When you hear “digital nomad,” what comes to mind? For many, the quintessential digital nomad looks like a tan individual of European descent lounging on the beach in some tropical country. They work on their laptop for only a few hours a day and then spend the rest of their time surfing or exploring their local surroundings.
While the digital nomad movement has gained popularity in recent years (especially with the rise of remote work and the Covid pandemic), it’s also garnered a fair share of scrutiny. For those who are considering picking up and leaving, it’s important to understand the entire conversation and its implications towards neocolonialsm.
So, here are some common criticisms against the digital nomad movement.
1. Exploitation of local economies
The biggest criticism for the digital nomad community is the potential exploitation of local economies. The influx of digital nomads (especially in developing countries) can drive up prices for housing and essential services, making them less affordable for local residents. This can contribute to gentrification and inequality on a global scale.
2. Unfair competition and job displacement
Another criticism for digital nomadism is its impact on the local job market. If there are no employment laws in place to protect local labor, the job market may skew towards digital nomads. This will contribute to economic disparity and in the long run, limit growth opportunities for the local community.
3. Superficial representation of cultures and cultural appropriation
Critics suggest that some digital nomads may engage with local cultures superficially, seeking only Instagrammable experiences without truly understanding or appreciating the complexities and nuances of the places they visit. Additionally, digital nomads may intentionally or unintentionally engage in cultural appropriation by adopting or exploiting elements of local culture for their own benefit or profit. This can undermine the cultural integrity and authenticity of local communities, reducing their traditions to mere commodities for consumption.
4. Extractive of environmental and social resources
Whether it’s regarding natural environmental resources or social welfare resources, digital nomads may potentially only take from the places where they temporarily reside.
The constant travel associated with digital nomadism can have a significant carbon footprint, contributing to environmental degradation. Frequent flights and increased consumption of resources can undermine sustainability efforts and exacerbate climate change. Furthermore, because digital nomads usually only stay in an area for a short period of time, they do not contribute to local social security and welfare systems in place. There is some criticism against digital nomads for taking advantage of this and accessing these resources without actively giving back.
As global travelers, it’s important to consider and address these valid criticisms. Be mindful of your impact on local communities and always choose to engage ethically through supporting local businesses and doing your best to be as environmentally conscious as possible on your digital nomad journey.
One of the biggest criticisms for sustainable fashion brands is their lack of inclusivity. Whether that’s regarding designs, sizes, or representative models, sustainable fashion brands have traditionally only catered to white, straight-sized women.
What’s exciting though, is that as conscious fashion grows in popularity and demand, we’re starting to see more inclusive brands. So here are 8 sustainable fashion brands that cater sizes for plus sized individuals.
1. A.BCH
A.BCH is an Australian circular fashion label. They focus on transparent supply chains and use organic and recycled materials to create garments with extended sizing up to 4XL. Their circular design model strives to design out waste, keep materials and products in use, and support the regeneration of natural systems.
2. Hackwith Design House
Hackwith Design House is a US-based design house that creates long-lasting, versatile fashion for all bodies. They offer sizes up to 4XL and produce their garments locally with a small group of in-house sewers.
3. Sotela
Sotela is a sustainable clothing brand based out of the US that offers inclusive sizing (0-30 in traditional sizing). Their pieces are timeless and fun and utilize a high proportion of low-impact materials. As part of their vision to create a more inclusive sustainable fashion space, they also started offering custom sizing in 2020.
4.Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective is one of the most popular sustainable activewear brands that offer extended sizes. They were probably the first in the fitness space to offer fun and stylish garments made with recycled materials to plus sized individuals.
5. Loudbodies
Loudbodies is a Romania-based, size-inclusive womenswear brand offering garments from 2XS – 10XL. They use eco-friendly materials to create contemporary pieces of all styles and strive to do good by the environment and their team.
6. Mayamiko
Mayamiko offers contemporary clothing, accessories, jewelry and homeware designed using organic and traditional textiles from Africa, Asia and Italy. They’re based in the UK and ship worldwide. The business is affiliated with the Mayamiko Trust, a charity that supports disadvantaged women in Malawi.
