Beach at sunset

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Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik

Island paradises around the globe offer sanctuaries of beauty and tranquility, inviting travelers to bask in nature’s splendor.

Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen

Travel Writer

July 9, 2025
1 min read

QA: Story Blocks Showcase

By Sarah ChenJul 9, 2025

Travel Man S10 E02 - 48 Hours In Split

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3 photos
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Pragser Wildsee, Italy

Pragser Wildsee, Italy

NEOM will be home to one of the world’s largest nature reserves: a 25,000 sq km stretch of wilderness, encompassing two deserts divided by a mountain range.

NEOM will be home to one of the world’s largest nature reserves: a 25,000 sq km stretch of wilderness, encompassing two deserts divided by a mountain range.

NEOM, Saudi Arabia

💡General Tips

Travel Tips Box story block

Whether you're traveling with prescriptions or just a bottle of Tylenol, here's what you need to know before packing your meds.

⚠️Important - Don't Miss
For:First-time Visitors
3 Tips

Know commonly banned medications. Not all medications allowed in the U.S. are permitted abroad. This holds true for both OTC and prescription drugs. You should research the specific laws of your destination before you go.

ImportantSafety🟢 EasyBefore Trip

Keep everything in the original packaging. It might be tempting to toss your pills into a cute travel organizer or dump some Advil into a mint tin, but that could cause problems in transit. Experts agree—it's not worth the risk.

ImportantSafety No Cost Impact🟢 EasyBefore Trip

Obtain requisite documentation. For added protection—especially if your medication is essential or might raise questions—be sure to travel with a copy of your written prescription and/or a doctor's note.

ImportantSafety No Cost Impact🟡 ModerateBefore Trip
"You are a visitor in someone else's country, so it is important to respect their customs as well as their laws." With that in mind, he adds, "Err on the side of caution."
Katy Nastro, Travel expert at Going
Common Mistakes to Avoid

Codeine

Why it's bad: Often found in cough syrups and combination pain medications, this opioid is controlled or outright banned in countries including the UAE, Japan, Greece, and Indonesia.

Better approach: Travelers may need prior approval, a doctor's note, or face penalties for possession—even with a valid U.S. prescription.

Diphenhydramine

Why it's bad: Best known as the active ingredient in Benadryl, this common antihistamine is restricted in Japan and Zambia.

Better approach: Travelers may need a doctor's note, and in some cases, the medication can be confiscated.

ADHD Medications

Why it's bad: Medications such as Adderall and Ritalin require advanced approval in countries like the UAE, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea. These stimulants are often classified as controlled substances.

Better approach: Travelers may need to submit documentation or apply for special permits well before departure.

What's Next?
Be aware of the potential consequences and have the local embassy contact information in-hand and ready.
General Tips
3 tips
💡Tip

Get the Day Pass

With JR Day Pass you can ride the JR line around Tokyo without limit for the day. Great if you are looking to hit up multiple spots around the area.

🤝Etiquette & Manners

Etiquette Tips - These Are 10 Common Mistakes I See Tourists Make (Cultural Insight)

With its opaque rules and rigid customs, even the most conscientious traveler can put a foot wrong in Japan. While people are generally gracious about missteps, recent surges in tourist numbers are starting to strain that vaunted hospitality. I've lived here for 20 years—here are 10 common mistakes to avoid on your next trip to Japan.

Cultural Insights

🟡 Good to Know

Having Bad Table Manners

Dining etiquette is a minefield, and the rules are different depending on the cuisine, but proper chopstick manners always make you look good. I’m not talking about being able to use them, although expect any level of proficiency to be greeted with effusive praise. I’m talking about where to put them.

Examples:
  • Don’t point to things with chopsticks
  • Don't double-dipping from a common plate with chopsticks that have been in your mouth
If Ignored:

Side eyes and passive-aggressive remarks.

Do's and Don'ts

Do's

When you aren’t eating, place chopsticks on the rest provided

Do slurp noodles like ramen

This signifies to the chef that the food is delicious

Eat nice sushi with your hands

This is the traditional way of eating sushi, especially nigiri sushi, and is very much appreciated.

