🎉 Happy new year! ___ We celebrated tonight at @hardrockhotelpg with amazing DJs, cranking music and beach bonfires. What an incredible night! Check out my IG stories for behind the scenes access. ___ If you're in the neighborhood for NYE2020, I can recommend this party. ___ We hope that 2019 brings you great joy. ✌️ We're definitely looking forward to big things this year! 😁

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Top 77 Photos of 2018

2018 was a year of great personal change and growth. I got married in June and have been travelling the world with my wonderful wife, Jacinta. That also means I’ve been able to step in front of the camera on a few more occasions this year. I hope this selection of photos inspires you to reach for your dreams in 2019 and the years to come.
Read more at our travel blog.

21 Things To Do In Bali With Teens

I recently spent a week with my niece (14) and nephew (15), and like most teenagers, they’d be happy to spend a week in a plush hotel with on-demand movies and a high-speed internet connection… But where’s the fun in that? Teen years are a period of discovery. They’re fundamental in shaping identity by cultivating passions, likes and dislikes. So, when I took these teenagers to a region with a culture as rich as Bali, I wanted them to get off the Wi-Fi and try something completely new.
Read more at our travel blog.

Where do you want to travel in 2019? ___ As I'm compiling my top photos of the year and reflecting over 2018, one location stands out. ___ This shot was taken at Temple of Athena in Assos, Turkey 🇹🇷. The surrounding region, #Canakkale, definitely earned the title for "most surprising destination of 2018" for me. I didn't know what to expect and was blown away by the amazing historical sites, mouth-watering food and warm hospitality. It is a highly undiscovered destination, and I predict it will become more popular in the coming years. ___ As #HomeofTroy we visited the archeological site for ancient Troy (yes, it's real) and stood under the wooden Trojan horse used in the 2004 blockbuster film. That IG post happened to be my most popular for 2018 interestingly enough. ___ @troyayili2018

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🔖New blog post: 6 essential things to do in Chiang Mai (link in bio). ___ This is the magestic Wat Chedi Luang in the centre of Chiang Mai, Thailand. It was built in the late 1300s and restored in the 1990s. And it only costs US$1.25 to see. Wow! Find out more in the link in my bio. ___ While in Chiang Mai we stayed at @movenpickchiangmai. ___ You can now also follow me on TripAdvisor - search for "travelwithbender". I'll share bite-sized reviews, tips, photos and updates.

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6 Essential Things To Do In Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is dramatic. Wedged between sheer mountains, spreading along an ancient alluvial plain, the unofficial capital of Northern Thailand conceals a tumultuous history dating back to the 13th century. A plethora of unique tourist attractions matched with extreme affordability, draws over 14 million tourists per year. Here are the top 6 attractions that made my list:
Read more at our travel blog.

"The only true wisdom is knowing that you know nothing." - Socrates ___ Soaring above the jungle and rice terraces at Kumulilir in Bali, Indonesia. ___ The expert guides at @baliforadventures helped us find this hidden gem, along with other amazing scenic and cultural locations around Bali on a day tour. ___ Found this amazing customisable tour at @voyagin. I tried this swing and took a pic of my brave niece having a turn. Would you dare to swing? ___ While in Bali I used my trusty @tepwireless hotspot.

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"Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength." - Arnold Schwarzenegger ___ Mesmerizing fire dancers during Bali Night Safari at @balisafari. ___ This is a clever concept where the humans are in a cage instead of the animals. We got carted around on the back of a truck covered in a cage to get up close to animals like lions, tigers and zebras. ___ One of the many teen-friendly activities we've been checking out in Bali recently. For discounted night safari tickets head to @voyagin. 🔸🔸🔸🔸

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🌋 Would you fly over an active volcano? ___ This is Mount Batur (Kintamani Volcano) in Bali, Indonesia. ___ We loved this scenic 🚁 helicopter tour from @baliadventuresky and @voyagin which offers the best views of Bali. ___ It last erupted in 2000 and triggered dozens of small earthquakes in 2009 over an 11 day period. ___ "The Warrior lives a life full of adventure, living on the edge of opportunity. Life on the edge keeps him in a space of heightened awareness and totally in the moment; therefore no matter what comes his way he is always prepared." - James Arthur Ray ___ While in Bali we stayed in @villa_amrita (near Ubud) and @hardrockbali (Kuta). We spent a few days with my niece & nephew and showed them around Bali. Check out our IG stories esee what we got up to. ___ #baliindonesia #baligo