7. The Standard Stitch
The Standard Stitch is an LA-based company that makes size inclusive, sustainably-sourced apparel for women. They primarily design casual tees, tops, and loungewear with sizes that range up to 5x and use organic materials with low-impact, non-toxic dyes.
8. Warp + Weft
Warp + Weft is a family-owned brand that designs sustainable denim for all sizes. Their vertically-integrated factory process generates less wastewater than conventional processes and allows them to eliminate unnecessary price markups. Their jeans are made in sizes ranging from 00-24 with various cuts and colors.
Sustainability needs to be intersectional and if we don’t address the discrepancies in access, then it’s an incomplete discussion. While these eight brands provide a starting point for larger individuals hoping to shop more consciously, the hope is that on a larger scale, more and more sustainable fashion companies will include a larger range of sizes in the future.
As conscious consumers, it can be a lot of work to do your own independent research into individual brands. With the rise of greenwashing, it’s getting harder and harder to tell if a brand genuinely cares about environmental wellbeing or if they’re simply using fancy marketing tactics.
That’s where sustainable fashion certifications come to play. Certifications like GOTS Certified, STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX, and Fairtrade (just to name a few) make it easy to scan a brand’s website and tell if they at least are somewhat legit. Sustainable fashion certifications guarantee that specific production standards are met and can be a quick way to eliminate greenwashing brands off the bat.
However, while sustainable fashion certifications play a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability within the industry, they do still have limitations. As someone who is interested in slow fashion, having an understanding of these can give you a more holistic view of how different agencies play into the sustainable fashion conversation.
Here are five limitations and criticisms of sustainable fashion certifications:
1. Focus on Single Issues
We know that sustainability is an intersectional issue. It touches upon not just the environment, but should also address worker’s rights, racism, and other forms of inequity. Many certifications focus on specific aspects of sustainability, such as organic materials or fair trade practices, rather than considering the broader environmental and social impacts of the entire supply chain. This narrow focus may provide an insufficient view on the larger impact.
2. Certification Costs
Obtaining and maintaining certifications can be costly for brands, especially for small and emerging businesses. The expenses associated with certification processes, audits, and ongoing monitoring may pose financial barriers for those just starting out. This means that by nature, a larger percentage of companies that are certified in sustainability are going to be big and established companies.
3. Limited Scope, Verification, and Enforcement
While certifications do a great job monitoring one specific area of production, they infrequently look at the entire production process from start to finish. The scope that a sustainability certification addresses is limited and therefore may potentially provide an incomplete picture. Furthermore, certifying agencies also lack the comprehensive verification and enforcement mechanisms needed to ensure that businesses are actually doing what they say they’re doing. This point raises some concern about the accuracy and reliability of the sustainability claims made by certified brands.
4. Limited Coverage & Lack Of Standardization
Some certifications are only available in specific regions and industries which can be a limitation for businesses outside of those areas. Additionally, there is a lack of standardization in what qualifies for certification. Because each agency sets its own criteria and standards, it can be hard for consumers to navigate. A solution for both of these issues would be to increase collaboration between different certifying bodies.
5. Certification Fatigue
There are so many sustainability certifications…from so many different agencies…
This can lead to certification fatigue for both brands and consumers. Brands may find it challenging to navigate and choose the most appropriate certification for their specific sustainability goals. Meanwhile, consumers may become overwhelmed by the sheer number of certifications, causing skepticism or confusion.
Sustainability certifications certainly have an important role in the slow fashion conversation but much like any tool, there are pros and cons. I’ve outlined five potential criticisms for certifications but that doesn’t negate the good that can come from these standardizing processes. I hope that this article was helpful in painting a more comprehensive picture of the sustainable fashion conversation!
A huge part of building a more sustainable closet is prolonging the lifespan of the items that you own. Shoes, however, can be tricky because they’re worn on a part of the body that moves a lot and is in constant contact with the ground.
