neighborhoods away from the touristy tracks, we booked a tour together with a local guide called the “off the beaten path” tour. During the tour we got an interesting insight in the daily life of Singaporeans which we would never have experienced normally!

My highlight has been the tiny village Kampong Lorong Buangkok. It is the last place which still shows how the locals lived in Singapore before the 60s. Even though most houses are uninhabited today, they still stand in their original way. Around ten people do still live in Kampong Lorong Buangkok, which is the only part of Singapore which does not belong to the government!

Gardens By The Bay

Not visiting the Gardens By The Bay during your trip to Singapore would be like not seeing the Eiffel Tower in Paris – it just can’t be missed! I would even recommend to visit the park multiple times during different times of the day to experience it fully!

These are the best sights in the Garden By The Bay:

Cloud Forest

Probably my favorite part of the Gardens By The Bay! As the name already implies it is a replication of a Cloud Forest with a huge indoor waterfall and countless living plants in a glassed dome.

My Tip: Every two hours, starting at 10am, they are „misting“ the air with microscopic water droplets to simulate fog which is typical for tropical cloud forests. The mist makes the atmosphere even more magical and if you come during a sunny day you will even see beautiful sun beams shining through the windows which look amazing in photos!

Price: The outdoor area of the Gardens by the Bay can be visited free of charge but you need to book a ticket and time slot online for your visit at the Cloud Forest. It comes as a combination ticket with the Flower Dome which exhibits blooming plants from all continents. Make sure to book your ticket ahead of time as its a famous sight which is probably on everyones Singapore itinerary!

The Water Lily Pond

After your visit, spend some time to simply stroll around the Gardens with its many installations, plants, relaxing spots and wonderful photogenic places. A truly remarkable photo spot is the Water Lily Pond with a single rock in the water which has an adorable view. Find the location in my Singapore map!

Fun Fact: The first time we found this spot it was still a challenge to reach the rock – but meanwhile they built a little path which make sit easy to climb and sit on it for pictures.

Super Trees – OCBC Sky Way

The most famous sight in the Gardens By The Bay are without any question the Super Trees! These artificial trees collect solar energy to power a daily light show and their trunks are vertical gardens with more than 150.000 living plants.

An absolute highlight for me is the OCBC Sky Way – a path between the treetops of the Super Trees, from which you have a great view over the entire garden and the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. The entrance fee is around EUR 7 per person.

→ Get your ticket here!

My tips: Avoid the evening for the OCBC Sky Way, as most visitors come during sunset to see the daily light show of the Super Trees from here. During the day, there are far fewer visitors here and you can really enjoy your walk between the treetops of the Super Trees.

Gardens By The Bay – Super Trees Show

Make sure to come back to the Super Trees right before sunset to watch the nightly music and light show which starts at 8pm! It is a popular event so there will be lots of other people watching the show with you – but still absolutely magical and different every day!

My Tip: I would recommend to come a littler earlier since the trees are an excellent photo location with the famous Marina Bay Sands hotel in the background! When the sun starts to set, the trees slowly begin to sparkle which makes a truly magical sight.

Photo spots: There is one particular spot from which you can get a wonderful view of and photograph the sunset and the Super Trees – I’ve marked it for you on the map at the top of the post.

Another beautiful perspective to watch & photograph the Super Trees at night is the jetty which walks you over the Dragonfly Lake! Of course I also marked it in the map above.

Legendary Bars

Bar Tip ($$$ of $$$): The Raffles Hotel in Singapore is probably the most famous hotel in the city state and has a long history! It was opened in the late 1880’s and quickly became one of the most distinguished holiday destinations in Asia. The legendary Long Bar has been a magnet for travelers from all around the world! Make sure to step by to try the world-famous Singapore Sling which got invented 1915 in the Long Bar of the Raffles Hotel in Singapore! The 30,- S$ / 20,50€ for one Singapore Sling are definitely not a steal but they are extremely delicious and the atmosphere in the bar is amazing! It definitely can’t be missed on your Singapore Itinerary!

Bar Tip ($$ of $$$): The second bar we visited and loved this night has been ATLAS with a 1920s interior. Expect amazing cocktails (they are specialized in Gin & Tonics), good music and a truly unique atmosphere. ATLAS is the ideal place to end an amazing night in Singapore and to meet people!

Singapore - September 08, 2019: Singapore Sling cocktail at the iconic Raffles Hotel Long Bar, famous for inventing it

Singapore Itinerary Day 4:

• Tiong Bahru Market
• Kampong Gelam
• Side Cars Tour
• Open Farm Community or Labyrinth Restaurant

Tiong Bahru Market

Foodie Tip ($ of $$$): If you’re on the hunt for one of the best Hawker Food Centers in Singapore you can not miss the Tiong Bahru Market. I would recommend to go for a late breakfast or during lunch. At the ground floor you’ll find the wet market with fruits and vegetables, while the first floor is very well known for its amazing food stalls among locals and visitors!

My highlight: Freshly squeezed sugarcane juice with lime, fried duck with rice and Pak Choy and the local desserts and coffee – but you can find so many more options! This market is the right place for foodies who love to taste different small and traditional dishes for a cheap price!

Kampong Gelam

Singapore has countless different neighborhoods which are all unique in their own way. Kampong Gelam is the Muslim quarter which is absolutely worth a visit and one of the oldest urban parts of Singapore. Here you can find unique little shops and restaurants just as the beautiful Sultan Mosque which seems to come straight out of an Aladdin fairytale!

Side Cars Tour

For a quite unusual but definitely memorable sightseeing tour I can not recommend the Singapore Side Cars Tour high enough! You get picked up by a local guide on a vespa with a vintage side car! They will show you some of the most famous and lesser known parts of the city in a fun and unique way.

The tour takes around one hour with several photo spots and you can choose where you want to get picked up and dropped off. I never experienced a similar sightseeing tour in my life – it was so much fun!

Open Farm Community

Even though Singapore is a metropole it is a very green city state since the Singaporeans mastered „Urban Farming and Gardening“. This means that gardens and parks can be found all around the city – often even on the buildings themselves!

Restaurant Tip ($$ of $$$): Open Farm Community is an urban farm & restaurant concept with an organic menu. 30-40% of all of the used products come straight from their own farm which the restaurant is surrounded by! If you want to take a walk around the farm before your delicious dinner, make sure to come before sunset. But even in the evening the restaurant ist a great location which is absolutely worth a visit.

Labyrinth Restaurant

Restaurant Tip ($$$ of $$$): Are you more in the mood for a unique dinner experience on your last evening in Singapore? Then the Labyrinth restaurant is guaranteed the right choice for you! It belongs to the 50 best restaurants in Asia and has already been awarded with one Michelin Star! All dishes on the set menu are new interpretations of Singaporean classics by chef Han, who was born and raised in Singapore, while using locally sourced ingredients! The dinner we had at Labyrinth was an unforgettable experience and so much more than „just a dinner“!

Good to know: Labyrinth is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and requires a reservation.

Singapore Itinerary Day 5:

• Chinatown
• Bike Tour
• Lau Pa Sat

Chinatown

Chinatown in Singapore is huge, as this was once the place where Chinese immigrants settled in Singapore. Most Singaporeans are of Chinese origin (around 75%). Modernity meets tradition here. Narrow alleyways, colourful houses, interesting cafes and shops, but also impressive temples characterise the image of this part of the city. It’s worth taking your time to explore everything, as there is so much to discover. 

