Steal My Itinerary: Asia 2026
Despite a cross-country move from Hoboken to Santa Barbara at the start of 2026, I couldn’t pass up a chance to visit Thailand in January — one of the top destinations on my bucket list. We left for the West Coast on January 2, the moving truck pulled up on January 8, and by January 14 I was jetting off to Southeast Asia. What started as a two-week family trip quickly became a month exploring Thailand, Penang (Malaysia), Singapore, and a solo week in Ubud (Indonesia) and Taipei City. Would I recommend traveling right after a big move? Probably not. Would I do it again? Absolutely.
Trip overview
The trip spanned eight cities across five countries over 25 days. It was an exciting but jam-packed itinerary that created the perfect blend of culture, food, shopping, sightseeing, and yes — even relaxation — all in one incredible adventure.
Day 1-2: Travel (LAX→ TPE → BKK)
Day 3-6: Bangkok, Thailand
Day 6-10: Khao Lak, Thailand
Day 10-12: Krabi, Thailand
Day 12-15: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Day 15-17: Penang, Malaysia
Day 17-20: Singapore
Day 20-22: Ubud, Indonesia
Day 22-25: Taipei City, Taiwan
Day 25: Travel (TPE→ LAX)
Bangkok
While Bangkok wasn’t my favorite stop on the trip, I do think it gets a bad reputation. We had heard the city can feel overwhelming due to its size and pace—so we decided to hire a private guide for the full days we were there.
At $130 USD for 8 hours, plus another $50 for a private driver, it felt like a steal—and it completely changed our experience. We didn’t have to worry about navigating, language barriers, or honestly, thinking very hard at all. Even as someone who’s explored hundreds of cities on my own, this was one of those times where it paid to surrender a bit and let a local take the lead. This is something I’d absolutely recommend building into a Bangkok itinerary.
The major benefit of this specific company was that the entire itinerary is customizable and can be adjusted at any point depending on what you want to see or do. (This is the kind of detail I always tailor for clients depending on their travel style.)
Day 3: Knowing jet lag would likely hit hard, we intentionally kept our first day light and leaned into Bangkok’s renowned spa scene.
10AM arrival into Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
12PM check into hotel
2PM spa treatment at Oasis Spa (64 Sukhumvit 31 location)
Dinner: Something local and flexible—no reservations
Day 4: This ended up being one of our favorite days of the entire trip. Kanny, our guide, met us at the hotel at 8AM, confirmed our priorities (temples, floating markets, and some shopping), and mapped out the day from there.
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (tip: go as soon as they open to beat both heat and crowds)
Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Longtail boat cruise through Yai Canal to see various floating markets, including views of Wat Paknam from the water
Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market (incredible food + local shopping)
Dinner: After a long but fun day in Bangkok we finished the evening at Aunglo by Yangrak, a Michelin-listed restaurant. We had to wait about 30 minutes since we weren’t able to get a reservation but it was absolutely worth the wait. Everything we ate was incredible but we especially enjoyed the crab fried rice, the grilled pork belly and the coconut pancake with grilled shrimp in curry sauce.
Day 5: Peach, was our tour guide for our last full-day in Bangkok and we gave her the task of bringing us to the best “authentic” shopping spots in Bangkok and navigating us through the city’s famous Chinatown. Here’s where we went:
Platinum Fashion Mall: Massive (11 floors). Not exactly what we were looking for, but great for beauty + skincare.
Jim Thompson House Museum and store: One of my favorite stops. The history + quality of the silk made this feel really special.
LV The Place Bangkok: A fun stop (especially for my sister). I also got my passport cover stamped—a unique, city-specific souvenir.
Song Wat Street: Alright, I won’t lie — TikTok made me do it. While the shopping was quite good (we found handmade chopsticks and antiques) and the street art was beautiful, it was super crowded and hard to get around with everyone snapping so many photos.
Chinatown: Chaotic, crowded, but definitely worth experiencing at least once.