But as everyday people who care about the environment, we can still do our best to take care of them. So here are four steps that you can take to make your shoes last longer for a more environmentally-conscious closet.
1. Buy The Right Size
The first step in getting your shoes to last longer is ensuring that they actually fit. Ill-fitting shoes can not only cause biomechanical issues like changes in gait and movement that can impact your physical wellbeing, but will actually wear down faster as well.
Shoes with roomy toe boxes will crease more than they need to. Additionally, shoes that are too heavy or big might cause you to drag your heels and lead to accelerated degeneration. To start your sustainable shoe journey off on the right track, always buy shoes that fit properly.
2. Clean Them Often And Properly
I’m sure we’ve all done this before, but ideally, you would never use a washing machine to clean your shoes. While it may be the easiest, most low-effort way to clean your shoes, throwing them in a washing machine can expose them to unnecessary mechanical stress and deform their shape. Instead, scrub your shoes by hand and try to do so as soon as they get dirty.
Removing dirt and grime from your shoes on a regular basis will keep them flexible and prevent any bacterial or mold growth. This will keep them in tip-top shape for longer. Also, please, please, please wear fresh socks every time.
3. Store Shoes Properly
While shoe storage can be a complicated process depending on the type of shoe we’re talking about, here are some general points to keep in mind…
Always let regularly worn shoes air out after wear. Make sure that you keep them in an open storage area to allow the damp fabric or leather to breathe. Alternating between pairs of shoes will also give them additional time to dry out.
For special occasion shoes, keep them stored in their original boxes (if you can) and out of prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Stuff them with newspaper or use a shoehorn to prevent lingering odors and help maintain the shape.
4. Get Them Repaired
As your shoes begin to wear out, you can extend their lifespan by repairing them in bits and pieces.
The first thing to wear out on a quality shoe is the sole. Depending on the type of shoe, you can purchase new ones that match the original model and get them swapped out.
After the outsole, the insoles are the quickest part to wear out. They’re compressed with every step and often hold on to damp and odor. Routinely swapping between different insoles will lengthen wear time and refresh your shoe. Furthermore, a simple cosmetic swap like replacing your old shoelaces can give your old shoe a new look and inspire more rotation time.
Sustainable shoes are a nuanced conversation. Whether or not shoes made with recycled materials are actually better than conventionally made shoes depends on how sourcing and production are carried out. But one thing that we can all do to make the globe a little cleaner is to wear our shoes for longer. By taking these simple steps to care for your shoes, you can keep them in your closet and out of the landfill for a little while longer.
VisaGuide recently released their 2023 passport index and the United States comes in at 40th with access to 138 countries visa-free. Visa-free slow travel is a great way to get familiar with a country before potentially committing to longer-term stay. It allows you to experience different cultures and ways of living and can be a great asset to a location-independent lifestyle. If you’re looking to slow travel and experience a country over the course of several months, here are 15 countries that you can stay visa-free in for 6 months – 1 year as a US passport holder.