Neatly fold up the oshibori hand towel after use

Everyone likes a tidy eater. Don't leave a mess!

Don'ts

Never stick them upright in a bowl of rice

This symbolizes an offering to the dead

Don’t point to things with chopsticks

It is considered rude to point, let alone with your eating implements

Taking food from a common plate with chopsticks that have been in your mouth

It is unsanitary

Don't wear strong scents, especially to kaiseki or sushi

Chefs tend to be highly protective of the subtle flavors that may become masked by these scents

Useful Phrases

"Thank you for the meal"
"ごちそうさまでした"
/Gochisousama (deshita)/
formalAfter you are done eating
"I humbly receive"
"いただきます"
/Itadakimasu/
formalBefore eating
1 cultural insight
2 phrases
8 do's & don'ts
🥾Mountain/Adventure

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Essential Items
Light jacket
Hoodie
Tops
Enough for trip
Exercise Ts
As needed
Shorts
2 pairs
Jeans / Dress pants
1-2 pairs
Board shorts
1 pair
Sleep wear
Undergarments
Enough for trip
Socks
Enough for trip
Cap
1
Hiking shoes
1 pair
Smartphone
Smartwatch
Laptop
Camera & spare batteries
Travel bag
1
Water bottle
1
Sunscreen
1
Toothbrush
1
Toothpaste
1
Bodywash
1
Hair Gel
1
Face towel
1
Body towel
1
Ear plugs
1 pair
Ferry reservation booking
Passenger ferry booking

Packing Tips

Lightweight layers (T-shirts, light sweaters, fleece, windbreaker) are more versatile than one heavy coat.

Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles.

Separate “hiking clothes” from “town clothes” so you’re not digging through your bag daily.

6 categories
28 total items
21 essential
0% Complete
📅Multi-day • 2 Days

Itinerary Section Story Block

USD ~$250
Estimated Total
Support local eateries, shops, and artists is a great way to help sustain the island community.
1
Day 1: Morning

Ferry from Tsawwassen to Galiano Island

Tsawwassen
$20-30
Description

If possible, catch a morning sailing so you have most of the day. Grab coffee and a snack before boarding—the ferry ride is scenic, so spend time on deck.

Pro Tip

Arrive at the terminal early in the summer. Especially if you are planning to drive.

2
Day 1: Late Morning / Lunch

Coastal Exploring

Sturdies Bay
$20-30
Description

Lunch at The Crane & Robin (by the marina) – great sandwiches, chowder, and waterfront views. Stroll the Sturdies Bay shops—tiny galleries, bookstores, and artisan spots.

Pro Tip

During the summer, there will be a lot of people visiting the Gulf Islands. It may be wise to call the restaurant ahead of time to reserve a table.

3
Day 1: Afternoon

Bodega Ridge Trail

Bodega Ridge
Free
Description

Gentle hike with panoramic views of Trincomali Channel and nearby islands.

Pro Tip

Wear appropriate sunscreen and bring bug spray for the summer season.

4
Day 1: Evening

Dinner at Pilgrimme

Sturdies Bay (by the marina)
$30-40
Description

(Reservation recommended) – farm-to-table with a creative menu.

Pro Tip

If weather’s clear, walk down to the shore for sunset—Montague Harbour or Bellhouse Park are perfect.

5
Day 2: Morning

Breakfast & Hike

Mount Galiano
$15-20
Description

Early breakfast at your Airbnb or Galiano Bakery (excellent pastries and coffee). Head to Mount Galiano Hike (~2–2.5 hours round trip) – the summit offers sweeping views over Active Pass, the Southern Gulf Islands, and even Mount Baker on clear days.

Pro Tip

Tip: Bring water and a light jacket—summit can be breezy.

6
Day 2: Lunch

Picnic lunch at Bluffs Park

Bluffs Park
Description

Short, easy trails with clifftop viewpoints.

7
Day 2: Afternoon

Beach time at Morning Beach or Retreat Cove

Morning Beach or Retreat Cove
Description

Rest at the beach for a mellow last few hours.