Dinner: We ended the day at River Vibe Bar & Restaurant (Peach’s recommendation) for dinner, drinks and sunset views over the Chao Phraya River. The Pad Thai with shrimp was excellent.
Where I stayed
We stayed at the Marriott’s Bangkok Empire Place in the financial district using points but it wasn’t very centrally located, so I wouldn’t recommend it unless you specifically need a two-bedroom suite. Next time I would stay in the Sukhumvit district. It’s known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife along its many side streets (sois).
What I would do differently
River cruise: we had originally planned to do the Saffron River Cruise by Banyan Tree Bangkok but ran out of time. Many travelers say that river cruises in Bangkok are an incredible way to see the city from the water so it will be high on my list when I go back.
Chinatown food tour: We explored Chinatown at the end of a long day and didn’t fully enjoy it. Next time, I’d book a dedicated food tour to really experience it properly.
Hotel location: Staying somewhere more central would have made a big difference in overall ease and flow.
Bangkok tips
Traffic: Yes, it really is that bad. Even as a native New Yorker who now drives through Los Angeles a few times a month, I’ve never seen anything like it. You can literally sit in the same spot for 20 minutes. That said, I highly recommend using public transit whenever possible—BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are lifesavers, and boats on the Chao Phraya River are surprisingly efficient for some routes.
7-Eleven: Don’t underestimate these ubiquitous convenience stores. You can grab everything from snacks and sandwiches to bug spray, phone chargers, and cold drinks. They’re perfect for quick stops when exploring the city.
Cash vs. Cards: While many restaurants and shops accept cards, smaller vendors, street food stalls, and markets are cash-only. Always carry some Thai baht for these situations. Rule of thumb: For 3–4 days of city exploration, 3,000–5,000 THB (~$90–150 USD) per person in cash is comfortable, with your card for everything else. Adjust if you plan heavy shopping or street food tours.
Weather & Clothes: Bangkok is hot and humid year-round. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, and comfortable walking shoes are a must. If you’re visiting temples, remember to cover shoulders and knees.
Temple Etiquette: Shoes must be removed before entering temple buildings, and respectful clothing is required. Keep your voice low, and avoid touching sacred objects or statues.
Street Food Safety: Bangkok street food is incredible, but stick to busy stalls with lots of locals—fresh, cooked-to-order meals are usually the safest and tastiest.
Khao Lak
We decided to skip Phuket and stay in Khao Lak instead—a quieter, more relaxed alternative. While we didn’t venture far into town, we loved our hotel and especially enjoyed a day trip to the Surin Islands, which offered some of the best snorkeling and untouched beaches we’ve ever experienced.
Pro Tip: Khao Lak is ideal if you want a laid-back, nature-focused stay rather than the crowded, party-heavy atmosphere of Phuket. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind.
Day 6:
After flying into Phuket around 11AM from Bangkok, with a two-hour drive ahead of us, we planned a stop half-way through the drive at Horizon for an incredible view and lunch at the Beyond Skywalk Nangshi hotel. We enjoyed a sit-down meal with stunning views of Phang Nga Bay and even ventured out onto the thrilling glass skywalk (tip: don’t look down!)
Hotel Check-in and dinner at the hotel (more info down below)
Day 7: Pool day (after a few days of long site seeing days we took it easy at the resort)
Day 8: Surin Islands
It was a long journey from Khao Lak — about a 1.5-hour drive followed by a 1-hour speedboat ride—but easily some of the best snorkeling of my life (and I honeymooned in Bora Bora!).
A highlight of the trip was visiting the indigenous people of the islands, known as the Moken, or “sea gypsies.” We enjoyed learning about their way of life and supporting their community by purchasing handmade goods.
Pro Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag, as the boats and beaches can get wet, and items can easily get damaged.
