After nearly five years of closure, I’m thrilled to announce that tours to North Korea are finally resuming in February 2025. This marks a huge step forward for both travelers and the country itself as it begins to reopen to the world. The first research trip will head into the Rason Special Economic Zone on…
When you think of the world’s best-selling beer, the usual suspects like Budweiser or Heineken come to mind. But here’s a twist: the world’s best-selling beer is actually Snow Beer, a Chinese lager that most people outside of China have never heard of. While it might not have the global recognition of other beer brands,…
With the announcement yesterday that Rason would be the first place in North Korea to reopen to tourism, this has brought up a very valid question: WTF is Rason, and should you visit the place? As the foreigner who has probably been there more than anyone else, I felt it prudent not only to answer…
With news that Rason will be the first place in North Korea to open to tourism, I am reminded of one of the most epic trips I have ever taken: traversing the borderlands of North Korea—a journey I undertook many times. In many ways, this was almost the perfect road trip. We exited North Korea…
Soju vs Sake you say? When it comes to Asian alcoholic drinks, two heavyweights dominate the scene: Soju and Sake. Whether you’re in a bustling Korean BBQ joint or a cozy Japanese izakaya, these drinks are central to the dining experience and bring their own unique flair to the table. But which one reigns supreme?…
When it comes to Korea, most people know there’s a divide—a political and cultural one. But did you know that the divide extends to the food as well? North Korean and South Korean cuisine may share a common heritage, but they’ve diverged in fascinating ways over the past few decades. If you’re a foodie looking…
