Tranquil Journey Along the Eurasian Waterfront – A Soothing Holiday of Self-Discovery

 

Just like the scenes depicted in the film Eat Pray Love, countless travelers have found a place of spiritual solace in India, experiencing joy and strength through renewal. This has inspired even more to yearn for the same. Traveling in India allows you not only to immerse yourself in local culture and experience the power and beauty of yoga, but also to visit its countless sacred sites — such as the world-famous Varanasi and Bodh Gaya. Varanasi is regarded as the land of Shiva in Hinduism. The Ganges River, which flows through it, is not only a symbol of ancient Indian civilization but also a holy river in the hearts of Indians. It is believed that having one's cremation and ashes scattered in the Ganges after death can lead to liberation of the soul and rebirth. For Hindus, bathing in the Ganges at least once in a lifetime is essential. Bodh Gaya is where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Key sites include the Bodhi Tree, Mahabodhi Temple, Ashoka Pillar, and Vajrasana (Diamond Throne), all must-visits for pilgrims. One can't help but wonder: could we also uncover the truths of life here?

At dawn, as the sun rises, layers of mist spread across the river. When sunlight fully emerges, the people along the Ganges each go about their sacred duties — washing clothes, praying, conducting cremations — all of which captivate visiting travelers. (Image credit: TRAVELER Luxe Traveler)

Known as the “Shangri-La” of Thailand, Chiang Mai spans over 20,000 square kilometers and has a population of just 1.8 million. Everywhere you look, you’ll find traditions and ambiance from the over 700-year-old Lanna Kingdom. Four walls encircle the city center’s square layout. Whether you take a stroll through the bustling east side at Tha Phae Gate or pause at the once royal-exclusive Chang Puak Gate to the north, you’ll find a mysterious corner perfect for conversation with yourself. Walking through the old town, besides the occasional low-key maroon songthaews and tuk-tuks, you’ll see historic temples and pagodas glowing with heritage. Outside the faded red-brick walls lies a square moat, lined with shady trees and flocks of pigeons pecking at food near your feet. Even when traveling solo, a sense of happiness and romance naturally arises.

 

In Chiang Mai, one of the most satisfying experiences is finding a traditional Lanna-style hotel, immersing yourself in its foreign atmosphere and attentive service, then taking a tuk-tuk ride to stroll along the Mae Ping River. Day and night, you’re embraced by lazy riverside music and delicious street food. Perhaps try some local snacks or indulge in a Thai massage. Coming with no particular goal in mind makes the richness of the journey even clearer.

When the lavender blooms in Furano during July, it’s as if even the air turns into a romantic light purple with a delicate fragrance. Beyond the lavender, as the weather warms, beautiful wildflowers such as lilies, poppies, lupines, and cosmos begin blooming along the roadsides of Biei and Furano, and even in the corners and parks of Sapporo — adding vibrant splashes of color to Hokkaido’s short summer.

 

If you visit in winter, the heavy snowfall that locals might find troublesome paints a breathtakingly pure white world for travelers from afar — an isolated tranquility and beauty that is one of Hokkaido’s many intoxicating charms.

 

In such a pure and clean world, it seems that all life’s distractions come to a halt and gradually fade away. Shift your gaze to the serene mountain lakes untouched by the world, enjoy an open-air hot spring where the sky and water merge into one, and feel happiness seep into your heart bit by bit. Of course, there are also seasonal limited-edition delicacies for foodies to savor. The romantically inclined among us might also chase the spectacle of autumn foliage. Between each season and journey, let the natural beauty engage in heartfelt conversation with our inner selves.

Paris holds an important place in everyone’s heart. Whether you seek romance, art, Michelin cuisine, or shopping, Paris always has some “treasures” waiting for those on a quest.

 

Setting aside the most famous landmarks and museums, if you’re looking to find yourself, choose a sunny day to stroll along the Seine in the Île de la Cité area. It will be an enchanting experience. Pause on a bridge or under its arch, letting your chaotic thoughts gradually clear along with the flowing water. Or find an open-air café by the riverbank, using a book or an open heart to collect the bits and pieces of your journey, enriching your spiritual energy.