Sarah Chen
Destination & Culture Writer
Travel journalist and cultural explorer who has lived in four countries. Sarah focuses on destination deep-dives, local culture, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Sarah spent three years living and working across Southeast Asia before relocating to Europe. Her writing draws on deep local knowledge and a genuine curiosity for how people live, eat, and celebrate around the world.
Areas of Expertise
- Southeast Asia, Japan, and East Asia travel
- European city guides and cultural travel
- Food tourism and local culinary experiences
- Budget and mid-range travel planning
Writing Approach
Sarah goes beyond surface-level travel tips. Her destination guides include cultural context, local etiquette, and the kind of neighborhood-level recommendations you only get from someone who has spent real time in a place.
Articles by Sarah Chen (95)
Master Basic Japanese Phrases
Learn essential Japanese phrases for greetings, directions, shopping, and dining to make your Japan trip smoother and more rewarding.
Read more
Master Japan's Transports
How to navigate Japan by Shinkansen, local trains, bikes, and buses, including JR Pass tips and Tokyo transit card advice.
Read more
A Journey Through Japan's Castle Towns
Visit Matsue, Inuyama, and the Nakasendo Way to experience Japan's castle towns, samurai history, and feudal-era architecture.
Read more
Explore Japan on a Budget
Save money in Japan with capsule hotels, temple stays, rail passes, and budget food tips for under $90 per day.
Read more
Kyoto's Soul: Tea Ceremonies and more
Experience Kyoto's tea ceremonies, traditional calligraphy, ryokan stays, kaiseki dining, and the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails firsthand.
Read more
Unveiling Japan: Best Time to Visit
Month-by-month guide to visiting Japan, from cherry blossom season and autumn colors to ski trips and summer festivals. Pick the right time for your trip.
Read more
Bali's Playground: From Rapids to Sunrises
Plan your Bali adventure with tips for Ayung River rafting, Mount Batur sunrise treks, hidden waterfalls, and surf lessons.
Read more
Bali: From Beach Bliss to Budget Paradise
Compare Bali accommodation types from $15 guesthouses to luxury private villas. Find the best stay for your budget and travel style.
Read more
Bali Bliss: Unveiling the Island's Soul
A two-week Bali itinerary covering Ubud's temples, volcano treks, hidden waterfalls, Nusa Penida diving, and Canggu surf culture.
Read more
Unveiling Bali - Dance, Temples & Yoga
Experience Bali's cultural side through traditional Kecak and Legong dances, sacred temple tours, yoga retreats in Ubud, and rice terrace walks.
Read more
Nusa Islands, Bali: Dive Deep, Leap High
Snorkel with manta rays, freedive crystal-clear reefs, and cliff jump in the Nusa Islands off Bali, with tips on conservation and local guides.
Read more
Ubud's Adventures: Monkeys, Jungles & Rapids
Explore Ubud's top outdoor adventures in Bali: jungle trekking, the Sacred Monkey Forest, and white water rafting through river valleys.
Read more