Day 9: Elephant Sanctuary and another pool day
Before enjoying another day at the resort, we spent a few hours in the morning visiting the Khal Lak Elephant Home. While we had heard from countless friends raved that the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is life-changing, the distance, expense and timing didn’t work for us so we researched alternatives and decided on the Khao Lak Elephant Home — an experience that fit perfectly with our trip.
Please note: Visiting elephant sanctuaries in Thailand can be meaningful, but it’s important to understand that “ethical” isn’t an industry‑regulated term. Many places now use the label because tourists are more conscious of animal welfare — but that doesn’t always guarantee best‑in‑class practices.
At Khao Lak Elephant Home, most visitors report elephants with plenty of space, no riding, and experiences focused on feeding, walking, and observing the animals at their pace rather than entertainment.
That said, if you’re seeking the most conservative definition of “ethical”(meaning minimal human interaction and no feeding or bathing) there are sanctuaries designed specifically for pure observation. In general, the fewer direct interactions you have with the elephants, the closer a place is to true sanctuary best practices.
Where I stayed
The JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa was easily everyone’s favorite hotel of the trip. Nestled among lush tropical gardens with stunning views of the Andaman Sea, it felt like a true retreat. Our spacious suite was perfect for four adults, with a swim-up pool that led into a lazy river winding around the resort. Every morning, we looked forward to the amazing breakfast buffet, with fresh tropical fruit, made-to-order omelets, and plenty of options for everyone. Between the beautiful grounds, amazing amenities, and attentive staff, it was the perfect place to relax and unwind.
What I would do differently
Honestly, there isn’t much I would change — we knew this was going to be the low-key, relaxing period on the trip and we leaned in! While the food at the resort was pretty top-notch and obviously quite convenient, I did have some dinner reservations set up that we never went to, which might be my only minor regret. If you’re visiting Khao Lak and looking for some well-reviewed dinner spots and markets, see them listed down below:
Krua Pi Bao: casual, local favorite serving authentic, flavorful Thai dishes (especially crispy pork) at excellent value in a relaxed setting.
Karkinos Beach Club: stylish seaside spot offering Mediterranean‑Italian food, drinks, good music and laid-back beachside vibes.
Bang Niang Market: Open Mon, Wed, Thu 2–10 PM; great for casual street eats and local shopping.
Krabi
Krabi was one of the destinations I’d been most looking forward to, and it did not disappoint. Friends had raved about it, and I kept hearing that “Krabi is like what Phuket was 20 years ago.” While the town of Ao Nang itself wasn’t particularly memorable, we rented a boat for a half-day, and the water was absolutely stunning.
Day 10: After leaving the JW in Khao Lak in the morning, we were off on our next road trip to Krabi (about a 2.5 hours), of which we planned to get lunch at a special treehouse-esque restaurant on the way (about 30 minutes away from Krabi) — and it was sensational.
Lunch at Kuan Nom Saow Restaurant and Viewpoint required a bumpy ride through jungle terrain and a short, steep climb—but once you arrive, it’s absolutely worth it. The restaurant is rustic and charming, built from natural wood and bamboo with an open-air design that lets the rainforest breeze flow through. Simple, sturdy tables with colorful cushions add a cozy, relaxed feel. We sipped fresh coconut water while waiting for our pineapple fried rice, enjoying bucket-list views of lush jungle, dramatic limestone karsts, and the Krabi coastline. The food was fresh and flavorful, perfectly complementing the stunning surroundings.
After lunch, we made the short trip to our lodging at Hotel Adam (more on that below), check-in, enjoyed the amenities for a few hours and got a casual dinner in-town.
Day 11: With just one full-day in Krabi, we woke up early for our 4 Islands boat tour around 8AM.
Our 5-hour long-tail boat charter took us to four spots: Railay Bay, Poda Island, Thale Waek, and Chicken Island. We went ashore to explore Railay Beach, swam near the stunning sandbar at Thale Waek, and had an unforgettable picnic on a beach so beautiful it felt like a screensaver. Along the journey, we were surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs rising out of the sea and spotted the iconic Chicken Island in the distance. With an experienced captain and first mate keeping us refreshed with fresh pineapple and water, it made for a truly fun-filled day.