6+ Months Abroad Visa-Free For US Passport Holders
Albania: 1 Year Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Located in Southern Europe right above Greece on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas within the Mediterranean
Known for medieval-era castles, beaches and Ottoman architecture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $50-$100/day
Georgia: 1 Year Visa-Free, Level 1 Travel Advisory
Located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia at the eastern end of the Black Sea
Know for wine, great year-round weather, and stunning scenery
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $40-$80/day
Bahamas: 8 Months Days Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Located in the West Indies
Known for white sand beaches, barrier reef, water activities, resorts, distinctive national culture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $100-$200/day
Antigua and Barbuda: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 1 Travel Advisory
Located in the West Indies
Know for beautiful white sand beaches, creole culture, and all-inclusive resort stays
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $90-$200/day
Armenia: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Located in the mountainous Caucasus region between Asia and Europe
Known for beautiful mountainous landscapes, wine, and some of the oldest churches and monasteries (it was the first country to officially adopt Christianity)
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $40-$70/day
Canada: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 1 Travel Advisory
Located in North America above the United States
Known for stunning landscapes, maple syrups, polite locals, diverse provinces
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $80-$150/day
Known for natural hot springs, tropical rainforests, and lively, rich culture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $50-$130/day
Mexico: 180 Days Visa-Free, Varies from Levels 1-4 Depending on State
Located in the Southern portion of North America below the United States
Known for rich culture, ancient ruins, dazzling beaches, and incredible cuisine
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $40-$100/day
Montserrat: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 1 Travel Advisory
A British Overseas territory located in the Caribbeans
Known for lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, volcanic terrain
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $60-$120/day
Panama: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Located on the narrow bridge of land that connects Central and South America
Known for the Panama canal, specialty coffee, traditional textiles, surfing, and lush landscapes
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $50-$110/day
Peru: 183 Days Visa-Free, Level 3 Travel Advisory
Located in western South America
Known for Machu Picchu, The Inca civilization, the Amazon jungle, rich local culture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $30-$70/day
United Kingdom: 6 Months Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, is an island nation in northwestern Europe
Known for history of the British Empire, tea, architecture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $30-$70/day
Albania: 1 Year Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Located in Southern Europe right above Greece on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas within the Mediterranean
Known for medieval-era castles, beaches and Ottoman architecture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $50-$100/day
Located in Southern Europe right above Greece on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas within the Mediterranean
Known for medieval-era castles, beaches and Ottoman architecture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $50-$100/day
Georgia: 1 Year Visa-Free, Level 1 Travel Advisory
Located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia at the eastern end of the Black Sea
Know for wine, great year-round weather, and stunning scenery
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $40-$80/day
Located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia at the eastern end of the Black Sea
Know for wine, great year-round weather, and stunning scenery
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $40-$80/day
Bahamas: 8 Months Days Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Located in the West Indies
Known for white sand beaches, barrier reef, water activities, resorts, distinctive national culture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $100-$200/day
Located in the West Indies
Known for white sand beaches, barrier reef, water activities, resorts, distinctive national culture
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $100-$200/day
Antigua and Barbuda: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 1 Travel Advisory
Located in the West Indies
Know for beautiful white sand beaches, creole culture, and all-inclusive resort stays
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $90-$200/day
Located in the West Indies
Know for beautiful white sand beaches, creole culture, and all-inclusive resort stays
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $90-$200/day
Armenia: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 2 Travel Advisory
Located in the mountainous Caucasus region between Asia and Europe
Known for beautiful mountainous landscapes, wine, and some of the oldest churches and monasteries (it was the first country to officially adopt Christianity)
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $40-$70/day
Located in the mountainous Caucasus region between Asia and Europe
Known for beautiful mountainous landscapes, wine, and some of the oldest churches and monasteries (it was the first country to officially adopt Christianity)
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $40-$70/day
Canada: 180 Days Visa-Free, Level 1 Travel Advisory
Located in North America above the United States
Known for stunning landscapes, maple syrups, polite locals, diverse provinces
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $80-$150/day
Located in North America above the United States
Known for stunning landscapes, maple syrups, polite locals, diverse provinces
Average cost (no flights or accommodation): $80-$150/day
If you’re in Taiwan and want to explore some of the outlying islands, Lanyu is one of the best options! Lanyu, or Orchid Island is the easternmost island of Taiwan and truly one of the most stunning places I’ve ever been to.
Lanyu is home to the Tao people, an indigenous Taiwanese group. They are maritime people with a culture rooted in fishing (and agriculture). One of their most well-known practices is the Flying Fish Festival; this annual celebration gives thanks to the abundant schools of flying fish that pass through during the spring and summer seasons. Additionally, they’re known for their decorative canoes and underground homes. As visitors of this island, it’s important to respect their space and culture.
Other than the Tao people, Lanyu is known for its lush mountains, deep blue seas, and unique wildlife. Because this island is so remote, it’s the perfect escape from society and a wonderful way to rest and restore through nature. This guide will cover all the must-see spots on Lanyu Taiwan (Orchid Island).
