Apart from all the exciting deals coming your way for Klook’s 9th birthday, we’ve asked some of our resident travel bugs aka Klookers 😉 about the favorite places they’ve traveled to, how they discovered it, why it’s special, and the local mouthwatering eats that they fell in love with (that you can look out for too)!
So if you’re looking for inspiration or planning to travel to destinations like New York, Sydney, Venice, Barcelona, Koh Lanta, Rotorua, or even thinking of going on a cruise around Southeast Asia, here’s what our Klookers experienced and what you can expect!
Photo Credit: Louise from Klook
A slice of farm life with Malcolm in Sydney, Australia 🦘
Photo Credit: Malcolm from Klook
Klooker Malcolm from Global Content recalls his love for discovering experiences outside the country’s main city through his trip to Sydney with his family. He remembers how they embraced farm life during their stay, to the point where free-range eggs by their doorstep would be the first things to greet them in the morning. 🪺 Malcolm especially loved unlocking new experiences, like riding the back of a farm tractor and seeing snakes up close. 🍃
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Malcolm: Sydney, especially Kookaburra Farm Stay near Port Stephens. Went there with my wife and then 3 year old daughter. We had an amazing time there due to the cool weather and being able to interact with all the animals that we don't usually get to see in Singapore. They had free-range chickens that would lay eggs all over the farm, including among the boots just outside the door of our room. So every morning, we would roam around to hunt for these eggs. We also got to feed the goat, ducks, cows, etc., and even got to milk a cow and carry a really huge snake!
I was actually looking for farm stays around Sydney and chanced upon it on a local website that consolidated all the recommended farm stays in the area.
Photo Credit: Malcolm from Klook
Photo Credit: Malcolm from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Malcolm: The farmer who ran the farm stay was extremely welcoming and friendly. They ran a farm tour everyday in the afternoon for people staying overnight, and we got around at the back of the farm tractor. Something we don't get to experience in Singapore. Even though it got a bit muddy or scary with the snake and all, I think being open to new experiences made it all the more fun. The little bit of dirt and discomfort made it all the more memorable for the whole family.
The farm stay was made possible with a road trip out of Sydney. Coming from Singapore, I always look for escapes from the major cities, and it's just so easy and scenic to go for a short road trip out of Sydney. Allowed us to travel as a family with ease and at our own pace. We can also then discover new things along the way, such as fun playgrounds by the beach, new cafes, etc. Gave a lot more freedom for family time.
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Malcolm: Coffee is always good in Australia. Fresh fruits and nuts directly from the farms are also great.
Photo Credit: Malcolm from Klook
🐨 Adventures and essentials in Australia 🐨
Delighting in old-world charm with Jacey in Venice, Italy 🛶
Photo Credit: Jacey from Klook
Klooker Jacey from Malaysia’s Marketing Team relives her childhood as she recalls her trip to Venice, Italy – a place she’d always dreamed of going to. The charming alleyways and enchanting Renaissance architecture, among other things, made her adventure one of the most magical of all. While Italy has many dreamy locations like Rome and Milan, Jacey especially had a surreal time in the City of Canals, one that she’ll never forget.
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Jacey: Venice in Italy. It was a place I always dreamt of visiting since I was young. [I was] so fortunate to get the chance to travel there when I was 14 (hijacked my parents' anniversary trip hehe) and it was all little me could ever hope for. Postcard-worthy alleyways and bridges, the salty smell of the ocean, chubby pigeons, cheerful music spilling out of dimly lit restaurants. The built-up anticipation to visit was so huge that 14-year-old me actually cried when my plane landed in Italy; it felt SURREAL.
I watched a video of Venice on a travel documentary on TV, back when I was really young, and immediately fell in love with the island city. It instantly became the first overseas destination I ever [dreamed of] visiting.
Photo Credit: Jacey from Klook
Photo Credit: Jacey from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Jacey: The locals were really sweet to me (perhaps because I was pretty young as well back then), and I felt really welcome there because they were very accommodating despite the language barrier at times. In terms of culture, I always found it cool how this island city was built on water, and how their architecture accommodates all the canals that run through it. The way they lived here felt different from the rest of Italy.
Klook Tip: Wait until Venice to get your opera masks! If you plan on getting one, Jacey shares why it's best to get one in Venice.
Photo Credit: Jacey from Klook
Jacey [continued]: There'll be many roadside stores in Rome, Florence, and Milan that will sell Italian opera masks, but if you plan to get one, don't get one until you get to Venice. I saved up my school allowance that whole year just to get myself an authentic handmade Venetian opera mask in a quaint little store I found and it truly is such a fun experience just trying on all the masks that come in all sorts of shapes and colors until you find 'the one'. Mine is framed up now in my room and I love looking at it once in a while. Aside from that, just allow yourself to get lost. There are countless number of turns and twists and tiny alleyways and canals you'll stumble upon. Don't come with a plan - I think that’s the best way to explore Venice.
