Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

5 of the Safest Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Traveling solo as a woman can be an empowering and enriching experience. It’s a chance to explore new cultures, meet fascinating people, and discover yourself along the way. However, safety is often a top concern when choosing where to go. To help you plan your next adventure, here are some of the safest countries for solo female travelers and the reasons why they stand out.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Lost & Found in India’s Khari Baoli Spice Market

Nestled in the heart of Old Delhi, Khari Baoli stands as a fragrant testament to India’s rich history and culinary traditions. As Asia’s largest spice market, this iconic destination offers more than just spices; it provides a sensory journey through centuries of cultural and historical evolution. Its story, deeply intertwined with Delhi’s legacy, beckons travelers and food lovers alike to explore its vibrant alleys.

Read More
Travel, Community Chantal Clarke Travel, Community Chantal Clarke

Destination Antarctica - Charlotte’s Unforgettable Journey

Antarctica—remote, icy, and otherworldly—is not your typical vacation destination. But for Charlotte Schoeneman, a 57-year-old adventure traveler from the USA, the allure of the 7th continent was impossible to resist. Determined to experience its wonders, she embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime journey, choosing a path that allowed her to explore this extraordinary landscape on her own terms.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Layover in Bangkok, Thailand

First time in Bangkok? Got a layover and wondering how to make the most of it? Well don’t settle for just hanging out in the airport, as this vibrant city has so much to offer! Whether you’re at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Muang Airport (DMK), here’s how to turn your layover into an unforgettable mini-adventure.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

A Local’s Guide to London

When it comes to London, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. But if you’re like me and love the quirkier side of life, you’re in for a treat. My go-to list focuses mainly on the West End and the City of London, where fascinating finds and hidden gems are aplenty. While I’m less familiar with the charming London villages like Wimbledon, Greenwich, and Hampstead, this guide will still keep you plenty busy.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Lost & Found in Togo’s Akodessewa Fetish Market

In the heart of Lomé, the bustling capital of Togo, lies one of the world’s most unique and intriguing markets: the Akodessewa Fetish Market. Known locally as Marché des Fétiches, this market is more than a place to shop; it’s a vital hub for those who practice traditional African spirituality. With its shelves lined with talismans, animal skulls, herbs, and spiritual objects, the Akodessewa Fetish Market offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of West Africa.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Destinations - Discovering the Hidden Face of Iceland

When you think of Iceland, what comes to mind? Blue Lagoon? Check. Golden Circle? Been there. Waterfalls? Of course. But if you want to experience Iceland like a local, capture jaw-dropping photos, and avoid feeling like you're on a conveyor belt of tourists, it’s time to veer off the beaten path. Here’s how to dive into the heart of Iceland’s untamed beauty while doing things a little differently.

Read More
Travel, Wellbeing Chantal Clarke Travel, Wellbeing Chantal Clarke

6 Popular Destinations for Cosmetic and Medical Tourism

Medical and cosmetic tourism has gained immense popularity in recent years, as people seek high-quality healthcare services and cosmetic treatments at a fraction of the cost they would pay in their home countries. For individuals looking to combine affordable treatments with travel, certain destinations stand out due to their world-class facilities, experienced professionals, and beautiful surroundings that make recovery feel like a vacation. We reveal six of the best destinations for cosmetic and medical tourism.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Destination Angkor - Beyond the Temples

So, you’ve booked four days to visit Siem Reap and are wondering how to make the most of it. Oh dear! Let me stop you right there: extend your stay! Four days is the typical length of stay many travelers plan for, thinking it’s enough to cover Angkor Wat. But trust me, there’s so much more to this enchanting destination than meets the eye. Let me walk you through why Siem Reap deserves more of your time and how to immerse yourself in its rich culture and history.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Tech - Stop Google Tracking Your Movements

Traveling is an exciting way to explore the world, but in today’s digital age, it often comes with privacy concerns. One such concern is Google tracking your location. While location tracking can provide conveniences like personalized recommendations or navigation assistance, it also raises questions about privacy and data security. Here’s how you can prevent Google from tracking your movements while traveling and the benefits of doing so.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

