Closer Lives Travel Blog: Inspiring Cultural Discovery and Adventure

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.(1)

13 min read

Red and white scooter indoors with a warning sign. Text: "Please read if renting a scooter in Bali." Indonesian flag background.

We Survived a Motorcycle Accident in Bali: New Law Could BAN All Foreigners From Driving ANY Vehicle

We were lucky to survive, walking away with cuts and bruises, and we want to raise awareness of the dangers and risks of bike rental in Bali

INDONESIA

13 min read

Wat Arun temple in Bangkok, Thailand, with intricate patterns. A hand holds a waving Thai flag. Text reads: "Wat Arun, Bangkok, Thailand."

Wat Arun, Bangkok: History, Things to Know and How to Get There

Join us as we check out the Temple of Dawn, one of Thailand's oldest and most unique temples! Plus check out our bonus YouTube footage!

11 min read

A boat with colorful lanterns and life vests displayed, promoting the Hoi An Night Market & Lantern Festival. A person stands in the background, preparing something on the vessel.

Magic in the Moonlight: Exploring Hoi An Night Market and Lighting a Candle at the Lantern Festival

What is the Lantern Festival? Find out here, along with history & facts, a boat tour, the ancient Hoi An Night Market and our YouTube video!

16 min read

Aerial view of Marble Mountains in Vietnam with a cityscape in the foreground and a graphic map outline and text above the scene.

The Marble Mountains: Explore the Beauty of Da Nang in Vietnam

Uncover the hidden treasures of Marble Mountain and experience the harmony of nature and spirituality at this unforgettable destination.

17 min read

A couple dines at a wooden table with forest views. Text reads "The Giant Chiang Mai" over a backdrop of green foliage and blue sky.

The Giant Chiang Mai Treehouse Cafe: An EPIC Place to Relax and Enjoy INCREDIBLE Views!

Immerse yourself in nature's embrace and ascend to new heights, savoring the blend of breathtaking views, delectable treats & great coffee!

10 min read

Breakfast plate with bacon, scrambled eggs, beans, toast, and coffee. Text: "The BEST breakfast in Chiang Mai, Thailand!"

Chiang Mai Breakfast World: An Amazing MUST TRY Restaurant

Looking for the best breakfast restaurant in Chiang Mai? Look no further than Breakfast World! A massive menu & fantastic, affordable food!

10 min read

The ultimate guide to Niagara Falls in Canada

Unveiling the timeless beauty of Niagara Falls in Canada, we share all you need to know about Mother Nature's incredible craftmanship!

CANADA

22 min read

Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, under a clear blue sky. Visitors in traditional attire walk by. Autumn trees surround the temple. Text is visible.

Sensoji Temple: 1300 Years of History in the Heart of Tokyo

Sensoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Tokyo, known for its iconic Kaminarimon Gate and vibrant Nakamise-dori shopping street.

JAPAN

17 min read

Lake Moraine, Canada: A complete guide

All you need to know about one of the world's most beautiful lake destinations in the equally incredible Banff National Park, Alberta Canada

CANADA

12 min read

Lake Louise, Alberta, your guide to a must-see in Canada

From crystal-clear waters to its majestic mountain views, experience the enchanting beauty of this crown jewel destination in Banff, Canada.

CANADA

10 min read

White Temple in Chiang Rai: All You Need to Know

Uncover the enchanting beauty of Thailand's White Temple in Chiang Rai. Our guide has all you need to know about this VERY special place.

10 min read

People playfully splashing water on each other from a pickup truck during Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year celebration. The scene is energetic and joyful, with text overlay reading "Celebrating Songkran in Thailand.

Songkran Festival in Phuket: Experience Thailand’s Vibrant New Year Celebration

Songkran is an epic 3 day water festival that sees in the Thai New Year. All you need to know as we join the war on Phuket's walking street!

11 min read

Sala Danang Beach Hotel, Da Nang, Vietnam

Experience luxury beachfront living at the 4 star Sala Beach Hotel, Vietnam. Enjoy modern amenities, ocean views, and a tropical atmosphere!

13 min read

A dessert with a citrus slice is on a table by the beach at Esco Beach Bar, with a plate of seafood, lime, and a tropical drink nearby.

Esco Beach Bar Lounge & Restaurant THE Place to be in Da Nang

Located on the My Khe beach, this awesome restaurant & lounge is the perfect spot for tasty Vietnamese cuisine, epic drinks, and live music.

8 min read

Explore Ancient Egypt with a Day Trip Tour from El Gouna to Luxor

Experience ancient wonders on a day trip from El Gouna to Luxor—Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and timeless history await.

EGYPT

17 min read

Man with backpack overlooks scenic hills under cloudy sky. Text reads "What is it like to TRAVEL FULL-TIME?" Warm, adventurous mood.

Traveling Full-Time as a Digital Nomad

Is it as glorious and exciting as it looks on social media? We look at what it is really like, and what to expect, when traveling full-time.

TRAVEL ADVICE

4 min read

A monk in an orange robe stands facing a large Buddha statue on a hill. Text reads, "How safe is Thailand? 5 important things to consider before you go." A map of Thailand with flag colors appears on the top left.

How Safe is Thailand? 5 Things to Consider Before You Travel

5 important things to consider if you are planning a trip to Thailand. We share tips from our long-stay experience living near Chiang Mai.

5 min read

Blue Temple in Chiang Rai; white Buddha statue surrounded by intricate blue sculptures. Text reads "The Blue Temple, Chiang Rai, Thailand."

The Blue Temple Chiang Rai - Wat Rong Suea Ten

This temple is a stunning sight to behold, with its bright blue color and intricate details. One of the finest temples we have seen to date!

9 min read

Burning field in Thailand with smoke and a flag. Text: "Every year burning season occurs in Thailand. Why does this happen? And how bad is it?"

Burning Season in Chiang Mai: All You Need to Know

Many people are unaware of Smoky season here in Thailand. We were too! We look at why this happens and how you can protect yourself from it.

7 min read

Crowded Doi Saket Market Festival in Thailand with people and colorful umbrellas. Text overlay announces the festival's return after 4 years. Thai flag ribbons decorate the bottom.

Doi Saket Market Festival, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Back after 4 years away, we explore this massive market and show you all it has to offer, including an awesome surprise for us Arsenal fans!

6 min read

Entrance of Baan Dam Black House Museum with ornate wooden carvings with a Thai flag graphic above. Two sculpted figures are on either side of the entrance.

Baan Dam Black House Museum: Places to See in Chiang Rai

Often confused as a temple, the Black House is home to the largest collection of taxidermy & animal remains made into furniture in the world

8 min read

Golden statue of a deity at Wat Phra That in Doi Saket, with a bird-like figure in front. Text reads "Wat Phra That Doi Saket" alongside Thai national colors map. Clear blue sky in background.

Discover Wat Phra That Doi Saket: Chiang Mai's Hidden Gem

Wat Phra That has an incredible golden chedi that is said to house a piece of Buddha's hair, and the vantage point from here is epic too!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.(1)

8 min read

Desert sunset scene with ATVs, a couple kissing, and a proposal silhouette. Text: "ATV Across the Desert with Alex Safari El Gouna Egypt."

ATV Desert Tour with Alex Safari in El Gouna, Egypt

A spectacular ATV tour of the epic El Gouna desert including a visit to a Bedouin village & one of the best sunset moments we have ever had!

EGYPT