Coffee break at Nanyang Old Coffee 

Cafe Tips ($ of $$$): In the well-known café Nanyang Old Coffee, you can get the typically strong Singaporean ‘kopi’ (coffee) or tea. A classic breakfast: enjoy kaya toast with a sweet coconut spread, served with a soft-boiled egg. The complete menu with kopi is available for around 3 euros.

At the café and in the alleyways nearby, you can admire murals by a well-known Singaporean artist depicting scenes from everyday life.

Maxwell Food Centre

Foodie Tip ($ of $$$): One of the best-known and most popular hawker centres in Singapore is the Maxwell Food Centre. As it is also very popular with the locals, it is always busy, especially at lunchtime. However, there are many different food stalls, so the visitors are well spread out.  One particularly well-known stall is the Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice. Chicken and rice is practically a national dish in Singapore. The rice is cooked in the chicken broth and is therefore very flavourful.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

The most famous sight in Chinatown: The beautifully designed Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is particularly impressive. If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet in the hustle and bustle of Chinatown, this is the place for you. Entry is free of charge.

The rooftop of the temple is also open to the public and is an oasis in the city. You will find a wonderful tropical garden with a pagoda and a colourful prayer wheel in the middle. It is even possible to take part in a workshop to discover Buddhism. However, you need to book in advance.

Singapore Sightseeing Bike tour 

A guided bike tour is ideal for exploring the city, as Singapore is a very bike-friendly city. We went on a two-hour Marina Bay Night Tour. Firstly, it’s not so warm in the evening and secondly, it’s simply magical to see the city slowly start to glitter. Our guide knew the best viewpoints and photo spots.

I also recommend the longer half-day tour, which includes the modern Marina Bay as well as historic neighborhoods and sights.

Singapore Itinerary – Day 6:

• Marina Bay Sands Sunrise
• CapitaSpring Building
• Singapore Botanical Gardens
• Sentosa Island
• Dinner Cruise

Sunrise at Marina Bay Sands

Insider tip: You don’t necessarily have to be a guest of the hotel to experience a unique sunrise from the roof of Marina Bay Sands, 200 metres above the ground.

You can book meditation, yoga, Pilates or workout classes here and greet the new day in an unforgettable way. Participation costs S$48 (approx. EUR 30), but it is well worth it. For me, it was a wonderful experience and I felt fantastic afterwards. It is possible to stay on the rooftop and enjoy the view and take photos before and after.

→ You can book the workout classes on their website – linked here!

CapitaSpring Building

The CapitaSpring Building is one of the three tallest buildings in Singapore. A wonderful garden with a view awaits you on the roof, which is also open to the public until 11 am. (after this time it is only open to restaurant visitors, as there are several restaurants here). Many herbs, fruits etc. are grown in the garden and used to prepare the food in the restaurants. Enjoy the fantastic view over the famous Marina Bay Sands building.

Singapore Botanical Gardens – Orchid Garden

Singapore offers an incredible abundance of parks and gardens, even in the city centre. Lesser known, but absolutely marvelous and highly recommended, are the Botanical Gardens, which were built by the British in the 19th century, much earlier than the Gardens by the Bay that are so well-known today.

The approximately 24-hectare site is like an oasis in the middle of the city. Here you can stroll through a fairy tale and unwind. My absolute highlight is the National Orchid Garden with the largest orchid exhibition in the world, both outdoors and in an air-conditioned greenhouse. Admission costs around 7 Euros per person.

Cable car to Sentosa Island

Another popular excursion is a ride on the cable car from Mount Faber, in the south of the city, to Sentosa Island. The journey alone offers you a great view.

On Sentosa Island you will find plenty of activities for all ages. You can relax on the tropical beaches or visit the Universal Studios theme park, for example. You can also visit the S.E.A. Aquarium – one of the largest oceanariums in the world – or the world-famous Madame Tussauds Singapore wax museum.

Fun Fact: The southernmost point of the continent of Asia can be reached from Sentosa Island via a suspension rope bridge.

Sentosa Sunset Dinner Cruise

My special tip: For the evening is a sunset dinner cruise on the old sailing ship Royal Albatross. During the light cruise around Sentosa, you can enjoy an elegant multi-course menu and live music as well as a fantastic view. The perfect idea for an unforgettable date night!

Another Highlight for your Singapore Itinerary

The Windsor Nature Park

Outside the city centre is a large protected rainforest. Windsor Nature Park offers an abundance of trails and hiking paths through the jungle – from short walks to extended hikes.

Nature & animal fans will love it here: You are almost guaranteed to encounter its cheeky inhabitants: Several cute monkey families live here in the protected nature reserve and are not afraid of humans. You can see the macaques climbing and playing at close quarters. I could have watched them for hours.

But be careful: please don’t feed them and keep your own food well hidden in your backpack (or preferably only take water with you), as the monkeys have learnt to steal food from visitors.

The most impressive airport in the world: Changi Airport

Before your departure from Singapore, you should definitely plan an extra 1-2 hours to explore the impressive Changi Airport. Here you will find a huge mall with a green heart which looks like a jungle. The absolute highlight is an indoor waterfall called The Jewel, which you can admire from different great perspectives from the individual levels of the shopping centre.

The Jewel at Changi Airport

The absolute highlight is an indoor waterfall called The Jewel, which you can admire from different great perspectives from the individual levels of the shopping centre.

How to find the Jewel at the Changi Airport: This impressive part of the airport is open around the clock and is connected to the Arrival Hall of Terminal 1. However, you can reach it on foot or by taking the free shuttle from all other terminals at the airport. From the city centre, you can get to The Jewel directly by taxi or by MRT train to Changi Airport Station (CG2).

The Waterfall Gate

The giant LED wall known from social media, which depicts a gigantic waterfall that you can even walk through, is located in the check-in area of the departure hall of Terminal 2. The easiest way to reach it is by Skytrain.

I hope my Singapore itinerary will help you to plan your own trip or inspired you to book a trip this year! Singapore is without any question one of my favorite cities in the world which you simply have to put on your bucket list!

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After our first trip to Taiwan, during which we spent only a few days in Taipei, we promised ourselves to come back the next time with more time to explore the island during a road trip through Taiwan. No sooner said than done – and it was the best decision! Taiwan surprised us and left us speechless numerous times! In this post, I’ll tell you the perfect itinerary for your unforgettable road trip in Taiwan. As always, I’ve marked all the places on a map at the end of this post so you can find all my tips for Taiwan quickly and easily.

How many days should you plan for your Taiwan road trip?

Depending on how tightly you want to plan your program, I would recommend one week to ten days for this itinerary through Taiwan.

When is the best time to travel to Taiwan?

Basically, a trip to Taiwan can be very beautiful throughout the year. In the summer it is relatively hot and humid, but we ourselves have made this tour in August and found the weather still bearable. However, due to the typhoon season in the summer there can be sporadic heavy rainfall. In winter it gets relatively cool, especially in the north.

The ideal time to travel to Taiwan is therefore spring and autumn, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is (usually) low.

Payment in Taiwan

Payment in Taiwan is made in the New Taiwan Dollar. One Euro is equivalent to about 35 TWD. Foreign credit cards are not accepted everywhere, especially outside the capital Taipei. Therefore, you should always have enough cash on you, because even in some of the smaller hotels we could only pay cash.

The perfect Taiwan Road Trip Itinerary

Taiwan Road Trip – First Stop: Taipei

On a round trip through Taiwan, the exciting capital Taipei must not be missed. It already impressed us during our first trip to Taiwan. So before you jump in your rental car and start your tour around the island, I would recommend spending a few days in Taipei. 

