StoriesMy first morning in Kyoto
I set my alarm for 5 a.m. and walked to the temples before the crowds. It was the best decision of the trip.
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A travel blog by Mara Ellison
Slow travel, honest stories.
Itineraries that leave room to breathe, food worth crossing a city for, and the tips I wish I’d known before I went.
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Stories
ItinerariesVietnam north to south in 3 weeks
Mountains, lantern towns, beaches and the delta — how I split the time.
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ItinerariesTwo weeks in Japan by train
A slow, rail-first route through big cities, mountain towns and a few quiet islands.
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Where to next?
AsiaJapanTemples, trains and quiet mornings4 stories
AsiaVietnamLimestone bays and street-side noodles3 stories
EuropeItalyHill towns, cypress roads and long lunches3 stories
EuropePortugalTiled facades and Atlantic light3 stories
EuropeIcelandGlaciers, waterfalls and northern lights3 stories
EuropeGreeceWhitewashed villages and blue water3 storiesGallery
Postcards from everywhere
Travel tips
Tips for every kind of traveler
Hello
I’m Mara. I travel slowly and write honestly.
Twelve years, thirty-four countries and one rule: give every place more time than you think it needs.
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