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Our little piece of paradise in Ubud, Bali... @villa_amrita ___ "First think, second believe, third dream and finally dare." - Unknown ___ It's a fully contained 3 villa complex with full time staff to make meals and help out in any way possible. Yesterday Jacinta had a hot stone massage next to the pool and we enjoyed a full Balinese feast for dinner. ___ We're spending a couple days with my niece and nephew. They said they feel like the Kardashians in this villa. I can't disagree. ___ Check out our IG stories to see what we're up to in Bali this week. @travelwithbender

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🤓 What shape do you see in the ocean? ___ Shot near the Lad Koh View Point in Koh Samui, Thailand, from 45 m above. ___ I love how the amber hues of the rocks contrast with the teal blue of the sea. ___ I'll check out the IG accounts of the first 10 people who comment with ❤️❤️❤️, and give you a few tips to improve your photography. ___ I've started using @sandmarc ND filters for my DJI Mavic 2 Pro and they make the world of difference. ___ I've been using my @tepwireless hotspot around Thailand recently. Highly recommend 👌

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Pimsleur: My Secret Weapon to Quickly Learn a New Language

In most countries, the locals speak enough English to help us get around. But what happens if you come across someone that doesn’t speak English, or go to a country where English isn’t really spoken? Suddenly, simple things like getting directions, ordering a meal, or paying for shopping can get pretty difficult. With Pimsleur’s language learning method, speaking a new language (or two) just became super easy and affordable.
Read more at our travel blog.

Samahita Retreat, Koh Samui: A Vacation Your Body And Mind Will Love

The Samahita Retreat in Koh Samui, Thailand was my very first yoga retreat. I wouldn’t call myself a fitness fanatic, but I love beautiful beaches and I try to be healthy. That’s pretty much all you need to feel right at home at Samahita.
Read more at our travel blog.

🎥 What movie is this from? ___ I found this famous wooden horse along the waterfront of #Canakkale, Turkey which is very close to where a famous epic love story was set. ___ Do you know the story? See what others have said in the comments to find out if you're right! And remember you can save this post for easy access (🔖bookmark icon). @troyayili2018 #HomeofTroy

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"A fool is known by his speech; and a wise man by silence." - Pythagoras ___ Silent sunrise at @samahitaretreat with my new friend who was quite happy to photobomb an otherwise perfect scene. ___ This was my first yoga retreat, and I'm quite certain it won't be my last. Koh Samui in Thailand is known for its wellness retreats, and Samahita is amongst the finest. ___ #thailandtravelinsider #sunrise_sunset_photogroup

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"Your mind is an entire world, your heart is an entire cosmos, and your soul is an entire universe." _ What a gorgeous day today at @samahitaretreat in Koh Samui, Thailand. Is this heaven? _ This is my first yoga retreat and I'm really enjoying it. The people here are so sweet. Food is super healthy, but tasty, and I'm already feeling better for it. Are you a yoga fan? _ #thailandtravelinsider #yogachallenge

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"Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, it empties today of its strength." - Corrie ten Boom _ Do you want a relaxing or adventurous vacation right now? _ Hard to imagine this luxurious rooftop pool is 24 floors above bustling Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia. It's an ideal place to unwind and calm the mind... before hitting the delicious street food vendors. Have you been to Penang before? _ Check out travelwithbender.com for my brand new article published today about the beautiful 5-star @ghotelpenang in Malaysia. _ And click the link in my bio for your chance to win a pair of Bluetooth Samsung headphones from my friends at @xinja. _ While in Malaysia I used my trusty @tepwireless wifi hotspot. _ #ghotelkelawai #malaysiatrulyasia

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G Hotel Kelawai, Penang: Room With A View

Choosing a hotel requires consideration of dozens of factors. Your suite will become your home away from home, and your base for a memorable vacation, so it pays to be picky. I checked out this 5-star hotel in the heart of Penang, Malaysia and discovered a few surprises.
Read more at our travel blog.