These are the must see spots in Taipei:

• The Taipei101

  The landmark of the city and with a height of 508m currently the tenth tallest building in the world. Its shape is supposed to remind you of a bamboo pole. The skyscraper houses a shopping mall and the observation deck on the 101st floor is also open to visitors. For 600 TWD (about 17€) per adult, the best view over Taipei can be enjoyed – this is particularly impressive at sunset.

• Elephant Mountain

  You would like to enjoy a dreamlike view over Taipei – but with Taipei101 in the skyline? No problem: Elephant Mountain is my absolute highlight in Taipei. Although you will get a little sweaty on the climb, the view is well worth it and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

  How to find the Elephant Mountain Trail in Taipei?

  The Elephant Mountain is called Xiangshan in Mandarin and is located in the Xinyi District. I’ve marked the exact location of the starting point on my Taiwan map at the end of this post. It’s best to get an Uber or taxi to drop you off and then follow the stairs uphill at the entrance sign – you can’t miss it. After about 30 minutes, you’ll reach five large boulders that offer the best views and are ideal for a photo spot. Further up you will also find a viewing platform with benches. Elephant Mountain is a popular route, so the trail is busy at all times of the day – even before sunrise. Most visitors, however, are local joggers who do not linger for photos. The best light for photographing is at sunset or sunrise – even though you won’t have a direct view of the rising sun.

• Chiang Kai Shek Memorial

  After Taipei101, this is probably the most famous sight in Taipei: the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial. Chiang Kai Shek was the last president of the Republic of China before the Communist Party took power in 1949. He fled to Taiwan, where he ruled as president until his death.
  Both the huge white memorial is impressive and the entire surrounding park, which invites you to take a walk. Admission is free and every full hour an impressive changing of the guard takes place in the hall, in front of the large bronze statue of the former president.

• Longshan Temple

  The most beautiful temple in Taipei for me is the Chinese Longshan Temple, built in 1738. It is located in a lively neighborhood, but is a true oasis of calm, in which even a waterfall was built. A visit is especially impressive after sunset, when the lanterns glow and immerse the temple in a mystical light.

• Night Market

  A visit to Taipei would not be complete without visiting a night market. There are numerous of them scattered around the city. They are not only ideal for eating and snacking but also for shopping and marveling! Well known are for example the Ximending Night Market (directly at the Longshan Temple) or the Shilin Market.

How many days should you plan to spend in Taipei during your Taiwan road trip?

2-3 days

Hotel recommendations:

→ Luxury: The Shangri-La Taipei – the hotel with probably the best view of Taipei101

→ Mid-range: Hotel Resonance Taipei by Hilton – a modern hotel with a good location and free laundry facilities

→ Budget: The Goodmore Hotel

Find more hotels in Taipei:

Taiwan Road Trip – Second Stop: The Sun Moon Lake

The first stop on the perfect raod trip through Taiwan is the enchanting Sun Moon Lake, which is located 240km south of Taipei and can be reached by car in 2.5 hours. Taiwan’s largest lake owes its name to its shape, which is supposed to remind of a sun and a moon from above. Although this  requires a lot of imagination. The lake is surrounded by green mountains and magical temples. A road leads once around the entire lake.

Here are some stops you should not miss:

• Wenwu Temple

  The colorful Wenwu Temple is the ideal first stop at Sun Moon Lake. It is located at the northernmost tip of the lake, closest to Taipei. During a visit, not only the architecture can be admired, but also the view over the lake.

• Ropeway

  Unfortunately, we missed this stop because we were too late. A ropeway leads from Sun Moon Lake up the mountains to a viewpoint. The last ticket is sold already at 3:30 pm, so it’s best to plan this activity for noon. The cost is 350 NTD (about 10€) per adult.

• Cien Pagoda

  This is my favorite stop along the Sun Moon Lake: The Cien Pagoda. The tower was built in 1971 and offers a great view over the lake. The detailed Chinese architectural style is also great for photos. The tower can be reached from the parking lot after a short hike. We were here in the late afternoon and had the pagoda almost to ourselves. This is because there is a sign at the parking lot that the last ascent is 4pm, however we were there long after that and the tower was still open (there is no cashier or entry booth). The later in the afternoon you come, the more beautiful the golden light will be.

• Xiangshan Jetty

  For sunset we were at the Xianshang jetty, which is located above the water. So you get to see a whole new perspective of the lake, surrounded by the panorama of the mountains. The entrance is free and you can park your car at the Xiangshan Visitor Center and enjoy the short walk to the Scenic Overlook.

How many days should you plan for Sun Moon Lake during your Taiwan road trip:

One full day

Hotel recommendation:

→ Luxury: The Lalu Hotel – with chic Zen-style suites and villas overlooking the lake.
→ Mid-range: The Sun Moon Lake Hotel
→ Budget: The Crystal Jade Chalet

Taiwan Road Trip – Third stop: The Sun-Link-Sea Nature Park

For me, this was the biggest surprise during our Taiwan road trip: The Songlong Rock Waterfall in the Sun-Link-Sea Nature Park. Although the waterfall is one of the most impressive natural spectacles of this mystical park, it has many more enchanted paths through the forest, suspension bridges, waterfalls and more to offer. I would therefore recommend you to plan a whole day. However, if you don’t have much time, it’s also worth visiting for half a day.

Sun-Link-Sea Park is located high up in the mountains of central Taiwan in Nantou County, so the climate is cooler than on the coasts and clouds hanging in the mountains usually make for rainy, humid weather. But this is what makes the magic of this place so special!

You park your car at the visitor center. Here you will get a map with all the highlights and hiking routes and a bus will take you deeper into the forest to the remote spots. Songlong Rock Waterfall is just a few minutes walk from the last bus stop. It is an enchanted place, which reminds me a lot of Iceland, because the waterfall falls along a half-open moss-covered cave! An absolute insider tip in Taiwan, which even many locals don’t know about yet.

→ Tip: The waterfall looks most beautiful in spring and summer after a heavy rainfall. The water flow is not as strong all year round as it was during our visit.

Price: 250 NTD (about 7€) per adult PLUS 100 NTD (about 3€) parking fee per car.

How many days should you plan for Sun-Link-Sea Park during your Taiwan tour:

One day or at least half a day

Hotel recommendation:

→ Budget: The Sheng Shine Forest Resort – A small family-run hotel by the forest with delicious breakfast.

Taiwan Round Trip – Fourth Stop: Tainan

Our fourth stop on our round trip around Taiwan was supposed to be the city of Tainan. Due to extreme downpours before and during our stay, this unfortunately fell literally into the water… some attractions were completely flooded.

For this reason, we decided to go directly to the next stop on our Taiwan tour.

Taiwan Round Trip – Fifth Stop: Kaohsiung 

Kaohsiung is the capital of the south and with 2.7 million inhabitants, more people live here than in Taipei. The Lotus Pond with the adjacent Confucius Temple is the biggest attraction of the city. It is a large pond, in the size of a lake, on which there are colorful temples and gigantic statues. Unfortunately, we had some bad luck during our visit, because the numerous lotus was just faded in the summer and the famous Dragon & Tiger Pagodas  closed for construction. However, a walk around the pond to the Confucius Temple is still worthwhile, because there is a lot to discover.

Food Tips for Kaohsiung:

• Jianbing Crepes – hearty Chinese street food eaten for breakfast / lunch. I marked the best store (the name of the restaurant is only in Mandarin) in my Taiwan map. Price per dish under 5€
• Gang Yuan Beef Noodle Restaurant (120NT$ – 3,40€) – the best noodle soup in Kaohsiung.
• MyCofi Kaohsiung – the world famous 3D latte in the shape of dogs. The cost is around 350NT$ (10€), due to the detailed work, but the result was super cute and the coffee very good!