Photo Credit: Jacey from Klook
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Jacey: Squid ink spaghetti! That was the first time I ever heard and seen of such a dish in my life. They made it sound like such a rarity back then in 2012, and I know you can find it pretty much anywhere now, but I have never tasted one as good as the one I tried back in Venice.
Away from the crowds with Apple in New York, USA🗽
Photo Credit: Apple from Klook
Klooker Apple from Global Content has a soft spot for New York City, specifically in the heart of the Big Apple 😉… Manhattan 🍎✨ While most know the borough for its bright lights, skyscrapers, and its famous financial district, Apple retreats to Upper Manhattan – away from the crowds of iconic places like Times Square and Wall Street, to have her little moments of joy.
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Apple: There's a small neighborhood there [in Upper Manhattan] that has given me comfort throughout my college life all the way up to my adulthood. My godmother lives there, so we'd frequently go on walks to discover new cafes, flea markets, and enjoy the nearby park and its view of the Hudson River.
Photo Credit: Apple from Klook
Photo Credit: Apple from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Apple: I always feel at ease there because the vibe’s really chill as compared to the livelier parts of the city. There are also many locals that take their dogs out for walks, definitely a pet-loving place with wide sidewalks, huge parks, and pet-friendly establishments!
There's a spot in the park overlooking the river. I'd always make it a point to have my favorite coffee and croissants there when I'm in the city, it's one of my simple joys in life that grounds me.
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Apple: croissants and cinnamon maple latte from the nearby cafe!
Photo Credit: Apple from Klook
Photo Credit: Apple from Klook
Appreciating the little things with Yongsoo in Barcelona, Spain 💃🏻
Photo Credit: Yongsoo from Klook
Klooker Yongsoo from South Korea’s Business Development Team traveled to Barcelona with the least amount of expectations, yet ended up instantly falling in love with the city. Apart from Barcelona’s world-famous spots like Park Güell, Basilica Sagrada Familia, and La Rambla, it was also the laidback lifestyle, friendly people, and endless restaurant options that made this trip an unforgettable one.
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Yongsoo: Spain, Barcelona. I went to Barcelona without any expectations but fell in love with the city once I landed at the airport. Beautiful city with nature and a diversity of people.
Photo Credit: Yongsoo from Klook
Photo Credit: Yongsoo from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Yongsoo: I like the refreshing weather, delicious food, reasonable prices at the restaurants and bars, and most of all, [the] more relaxed lifestyle of people enjoying every moment and spending time with family compared to Korea.
During my first trip to Barcelona in the winter of 2011, two female professional photographers on the street kindly but randomly offered to take my profile picture for free. After the photoshoot, we developed a friendship and I was even invited to join them for dinner. Since then, we still stay in touch and maintain a good friendship.
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Yongsoo: I enjoyed having fried calamari and caprese salad with burrata cheese as a snack when I needed energy. A glass of wine was also a great way to refresh myself within a reasonable budget.
Photo Credit: Yongsoo from Klook
Photo Credit: Yongsoo from Klook
Cruising through Southeast Asia with Jessica 🛳
Photo Credit: Jessica from Klook
Klooker Jessica from Global Content shared how her Southeast Asian cruise is one of her most favorite trips yet! 😍 Her cruise docked at exciting destinations like Thailand and Malaysia, but time spent on the ship was the highlight for her. Aside from the ship’s many activities and facilities, Jessica’s most precious memories from this trip are the different cultures she encountered and the drool-worthy eats she was lucky enough to try. 🤤
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Jessica: The Royal Caribbean (Spectrum of the Seas) - time spent on the ship was really fun! There were so many activities for me and my family to do and explore. We ate a lot, did a little bit of shopping on board, and did all sorts of activities like ping pong, bump cars, Easter bunny card making, and even played charades with other people! It’s a bit crazy to think that you could have everything you need all in one ship. We felt so far away from everything and it really was just like we had our own world onboard.
Actually, the idea of going on a cruise was a recommendation from my dad's friend. They enjoyed it so much that my dad thought our family should experience it too.
Photo Credit: Jessica from Klook
Photo Credit: Jessica from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Jessica: People onboard came from different countries actually. It was a pretty diverse set of people (I mean the crew themselves were all from different nations). It was so much fun learning about everyone's countries there, especially the part where we get to try different local cuisines.
Also, the ship docked twice - in Malaysia and later on in Thailand. It's such a unique experience to be in a moving hotel (basically), and get to explore two more countries during the entire cruise. We mostly did city tours for both countries. We had so much fun cafe hopping, street art hopping, temple hopping, and of course, shopping.