Pro Tip

Make a quick stop at Laughing Gator Gallery or Art and Soul Craft Gallery for local art.

8
Day 2: Late Afternoon

Departure

Sturdies Bay
$10-15
Description

Grab a coffee/snack for the ferry at the terminal food stalls/trucks. Ferry back to Tsawwassen.

Pro Tip

Check sailing times carefully—ferries can sell out.

Transportation

Make sure to check your reservation for the appropriate time to be at the terminal. This is especially important as there are only 2-3 ferries throughout the day.

8 activities
Duration: 2 Days
Total: USD ~$250
Thai Eatery
😎Casual
$$

Wild1 Cookhouse

Indian

Wild1 Cookhouse is a Thai food truck with funky island vibes. The outdoor seating is nestled in the forest and has a nice atmosphere. When we were there they served chicken sate, Pad Thai, rice curries and aromatic roasted duck.

Georgeson Bay Rd, Galiano Island, BC V0N 2J0

Galiano Island

Reservations required

Mon-Sun 6PM-12AM

Very busy in the evening

Must-Try Dishes

Chicken Pad Thai
Thali
Seafood Drunken Noodle
Thai Prawn Green Curry
😎Casual
Moderate
1 cuisine

Great Food

marriott
Superior Suites
lux hotel room
Ocean front views
Relaxing Spa
1 / 5
🏨hotel
5

Main Entrance Hall

Gallery

Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa

Galiano Island
C$200–300 CAD / night
Starting price

A boutique hotel on the Pacific coast, in the Canadian Gulf Islands. Your destination for healing and renewing your mind, body and spirit. Let our team of expert practitioners guide you on your path to total relaxation.

Key Features

ATREVIDA RESTAURANT & ORCA LOUNGE
MADRONA DEL MAR SPA
SMART CARS & VANS RENTAL
Local Art
Galiano Mountain Summit
🏔️adventure

Mount Galiano Hike

3 hours
Moderate
$

The most iconic photographs of Galiano are taken from the top of Mount Galiano, and with good reason. As the highest viewpoint on the island, the picturesque south-facing panorama is a well-deserved reward after a steep climb through the forest. From this vantage point, you can spot all of the other Southern Gulf Islands as you watch the ferries travel through Active Pass and beyond. Access to Mount Galiano is within a Nature Preserve, owned and held in trust for the people of the island by the Galiano Club. Be sure to pay back this kindness with respectful trail use.

Best Time to Experience

Seasons:
springsummerfall
Time of Day:Morning

Pro Tips

Parking maybe limited depending on time and season.

Ready for an unforgettable experience!

Galiano Mountain summit has the most spectacular view of the Gulf Coast.

"In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the allure of a pristine beach, kissed by turquoise waves and fringed with palm trees, is irresistible. "

Tom Lai

Island paradises around the globe offer sanctuaries of beauty and tranquility, inviting travelers to bask in nature’s splendor.

From the powdery sands of the Caribbean to the dramatic coastlines of Southeast Asia, this article delves into the world’s most stunning beaches, uncovering the hidden gems and iconic shores that define paradise.

Discover Piha Beach, Auckland

couple visiting Piha Beach in Auckland, New Zealand

🎬Vimeo⚙️Autoplay, Loop, Muted🎬Auckland Brand Library🏷️aucklandnew zealand

Caribbean Bliss: Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos

Sunny white sandy beaches

I was having a real great time on this beach enjoying my pina colada

📍Asia📌 Sunset Beach📸Tom Lai📝 Creative Commons🏷️BeachSunsetWhite sand🔗google.com

Grace Bay in the Turks and Caicos Islands is often hailed as the epitome of a Caribbean paradise. With its powdery white sand stretching for 12 miles, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Grace Bay is a haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for snorkeling, allowing visitors to get up close with a variety of marine life. Beyond its natural beauty, the area boasts luxury resorts and fine dining, offering a blend of relaxation and indulgence.

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FUN FACT

Grace Bay Beach has consistently ranked among the world's top beaches by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

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