Shelley Seale

Yacht Living in NC’s Outer Banks

An overnight stay in a luxury yacht called Starry Night, docked in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Details on the stay, costs etc.

Summer Family Fun in the Twin Cities

Summer fun for families in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Advice for having a great summer with kids.

5 Things You Shouldn’t Miss in Mexico City

Mexico City: Five highlights of this most grand and wonderful megacity, including Chapultepec Park, the Zocalo, Barrios Magicos, and Xochimilco.

Charleston’s 19 Broad Street: Where It’s At

In historic Charleston SC, choose to stay right where it’s all happening,19 Broad St. amidst the rows of galleries and find old homes, this is where to stay

Blending Nature and Humanity in Patagonia

Nearly 100 years later the immense, wide-open landscapes of Patagonia remain untamed — from its Ice Age valleys and moraines to the jagged mountain ridges, and the endless prairies that lie in between.

Suitcases and bags for Travelers

Sturdy suitcases are a crucial element for frequent travelers By Shelley Seale Recently I decided it was time to try out a new carry-on piece of luggage. Out of several possibilities, I ended up choosing the Tarmac 22 by Eagle Creek. It seemed a simple and straightforward carry-on, with the…

Seeing Switzerland via the Picturesque Swiss Pass

Switzerland by Swiss Pass: Shelley Seale reports on many ways to cross Switzerland by rail using different railroad passes and special excursion fares.

On Safari from Kenya to Tanzania

A safari from Kenya to Tanzania for Big Five views including cheetah, lions, elephants, giraffes and ibis. Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Tindinga Tented Camp.

Land of Fire & Ice: Volcanoes and Lakes of Central Chile

Chile’s land of lakes and volcanoes. A visit to the mid section of this South American country that’s full of volcanoes, hot springs and beautiful lakes

Darjeeling India: Hurry Burry Spoils the Curry

Darjeeling, India: Enjoying the slow life and visiting the 70 tea gardens and tea plantations of this famous part of India.

How to Travel for Free–Really!

How to travel for free–six secrets of going around the world at no cost

From Darkness into Light in Cambodia

Cambodia Overcoming the Shadows of War By Shelley Seale At the age of 14, Ponheary Ly died and came back to life. At least, that’s how she describes it. The year was 1977, and the Khmer Rouge was on its deadly rampage in Cambodia. After seeing her father killed, along…

GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Take a few minutes to travel the world with The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. Brought to you by the long-running GoNOMAD travel website, The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast brings you audio stories from destinations around the globe. It’s short-form… 3-7 minute long episodes. No jarring AM radio-style theme songs, no ads, just an interesting short travel story and some food for thought, from editor Max Hartshorne. Fun!
While you’re planning your next trip or travel adventure, download and listen to The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast.

GoNomad is part of the Voyascape Travel Network & you can find more of our travel podcasts from around the world at https://voyascape.com/
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The New Year celebration in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and traditions that provides a unique experience for all who partake. The city is alive with energy as it transforms into a vibrant hub for festivities.

January 1 is not just a day but the beginning of a week-long holiday where locals and visitors alike engage in a variety of celebratory activities. The streets are bustling with life, illuminated by lanterns that glow softly against the backdrop of the night sky, while the scent of street food tantalizes the senses. This journey through Chiang Mai reveals the many layers of its New Year festivities, from its breathtaking natural beauty to the deep-rooted cultural practices that make this time of year so special. Among the most striking sights during this season is the blooming of the Himalayan cherry blossoms.

A short trip to Kun Chang Hian allows visitors to witness these stunning flowers in full bloom, creating a magical setting for exploration. Here, one can engage with local traditions, such as listening to the kyan, the traditional bamboo mouth organ played by village children, or trying one’s hand at archery using bamboo bows.

The culinary scene is equally delightful, featuring local delicacies, including the famous grilled pork sausage, which embodies the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. As the celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve, a profound sense of spirituality envelops the city. Temples become sanctuaries for nighttime prayer, and the flickering lights of candles enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Participants gather to release floating lanterns, a symbolic gesture of releasing past burdens and inviting new fortunes into their lives.

This ritual not only enhances the visual splendor of the night sky but also fosters a deep connection among participants, creating a moment of shared hope and renewal. The New Year in Chiang Mai is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt embrace of tradition, community, and the promise of new beginnings.