How many days should you plan for Kaohsiung during your Taiwan road trip:

Half a day to a full day (we planned one day together for Kaohsiung and Kenting National Park).

Hotel recommendation:

→ Mid-range: The Fullon Poshtel Kaohsiung

Taiwan Road Trip – Sixth stop: Kenting National Park  

At the southern tip of Taiwan is the oldest national park in the country: Kenting National Park is known for its limestone formations and caves. A complete tour through the national park takes about 2-3 hours and besides geological formations, you can also marvel at mystical banyan trees, whose roots have even snaked through the rock over the years. The most famous inhabitants of the park are rock monkeys and deer.

Entrance fee: 150 TWD (about 4-5€) per adult

Tip: If the weather is nice and you have enough time, you can also find great beaches to relax and swim on the Kenting coast. The most beautiful of them is Xiaowan beach (also called Small Bay). It is located at the Cesar Park Resort, but it is free of charge for any visitor.

Hotel recommendation in Kenting:

→ Mid-range: Howard Beach Resort – right on Kenting beach with pool

→ Budget: Hai Yuan Bungalow II

Taiwan Road Trip – Seventh Stop: The Taroko National Park

The 19 kilometer long Taroko Gorge is the most famous and popular natural attraction in Taiwan! And for good reason: During a trip through the Taroko National Park you feel as if you had suddenly landed in Norway. Nature and hiking fans are guaranteed to feel at home here. There are routes suitable for beginners as well as others for the more adventurous hikers.

Here are some stops in Taroko National Park that you should not miss: 

• Eternal Spring Shrine: This shrine is built around a small waterfall so that it seems as if the water is coming out of the small temple. The view is best from the parking lot and a short path through a tunnel leads up to the temple.
• The Tunnel of Nine Turns: The road is to be driven along by car and is the most beautiful road section in the national park, because the road leads through a half-open tunnel under the kilometer-long rock face along. A dreamlike view!

• Yuewangting Suspension Bridge: This suspension bridge crosses Taroko Gorge and overlooks a waterfall cascading down the cliff face.
• Zhuilu Old Road Trail: The most famous and impressive hiking trail in the national park. Although the round trip is only 6km long, a permit is required for the hike, as the trail is very narrow in some places and runs directly along the gorge. Since access is limited, you should arrange your permit well in advance of your tour in Taiwan. You can apply at the earliest four months and at the latest 35 days before your planned hike: → You can find the link to get your permit here!

How many days should you plan for Taroko National Park: One full day

Entrance fee: Free

Tip: When you arrive, be sure to check with the Visitor Center to see which trails are closed and what times certain tunnels are open!

Taiwan Road Trip – last Stop: Jiufen

Before our round trip around Taiwan ends back in Taipei, we planned a last detour to Jiufen on the last day. The small town is located north, 45 minutes outside the capital and is a popular destination for a day trip. Jiufen became famous because of the anime movie Spirited Away, which is said to have been inspired by Jiufen, even though it is set in Japan. Some people find it too touristy, but in my opinion it’s still worth a visit. You can enjoy the view in the cute little tea houses or sip on a traditional boba milk tea while strolling through the streets.

How much time should you plan for Jiufen: Half a day to a maximum of a whole day, you can stay overnight in Taipei.

Tip: When driving from Taipei to Jiufen, you will pass by Gongbei Temple. It is a very quiet but beautiful temple, which is ideal for a short visit.

I really hope that a Taiwan road trip is on your bucket list! The country is, in my opinion, far too underestimated and can easily keep up with the better known destinations in Asia. But this also has a good side, most places, especially outside the capital Taipei you will have all to yourself and you won’t have to worry about huge crowds of tourists.

Feel free to comment or message me on Instagram if you have any other questions for your travel planning!

My Taiwan Map for your Road Trip:

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Seoul is the lively capital of South Korea, which never sleeps. During a trip to Seoul, there are numerous sights as well as gorgeous photo spots to capture your travel moments. In this post, I’ll tell you the best things to do in Seoul and marked them on a map so you can easily find them during your trip.

When is the best time to travel to Seoul?

You will have the most beautiful travel experience in spring and autumn. In spring the trees are in bloom and in autumn the foliage shines in the most beautiful colors. Moreover, the climate of both seasons is pleasantly mild and ideal for your tour to the best things to do in Seoul. We ourselves were there in midsummer – the weather was of course very hot and humid at that time, which made us sweat quite a bit. In winter, on the other hand, it gets surprisingly cold – up to double-digit minus degrees!

Payment in Seoul

The official currency in Seoul is the South Korean won. One Euro is equivalent to about 1400 Won (as of 2023). International credit cards are accepted almost everywhere and payment by card always went smoothly. But for smaller food stalls we exchanged some cash into Won. For this purpose, the exchange offices in the city are suitable, which, compared to those at the airport, charge significantly lower fees.

P.S. By the way, it is unusual in Korea to give any tip!

How many days are ideal for Seoul?

Seoul has so much to discover due to its size that you could probably spend months here without seeing everything. For the highlights of Seoul, however, I would plan 5-6 days – including a day trip to the border of North Korea.

These are the best photo spots & best things to do in Seoul, Korea

1 – The Gyeongbokgung Palace

There are a total of five royal palaces left in Seoul, which are still preserved (or rebuilt) today. The largest and oldest among them is the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Thus, the palace is one of the best things to do in Seoul – and for good reason. It was originally built in 1395, but was unfortunately partially demolished during the Japanese occupation of Korea. It wasn’t until the 1990s that it was reconstructed to its original form, which makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you visit. We met many visitors who rented and wore a traditional Korean Hanbok costume. Especially the dresses for women are a dream and look great in photos. There are many stores that offer this service. (e.g. Hanboknan, directly in the palace).

By the way, a visit to the palace with its park is especially beautiful in autumn, when the many trees carry colorful foliage and are thus a great photo backdrop.

Cost: 3000 Won (2€) per adult – or free when wearing a traditional Hanbok costume

Closed Tuesdays

Free guided tours in English take place 11 am, 1:30 pm & 3:30 pm

2- The Bukchon Hanok Village 

Only about 15 minutes away from Gyeongbokgung Palace is the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village – probably the most beautiful photo spot in Seoul. It is a small neighborhood with well-preserved Korean houses, some of which are 600 years old. Because the neighborhood is so hilly, there is an elevated road that leads down relatively steeply, revealing a great view of the skyline of modern Seoul. If you want to take photos here undisturbed and peacefully, I would recommend you to be there especially early. We visited Bukchon Hanok Village twice: In the afternoon to have a look and walk around, and at sunrise to take photos.

Cost: free of charge

Bukchon Hanok Village is a neighborhood where locals live and go about their normal daily lives, so when visiting you should be especially respectful, make no noise and leave no trash behind. Even though this should be the case with all sights, here especially much emphasis is put on it.

3 – Namsan Mountain with the N Seoul Tower- the most famous sight in Seoul.

Visiting the N Seoul Tower is not one of the best things to do in Seoul but also the landmark of the city with the best view over the area.

First, you take a (free) elevator from the street up to the cable car station. This takes visitors up to the top of Namsan Mountain – the highest mountain in Seoul. It can also be walked, the ascent takes about an hour and is said to be a very beautiful walk.

Cost of the cable car: 14,000 Won (10€) per adult.

Already on the mountain you have a wonderful panoramic view over Seoul – the city seems to go on into the endless. Did you know that 51.6 million people live in South Korea and about 25 million in Seoul and the outskirts alone? The city is incredibly huge. On the mountain you can also have a drink and a meal – there are numerous small stores and restaurants. Often there is even a small market set up where locals sell souvenirs and little things of various kinds.