Best Time To Visit Lanyu, Taiwan (Orchid Island, Taiwan)
Lanyu is fine to visit anytime between April and November. I personally prefer late spring or early autumn because the weather is still nice but it’s a lot quieter with fewer tourists.
Flying Fish Season runs from March – June so it’s an exciting time to potentially learn more about indigenous Tao practices. Summer is obviously the most popular time for international tourists and locals alike, but with typhoon season hitting from August and September, it’s a relatively short season.
From November through early spring, Lanyu is pretty quiet with most businesses going on hiatus. Lanyu’s temperature during winter is quite moderate but because it’s the easternmost island, it does get hit with strong winds. Make sure to double check on flight and ferry statuses if you plan on traveling during this time.
How To Get To Lanyu, Taiwan (Orchid Island, Taiwan)
Lanyu (Orchid Island) is approximately 56 miles (89.9 kilometers) from Taitung in eastern Taiwan and there are essentially two ways to get there: ferry or airplane.
The most common way is by ferry. You can either take the boat from Taitung’s Fugang (Fukang) Harbor or Kenting’s Houbihu Harbor (though this might not run during the off season).
Taking the ferry from Taitung’s Fugang (Fukang) Harbor
If you’re starting your journey in Taipei, you can either fly directly or take the train (TRA) down to Taitung. If you’re starting on the west coast, the fastest way to Taitung would be to take the high speed rail (HSR) to Kaohsiung and then to take the normal train (TRA) over to Taitung.
Once you get to Taitung, you’ll need to get to Fugang (Fukang) Harbor. It’s about a 15-20 minute taxi-ride from the train station. You can also take a local bus but coordinating the schedules there might be a little more complicated.
My favorite way to purchase ferry tickets is to pre-book them via kkday.com or klook.com. Make sure to check the ferry schedule the day-of to ensure that they’re not canceled due to rough currents. A round-trip ticket costs approximately $2300 NT and the ride takes 2-2.5 hours. This trip is notorious for its rough waves so if you tend to get seasick, make sure to take a motion sickness pill beforehand.
Taking the ferry from Kenting’s Houbihu Harbor
If you’re already hanging out in the south of Taiwan, another alternative is to take the ferry from Kenting.
To get to Kenting, take the HSR to Zuoying and then take a bus or shared taxi to Kenting. From there, Houbihu Harbor is a 20-minute drive from the main street. Ferries from Houbihu Harbor to Lanyu run during the summer and typically cost $2300 NT. The boat ride also takes 2-2.5 hours. Again, you can book your tickets beforehand and make sure to check the schedules to ensure that boats are running.
Taking the plane to Lanyu (Orchid Island, Taiwan)
For those that get seasick, you might want to consider flying.
The one airline that flies to Lanyu is called DailyAir. They leave from Taitung and offer 8 flights per day during the summer and 6 flights per day in the winter. Each plane only has 19 seats so booking a seat can get quite competitive! Flights go on sale exactly two months before departure so do your best to buy your ticket as early as you can.
Tickets run for about $3000 each way and the flight takes approximately one hour (including boarding time). The plane is quite small and the turbulence can be atrocious but if you’re really uncomfortable with traveling by ferry, know that there’s an alternative!
How To Get Around Lanyu, Taiwan (Orchid Island, Taiwan)
The best way to get around Lanyu is by scooter. This is by far one of the most challenging parts of the entire trip. Unlike Green Island, there are no electric scooters on this island and most rental shops will only rent you one if you have a scooter license (local or international). You could try with an international driver’s license but policies are pretty strict nowadays.
I’d recommend asking your Airbnb or hostel to coordinate for you. They usually have better connections and know the ins and outs of the island. You can also consider booking one via a third-party website like Klook or KKday or if a scooter rental really isn’t possible, you could always rent a car. I usually don’t recommend this route as the roads on the island are quite small and parking can get a little frustrating but it’s still better than nothing.
Heads up that there’s only one gas station on the island and it closes at 9pm so make sure to check your tank before the evening!
Once you’ve figured out your transportation situation, drop your bags off at your residence and then take some time to explore the island and get oriented! I’ve listed the destinations in a clockwise order from Kaiyuan Fishing just to make things easier.