19 Christmas Gift Ideas for Travellers in 2018

It’s every shopper’s favourite time of year. But finding travel friendly Christmas gift ideas is not easy. The gift needs to be functional, portable and not too heavy. So rather than racking your brain, I’ve helped you with a list of unique gift ideas that every millennial traveller wants.
Read more at our travel blog.

How To See The Best Natural Attractions In Hua Hin

Wow. That was the only word I could think of standing inside one of Hua Hin’s best natural attractions. Not only because of the jaw-dropping beauty but because until recently, I had never heard of this place. And I’m quite sure if I took a survey, the average traveller couldn’t pick out Hua Hin on a map either. I’m hoping to change that.
Read more at our travel blog.

9 Reasons To Visit Hua Hin, Thailand

Hua Hin has a special place in the hearts of the Thai because of its strong connection to their beloved royal family. Since the 1920’s, this coastal city has been the royal family’s summer retreat, a key driver in Hua Hin’s push towards modernity. Bangkok residents followed the royal lead, driving or catching the bus or train to spend their summers, or even just the weekend, escaping the capital’s fast-paced urban living. Find out what makes Hua Hin different to other cities in Thailand.
Read more at our travel blog.

Happy Diwali! 🎉 Celebrating the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. _ Follow: @travelwithbender 📷 _ The colours in this beautiful giant lantern in the lobby of @ghotelpenang in Penang, Malaysia are simply gorgeous. _ "Don't fight darkness - bring the light, and darkness will disappear." - Maharishi Mahesh Yogi _ #diwali2018 🕯️ @visitpenang ⬅️ Using @tepwireless in Malaysia 👍

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Xinja Review: Australian Prepaid Travel Card With Zero Fees?

Up until recently, most Australian travel cards didn't impressed me. I’ve seen a couple Australian debit or credit cards offer zero foreign transaction fees, but with significant compromises in the features and other fees. But now I might just have found the silver bullet with Xinja
Read more at our travel blog.

71 Smart Travel Money Tips (Save On Currency Exchange, Eliminate Bank Fees & More!)

While you may have tamed the fantastic plastic in your wallet at home, it can be a whole other game when you travel overseas. There are currency exchange rates, bank fees, and ATM surcharges to contend with, not to mention risks like card skimmers and dodgy currency changers.
Read more at our travel blog.

Win Samsung Level On Noise Cancelling Headphones + AU$250 Xinja Prepaid Card

Our friends at Xinja are giving away a pair of Bluetooth headphones along with a prepaid card to help you experience freedom to the max!
Read more at our travel blog.

"Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year." - Ralph Waldo Emerson _ Moments before Chocolate Hour at @movenpickbangtao in Phuket, Thailand. _ Every afternoon for one hour they serve free chocolate based treats. Yum! _ Chocolate + cocktails + pool = (share your answer in the comments) _ I just published a brand new blog post about the best places to stay in Phuket, Thailand. Check out the link in my bio @travelwithbender or IG stories. _ #MovenpickBangtao

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Where To Stay In Phuket, Thailand – Best Locations & Hotels

Phuket attracts over 6 million tourists from all corners the world each year, and that’s expected to almost double in the next decade. Now I know why. I’ve done the hard (and enviable) work for you, and put together a first-hand comparison of the 6 most popular areas to stay in Phuket.
Read more at our travel blog.

"The elevator to success is out of order, but the stairs are always open" - Zig Ziglar _ Kilitbahir Castle is located in Turkey's #Canakkale region. Built in 1463, it helped the Ottoman Empire to maintain an iron grip on all sea traffic passing through the Dardanelles straight, between the Black Sea and Mediterranean. _ We recently travelled around the Canakkale region 🇹🇷 and discovered many amazing historic sites just like this one. We'll worth visiting. _ While in Turkey I used my favourite gadget, the @tepwireless hotspot, to stay online 24x7. _ #HomeofTroy @troyayili2018