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Jessica: My most favorite snack would be a dessert I had in Malaysia called Cendol. It's super cold and sweet - perfect snack to beat the heat in Malaysia.
Photo Credit: Jessica from Klook
Taking a break from everyday life with Mook in Koh Lanta, Thailand ☀️
Photo Credit: Mook from Klook
Klooker Mook from Thailand’s Business Development Team recalls her favorite trip to Koh Lanta. 🏝 She shared how sunsets in Koh Lanta are not to be missed and how the island has become her go-to place since her best friend was born and raised there. Mook makes sure to visit the island each chance she gets since it is her escape from the busy city, and it also houses the freshest coconuts you can get for cheap. 🛵
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Mook: Koh Lanta is the first thing that pops into my head. The sunset there is absolutely beautiful! Picture a long beach where you can see the horizon and the edge of the sea. It's super peaceful and perfect for just taking a break from all the craziness of the world.
My best friend was born and raised there, so I go to see her every summer or Christmas too and stay there for a week. Even though it's not easy to get there, I never get bored of going. If my friend didn't live there, I don't think I would have ever thought to travel there. Lucky me, I met my friend and found this place.
Photo Credit: Mook from Klook
Photo Credit: Mook from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Mook: Lanta people are very nice and kind. The food is very cheap there. And what I love the most is I can have a fresh coconut every day for only THB20 so I have a lot of them all day and all night. All restaurant owners and staff will treat you like a family member I’d say. As most of the locals are Muslim, there’s no variety or pork dish there but it’s not a big deal because there is still local food (Southern dish) and tropical fruit to try.
An unforgettable experience was when we went to the National Park, which was far from our resort. We forgot to fill up the gas tank and the road was hilly, so the motorbike used up more fuel than we expected and we didn't stop by the gas station to fill up. On our way back, we drove uphill and the motorbike turned off. We had to push it up, start the bike again and we made it to the gas station, which was a heart-pounding experience. After that, we always made sure to have a full tank of gas before going on any rides.
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Mook: Roti with banana is a must-try. I always have Roti after dinner, so it's become a bit of a tradition or something. Personally, Thai tea, AKA: Cha Chuck is a must-try. It has such an intense taste and aroma! And when it comes to southern tea, I'm not sure why, but it always seems to taste better somewhere else haha.
Photo Credit: Mook from Klook
☀️ Thailand must-tries and essentials ☀️
Getting lost with Louise in Tokyo, Japan 🍣
Photo Credit: Louise from Klook
While Japan is very much known for their highly sophisticated train system, Klooker Louise from Philippine’s Marketing Team fondly recalls the many times she got lost heading to Shinjuku, actually living through the Shinjuku Station meme 🤣 yet despite this, the Tokyo ward still reigns supreme as her favorite destination. 🧡
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Louise: Tokyo holds a special place in my heart! [I’m] a big fan of Japanese culture, food, and anime. With just these 3 interests, there are so many activities and destinations to visit within Tokyo for a good time! My ultimate fave spot in Tokyo is Shinjuku.
We had to travel to Shinjuku for many items on our itinerary. We visited Mocha Cat Cafe, Gyukatsu, Ichiran, and other spots all found in that city!
Photo Credit: Louise from Klook
Photo Credit: Louise from Klook
Photo Credit: Louise from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Louise: Generally, Japanese people keep to themselves and they mind their own business. Although when approached, they’re super helpful with tourists. I appreciate this coming from a bustling and generally loud country! 🤣
Not really a unique experience, but a funny one, all people say that Shinjuku train station is pure chaos. [I] got lost in 3 different train rides going to Shinjuku, yet it's still my favorite spot to this day.
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Louise: Adding black vinegar in Ichiran ramen. It 👏🏼Makes 👏🏼 A 👏🏼Huge 👏🏼Difference. 🍜
Photo Credit: Louise from Klook
🍣 Japan Essentials🍣
🚅Trains & Airport Transfers
📌Mobile Data & Metro Passes
Take the hidden paths with Emily in New Zealand 🧙🏻♂️
Photo Credit: Emily from Klook
Photo Credit: Emily from Klook
Lord of the Rings fans know that there’s more magic to experience apart from the books and the big screen, so as a fan herself, Klooker Emily from Japan’s Marketing team made it a point to witness this magic by traveling to Lord of the Rings’ real-world locations in breathtaking New Zealand ⛰️
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Emily: Matamata & Rotorua, New Zealand.
Matamata is where Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed, so as a fan, it was always a place I wanted to visit. Rotorua is a town close to Matamata and was recommended to me as a beautiful area with hot springs, [it’s also where] they have the Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village and understanding the Maori heritage was also amazing.
