Highlights from Asia.
Words Lucy De Freitas
This journey started post-COVID, when I realised I wanted more freedom in how and where I worked. I took a chance and asked my bosses if I could work remotely, and to my surprise, they said yes! That was my green light to pack my bags and turn the world into my office. I love what I do as an executive headhunter, placing senior-level professionals in top roles, and the fact that I can do it while travelling? An absolute dream come true!
Travel has always been my passion, not just for the places but for the experiences, people, and unexpected moments that make a trip unforgettable. It’s taught me discipline (let’s be real, working from a beachside café isn’t always as easy as it sounds!), adaptability, and the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone.
That’s what led me to create Where is Lucy?- a space to share my travels, my favourite finds, and the little things that make each destination special. I wanted to inspire others to explore, to embrace slow travel, and to see the world in a way that’s meaningful to them.
Vietnam
Hanoi: A city of culture and charm. Egg coffee is a must-try, and wandering the Old Quarter feels like stepping back in time. My top three experiences: exploring Train Street, visiting the Temple of Literature, and going to the Cathedral.
Ha Long Bay: I did an unforgettable sunrise hike, which involved knocking on an old lady’s door at 5:00 a.m. and negotiating “coffee money” to pass through her house – only in Vietnam! She shuffled to the door, still dazed, waved us in, and we tiptoed through her kitchen in the dark to reach the hidden trail. It felt like a secret mission, and the climb rewarded us with one of the most breathtaking sunrises I’ve ever seen.
Ninh Binh: Known as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” the boat ride through Tam Coc and the breathtaking views from Hang Mua Mountain made this a highlight. Three must-do experiences: climbing Hang Mua, taking a boat ride through Trang An, and visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Getting here via the overnight bus from Hanoi was an adventure in itself!
Sapa: The landscapes here are stunning, with rice terraces stretching as far as the eye can see. Four must-dos: hiking through the rice fields, trekking through the villages, taking the cable car to Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, and visiting Silver Waterfall, a breathtaking cascade just outside the town.
Hoi An: The Ancient Town is pure magic, especially at night when thousands of lanterns light up the streets.
Da Nang: Beautiful beaches, the Marble Mountains, and the famous Dragon Bridge.
Dalat: Known for its cool climate, French colonial architecture, and stunning landscapes. The Crazy House is a bizarre, dreamlike structure. It is part art installation, part hotel, and completely fascinating so be sure to see it on your next visit.
Can Tho: Home to the floating markets, where locals trade fresh produce from their boats at sunrise. It makes a perfect weekend trip, and the overnight bus experience from Ho Chi Minh to Can Tho is an adventure in itself.
Nha Trang: It’s a dream. A true exotic beach location.
The Philippines, Bali, Singapore, China & Thailand
The Philippines
- Manila: Explore Intramuros, visit Rizal Park, and try a local Jeepney ride.
- El Nido: Island hopping in Bacuit Bay, Nacpan Beach, and the Secret Lagoon.
- Coron: Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and diving to see the WWII shipwrecks.
Bali
- Ubud: Monkey Forest, Campuhan Ridge Walk, and Tegalalang Rice Terraces.
- Mount Batur: Sunrise hike for incredible views.
- Nusa Penida: Kelingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, and Broken Beach.
- Hidden waterfalls: Sekumpul and Tibumana are breathtaking.
Singapore
- Marina Bay Sands: Incredible views from the SkyPark.
- Gardens by the Bay: Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest are absolutely beautiful.
- Hawker Centres: A food lover’s paradise, from Hainanese chicken rice to chilli crab, you will be spoiled for choice.
- Chinatown & Little India: Vibrant cultural hubs offering incredible food and history.
- Singapore River Cruise: A beautiful way to see the city’s skyline at night.
Thailand
- Street food at Krabi’s night markets.
- Riding a tuk-tuk through the busy streets.
- Visiting the Chiang Rai White Temple.
- Exploring the floating markets.
- Thai massages are the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring – affordable, deeply relaxing, and an experience in itself.
- A trip to Krabi, with its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and incredible island-hopping experiences.
Chengdu, China
- Watching pandas munch on bamboo at the Giant Panda Breeding & Research Base = pure happiness.
- Chengdu Hot Pot was spicy, numbing, and wildly addictive.
- Jinli Ancient Street and Wide & Narrow Alley was a blend of modern and old China.
- People’s Park is like a window into local life, tea culture, and even ear-cleaning services (yes, it’s a thing!). OMG, do not miss out on the noodles, they are divine!
What this Journey has Taught Me
Balancing a full-time career while exploring the world isn’t easy, but it has made me more resourceful and appreciative of the present moment. It’s in the small, unexpected interactions – sharing stories with a stranger over coffee or witnessing a breathtaking sunrise – that I find the true magic of this journey.
Most people think the grass is greener on the other side, but the truth is, it’s green where you water it. No place is perfect, and every lifestyle comes with its own challenges. The key is to figure out what truly matters to you and build a life around those priorities.
This journey has also allowed me to spend quality time with loved ones scattered across the globe, something I value deeply. Travel is more than just seeing new places; it’s about the people, the stories, and the growth that comes with it. The connections I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the moments I’ve shared have been extraordinary.
And this is just the beginning.
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