Dinner: After some free time at the hotel, we headed to Kodam Kitchen in Ao Nang for dinner, where I had what might have been the best pad Thai of my life—I still dream about it. Other favorites amongst the group include the rich beef Massaman curry, crispy salt-roasted pork, fresh deep-fried snapper, and grilled shrimp with garlic butter. The restaurant came highly recommended by everyone—from fellow travelers, our hotel concierge, TikTok—and now we completely understand the hype. The couple next to us had been in Krabi for a week and said they’d already eaten there five times, which honestly made perfect sense after our meal. We arrived early, around 5:30 PM, and easily snagged a table for four but by the time we left, there was a massive line.
Where I stayed
While ultra-luxurious options like Rayavadee Resort, Phulay Bay, a Ritz Carlton Reserve and Banyan Tree Krabi were were tempting, Hotel Adam proved to be the perfect choice. With a spacious two-bedroom, duplex suite with a swim-up pool at a very reasonable nightly price, it offered both comfort and value without compromise. I chose this spot for the amazing reviews and walking distance to town. Plus, the striking orange architecture contrasts beautifully with Krabi’s limestone cliffs and the Andaman Sea.
What I would do differently
More time: Even though we left Khao Lak early and had a 3PM flight on our last day, spending only one full day in Krabi felt rushed. Next time, I’d add an extra day to enjoy more leisurely beach time.
Consider alternative lodging locations: While we really enjoyed staying at Hotel Adam, Ao Nang has restaurants and nightlife but lacks charm. Staying closer to the islands or near Railay Bay could offer a more scenic, immersive experience.
Splurge for a luxury experience: Hotel Adam was perfect for comfort and value but spending at least one night at a resort like Rayavadee or the Ritz Carlton Reserve would be a memorable treat.
Chiang mai
I didn’t quite know what to expect about Chiang Mai but it’s probably my favorite stop on the trip! Known as the “temple city” Chiang Mai was filled with culture, incredible food, amazing shopping and was surprisingly clean. Transparently, on my next trip to Thailand I’ll probably skip Bangkok and come straight to Chiang Mai.
Day 12: After a late breakfast and a blowout that only cost $12 USD at a local salon in Krabi, we headed to the airport for Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai Night Market: We landed around 5:30 PM, dropped our bags at the hotel, and made a beeline for the Sunday Night Market—high on my mom’s must-do list. By this point in the trip, we’d seen plenty of markets, but this one was truly spectacular. If you’re planning a visit to Chiang Mai, it’s absolutely worth timing your trip for a Sunday.
Stretching about two-thirds of a mile through the heart of the Old City along Ratchadamnoen Road, the market is packed with incredible handmade goods, art, street food, and live performances. Unlike some others we’d visited, there was no digging required to find the gems—they were everywhere.
They say it takes 2–3 hours to see it all, but we spent nearly three and still didn’t cover everything. My favorite moment? Without even realizing it, we stumbled upon two famous temples, Wat Chai Si Phum and Wat Chedi Luang, glowing in the dark — magical!
Day 13: Cooking class and temple hopping
9:30AM: We had an early start for our 4.5 hour cooking class which started with a hotel pick-up and a market visit where we learned about the local produce and shopped for our recipe ingredients. With about 10 attendees, each person was able to choose exactly what they wanted to cook for their 5-course meal. For me: I went with pad Thai, fried spring rolls, coconut chicken soup, Chiangmai noodles and the iconic Mango sticky rice. It was a really fun class that I would highly recommend!
Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple): You’ll stumble across many temples while visiting Chiang Mai (fun fact: there are over 300 Buddhist temples spread across the city, with over 75 within the historic Old Town area alone) but Wat Sri Suphan, also known as the Silver Temple, was one I wanted to make sure I saw. It’s famous for having the world’s first ordination hall made almost entirely of silver, handcrafted by local silversmiths in the city’s silver districts.
Note: while all genders are welcome to visit the outer areas, only men are allowed inside the main ordination hall (ubosot) where the monks conduct ceremonies, because it’s considered a sacred male-only space in traditional Thai Buddhist practice.
Dinner: Something local and flexible—no reservations
Day 14: Doi Suthep Sunrise Tour at 5AM
While it required a super early wake-up call, it was really special and worth the effort. We took a half-day tour to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, arriving before the crowds to watch the sunrise over the valley. Our knowledgeable guide, who had also served as a monk for a period of time, led us to sit with the monks before sunrise as they prayed and chanted. The tour also included visits to serene jungle temples like Wat Pha Lat and Wat Umong, plus a traditional Thai breakfast.
Shopping: after a much needed nap we freshened up for some shopping in the “Nimman” district which is known for its trendy cafes, boutiques, art galleries, night life and creative restaurants — it’s a lively part of the city often recommended for dining, shopping, and exploring outside the historic Old City and did not disappoint.
Dinner:THE HOUSE by Ginger was recommended by a couple we met at the hotel in Khao Lak. It has a warm, elegant yet relaxed vibe, blending colonial-style charm with cozy, thoughtfully designed interiors. We really enjoyed the stir-fried crispy pork belly with chili and the fresh spring rolls with prawn, mango, herbs, vegetables and chili dipping sauce.
Where I stayed
We stayed at the Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel and loved it! It’s centrally located, just a short drive from the Old City, Nimman district, and the Sunday Night Market, making it easy to explore the best of Chiang Mai. The property itself is modern, spacious, and comfortable, with a beautiful pool, excellent restaurants, and attentive staff that made our stay feel effortless and relaxing. We really enjoyed the concierge lounge in particular that offers complimentary food and beverages.
What I would do differently
Elephant Nature Park: Many say it’s the best sanctuary in the country, so next time I would make room for an extra day to visit without feeling rushed.
Chiang Rai: It’s often a natural next destination, either before or after Chiang Mai. Next time, I would add another day to the itinerary and either do a day trip from Chiang Mai or spend the night to fully explore highlights like the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Golden Triangle.
Chiang Mai Tips
Getting Around: The Old City is very walkable, but for attractions outside the walls (like Doi Suthep or Nimman), consider downloading the Grab app (their Uber) or songthaews (red trucks). Motorbike rentals are popular, but traffic and narrow streets can be tricky if you’re not used to it.
Temples: While temple etiquette is similar to Bangkok, note that some, like the Silver Temple, restrict men and women differently in certain areas. Always check before entering the main ordination hall.
Food & Drinks: Chiang Mai has incredible northern Thai cuisine. Don’t miss khao soi, sai ua (northern sausage), and sticky mango rice. Note: local cafés and small restaurants are often cash-only.
Penang
Just as others had told me, Penang is truly a foodie’s paradise. The street food, hawker stalls, and local specialties like char kway teow, laksa, and nasi kandar were some of the most incredible cuisine I’ve ever tasted. Beyond the food, Penang also blends vibrant street art, colonial architecture, and cultural diversity, making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Day 15: Travel day
The biggest con to getting to Penang from Chiang Mai is that it required pretty much an entire day to get there with a two-hour layover in Kuala Lumpur. That said, we arrived around 5PM, checked into our hotel and walked to dinner.
Dinner: Firewood Penang was absolutely incredible! We chose the “Chef’s Table” seating option, which let us watch the culinary process, see each dish expertly prepared and plated, and chat with the chef. The steak was among the best I’ve ever had, perfectly paired with fabulous cocktails and wine.