From here, an elevator leads another 138 meters up to the viewing platform of the famous TV tower – the N Seoul Tower. The view can be enjoyed in any direction.

Cost: 21,000 Won (15€) per adult

4 – The Starfield Library – the most famous library in Korea

This library is surely on everyone’s To Do list – the Starfield Library with the famous gigantic book wall, along which an escalator leads. And here you can find this famous photo spot in Seoul: The library is located in the middle of the COEX shopping mall and you can’t miss it there. Although the books are all in Korean, the library is still a nice place to relax (& take photos). There’s even a café as well as a Starbucks inside the Starfield Library – so it’s perfect for an afternoon break.

Cost: free of charge

Extra tip: Right outside the doors of COEX Mall is the golden Gangnam statue. The Gangnam district became famous worldwide through the viral song “Gangnam Style”.

5 – The Deoksugung Palace

Another green oasis is the Deoksugung Park & Palace. The special thing about this park is that it is located right in the center at the busiest intersection in Seoul – which you almost forget when you enter. It is very quiet, making it a relaxing retreat on a hot day and during a city tour.

Cost: 1000 Won (0,70€) per adult

6 – The Lotte World Tower

Another highlight in Seoul with a stunning view is the Lotte World Tower. With its 555 meters height it is not only the highest building in Seoul but also the fifth highest building in the world.

The view at sunset is especially fantastic. The whole city and the Han River will be bathed in an orange-golden light. Most visitors take photos at this time in front of the glass facade, which looks directly at the sunset. A little further on, however, is an outdoor terrace with an equally spectacular view, which is also suitable for photos.

Cost: 44,000 Won (30€) for two adults

Extra tip: Right next to the giant skyscraper is the theme park “Lotte World”, which is comparable to Disneyland. So if you are traveling as a family or love rides and theme parks, this is the place for you. A large part of the park is indoors, so it’s worth visiting during rainy weather as well.

Cost: 59,000 Won (€41) per adult (47,000 Won (€32) after 4 pm)

7 – Evening stroll through Myeong-dong. 

Our hotel was located in the lively neighborhood of Myeong-dong, which really comes to life after sunset. Numerous neon signs, souvenir shops, second hand boutiques, DIY stores, bars, food stalls, … Whether it’s for shopping, eating or marveling, an evening stroll through the neighborhood is well worth it!

→ Book the same hotel we stayed at in Seoul!

It has a very central location – perfect to start your sightseeing tour – and is affordable as well.

By the way, some of the best classic bars are located here, serving Korean Fried Chicken and beer. You sit in front of the bars on plastic chairs in a crowd of happy people and the atmosphere is very cheerful! Even though fried chicken is not one of my favorite foods, you have to try it here at least once – just because of the atmosphere. (P.S. For vegetarians there are of course also meat-free dishes like cheese balls).

Another dish you should try here is Dakgalbi. It is stir-fried chicken with vegetables and rice dumplings (similar to gnocchi), which is prepared directly on a fireplace at the table. The whole thing is then topped with plenty of cheese and eaten right out of the pan – simply delicious! (We were in the restaurant Yoogane)

8 – Han River Cruise by Night

In the evening we took a river cruise on the Han River and watched Seoul at night from the water. The departure is at Yeouida Island – a large island in the Han River with the Han River Park right on the water. It is a popular meeting place for young people and couples to picnic or drink beer. In the evening there is always something going on here.

→ Book your tour here!

9 – Extra tip for your visit to Seoul: A trip to the North Korean border

For me, it was a moving experience that I will never forget: a trip from Seoul to the North Korean border. Although Korea, before Japan’s occupation in the early 1900s, was one country, it is hard to imagine today. After the end of World War II and the capitulation of Japan, Korea has been divided into South and North Korea. And both countries could not be more different today: South Korea as a free country with a liberal democracy in which cosmopolitanism and freedom are written in capital letters and North Korea as an authoritarian dictatorship, which suppresses its people and keeps itself hidden from the world. 

It’s not possible visit the border of North Korea “just like that” and on your own, but you have to book a tour, because every visitor is registered and has a certain time window. We booked our tour → here and were completely satisfied. The tour starts early in the morning and stops at various points before heading to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), which is two kilometers from the border. During the tour you learn a lot about the history, which extends to the present and explains the relationship between two rivals who were once brothers. An absolute recommendation from my side!

→ I’ve linked our tour to the border of North Korea here!

More photo spots & things to do in Seoul

…which we unfortunately didn’t manage to do ourselves due to lack of time:

– 10 – Shopping in Hongdae district – here you will find numerous colorful boutique stores, second hand shops, cute restaurants and bars. Ideal for strolling and exploring.
– 11 – Gwangjang Market – the most famous street food market in Seoul. Some dishes are only suitable for those with a stable stomach who like to experiment, but there are also delicious options which are more suitable for our western appetite.
– 12 – The Ihwa Mural Village – an artsy neighborhood with colorful murals and small stores and bars. Very Instagrammable and thus a popular photo spot in Seoul.

Seoul is a city you simply can’t miss on your next trip to Asia! Be sure to put it on your bucket list and plan enough time to explore all the best things to do in Seoul – you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time!

I’ve marked all the places I’ve mentioned on the map below – you can open them in Google Maps with one click!

My Map with the best things to do in Seoul:

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Hong Kong is one of my favorite places in the whole world. Here you can find bustling big city vibes with an impressive nature just in front of your doorstep. Hong Kong is full of wonderful view points and photogenic places. This is my guide for the best highlights and photo spots in Hong Kong and how you can easily find them.

These are the best highlights & photo spots in Hong Kong:

The Quarry Bay Monster Building

Quarry Bay is a neighborhood in East Hong Kong which is known for its huge buildings. Especially the Fok Cheong ‘Monster Building’ which was built in the 1960s turned into a photographers hotspot.
Standing in the yard you will have different towers around you with small apartments in it.
Even so it’s indeed a very interesting photo motive you should always keep in mind that people are living here. So make sure to respect the privacy of the locals while taking your photos.

How to get to the Quarry Bay Monster Building in Hong Kong?

You can easily reach the building via the MTR till the Tai Koo station. Take Exit B and follow the King’s Road till the entry of the building. I saved the exact location in my map above with all photo spots in Hong Kong.

Victoria Peak – the most famous view point in Hong Kong

The Victoria Peak is a place for one of THE most famous views over Hong Kong. You can either choose between the sky deck or one of the many view points around Victoria Peak.
We took the historical Peak Tram to drive up to the top which already offers an amazing view – it is definitely a must do when you are in Hong Kong! Especially if you want to enjoy epic views without the need to go on a hike

Star Ferry Ride

The Star Ferry connects Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. During the ride you get an amazing view over both sides of Hong Kong, making it one of my favorite photo spots in Hong Kong. I especially loved the ride in the evening when all the buildings started to light up in different colors. Even so there is a modern tunnel nowadays to connect the two parts of the city, there are still a lot of people using the ferry from the 19th century. One ride only costs less than one Euro so it’s absolutely worth it  You will get the best views during sunset, taking the ferry from Central or Wan Chai to the Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Terminal in Kowloon.

Ding Ding – The Hong Kong Tram

One of the most iconic things to do in Hong Kong is taking a ride on the vintage double-decker trams, also called “Ding Ding” by the locals. They are the oldest still running public transport in Hing Kong – dating back to 1904!

You can choose between several routes but if you want to enjoy the best views during your ride, I highly recommend choosing the TRAMORAMIC Tour. It is a special sightseeing tour passing some photo-worthy views. And the best: The upper level of the tram has no roof which is perfect to enjoy the panorama!

