I’m a slow, budget traveler exploring Asia beyond the obvious routes. Mostly by night trains, local buses, shared ferries, and long walks through unfamiliar towns. I travel this way not because I have endless time, but because slowing down reveals more things about places, people, and myself.
Unmapped Asia exists because travel advice often sounds inspiring but falls apart in practice. I share routes I’ve taken, costs I’ve tracked, mistakes I’ve made, and details that are usually skipped. So, planning feels calmer, clearer, and more realistic.
If you’re drawn to thoughtful planning, affordable travel, and discovering places at their own pace, you’re in the right place.
I spent weeks exploring Northern Thailand in January 2026. Rode a scooter from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. Did the Samoeng Loop. Visited Mae Kampong. Spent a couple days in
Riding a scooter in Northern Thailand is one of the best ways to explore the mountains, villages, and scenic roads around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. I’ve personally done this
Traveling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is a common route for visitors exploring Northern Thailand. The two cities are about 200 kilometers apart and connected by scenic mountain roads.
Mae Kampong Village in Chiang Mai is one of the most charming mountain villages in northern Thailand. Located about 50 kilometers east of Chiang Mai, the village is known for
Most travelers visiting Chiang Rai know about the White Temple and Blue Temple. But Wat Huay Pla Kang, home to the giant Guan Yin statue in Chiang Rai, often gets
Most travelers visit Mae Salong from Chiang Rai for a few hours. They drive up. Take some photos at a viewpoint. Maybe stop at a tea shop. Then drive back