Photo Credit: Emily from Klook
Photo Credit: Emily from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Emily: I stayed at an AirBnB with a lovely couple who recommended local areas to visit like quiet lakes, forests, etc. [You should check out places like] Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village, Redwoods Treewalk & Nightlights, and the Polynesian Spa in Rotorua.
Photo Credit: Emily from Klook
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Emily: I tried corn on the cob cooked in a traditional Maori oven at Whakarewarewa. That was delicious. It was sort of steamed using the hot springs and tasted richer than just boiling it or putting it in a normal oven.
Photo Credit: Emily from Klook
Photo Credit: Emily from Klook
🔥 Australia & New Zealand Essentials
🦘 Popular Attractions in Australia & New Zealand
✨ More Activities in Australia & New Zealand to explore
Go on a thrilling hike with Jie Ying up Mount Fuji in Japan 🗻
Photo Credit: Jie Ying from Klook
Seeing Mount Fuji is one thing, but climbing the mountain is a whole different story! Klooker Jie Ying from Singapore’s marketing team takes us on her solo trip to Japan, an experience that left her with good memories that will last a lifetime. 🥰 She shared that going on a solo trip to Japan and hiking Mount Fuji were both on her bucket list, and she can now happily cross them off! Jie Ying especially loved how she wasn’t exactly hiking Mount Fuji alone (even though she went alone) because there were other hikers present too, like kids and even elderly people. ☁️
Can you tell us about one of the favorite places you’ve traveled to, how you discovered it, and why it’s special to you?
Jie Ying: Solo travel never fails to spice up my life with surprises and summiting a mountain is always a memorable endeavor. I love Japan and nature, especially mountains. Since this was my third time to Japan, I thought, why not do both - solo Japan trip and a Mount Fuji hike, so there I go! Ticking off an item from my bucket list and coming back with memories that would last a lifetime :).
I can’t recall when I knew about Mount Fuji, likely way back when I was a kid as it’s such an icon of Japan. There’s perhaps no other landmark as synonymous with Japan as the majestic Mount Fuji. But no doubt, seeing it appearing so often in the background of countless travel photos and videos on social media further sparked my interest to visit the area and climb Mount Fuji one day.
Photo Credit: Jie Ying from Klook
Photo Credit: Jie Ying from Klook
What was the culture like and did you have any unique experiences or adventures while there?
Jie Ying: As it was my first time hiking solo on a mountain without friends or tour/guide, I was a little concerned at first if I’d lose motivation halfway through when things get tough. But wow, when you hear them say kids can climb Mount Fuji, it’s for REAL. I was so stoked to see kids and older folks climbing along, it makes me feel like if they can do it, I can do it too! (P.S. except they were actually faster than me LOL).
I love the Mount Fuji walking stick souvenir idea, where you can buy a walking stick (short or full length) from the Subaru 5th station for JPY 800-1500 and collect souvenir stamps along your hike up to the summit. Every stamp collected is like a small win that reminds me of how far I’ve come and it encourages me to keep going. Besides that, I secretly enjoy window shopping the drinks, snacks, and cup noodles displayed outside the mountain huts, spotting the inflation as the altitude increases. Fun fact: Did you know that cup noodles at 3000m cost JPY 500 while it costs JPY 1000 at the summit?
Another ‘interesting phenomenon’ exclusive to Mount Fuji is the crazy human jam from 3400m onwards during the summit night climb. It was so crowded that people were basically hiking back to back up the summit. It didn’t really bother me as I felt like I was queueing for some exciting event (the sunrise) that’s going to be worth it. But if you absolutely hate crowds, I would suggest going on a weekday and avoiding the school holiday period.
Photo Credit: Jie Ying from Klook
Photo Credit: Jie Ying from Klook
Could you share with us a favorite meal or snack that you had during your visit?
Jie Ying: My favorite meal definitely goes to the hot and hearty dinner prepared by my mountain lodge. Didn’t expect much to be honest since it was a simple hut, but wow, the dashi soup and that beef burger blew my mind! Just what I needed after a long and tiring hike, truly blessed. Will I come across such authentic dashi soup in Singapore? I hope so, but I don’t know, at least I enjoyed it while it lasted :)
Photo Credit: Jie Ying from Klook
If you’re still unsure about booking your next trip, then this is ✨your sign✨ to do so! You deserve to see the world, experience different cultures, taste authentic local dishes, and be able to tell your travel story too. Whether it’s in Asia, Europe, the US, or on a cruise, your next adventure awaits! Happy and safe travels! 🥳
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Written by: Jessica and Apple with the help of Malcolm, Jacey, Yongsoo, Mook, Louise, Emily, and Jie Ying 🧡