The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong

The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong is the highest hotel in the world! It even has the highest indoor swimming pool and bar… So you can imagine that this hotel is all about the great views
The Hotel is absolutely one of a kind and the number one address in Hong Kong. From the rooms, the pool and the lounge you have an incredible view over Hong Kong Island.

Even if you’re not staying in the hotel you can visit one of the restaurants or the popular Ozone Bar to enjoy the special feeling & views of the Ritz Carlton  Both are open for visitors and offer some great photography spots.

Braemer Hill, Secret View Point – my favorite photo spot in Hong Kong

During our third visit in Hong Kong we finally discovered the amazing viewpoint I always wanted to go! And I already got tons of questions about where it is!

It’s located at Braemer Hill very close to the Red Incense Burner Summit which is a famous point among photographers. The view from this spot over Victoria Harbour & Kowloon is spectacular during sunset but you probably wont find an empty seat since everything is covered with tripods.

BUT the spot we discovered offers the same view and was completely empty.

Suicide Cliff – the most insane photo spot in Hong Kong

A place we only discovered recently but is one of the most insane views over Hong Kong I’ve seen is the Suicide Cliff. In fact not only this specific cliff is insane but also the hike which leads here! I promise you will love it.

How to get to the Sucide Cliff in Hong Kong?

Start your hike at the Kowloon Peak Viewing Point where you can get dropped off by Uber (this saves you around an hour of the hike!). From the pavilion at the view point you will see a path leading in the bushes and a “danger sign”. But no worries – this means that your are on the right way! The beginning of the hike is easy to moderate and will lead you underneath a power plant with insane vies over Kowloon on the one side and the small islands of Hong Kong on the other. After passing Elephant Hill (where the first photo below was taken) and a radio station you are almost there! The last 20 minutes before finally reaching Suicide Cliff are challenging and not beginner friendly. So you should consider ending the hike at the radio station where you have a wonderful view as well.

For the way back, make sure to take the wooden staircase downhill which starts at the radio station. This is very important, as the shorter “path” leading downhill directly from Suicide Cliff is extremely steep and dangerous – I wouldn’t recommend it!

The whole hike took us 2,5 hours (this is only the hiking time, without the photo stops) and you definitely need to wear proper hiking boots for it and bring plenty of water. If you come during sunset also make sure to have a head lamp as it will get dark quickly and there are no lights at all.

!! Attention: Remember that this hike is not beginner or kids friendly and should only be done if you feel fit, the weather is dry and if you wear proper hiking boots! If you do, then I promise that you will love it – It is such an unforgettable adventure.
Alternatively you can do the route Kowloon Peak Viewing Point – Elephant Hill – Radio Station & back down via the wooden staircase & skip the most slippery last part to Suicide Cliff.

Soho & Central Hong Kong – the most photogenic area in Hong Kong

If you are a fan of street are and unique cafes you will love the neighborhoods Soho and Central Hong Kong. The area is full of beautiful murals and cute restaurants. Simply stroll around and explore the little alleys. Additionally you should take a look at the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators – the longest outdoor escalator system in the world. It leads 800m from downhill to uphill. And here is an interesting fact: In the morning it first leads downhill to help the people get to work or school. Only after midday it changes its direction.

Lantau Island

Lantau Island is home of the Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) and the beautiful Po Lin monastery. The island is located in the West of Hong Kong and can be reached via the Ngong Ping cable car. The ride is a bit expensive (235 HKD/23,50 EUR for an adult) but offers incredible views over Hong Kong and the lush island.
First you “fly” over the sea and get closer and closer to the soft green hills of Lantau island. During the ride we spotted several waterfalls and of course the Big Buddha.

The Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island

The Buddha is 34 Meter high and you have to climb up 268 stairs to reach it. It is quite exhausting in the humid weather of Hong Kong but in the end absolutely worth it. The platform offers a panoramic view over the hills and the sea with all the little islands.

Po Lin monastery on Lantau Island

After visiting the Bid Buddha you shouldn’t miss the Po Lin monastery which is the most important Buddhist sanctuary in Hong Kong. Many wonderful details decorate the building and give the place a special charm.

Hong Kong Insider Tip: Cheung Chau Island

Beach vibes in Hong Kong? YES that’s possible! Many people don’t know that there are over 250 small island which belong to Hong Kong. Some of them are inhabited and can be reached by ferry. One of the bigger islands is Cheung Chau and it is the perfect destination for a half or full day trip to get away from the hustle and bustle in the city center of Hong Kong.

We took the ferry from the Central Pier to Cheung Chau. I highly recommend choosing the speed ferry which only takes 30-40 minutes and costs 30 HKD (around 3,50 EUR) per person and per route. The ferry goes every hour so you have full flexibility on how long you’re planning to stay.

Definitely plan some time to relax at the Tung Wan Beach and stroll around over the market to dive into the local island life. You can even go on hikes on the island – there are a lot of things to do!

Map with the best photo spots in Hong Kong:

With almost 150 resorts from all price ranges and with different benefits, it can be hard to find the best resort in the Maldives for your own holiday.
During the last few years we had the chance to visit a lot of different resorts and realized that every island and hotel is unique in its own way. That’s why the question “What is the best resort in the Maldives?” has a different answer for every traveler – it all depends on your personal preferences and budget:

The best resorts in the Maldives

Every resort in the Maldives is unique in its own way. The choice for your perfect stay depends on your own taste, what you want to experience during your holiday, with which budget you are planning and which aspects of a hotel are most important to you.
In this post I matched our favorite resorts with different categories to make it easier to find your personal best resort in the Maldives.

Category I: Sustainability meets luxury

Most people think that it is not possible to spend a holiday in the Maldives which is eco-friendly and luxurious at the same time. But the rising importance of sustainability for travelers, made hotels in the Maldives adapting this aspect to their concepts. Over the last years, some resorts took their responsibility and the ingenuity to save the environment to the next level:

Soneva Fushi & Soneva Jani

price: $$$ – $$$$

Soneva stands for the epitome of sustainability in combination with luxury. The two resorts Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani not only try to be as eco friendly as possible but rather immerse with nature to give back more to the environment than what they took. The resorts have their own recycling stations, where every single produced trash will be reused. They even invented a natural procedure of water purification, support local communities, build all villas out of recycled wood, harvest their own veggies and fruits, … and so much more. Experiencing the Soneva spirit clearly showed us that it is absolutely possible to be one with nature and experience luxury at the same time!

• My Hotel Review about the Soneva Fushi
• My Hotel Review about the Soneva Jani
• Book Your Stay at the Soneva Fushi
• Book your Stay at the Soneva Jani

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

price: $$$

The Park Hyatt is a small island in the south of the Maldives and the Management of the resort takes it incredibly serious to preserve the fragile ecosystem of the Maldives. They not only work all the time on new ideas to save energy, waste and resources but also teach their guests about the importance of being one with nature. Their creativity and eco-friendly spirit blew us away!

• My Hotel Review
• Book Your Stay

Six Senses Laamu

price: $$$

Six Senses Resorts hold a special place in my heart! And the Six Senses Laamu is the perfect choice for everyone who loves to enjoy luxury without loosing sustainability out of sight! The Eco Lab on the island is the biggest one we’ve ever seen in a resort. Almost everything you see in the resort is made from the scratch at this place: From the furniture to the uniforms for the employees to their own drinking water and soap.