Attractions on Lanyu, Taiwan (Orchid Island, Taiwan)
Tank Rock 坦克岩:
If you know anything about Taiwan, they love naming interesting rock formations. Tank rock is a large boulder in the northwest corner of the island that supposedly looks like an army tank. Before you arrive at it, you’ll pass this opening through the rocks that create a stunning frame of the ocean. A lot of people stop to take photos there but because you’d literally have to stand in the middle of the road, please be careful!
Jikarahem is the indigenous name of this series of five sea caves! Two are currently used as churches and are sealed off and the other three are connected and you can walk through. In the olden days, the locals considered these caves to be taboo and women and children were forbidden from being along the caves for too long. They were used for relaxation or for sumo fights between conflicting tribes.
A beautiful and peaceful inlet close to the Iraraley (LangDao) Village. This was one of my favorite places to swim on the island! The waters were calm and refreshing as the rocky coast blocked off most of the waves. I felt safe the entire time and there were always other visitors looking out for each other! Great place to snorkel for beginners. Just watch out for sea snakes and cliff divers.
Traveling down the eastern coast of the island, you’ll come across Ghost’s Cave. It’s a man-made cave on the side of the mountain that connects surrounding villages.
Lover’s Cave is one of the most popular photo destinations on Lanyu! It’s a natural stone arch that opens out to the ocean. It’s a beautiful spot for photos because of the way the volcanic rock naturally frames the ocean.
Another wonderful place to swim! Iranmeylek’s Secret is one of the best places to snorkel on this island. The rocky coast protects from large waves and the area itself is large enough to accommodate multiple groups of people.
Right around the corner from the secret snorkeling spot is Dongqing Bay. This is a nice sandy bay with a lot of traditional Tao canoes. It’s only a few feet from the island’s second 711 and was one of my favorite spots to catch the sunrise.
Ivalino Village has the largest collection of underground homes on the island but because these are people’s homes, it’s important to remain respectful. The best way to visit this area is to book a tour with a local guide or ask your homestay for recommendations.
Natural cold springs on Orchid Island (Lanyu)! On a hot summer day, this is the perfect place to swim. Freshwater mixes with seawater and the volcanic rocks provide a natural barrier from strong currents. Make sure to wear sandals because the volcanic rock can be quite prickly!
Another rocky landmark! This structure along the southern coast of the island vaguely resembles a large and spiky dragon head. Take a peek and see if you can see it!
A harbor near the southern tip of the island. This is where I went for my first freediving experience! It’s a popular spot for swimming and diving all around because the space is technically open water but protected from strong currents.
One of my favorite places on Orchid Island (Lanyu, Taiwan) and the place where I saw one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever seen in my life. This spot hosts fields of long grassy cliffs that look out into the ocean. There is a well-marked stone path and draws groups of young individuals looking to hang out and catch the sunset. Bring a blanket and some snacks and just enjoy your time!
I really wanted to hike this trail but it was closed when I visited. It’s a moderately challenging hike that takes you through the heart of Lanyu and gives you the opportunity to see some wildlife that you can’t find on the main island of Taiwan.
A fun hike if you need a break from all that ocean time. I found it pretty challenging mostly because the trail was largely unmarked and I climbed it in sandals. It can be a little muddy and you will have to scramble over some tree stumps, but if you go with the appropriate shoes, you’ll be fine.
A small museum that introduces the culture of the island! The first floor consists mostly of souvenirs and crafts made by locals and the second floor contains some cultural artifacts. On the weekends, they sometimes have a little outdoor market.
The most populated spot on the island with a good amount of restaurants and bars. Parking can be a little bit of a challenge but it’s a nice spot to stroll around.
Lanyu is small and there aren’t nearly as many specific tourist attractions as Penghu, Lambai Island or Green Island, but that’s what makes it charming. It’s a really great place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Scuba & Snorkeling On Lanyu, Taiwan (Orchid Island, Taiwan)
Lanyu’s got some of the most beautiful seas I’ve ever seen. They’re the easternmost island of Taiwan and strong currents bring in lots of interesting fish that you might not see around other islands. I signed up for both a scuba experience and a freediving experience on the island.