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"The outward freedom that we shall attain will only be in exact proportion to the inward freedom to which we may have grown at a given moment. And if this is a correct view of freedom, our chief energy must be concentrated on achieving reform from within." - Gandhi _ Tropical reflections. _ Wandering around @movenpickhuahin, Thailand. Listening to the breeze weaving through the palm trees. Listening to the serenity of the twinkling sea. And listening to the silent sunbeams giving life. Ah, so peaceful. _ #MovenpickMoments

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"The more credit you give away, the more will come back to you. The more you help others, the more they will want to help you." – Brian Tracy _ Monkeys 🙉 on Monkey Mountain in Hua Hin, Thailand. _ The long sandy beach stretches for miles in Hua Hin, with a long narrow tide pool that runs parallel to the coast. I could have been mistaken thinking I was looking at a glassy lake, but it was the ocean. _ At the southern end of the beach is a small rocky outcrop teeming with macaque monkeys🙈🙊. _ This town is more popular with locals, but a relatively undiscovered gem for international tourists. Well worth including on any trip to Thailand. _ Our hotel, @amarihuahin, was located just a short walk from the beach and their private beach club, @shorelinebeachclub_huahin. _ #naturelovers

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"Reflect upon your present blessings of which every man has many not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some." - Charles Dickens _ Reflections of Monkey Mountain. More formally known as Khao Takib Hill in Hua Hin, Thailand. _ If you look carefully you can see the 20 meter golden Buddha statue facing the sea. On top of this hill are large groups of cheeky macaque monkeys. 🙈🙉🙊Thus the name. The panoramic views of Hua Hin are spectacular. 😍 The time-worn temple at the top of the hill, accessible via 100 steps, is believed to hold an important relic - a tooth of Buddha. _ If you like monkeys then this is the place for you. _ We accessed Monkey Mountain via a relaxing horse ride along the picturesque sandy beach from our hotel, @amarihuahin. A convenient and comfortable base in South Hua Hin. _ If you feel inspired by my IG posts, please share them on your IG stories (little triangle button below). Your friends will thank you for it 😉 _ #thailandtravel #landscape_lovers

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"The future of life on Earth depends on our ability to see the sacred where others see only the common." - John Denver _ This was one of the best sunsets I've witnessed. Ever. _ Karon Beach in Phuket, Thailand knows how to put on a sky show. 🌴 The colours in real life were even better than this photo. 😍 We just had to sit down on a log and stare at the sky, mouths gaping. 😮 Words can't begin describe nature's beauty. _ We stayed across the road at the lovely @novotelphuketkaron. 👌 A really relaxing spot to unwind. _ I can't believe it's already October. Do you have any travels plans for the rest of 2018? Where are you going? Share in the comments below. 😏🤫 I'll tell you where we are heading. _ #novotelphuketkaron #sunsetlovers #nature_perfection

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"Magic lies in challenging what seems impossible." - Carol Moseley Braun _ The tropical view from our suite at @novotelphuketsurin in Thailand. Of course the slides and pool bar are appealing, but my favorite feature?... The popsicle hotline! 😋😛🤤 A cute blue box next to the pool, with an attached phone handset. ☎️ All I did was pick up the phone and seconds later 2 popsicles of my flavor preference were there. ⚡💫 Magic! _ If you had a magic phone box that could bring you anything, what would you order? _ #novotelphuketsurin

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"A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots." - Marcus Garvey _ Strolling the quiet back streets of Bozcaada in Turkey. _ The beautiful region of #Canakkale is located on the west coast of Turkey and is home to some of the country's best wine, pristine beaches, and the UNESCO heritage listed ruins of ancient Troy (yes, it's real!). _ @troyayili2018 #HomeofTroy

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"Appreciate what you have, where you are and who you are with in this moment." – Tony Clark _ The beautifully named Wind Rose sunset viewing point on the island of Bozcaada in Turkey. @troyayili2018 _ We watched the sunset last night against a dramatic backdrop of the island's iconic wind turbines. These power not only the island but the province's capital of #Canakkale. _ #sunsetlovers #HomeofTroy

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Views of Lesvos from the Temple of Athena in the ancient ruins of Assos, Turkey. _ We are currently touring the historic province of #Canakkale in Turkey 🇹🇷 which is amazing. _ Assos was home of Aristotle's school of philosophy - an institution that shaped western civilization for over 2000 years. _ Where are you in the world right now? _ @troyayili2018 #HomeofTroy

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7 Reasons Why You’ll Love Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a city defined by contrast. You’ll find extravagance and poverty, tradition and innovation, nightlife and relaxation, glamour and quirkiness, ancient and modern. Whether you’re a backpacker with a shoestring-tight budget, a retiree relishing your golden years, or just looking to unwind during your annual vacation, Bangkok is one urban destination you will want to visit.
Read more at our travel blog.

