Inside the Artist's Studio

As a beginning to a long-term, ongoing project, capturing artist's at work in their studios, I present Sawan Yawnghwe. His collborative work with Sondenkind is currently being exhibited at Sangdee Gallery.

Surface Interval, Thai Style.

Only in Thailand can you expect a buffet waiting for you during your surface interval after your first dive.


Fried pork patties, chicken and tofu Panang and stir-fried vegetables!

My first post with Uptake!

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles in Akumal, Mexico

Phen Restaurant, Northern Thai Food Galore!

While I love all Thai food, my favorite is definitely Northern Thai. Phen Restaurant is a jewel tucked away in the narrow sois of old Chiangmai. Located across the street from Anubaan Chiangmai (Chiangmai Kindergarten) you can expect to find everything from Kao Soi noodles to grilled eggplant salad to bamboo shoot salad to fried chicken and nam prik ong (a Northern chilli tomato dip) just to name a few items off their vast menu.

The House Restaurant, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The House & Ginger Cafe is my favorite dining experience in Chiang Mai. Located right in the middle of town, it is a charming cafe (Ginger) and more formal dining area in The House. With both Asian and Western menus and an impressive and creative selection of cocktails, it is an experience you won't forget! The atmosphere is truly unique.

Sawasdee Pee Mai!

There's no way to ring in the new year like lighting off a few khom loy (floating lanterns). A northern Thai tradition, these light paper laterns are like little hot air balloons that are lit on all significant occasions across the region. The belief is that your bad luck will be lifted into the sky with a wish. The most impressive display being the celebration of Loi Kratong in the Maejo district of Chiang Mai where thousands are simultaneously released each year.

10 things you should do with 10 hours in Seoul, Korea.

Yesterday I had a lengthy layover in Seoul on my way to Thailand. Never having visited Korea beyond Incheon airport, I decided to go exploring. After boarding an airport limousine bus, I was taken on a comfortable one-and-a-half hour ride and dropped off in the heart of Seoul's Jonggak district.

1. Take a walk down Insadong, a charming downtown neighborhood with a plethora of street vendors, narrow side streets, art galleries and charming restaurants in old Korean houses.



2. Eat some dak galbi (spicy Korean chicken barbeque).



3. Stop at any of the Pascucci coffee shops for some hot milk green tea. Very strong matcha flavor. Love it!



4. Visit Jogyesa Buddhist temple.




5. Stroll through Namdaemun market where you will find anything from traditional handicrafts to hats that resemble plush hello kitties.



6. Eat a hot steamy bowl of kimchi udon.



7. Take a walk through the trendy Myeongdong district, full of contemporary boutiques, street vendors and restaurants.



8. Walk past Jongno Tower.



9. Sample as much street food as possible.




10. Make sure you ride the most intricate subway system I've ever seen. It goes everywhere and is delightfully organized and navigable.