• My Hotel Review is coming soon
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Category II: Snorkeling Paradises

One of the main reasons why we fell in love with the Maldives is the unique maritime life. Especially the Baa Atoll and the South of the Maldives have vivid reefs with colorful fish, turtles, rays and sharks. But not all resorts are situated next to their own house reef. From all the islands we visited so far, these three have been the best resorts in the Maldives to go snorkeling:

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

price: $$$

Sustainability plays a big role for the health of a reef as well! Some resorts do a daily “fish & shark feeding” several times a day, but unfortunately feeding the fish disturbs their natural feeding behavior which has a big impact to the overall natural balance in the reef. Luckily many resorts stopped the fish feeding to safe their maritime life and the Park Hyatt Maldives is one of them! They have an incredibly vivid house reef all around the whole island and guests can join a guided snorkeling tour with the maritime biologist of the Park Hyatt! Snorkeling fans will love this resort just as luxury and sustainability lovers.

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Dusit Thani

price: $$ – $$$

The Baa Atoll is great for snorkeling – not only because of the great reef health but also thanks to the fact that it is located close to the UNESCO biosphere reserve Hanifaru Bay – the home of thousands of Mantas from June until November.
The Dusit Thani has one of the best house reefs we’ve ever seen! You can literally jump out of your water villa and will instantly feel like you’re in an aquarium with colorful corals, fish and turtles!

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Dusit Thani Maldives

Ayada Maldives

price: $$ – $$$

Another resort which we found great for snorkeling is the Ayada Maldives. Especially the reef drop in front of the water villas is extremely vivid. There was one particular spot where we always met a curious turtle and a different part of the reef with a high chance to see reef sharks.

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Ayada Maldives

Category III: Ultra Luxury Havens

Due to the high competition among the resorts in the Maldives, new hotels have to come up with creative concepts, ideas and facets of hospitality to stand out from rest. That’s why the level of luxury has absolutely no limit in the Maldives! These resorts have been the most opulent ones we visited:

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

price: $$$$

Generous villas with private pools, as big as proper swimming pools, eleven different restaurants, a Michelin starred chef and a private island for the ultimative seclusion: The Waldorf Astoria is a new and ultra luxurious hideaway in the Maldives. The special treatment begins from the second you arrive at the airport, followed by a transfer with their private yacht, the next level service, a private butler and so many more details which make the stay unforgettable!

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The Waldorf Astoria

Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani

price: $$$ – $$$$

The Soneva Resorts not only stand for the epitome of sustainability in the Maldives but also for ultra luxury and privacy. Every single villa is unique in its own way and incredibly spacious. The complete resort offers an atmosphere of exclusivity and the feeling of being united with likeminded people can be found nowhere else but here! Combined with creative restaurants, insane water villas and lots of activities, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani are the ultimate bucket list resorts in the Maldives!

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Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

price: $$$$

Far in the South of the Maldives, the Raffles offers a small intimate hideaway for a maximum of privacy, an incredible overwater spa and one of the best cuisines we ever experienced in the Maldives. The Beach Villas are proper apartments with a private pool and garden. The water villas are separated from the main island and can only be reached by boat! The Raffles is one of the smallest islands we’ve ever been to but at the same time one of our favorites as well.

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Patina Maldives

price: $$$$

One of the latest resort openings in the Maldives is the Patina – a new luxury hotel brand. The island is connected with the Ritz-Carlton and soon Capella Maldives to a concept called Fari Islands.
The resort is built on an artificial island with a main focus on art. Guests can find art pieces all around the resort – some of them even in the villas and others are interactive to set foot in them. But what really blew us away is the ultra luxurious breakfast and the incredible water villas of the Patina which are one of a kind, sustainably built and spacious!

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Category IV: Budget friendly choices

There are countless resorts in the Maldives and the prices per night only have the sky as the limit. But beside the many luxury islands there are a handful of affordable hotels in the Maldives which offer the same paradisiac scenery as the luxury resorts.

If you’re interested in booking a budget friendly Maldives trip, I can highly recommend you to check out the small local company Maldives Secrets! They offer holidays on local islands, affordable resorts and boat safaris in the Maldives!

SAii Lagoon Maldives

price: $ – $$

The SAii Lagoon is a nice and cozy resort, not far from Male. Beside Beach and Water Villas you can also stay in  Beach apartments which are an even more affordable option. The island offers paradise beaches with lush palm trees and blue waters and thanks to the connection with the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, you have a big selection of activities and restaurants.

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LUX* South Ari

price: $$

One resort with the best price value ratio in the Maldives is the LUX* South Ari. The amount of experiences and activities on the islands, the beautiful villas and the great choices of restaurants are incredible for the price you pay per night! The LUX* South Ari definitely belongs to our Top 5 Resorts in the Maldives!

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Local Islands

price: $

The most budget friendly and authentic way to experience the Maldives, is staying in a hotel or guest house on a local island. These islands are clearly something else than the resorts, but I was surprised to see that it is in fact possible to experience the “Maldives Feeling” without the need to spend a fortune. The beaches, lush palm trees and endless blue water is just as amazing as on the resort islands.
In 2021 we visited the local island Dharavandhoo in the South of the Maldives where we stayed at the Kiha Beach Hotel. We absolutely loved this experience and did wonderful snorkeling & sand bank tours!

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Category V: Party & Fun

People often associated the Maldives with being a “honey moon destination” just for couples. But while it is indeed one of the most romantic places you could travel to, there are a few resorts which are great for friends or couples traveling together which like to enjoy a little party in paradise and meet others.

Finolhu

price: $$

The Finolhu is probably THE resort in the Maldives for young adults and party lovers. With the legendary One Oak Beach Club and daily shows, live music or DJ’s you won’t have the chance to feel bored. Of course you can always draw back to your private Beach or Water Villa but as soon as you step put of it you will meet likeminded and fun people!

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Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

price: $$

YES! There is a Hard Rock Hotel in the Maldives and it is exactly the way you imagine it to be: Fun and Easy Going! I’m talking about Pool Parties, Casual Beach BBQ’s, Sunset Cocktail Sessions and Live Music in the Evening. The Resort is part of the Crossroads, a multi island concept, which offers the possibility to cruise between three different islands during your stay and use all facilities and restaurants!

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best-resorts-finlohu-maldives

sunset-hard-rock-hotel-maldives

Pullman Maldives

price: $$$

Do you want to have the best of both worlds? Relaxing beach vibes and a lonely island feeling combined with get togethers at the pool and cocktail bar with other guests? Then you will love the Pullman Maldives with an Ultra Luxury All Inclusive concept: Enjoy the finest Champagne, Fresh Cocktails and amazing food all day long and meet great people!

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Category VI: Family Friendly Resorts

Traveling to the Maldives with kids is a great idea – but not all resorts are suitable for families since some of them are Adult Only properties. But the local people in the Maldives are extremely kids friendly and you will find amazing resorts which are great for families:

LUX* South Ari

price: $$

One of our favorite resorts in the Maldives is the LUX* South Ari. No matter if you’re traveling with friends, as a couple or family with small kids or teenagers: This resort will make everyone happy! The kids club looked amazing and offers lots of activities, like coconut painting at the beach. Every few times a week the LUX* South Ari sets up an outdoor cinema at the beach after dinner where they show a family friendly movie first followed by a second one for adults. Different Pools, lots of space, an amazing spa and a large number of restaurants make it easy to find a suiting spot for everyones preferences!

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Soneva Fushi

price: $$$ – $$$$

Soneva is not only a playground for adults but very family oriented as well. They have one of the biggest kids clubs in the Maldives with a kids pool, a cocktail bar for the little ones (where they serve healthy juices), lots of outdoor and indoor activities and the kind staff brings the kids closer to nature and sustainability!