"The world has enough beautiful mountains and meadows, spectacular skies and serene lakes. It has enough lush forests, flowered fields, and sandy beaches. It has plenty of stars and the promise of a new sunrise and sunset every day. What the world needs more of are people to appreciate and enjoy it." – Michael Josephson _ Sunrise salutation at @movenpickhuahin. _ If you've never been to Hua Hin, Thailand then you should check it out. 🌴The gorgeous beach exudes chill vibes, and the nearby 🙊🙉🙈Monkey Mountain is home to hundreds of (somewhat friendly) monkeys. And don't forget the artisan night markets. _ #MovenpickMoments #gorgeous_shot

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"A grateful mind is a great mind which eventually attracts to itself great things." – Plato _ Monk walking at Wat Chedi Luang in the centre of the old city in Chiang Mai, Thailand. _ It's these everyday, unscripted, unplanned moments that hold tremendous beauty to me. Life can literally walk by if we don't choose to engage and appreciate what is in front of us. Be mindful today. _ While in Chiang Mai we stayed at @movenpickchiangmai. This 4-star hotel is centrally located on the doorstep of the popular night markets. _ #MovenpickMoments #thailandtravel

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"What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create." - Buddha _ Morning meditations at @movenpickhuahin in Thailand. _ Tag your friend in a comment and inspire their day! 😄⭐ _ I loved their daily Chocolate Hour... which is free for all guests. Yum! But these early mornings by the pool were priceless. We stayed in a gorgeous Private Pool Villa for 3 perfect nights. Highly recommended when you visit Hua Hin. _ While in Thailand I've been using my trusty @tepwireless hotspot. _ #thailandtravel #MovenpickMoments

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"The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." - Alice Walker _ The incredible Phraya Nakhon Cave in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park about 45 mins south of Hua Hin, Thailand. _ The Kuha Kharuehat pavilion was built in 1890 for the visit of visit of King Chulalongkorn the Great (Rama V). Not many tourists have the privilege of witnessing this majestic cave because it takes quite a bit of effort to reach. _ After driving from Hua Hin, we caught a boat from Bang Pu Beach to the remote Laem Sala Beach (alternatively visitors can hike 2kms through a very challenging trail). From here it's 430m up a steep and very slippery path - easier said than done. I almost ended on my rear at least 3 times. My singlet was saturated with sweat in the tropical 100% humidity. _ But this view was worth it all. _ #naturelovers #amazingthailand

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"The reactions of the human heart are not mechanical and predictable but infinitely subtle and delicate." - Daisaku Ikeda _ Sunset silhouettes 🌴 at @marriott_merlin_beach in Phuket, Thailand. _ This beautiful resort has a lot of unique features including a butterfly sanctuary 🦋💙. I just stared at these delicate, colourful wonders of nature. We also found colour in the rainbow lattes 🌈☕ at the in-house coffee shop. Check my IG stories highlights from Phuket for these pics. @travelwithbender _ #luxuryhotelsworld #visitthailand

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"The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun." - Christopher McCandless _ Nestled in a quiet beachfront location, just far enough away from the bustle of Patong Beach in Phuket is... @amariphuket. Paradise found! _ And the best way to get around the resort is by motorized golf cart. My favorite way to travel! 😁 Are you a golf cart fan too? _ We've been exploring Thailand recently and each town & island is so different. Check out my IG highlights from Phuket! _ #beachesnresorts #thailandtravel

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"When you realize nothing is lacking, the whole world belongs to you." - Lao Tzu _ Watching the sunset from our 1-bedroom Pool Suite at @movenpickbangtao in Phuket, Thailand. _ This quote reminds me of a powerful concept that revolutionized my thinking. It goes beyond simple positive thinking. This transformative concept allowed me to create a successful business from the ground up, and then to travel the world endlessly. It also brought love into my life. Now it continues to shape me in more ways than I can count, and I hope I can pass that power onto you. _ #MovenpickBangtao #BangtaoBeach #MovenpickMoments