Day 16: Food tour
I’ve done a lot of food tours in my travels, and this one is definitely at the top of my list. Our guide, a fifth-generation Penang resident who spoke excellent English, made the four-hour tour incredibly enjoyable. We visited about 11 different spots, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, sampling numerous courses at each while learning fascinating stories about Penang’s culture, history, and culinary traditions. My favorite spot was Cheng Zheng Dim Sum, so good that we went back the next day!
Dinner: After a decadent day of eating, we knew we wouldn’t be very hungry, so we kept things flexible and just grabbed something light later in the evening.
Day 17: Armenian Street and lunch
Armenian street: Famous for its iconic street art, traditional shophouses, clan houses, museums, artisan shops, and modern cafes, offering a lively blend of culture, history and food. It’s perfect for wandering, snapping photos of murals like the “Children on a Bicycle,” enjoying local snacks, exploring quirky boutiques, and soaking in Penang’s unique heritage.
Lunch: Cheng Zheng Dim Sum (my favorite was the Xiao Long Bao)
Hunt&Hound Dachshund cafe: if you love a Weiner dog like me this was such a fun treat!
Late flight arrival into Singapore
Where I stayed
We stayed at The Prestige Hotel, a five-star property for less than $100 a night — what’s not to like? It was within walking distance to the Old Town, just a short stroll from Firewood Penang, and conveniently located near shops, cafés, and other restaurants. The hotel itself was modern, comfortable, and beautifully designed, with interiors that reminded me of a modern-day dollhouse, making it a whimsical and stylish base for exploring George Town.
what i would do differently
The food definitely lived up to the hype. However, because it took a full travel day from Chiang Mai (with a layover in Kuala Lumpur) and there wasn’t much to do beyond eating and exploring the small strip of shops on Armenian Street, it maybe wasn’t the best choice for this itinerary. That said, under the right circumstances — with a direct flight or more time to explore — I would definitely go back.
Singapore
I won’t lie — Crazy Rich Asians certainly planted Singapore on my bucket list, and I genuinely enjoyed it. From the glamorous Marina Bay Sands skyline to the lush Gardens by the Bay and vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India, the city is a dazzling mix of modern luxury, culture, and great food.
Day 18: Exploring, drinks & Hawkers Centers
Breakfast at hotel
Louis Vuitton Island: a must-do on my sister’s list for some window shopping and another fun stamp on my passport cover.
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus: often underrated, these buses are a relaxed way to see the city’s highlights without rushing. We did the 2-day pass and used it to go to Chinatown the next day as well!
Long Bar: Stop by to sip the original Singapore Sling in this iconic colonial setting of Raffles Hotel.
Note: there was a long line so try and make a reservation ahead of time.
Marina Bay Sands: We enjoyed sunset drinks and appetizers at Cé La Vie, the hotel’s 57th-floor restaurant, with incredible skyline views.
Dinner: after a luxe happy hour, we went lowkey at the Lau Pa Sat Hawker Center, diving into local dishes and the vibrant night market atmosphere.
After-dinner drinks: Since it was my dad’s birthday, we were celebrating! We stopped by Jigger & Pony (ranked No. 9 on The World’s 50 Best Bars at the time) and only waited about 20 minutes to be seated. The speakeasy vibes were fun, and the cocktails were expertly crafted, making it a perfect birthday nightcap.
Day 19: Team Lab and dinner
ArtScience Museum: After an incredible experience at TeamLab in Japan, this exhibit was high on my mom’s list. The museum offers immersive, interactive installations and a futuristic, artistic experience that’s especially fun for fans of digital art. Highly recommend!
Chinatown: we visited via the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus and because we were there just a couple weeks before Chinese New Year - it was especially spectacular. The streets were vibrant and colorful, filled with decorations, lanterns, and bustling markets.
Dinner: For my dad’s 65th birthday and our last night together on the trip we celebrated at National Kitchen by Violet Oon. Our favorites include the eggplant goreng dip, the VO curry chicken and the fish head curry.