10 Tips for Securing the Best Seat on the Plane

Flying economy doesn’t mean you can’t have a comfortable journey—it just means you need to be strategic about selecting your seat. Whether you’re looking for extra legroom, proximity to the lavatory, or a quieter spot to catch some rest, here are some tips to help you choose the best seat for your needs.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Tech - Keeping Track of Your Flight

Air travel can be rewarding, but it also comes with its share of stress, especially when flights are delayed or canceled. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, understanding how to handle disruptions can make a world of difference. Here's a guide to staying ahead of potential issues and ensuring smoother travels.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Tips - Exploring Laos by Train

Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems; untouched by the crowds and heavy tourism often seen in its neighboring countries, but it won’t stay that way much longer! Loas is one of the last frontier lands, with dramatic landscapes, vibrant tribal cultures, and some of the best adventure activities in Asia. Yet for years, one thing held travelers back: getting around. With winding, largely unsealed roads, few people having an actual driver’s license, and limited public transport options, travel in Laos has been notoriously challenging and only for the most intrepid amongst us.

Read More
Community, Travel Chantal Clarke Community, Travel Chantal Clarke

Shhhh! Exploring Female Sex Tourism

When the term "sex tourism" comes up, it's often assumed to be a male-driven phenomenon. However, an increasing number of women are venturing into this complex and often controversial world, with motivations and experiences that differ significantly from their male counterparts. Let's dive into where women are going for sex tourism, why they're doing it, and what sets their journeys apart.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

My Recent Jetstar Adventure: Know Your Rights When Flying

Flying from Melbourne to Singapore? Sounds simple, right? Well, not for me. Let me set the stage: I booked a flight with a certain low-cost airline that shall remain nameless (okay, it’s Jetstar). Unfortunately, “tried” is the key word in my story because my flight was canceled at the last minute. To be fair, the reason was entirely valid—it was a Boeing, and it had been diverted to Cairns due to “engineering issues.” Honestly, I’d much rather stay on the ground than board a plane with unresolved “engineering issues,” especially if it’s a Boeing!

Read More
Wellbeing, Travel Chantal Clarke Wellbeing, Travel Chantal Clarke

Tips - Avoiding Deep Vein Thrombosis

Flying is an exciting part of travel, but long-haul flights can pose health risks, particularly for older women. One of the most significant risks is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)—a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, often in the legs. DVT can lead to serious complications, including pulmonary embolism, if a clot travels to the lungs. Thankfully, there are effective strategies to minimize the risk.

Read More
Wellbeing, Travel Chantal Clarke Wellbeing, Travel Chantal Clarke

Safety - Methanol Poisoning: A Silent Killer

Methanol poisoning - a dangerous practice where methanol is added to drinks - poses a serious risk to travelers. It may be added to spirits increase profit margins, as it mimics ethanol (the drinkable form of alcohol) in both appearance and initial taste. Methanol poisoning can cause permanent injury or even death, making it crucial to understand the risks, recognize symptoms, and know how to respond.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Tips - Packing for a Purpose (be careful!)

When traveling to volunteer or explore in a new community, you may want to bring gifts that show kindness and appreciation. However, packing with purpose means being thoughtful about what will genuinely benefit the local people you’re visiting. It’s tempting to bring toys, clothes, or sweets, but these items aren’t always as helpful as they seem and may unintentionally create waste or health issues.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Culture - Surviving Culture Shock

When it comes to being a solo travel later in life, you’re likely to find things a little different than they were when you were in your 20s. You may think that decades of life experience would make you immune to things such as culture shock, but trust me; this evil mind game can still sneak up and grab you when you least expect it! I'm 57, and even with a long career in the tourism industry, and years spent living in numerous countries, I still occasionally find myself feeling adrift in a foreign place, and struggling to battle the anxiety before it sets in.

Read More
Travel Chantal Clarke Travel Chantal Clarke

Tips - Packing for Extended Travels

Planning for an extended trip comes with unique challenges, especially when it involves multiple climates. The freedom of slow travel is thrilling, yet balancing weight limits while prepping for tropical beaches and winter chills can be daunting. Here’s a guide based on shared wisdom from seasoned travelers, including tips from members of the ‘Empty Nester Women Looking to Relocate’ community.

Read More