I registered for my scuba experience with Blue Ocean House Dive Resort. The experience was approximately $2500 NT and was quite similar to my experience on Green Island. You fill out a waiver before your dive and then they run you through some common hand signals. You’re paired with an instructor one-on-one the whole time so it’s a super safe and accessible experience. Please note that you should bring a usb for your photos or you can purchase one at the shop afterwards!
I went freediving for the first time by signing up for a freediving experience with Unlock Dive. It was a really casual time. The instructor ran us through the basics of breathing, breath holds, equalization, and recovery breaths. We then scooted to Longmen Harbor, she set up, and another student and I took turns diving into the water. We went slowly at first and she always stayed close by to ensure that we were safe.
Food on Lanyu (Orchid Island, Taiwan)
Flying fish is obviously one of the most famous foods to experience on this island. Taro and sweet potatoes are also grown locally. Below are some of the restaurants I really enjoyed eating at during my stay. Please note that depending on the season that you visit, some of the store hours may vary.
雯雯芋頭冰
I had the flying fish dish and taro ice cream here. Highly recommend it! Everything was super tasty and you’re right on the coast. I actually went back for the taro ice cream twice…it was that good!
This place serves a special flying fish gua bao. It’s limited in quantity so I recommend going right when they open at noon. I stopped by and tried to get it for dinner one time and they were long out. The shop owner said that sometimes they get orders of 10-15 baos and that’s why they run out so quickly.
Super cute and aesthetic cafe right on the ocean. Their coffee machine was broken when I went but I ordered the mango slushy and it was delicious. This cafe has plenty of space but I’d recommend calling and making a reservation if you’re going with a large group of people.
One of the few cafes that actually stay open late! I walked by multiple times in the evening but finally got to try it on my last day on the island. The interior is painted with bright colors and decorated with lush plants. The vibe was really chill and I think they serve cocktails at night!
One of the few cafes with wifi on this island. Do House is situated right by the airport and is pretty far removed from everything else. Watching airplanes take off while doing work was a pleasant experience though!
I think this bar is connected to a dive school but am not completely sure. They had a nice outdoor space and even a small pool overlooking the ocean. Their coffee and snacks were really tasty! No wifi but I spent my time editing photos so it was fine.
Right in the heart of Yeyou! This bar/cafe is popular with visitors and locals alike. I had a delicious rice ball and coffee here while I did some work. They also have a mingling event with cocktails at night!
I stopped by this casual ice shop for a fruit juice in the morning. Lanyu is known for Hala fruit or Lingtou fruit (林投), which is a mildly sweet bright orange fruit and I really wanted to try it out! It was refreshing and a nice way to start off the day.
Nothing super special about this curry place but the staff was really nice! Few restaurants stay open past 6 pm on Lanyu and this was one of the few spots that were still open.
A hip breakfast spot in Dongqing. This space sells flaky dan bings and other classic Taiwanese breakfast items with a stunning view of the sea. They have both outdoor seating and indoor seating and don’t take reservations–so get there early! This is the perfect spot to stop by after watching the sun rise on the bay.
There you have it–an essential guide to Lanyu, Taiwan (Orchid Island, Taiwan). This was truly one of my favorite islands to visit and I definitely plan on going back to get my scuba training there. Please let me know if you check any of these spots out on your trip and share some additional insights with the community in the comments below!
Because of TikTok and viral social media marketing, we’re seeing a rise in microtrends. Whereas in previous decades, fashion trends would cycle in and out over the course of several seasons and even years, we’re now seeing them switch almost overnight. While trends are always fun and exciting, this new shortened cycle is actually incredibly damaging. Microtrends push fashion retailers to create garments (and trash garments) at faster rates than ever–leading to increased waste and production emissions.