Where I stayed
Our lodging of choice was the JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach, and it was incredible. Being a small city-country, most hotels are centrally located, but we were especially impressed with the complimentary breakfast, attentive customer service, and stylish interior design, making it a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Singapore. While a minor point, the only thing we were a bit disappointed by was the lack of lounge chairs for sunbathing.
What I would do differently
I wouldn’t change this part of the itinerary — we were first-time visitors, we had always wanted to see Singapore, plus it was where my family’s return flight to New York departed. That said, compared to other culturally rich cities we had been to on this trip, Singapore offers a different kind of experience: more of a modern city break than a deep cultural dive. I really enjoyed it — the city is clean, modern, and full of incredible food and striking architecture and it was a nice change of pace, just not my favorite stop on the trip. I would definitely visit again but probably only during a long layover.
Ubud
At this point in the trip, I was starting the solo travel portion. I said goodbye to my family the night before my 7AM flight to I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali and set off on my own adventure. Even though January is part of Bali’s rainy season, Ubud has always been on my bucket list and it was conveniently just over an hour from the airport — perfect for the 2.5-day gap in my itinerary. I had also considered Luang Prabang, Laos, and even booked a hotel in Cebu, Philippines, but both felt too difficult to reach for such a short window. I wanted a destination that was interesting, relatively in-expensive, relaxing and solo-travel friendly, and the 3-hour direct flight from Singapore to Ubud fit the bill.
Day 20:
Airbnb check-in
Lunch:This Is Bali
Shopping in the Ubud town: home of many restaurants, cafés, and art shops
Dinner: Something local and flexible
Day 21: I knew that I could hire a private driver for relatively cheap and with not a ton of interest in visiting the Monkey Forest or other spots on a generic tour, I hired a driver for the day on Airbnb Experiences for $30 USD and set out on a fun day. Here’s where we went:
Pura Tirta Empul: best known for its holy spring water, where Balinese Hindus and visitors alike participate in ritual purification ceremonies.
Tegallalang Rice Terrace (this one is admittedly a bit touristy but scratched the itch to see a rice field)
Lunch: Tis Cafe is nearby Tegallalang and offers incredible views of the rice terraces. Note: while the reviews were good, the food wasn’t my favorite. You’re really going for the view!)
Sukawati Village: this area is well known for its art market, where visitors can find handcrafted souvenirs, wood carvings, paintings, textiles, and Balinese handicrafts.
Karya Mas Wood Carving Center (very touristy, I would skip this next time)
Dinner: Batubara Wood Fire is a wood‑fired steakhouse and grill known for its premium meats cooked over open flame and it did not disappoint. I would definitely go back!
Day 22: with only a few hours left to explore Ubud before driving to the airport for my flight to Taipei City and having been traveling for the last three weeks — I kept my morning itinerary light.
Brunch: Blend Cafe Ubud, a trip to Bali wouldn’t be complete without a stunning and delicious smoothie bowl.
Late flight arrival into Taipei City
Where I stayed
As a solo traveler, I wanted a place that was walkable and close to restaurants and shops, so I booked a small bed and breakfast on Airbnb. It was about a 15-minute walk to the city center, surrounded by plenty of dining options, and came with a huge king bed and a pool — essential in Bali’s humid weather. The host was incredibly welcoming, arranging a private driver to and from the airport and going above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable. The complimentary breakfast was a nice bonus, and at around $90 per night, it felt like a great value.
what I would do differently
With just two full days, I knew I wouldn’t be able to see nearly everything I wanted, so I treated it as a taste of Indonesia, knowing I’d have to return. After weeks of nonstop travel, I appreciated slowing down and exploring at a more relaxed pace, so I won’t be too hard on myself. On a future trip, I’d love to visit more authentic rice fields, such as the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces (a UNESCO site) or Sidemen Valley, to experience the landscapes that make Bali so iconic.
taipei City
When I booked my main airfare through China Airlines, I decided to spend a few days exploring the airline’s hub, Taipei City, Taiwan, before heading home to California. I really enjoyed the city’s food, shopping, and vibrant culture, making it a fun and engaging final stop on the trip.
