During my time teaching in Japan, I have managed to learn a lot about my the English language. My students here are fond of using and combining letters in ways that would have never crossed my mind as a native speaker. Unfortunately, due to the way English classes function here in Fukui (and
The World’s Highest Bungee Jump
Here's some trivia for you: did you know that the world's highest bungee jump is in Macau? What's that? Where's Macau? Do you know where Hong Kong is? No, "somewhere in China" is not an acceptable answer to this question. Although Macau is likely always described in the context of its more
Missing A Flight (And Getting A Free One)
My flight out of Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport leaves at 13:55. I arrange through my hostel for a van pick me up at 11:00 since it will apparently take upwards of an hour to reach the terminal. This gives me plenty of time to wake up early, check out some sites, eat some food, and relax as I
A Beginner’s Guide To Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp trek is considered to be one of the most spectacular hikes on Earth. It takes trekkers up through the valleys of Sagarmatha National Park and to the base of the tallest mountain on Earth. Filled with a long history, fascinating culture, and incredible people, this trip is
Hiking Yarigatake (槍ヶ岳) in Japan
Yarigatake (槍ヶ岳) is perhaps one of the most recognizable peaks in Japan. Located in the center of the Kita Alps, it's a must for anyone serious about peak bagging in the Land of the Rising Sun. It can be accessed via numerous trailheads and is possible to conquer in a day (a very tough day). I
Faces Of Nepal And The Himalaya
When traveling in an unfamiliar country (or even back home), sooner or later someone will attempt take advantage of your ignorance and foreignerness and take your money (or otherwise exploit you). Nepal is not one of these places (especially once you get into the mountains). The Nepalese are
Hiking Mount Haku (白山) in Japan
Mount Haku (白山, Hakusan) is one of Japan's Three Holy Mountains (三霊山) along with Mount Tate and Mount Fuji (what that means, I have no idea). The mountain is on the border of Gifu (岐阜), Fukui (福井), and Ishikawa (石川) prefectures in Japan's Hokuriku Region (北陸地方). Ishikawa is home to the most
Everest Base Camp Day 12: Day Off In Namche Bazaar
Starting elevation: 11,290 ft / 3,440 m Ending elevation: 11,290 ft / 3,440 m Elevation change: 0 ft / 0 m Starting oxygen: 67% of sea level Ending oxygen: 67% of sea level Distance covered: 0 mi / 0 km Time hiked: 0h 0m Twelve days into my trek, and only one day away from Lukla (where I
Everest Base Camp Day 11: Tengboche to Namche Bazaar
Starting elevation: 12,687 ft / 3,867 m Ending elevation: 11,290 ft / 3,440 m Elevation change: -1,397 ft / -427 m Starting oxygen: 64% of sea level Ending oxygen: 67% of sea level Distance covered: 5.72 mi / 9.2 km Time hiked: 3h 30m Opening my eyes to a starless sky I am greeted by