Author Profile: Gina Bambinelli

While living in Thailand and every visit after that, I spent much time in Old Town Chiang Mai. This 1.5-kilometer-wide area is also known as the Old City, depending on who you talk to! Let’s explore why Old Town Chiang Mai should be at the top of your travel list, how to get there, and what not to miss on your...   view more

Cusco is more than just a city; it’s a gateway to the wonders of the Inca Empire and a perfect blend of ancient history and modern culture. I absolutely love Cusco, it’s a walkable city, with a mix of locals and tourists. When I visited in 2024, I went with the specific intention of visiting Muchu Pichu and ended up staying in Cusco for a total of 7 days (before and after Aquas Calientes). Here is my beginner’s guide to visiting Cusco for the first...   view more

Nestled on the stunning coastline of the Pacific Ocean, Lima is a city where history meets modern vibrancy. I had the pleasure of visiting Lima for a total of seven days, before and after visiting Machu Picchu in August. Lima is a bustling city so my goal was to try as many restaurants and bars as I could try in such a short visit, and not leave the city. Here are some unique things to do in Lima Peru when you are short on time, along with practical tips to make your trip seamless and...   view more

Nestled in the lush Andean mountains, Aguas Calientes Peru, is a charming town that buzzes with energy. Known as the gateway to Machu Picchu, this little gem has a lot more to offer than just a stopover. From soothing hot springs to local eateries and scenic trails, Aguas Calientes has more to offer than meets the eye. I stayed in Aguas Calientes for two nights while visiting Machu Picchu. You do not need longer than that to visit, so here is a quick guide for first-timers to this enchanting...   view more

Singapore is a dazzling city-state in Southeast Asia, packed with world-class attractions, mouthwatering food, and unforgettable experiences. This island nation, just off the southern tip of Malaysia, is a global financial hub and a melting pot of cultures that offers so many unique travel places in Singapore. Despite its small size, Singapore is one of the most visited destinations in the...   view more

Planning a trip to the Philippines? Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, there are countless places to visit in Manila that offer a mix of culture, entertainment, and local charm. Here are a few unique places to check out in Manila, even if it’s only for a few...   view more

Hoi An is sometimes overlooked when traveling through Vietnam. However, there are some things to do in Hoi An that are uniquely Vietnamese, so it’s worth a stop. I spent 4 days here while my partner got his advanced diving certification, and it wasn’t hard to keep myself busy. You will explore yellow-washed buildings, historic places of worship, enjoy lantern-lit nights, and have a chance to really connect with the local people. Here are 14 cool things you can do on your next visit to Hoi...   view more

Let me tell you about a city I didn’t expect to fall in love with—Da Nang, a coastal gem in central Vietnam. Despite years of travel, Vietnam had somehow never made it onto my itinerary. Then I came across Da Nang—an emerging hub for digital nomads and expats. It sounded like the perfect place to post up for a month, so I thought, why not? I think of Da Nang as a beachside version of New York City—busy, noisy, and constantly awake. Honking horns and construction echo through the...   view more

Canggu is known for its beach club parties, however, sometimes you may just want a relaxed bar to grab a few drinks. I don’t know about you, but I can’t go to the club every day. Sometimes I like to enjoy a local beer and listen to live music. It was a little challenging to find chill bars in Canggu while staying in Bali for the month, but I managed to find venues that were fun but not too crazy. Here is my personal list of Canggu’s best bars—from beachside legends to hidden gems...   view more

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a medieval city wrapped in Renaissance walls, then Lucca Italy should be at the top of your list. Nestled in Tuscany, this charming, historic town offers a peaceful yet culturally rich experience that’s often overlooked by first-timers traveling through Italy. I spent two months in Lucca while I attended the Lucca Italian Language School. It was the perfect Italian town to spend the summer as it is walkable and easy to get to from the surrounding cities....   view more

Planning a trip through Italy and wondering if only 1 day in Pisa is enough? Absolutely. You don’t need a whole weekend to see the main sights, learn about some history, and enjoy the iconic views of this small Tuscan city. From navigating the airport and stashing your bags, to climbing the Leaning Tower, here’s how to make the most of a 1 day in Pisa...   view more

Chiang Mai, nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, is a treasure trove of stunning temples. The city, known for its rich history and culture, offers a spiritual journey through its beautiful temples. Let’s go on a guided tour of how to get to these incredible temples, which ones to visit if you only have a few days in Chiang Mai, and what to...   view more

Hello travelers! Bangkok has a special place in my heart as it was the first international city I stayed in alone, for a month. I have been back several times and created a 4-day Bangkok itinerary for you with my favorite...   view more

After exploring Sintra twice, I’ve gathered valuable insights to help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting town. From navigating its hilly terrain to discovering hidden gems beyond the well-trodden paths, Sintra offers a rich tapestry of...   view more

Krabi Town is located in the south of Thailand and is the gateway to popular islands such as Koh Phi Phi and Ao Nang. In 2018, I stayed in Krabi Town for a month and revisited in 2025. The town took a hit after the pandemic, so it is now just a small town for a one-night stopover as you wait to head to the islands. If you find yourself here for a night, here is a list of things to do in Krabi...   view more

Forget Little Italy in Manhattan, if you want to eat your way through the REAL Little Italy, then head to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for a true Italian tasting. The original Little Italy is a hidden gem where family-run spots keep authentic Italian culture alive. Here, you’ll find espresso-sipping locals, recipes perfected over generations, and stories that make this neighborhood a true slice of la dolce...   view more