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"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt _ The white sands of Patok Beach on the tiny island, Ko Racha Yai, south of Phuket, Thailand. _ Crystal turquoise water teeming with colourful tropical fish. Lounging on a deckchair, sipping a drink. Is this heaven? _ We went snorkeling on the east side of this island in a small bay with the clearest water I've ever seen in my life. It was at least 6 metres (20 feet) deep and it looked like you could just reach out and touch the ocean floor. Mesmerizing! I got swarmed by a school of small yellow fish that took a few friendly nibbles of me. And even spotted a sea snake. Ahhh, such a dream. _ What's your favorite spot in Thailand? _ In Thailand, I've been using my @tepwireless for always-on super fast Internet. _ #beachesnresorts #awesome_earthpix

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"Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost." - Erol Ozan _ Following the winding path at @novotelphuketkaron in Phuket, Thailand. _ We stayed here for a few nights in a gorgeous Plunge Pool Suite. This resort is located across the road from one of the best beaches in Phuket. 😍 When we arrived a very sneaky staff member dressed up as Spiderman surprised me and gave me the fright of my life. 😂 So funny! _ #novotelphuketkaron #luxuryhotelsworld

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"When it's over, I want to say: all my life I was a bride married to amazement. I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms." - Mary Oliver _ The Rum Shack, sitting on the beach at @marriott_merlin_beach in Phuket, Thailand. _ Who do you want to take here? 🤔 Tag them in a comment.and show them your idea of a vacation! _ While we were sipping our cocktails🍹, fire dancers performed on the grassed area. What a spectacular show! Check out my IG highlights for "Phuket" to see those. _ And if you're thinking of heading to #thailand, read our latest blog post about Pattaya on travelwithbender.com 👌

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"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain." - Vivian Greene _ Embracing the waves 🌊 at Surin Beach in Phuket, Thailand. We were inspired by the locals swimming and playing in the waves. Currently we're staying at @novotelphuketsurin across the road from the beach. _ #novotelphuketsurin #thailand

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How To See Pattaya, Thailand In 48 Hours

When you think about planning a vacation in Thailand, destinations like Bangkok, Phuket and Chang Mai jump to mind. But I discovered there’s plenty of reasons to include the coastal city of Pattaya in your itinerary.
Read more at our travel blog.

"Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate." - Alan D. Wolfelt _ A delicious charcuterie board with white wine 🥂 on the balcony overlooking Patong Beach in Phuket, Thailand. @amariphuket _ Does it get any better? _ Check out my latest IG story highlights from 🌴 Phuket. @travelwithbender _ #luxuryhotelsworld #thailand_allshots

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"Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you." - Frank Lloyd Wright _ Soaking in the gentle waterfall pools at Krabi Hot Springs, Thailand (also called Namtok Ron in Khlong Thom). _ This place is out of a dream.😍 _ Entry is 160 baht per person (about US$4.90), and it pays to get there earlier in the morning to avoid the tourists. _ Who would you like to soak with in a hot spring? 🤔 Let 'em know and tag them in a comment! _ Check out my IG stories @travelwithbender to see what we're up to in Thailand. 🌴 While in Thailand I'm using my lifesaver - @tepwireless internet hotspot. _ #travelgoals #visitthailand @tourismthailand

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"Success in life is founded upon attention to the small things rather than to the large things; to the every day things nearest to us rather than to the things that are remote and uncommon." - Booker T. Washington _ Mesmerizing Railay Beach in Krabi, Thailand. 😍 This remote peninsula is only accessible via boat, and has 2 sandy beaches facing east and west. 🌴 Yes, beachfront sunrise and sunset at the same location. A photography lover and travel lover's paradise. _ Wearing the @wandrd PRVKE backpack. We've travelled for thousands of miles with this amazing camera bag and it holds up everything thrown at it. _ All the details work together harmoniously. Water-resistant material, side camera access, padded compartments, laptop sleeve and minimalist design... It really deserves all the awards it's won. _ #wandrd #travelgram #thailand