Day 23: After checking into the hotel around 10PM the night before, I kicked off my first full day in Taipei City with a day trip to Jiufen. While the timing was admittedly a bit backwards, I was eager to see the town that inspired Spirited Away, and I had read that it gets even more crowded on weekends — so off I went.
I bought an EasyCard at 7-Eleven, loaded it with 300 TWD (cash is required), and took the 965 bus from Ximending MRT Station. The bus was direct, but with many stops, the ride took about an hour and a half. I actually enjoyed the journey, as it offered a glimpse of small towns and scenery along the way. If that feels a bit daunting, a private driver or tour bus is always an option — I just preferred the flexibility.
Arriving around 10AM, I was able to explore the charming town while it was still relatively quiet, before the crowds rolled in. I sampled a variety of food stalls, including the iconic peanut ice cream roll, custard-filled wheel cakes, braised pork rice, and xiao long bao at a local restaurant. While I could have stayed longer, I felt like I’d seen everything I wanted, so after about two hours, I headed back to the city.
Ximending: Once I returned, I walked around the area, which reminded me a lot of Harajuku in Tokyo with its lively streets full of energy, street food, and trendy shops. Don’t forget to check-out the Hello Kitty-themed 7-Eleven!
Dinner: After resting at the hotel for a bit I got an early dinner at SUNWAY where I had some of the best (and definitely the biggest) salmon nigiri I’ve ever had. Seriously, it was so large I could barely pick it up with my chopsticks!
Day 24: Chifeng Street and food tour
Breakfast: I started my morning at Zhen Fang Breakfast Sandwiches and loved it so much that I went back the next day. I’m still dreaming about it!
Chifeng Street: known for its trendy boutiques, vintage shops, and stylish cafés, this area has a creative, artsy vibe with many renovated old buildings. It’s a great spot to wander, shop for unique finds, and take a break at one of its many coffee or dessert spots.
Free time
Longshan Temple: renowned, historically significant 1738 Buddhist-Taoist temple
Night market food tour: this was an awesome tour that featured about 10 stops including Michelin-rated street food and a special stop at a traditional Taiwanese convenience store, uncovering why it’s a cornerstone of everyday life for locals.
Day 25: Travel day
Where I stayed
I stayed at the Grand Hyatt Taipei because I used American Express points and got a great deal. The five-star hotel was beautiful and very comfortable but next time I would choose to stay in a more walkable location.
what I would do differently
Taipei City is a massive city, so I knew there were many things I wouldn’t be able to see in just 2.5 days. That said, I was thoroughly impressed and would definitely return if it fit into a future itinerary. If I had more time I would have explored…
Night Markets: Checkout Shilin or Raohe to fully experience the street food scene.
Natural spots: Visit Elephant Mountain or Yangmingshan National Park for a mix of city and scenery
Taipei city tips
Transportation: Taipei’s MRT system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate but speaking from experience, make sure you know where you’re going first. Get an EasyCard for seamless travel across metro, buses, and even some taxis.
Food: Taiwan is a paradise for foodies—try beef noodle soup, xiao long bao (soup dumplings), and mango shaved ice.
Cash: This is a cash city! Many vendors only accept cash (NTD), so keep some on hand. ATMs are easy to find, and cards work at larger restaurants.
Timing: Weekdays are less crowded, especially for popular attractions and night markets.
Final Thoughts
This was a trip of a lifetime. I visited places I had been dreaming of seeing for as long as I can remember, and I came away with memories, experiences, and stories that I’ll cherish forever. Every destination offered something unique—vibrant culture, incredible food, and breathtaking scenery. If you’re considering a multi-country trip like the through Asia and want help planning — please reach out!