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Emerald Maldives

price: $$ – $$$

Staying at an All Inclusive Resort is a great idea if you’re traveling with a bigger family cause otherwise the costs for food and drinks can quickly sum up! The Emerald Maldives is a lovely All Inclusive Resort with lots of things to experience. Their concept not only includes different dining options but also experiences like dolphin cruises and water sport activities. Additionally the resort has a great kids club with a huge outdoor area where you can find a water park, play ground and trampolines for the little ones!

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Category VII: The Allrounder

You can’t really decide what you want or don’t like to lean towards a specific direction to decide for your personal best resort in the Maldives? Then the following resorts are a great choice for you. They offer lots of activities, different dining choices, the right villa category for all preferences and of course the luxurious tropical feeling you’re looking for in the Maldives:

Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island

price: $$ – $$$

The best beach we’ve ever seen in the Maldives can be found at the Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island! The island is rather small but surely will give you the ultimate paradise feeling! Combined with amazing dining options, unique villas and the quiet location, the Jumeirah easily belongs to the best resorts in the Maldives!

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Conrad Maldives

price: $$$

You can’t go wrong with booking a stay at the Conrad Maldives! It is a lovely resort which connects two different islands via a jetty and is in fact the first resort we ever visited in the Maldives. I love their Beach Villas just as much as the newly renovated Water Villas and no matter if you like to dine casual at the beach or want to experience an exclusive dinner under the sea – you can find it all at the Conrad Maldives.

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Conrad Maldives

Constance Halaveli

price: $$

Heavenly Beaches, photogenic swings and wonderful water or beach villas with pool: The Constance Halaveli is a cozy and laid back resort for couples. You will love the overwater spa and restaurant! The only thing we missed during our stay have been bicycles since the Constance Halaveli has one of the longest overwater jetties in the Maldives! But walking through paradise or taking the buggy isn’t so bad either..

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Ayada Maldives

price: $$ – $$$

One of the very few resorts we visited twice already is the Ayada Maldives! The island offers a great amount of activities and places to relax that we still found new ones during our second visit. Additionally the Ayada has amazing water villas with pool and outdoor relaxing areas where you can instantly jump in the water to go snorkeling along the beautiful reef drop!

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No matter which category you’re deciding for – we loved all the resorts above for different reasons! If you still have questions about a certain one of them, make sure to check out my hotel reviews for more infos and pictures or send me a message via Instagram!

disclaimer: If you book your stay via the booking links of this post, we’ll get a little commission from the hotel – without any extra charges for you! So thank you for supporting our small business

Tiny islands in the Indian Ocean, surrounded by turquoise lagoons, vivid reefs and lonely sandbanks. This is the picture we all have in our heads, when we think about the Maldives. And no matter if you’re traveling to this paradise to escape the wintertime or to celebrate a special occasion – the Maldives are a bucket list destination, everyone wants to visit at least once in a lifetime. The Maldives Travel Guide will help you to plan your trip and gives you useful travel tips for the Maldives!

The Maldives Travel Guide

Entry & Exit Requirements for the Maldives

Due to the current situation, a few requirements to travel to the Maldives have changed. This is a checklist of everything you need to enter the Maldives:

• your passport that is still valid from 6 months of estimated departure date
• a negative PCR test result which has been taken not more than 96 hours prior your departure from the first port of embarkation on the way to the Maldives, regardless of your vaccination status.
• your personal QR-Code of the Traveller Health Declaration which has to be filled online within 24 hrs before your flight to the Maldives via IMUGA. This means you can still do it last minute on the way to the airport via your smartphone, in case you forgot it!
• a booking confirmation for your whole stay which has to be presented at the check in counter at the airport

For your return flight make sure to check the entry requirements of the country your traveling to and the requirements your airline might have! When we’ve been to the Maldives at the end of 2021 we met a few travelers on their way back home to Germany which did not have a PCR test. Germany doesn’t require it for fully vaccinated passengers, but the airline Emirates wanted to see a negative PCR test result for all their flights during that time!
You also need to fill the online Traveller Health Declaration again, within 24 hrs before your return flight.

When is the best time to travel to the Maldives?

Yes, there is a wet and dry season in the Maldives which means that you have a high and low season for tourists! Dry season is between November and April. These months are high season in the Maldives since most travelers use the Christmas, New Years and Easter Holidays to flee from the cold weather.
But even after April, when the “wet season” starts, you can still travel to the Maldives and have incredible weather! The weather in the Maldives is very unpredictable due to the changing winds. So far we traveled to the Maldives during all times of the year and mostly had sunny weather – regardless of the month! Rain showers usually happen at night or early in the morning and normally they just last for a short time until the sky clears up again. We also visited the Maldives during dry season a few times already and still experienced rain showers! There is simply no chance for 100% sun or 100% rain in a tropical destination like the Maldives.

Traveling outside of the peak season, during the winter months, also means skipping the highest room rates of the year! Many resorts are fully booked during high season which results in higher prices!
Between May and November you have the once in a lifetime chance to swim with hundreds of wild Manta rays and even whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll.  The best time to visit Hanifaru Bay is between June and early October.

How many days are ideal for the Maldives?

To fully immerse into the island life and recharge your batteries in the warm sunshine, I would recommend to stay at least 7 nights in the Maldives! Since all islands in the Maldives are unique and different from each other, I highly recommend island hopping during your trip. It is ideal to visit two or three different resorts or/and local islands and stay three to four nights on each of them!
To make the transfer between the islands less expensive and time consuming, choose different islands within one atoll for a direct transfer via boat or seaplane.

What are the best resorts and islands in the Maldives?

This question has a different answer for everyone! It all depends on your personal preferences, what you like to do during your stay and with whom you’re traveling to the Maldives. Find the perfect resort for you in my Best Resorts in the Maldives Blog Post!

How to get around in the Maldives?

As a nation with around 1,200 islands, the only way to get around in the Maldives is either by speed boat, sea plane or domestic flight. The mode of transportation varies with the distance you need to travel. Traveling within one atoll usually happens with a speed boat which is normally less expensive than flying. If you’re traveling between several atolls than you will most likely take the most scenic way of traveling: a sea plane flight over the Maldives.
To reach atolls far in the South or North like Gaafu Alifu Atoll, you need to take a longer domestic flight from the international airport in Male to a small domestic airport from where you’ll take an additional speed boat to your final resort or island.

Seaplane flights with TMA

The most beautiful perspective to see the Maldives is from up in the air! Seaplanes fly relatively low which offer the most beautiful view over the islands, reefs and sometimes even Mantas from above!

If your resort requires a seaplane transfer, your hotel representatives will pick you up after landing from your International flight and guide you to the check in of TMA (Trans Maldivian Airlines). Usually you have to wait 30 minutes until max. 2 hours for your flight with the seaplane! But no worries, you can relax in the TMA lounge until boarding. The seaplanes have their own boarding area at the Velana International Airport, with the only difference, that the runway is on the water!

The planes are quite small, with mostly window seats. Passengers don’t get a seat number on their ticket so make sure to board the plane early and save yourself a good spot in the front. The other amazing thing about seaplanes in the Maldives: The cockpit has no door and you’re sitting directly behind the barefoot pilots, watching the flight from their perspective.

When booking your stay with a resort, keep in mind that the price for the transfer is not included in the room rate and will be added during the last step of the booking process. The rate depends on your resort and the mode of transportation. Seaplane transfers cost up to 350,- USD per person and direction. However speed boat transfers are usually less expensive. But you will be surprised that the most expensive transfer in the Maldives is actually by water: The private yacht of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives costs around 800,- USD per person and direction!