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"I'm always trying to turn things upside down and see if they look any better." - Tibor Kalman _ Magic reflections in Krabi, Thailand. _ Which friend would you like to take to Thailand? Tag them in a comment below! _ I've been lovin' my @tepwireless hotspot in Thailand. Actually, I'm using it right now to upload this post 😉

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"Sharing tales of those we've lost is how we keep from really losing them." - Janet Fitch _ Rockin' the pool vibes at @hardrockpattaya. It's hard to notice from ground level but from above the outline of the boardwalk makes a very distinctive shape. This reminds me that sometimes life makes more sense from an elevated perspective. _ I see names grace the halls of this beautiful hotel that have passed and it's wonderful to see their musical legacies live on. _ I have to give a special applause to the band Ninety Nine at Hard Rock Cafe. 👏 This house band played solid for over 3 hours and we rocked out to our favorite tunes. I've paid $200 per ticket for concerts that were nowhere nearly as good. If you visit Pattaya, Thailand, you must check out Hard Rock Cafe. _ #hardrockhotelpattaya #hotelsandresorts @hardrockhotelpattaya

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"The most beautiful in the world is, of course, the world itself." -Wallace Stevens _ Exploring the gorgeous😍 Wat Pho in Bangkok. This Buddhist temple complex is known for the giant 46m (100 foot) long reclining Buddha. _ While it's one of the more popular destinations for tourists, many don't know that the onsite medical school is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. _ The full official name of this place is Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn. _ I often get asked about how to start a travel blog. So I've just added a button on the link in my bio @travelwithbender that can help you create a new blog in minutes with no special technical skills. _ #lovetravel #bangkokthailand

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"It is in your power to withdraw yourself whenever you desire. Perfect tranquility within consists in the good ordering of the mind, the realm of your own." - Marcus Aurelius _ This is not something you'd expect to find in Bangkok, Thailand. The centrally located Benjakitti Park 🌳🌞 is like a quiet, tranquil oasis amidst the city's never-ending energy. _ We stayed at the nearby @shamalakeviewasoke which drew on inspiration from this park for the property's newly renovated studios and apartments. Calming green and blue tones, specially commissioned artworks and furniture, and cleverly positioned mirrors to bring the beautiful outdoors inside. Shama means "peace" or "tranquil" in Sanskrit, and after walking around this park, I understand why. _ Do you want to see me eat a real grasshopper in Bangkok? 🐛😮😲 Check out my latest IGTV video @travelwithbender. _ #bangkokthailand #naturelovers

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"Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. You plan a tower that will pierce the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility." - Saint Augustine _ The golden chedi at Wat Bowonniwet Vihara in Bangkok, Thailand. _ This contains the relics and ashes of Thai royals. Many royal princes and kings have studied and served their monkhood at this Buddhist temple, including King Bhumibol and his son, the present king Vajiralongkorn. _ While in Bangkok we stayed at @shamalakeviewasoke. These modern self-contained apartments are suited both for short and long stays. Highly recommended! _ Travel tip: Getting around Bangkok has been easy thanks to @tepwireless 🌟🌟🌟. It's my secret weapon for stress-free travel. _ Don't miss any of my IG posts - turn on post notifications. Tap the 3 dots in my bio @travelwithbender and follow the menu. 👌👍

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"I don't have to take a trip around the world or be on a yacht in the Mediterranean to have happiness. I can find it in the little things, like looking out into my backyard and seeing deer in the fields." - Queen Latifah _ I'm a bit embarrassed. _ I grew up in Perth, Australia but never visited The Pinnacles located just 2.5 hours north of the city. _ I recently rectified this and was so glad I did. The desert landscape is stunning, and even better at sunset. If you visit Western Australia, I recommend a day trip. _ Check out my latest IG stories to see what we're up to right now.

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"Travel brings power and love back into your life." - Rumi _ Hello Bangkok! _ This is the stunning views of Thailand's capital from our apartment at @shamalakeviewasoke. 😍 This aparthotel is well suited for a short stay of a few days, several weeks or even months. Our 1-bedroom apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and (my fave)... a washing machine. _ The lake at the bottom of the pic has a 4km jogging track and you can even hire peddle boats and bikes. Guess where I'll be tomorrow 😉 _ If you like the travel tips I share on IG feel free to bookmark them for easy access🔖😁

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"Your life does not get better by chance. It gets better by change." - Jim Rohn _ I'm a sun beam chaser. _ Upon seeing the sun pierce through the dark clouds, I just had to get closer. I kept going until the land ran out. Be relentless in chasing your dreams. _ At Cowaramup Bay, Western Australia. _ @yallingupbeachresort #seeaustralia

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Cheers!🥂from @yallingupbeachresort. A group of modern 3-bedroom apartments right on the beach in Yallingup, Western Australia. _ We took a drive around the region's world-famous wineries to find the best ones for you. Yeah, really tough research! 😅😆😂 I'll share these in an upcoming blog post. To make sure you don't miss out, turn on story notifications from my profile page @travelwithbender (3 dots in the top right). _ What's your favourite wine?🍷Share it in the comments below. _ #seeaustralia

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"We come into this world head first and go out feet first; in between, it is all a matter of balance." - Paul Boese _ Sugarloaf Rock at sunset. This remote beach in the south-west of Western Australia is absolutely gorgeous! But hold onto your hat, 🌬 it gets pretty windy down here. - Brand new article just published: How to save hundreds on hotels with 1 super simple travel hack from @expedia. Check out the link in my bio. You'll be glad you did. @travelwithbender _ Tip: If you're travelling overseas this summer I suggest using @tepwireless for easy Internet access wherever you go. _ #australia #landscapelovers

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17 Tips To Plan The Ultimate UK Road Trip

The United Kingdom is a road tripping paradise - windy roads, scenic vistas, rolling hills, majestic mountains, meandering rivers, quaint towns, castles and history galore. Every great travel adventure starts with an equally great plan. So, I’ve put together my best British driving and planning tips to help kick off your own epic UK road trip.
Read more at our travel blog.

How To Save Money On Hotels With Expedia Add-On Advantage

Expedia have a brand new feature called Add-On Advantage that allows you to save up to 51% on hotel rooms. I put this to the test and you’ll be surprised how much I actually saved.
Read more at our travel blog.

How To Save Money On Hotels With Expedia Add-on Advantage

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"Rough diamonds may sometimes be mistaken for worthless pebbles." - Thomas Browne _ Suleman, my bedouin tour guide in Wadi Rum, Jordan. _ Sometimes it's the people you meet when you travel that leave the fondest memories. This guy made my trip to Wadi Rum unforgettable. He drove the 4x4 truck while I sat in the open-air bench on the back soaking up the views. Suleman made hilarious comments along the way. Most of them completely un-politically correct. Some downright offensive. And he even created a local lunch... without washing his hands. The historical facts he shared were scant. But he was entertaining, endeering, cheeky, charming and lovable every step of the way. A rough diamond, if I every found one. _ Camera: Canon EOS 70D Lens: Canon 16-35mm f/2.8 ISO: 100 Focal length: 22mm Aperture: f/6.3 Shutter: 1/320 sec _ #humansofjoy #natgeotraveler

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"Everything you want is on the other side of fear." - Anonymous _ Where do you want to travel in 2018? Share in the comments below. _ I'm wearing my @peakdesign Everyday Backpack, and living on the edge, at Canal Rocks, Western Australia. _ #peakdesign #igtravel

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How To Save Money On Theme Park Tickets (Massive Travel Hack!)

Everyone loves theme parks. So I’m not going to sell you on the idea of going to a theme park. What I will share with you is my favourite way to save money on theme park tickets. And the best part… it’s super duper easy to do. No complicated travel hacks that will have you in knots.
Read more at our travel blog.

"Why fit in when you were born to stand out?" - Dr. Seuss _ If you agree, share your favourite emoji in the comments below. _ The majestic Petronas Towers in the centre of Kuala Lumpur, an unmistakable symbol of modern Malaysia. Each night the lake at the base springs to life with coloured water fountains choreographed to music. _ While in Kuala Lumpur we stayed at @thekljournal which is only a short walk from this spot. _ #malaysiatrulyasia #longexposureoftheday

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