While we’re probably not going to see the microtrend cycle stop anytime soon, one way we can mitigate the impact as conscious consumers is to do our best to mindfully navigate them. Instead of getting swept up in the latest releases, take a moment to reflect on whether or not this trend is actually going to serve you. If you want to participate in trends but know that it’s better to do so mindfully, here’s how to decide if a trend is for you.
1. Do you actually like it
Part of the fun of trends is getting to try things that you never thought you’d like to try. It’s an easy way to push the boundaries of what you’re comfortable with and visualize yourself in a different way. However, at the core of it, you have to decide if an aesthetic or trend is one that you actually like. Don’t try a trend just because it’s “trendy.” Take some time to think about whether or not you actually like it, and what specifically you like about it. If it’s not something that you actually like, then skip it.
2. Does it fit your personal style
One of the key tenets to conscious fashion is understanding personal style. Reflect on your wardrobe and take note of the silhouettes and colors that you tend to wear. Does this trend fit with your closet? Does this trend align with how you want to perceive yourself and present yourself? Can you envision wearing the trend at least 30 times even when it’s no longer “trendy”?
3. How old/new is the trend
Because of the nature of microtrends, styles come and go very quickly. Understanding how long a trend has been here for and how likely it is to stay will help you decide whether or not it’s worth incorporating into your wardrobe. As much as we like to think that we only dress for ourselves, it’s psychologically hard to motivate ourselves to wear something that the rest of the world deems “ugly” or “out.”
4. Can you thrift it?
While this isn’t really a prompt to help you decide if a trend is for you or not, it is a tip that helps decrease the waste and negative environmental impact of trying trends out. As we said earlier, trends are cyclical. A lot of what’s popular now is just a reimagined version of what was popular twenty years ago. Can you find this item in a thrift store or can you upcycle something that you found to make it a version of this trend that aligns with your personal style?
One of the best things about fashion is self expression: it gives us a creative and exciting way to engage with the larger society around us. However, as conscious consumers, it’s part of our responsibility to take a step back and recognize what these larger industries are pushing on us and how much of it we want to incorporate into our own lives. So if you’re wanting to try trends out, that’s entirely okay! Have fun with it. Just use these points beforehand to decide if they’re actually worth trying.
The first time you decide to travel abroad alone is a big deal. Not only is there a lot to logistically coordinate, but on an emotional front, leaving the comfort of home for a completely unknown experience can be quite overwhelming.
This past autumn, I decided to spend an entire month in Italy and two weeks in France by myself. International solo travel had been on my agenda for a while, but I had gotten used to using the excuse of travel restrictions to push it off. This autumn, I finally decided that it was about time to stop talking about it and just go ahead and do it.
I went with little knowledge of Italian or French but trusted that with an open mind and a genuine attitude, everything would work out. Here are 8 things that I learned from my solo trip abroad.
1. It’s more exhausting than you think
You’re going to be tired. Mentally, physically, spiritually… you’re going to be tired…and that’s okay.
Travel is a lot. You’re exposed to new cultures, immersed in entirely unfamiliar (and potentially dangerous) settings, and physically are always on the go. Just getting by day-to-day without knowing the language means that you’re always subconsciously processing.
There’s rarely a sense of community or if you experience it, it’s through the warmth of individual one-off human interactions. Travel is beautiful and rewarding in a whole bunch of different ways, but it’s also okay to admit that it can be pretty draining.
Just because it’s tiring doesn’t mean that it’s not worth it. It just means that we have to be cognizant of our emotional state and take measures to prevent burnout.
2. You’re probably going to be lonely
If you’re traveling for an extended period of time, you’re probably going to be lonely. The language barrier makes it hard to find quality conversations. Additionally, as a solo female traveler, it’s always a balance between meeting people and safety. On one hand, you want to engage with local culture and local individuals, but doing so potentially exposes you to more risk.
Do your best to stay connected to your support network back home but also take the time to meet up with like-minded individuals. During my travels, I met up with three women in three separate cities. It made the experience that much more memorable. To get started, check out these 10 communities for solo female travelers.
3. Plan Your Itinerary Beforehand
Having a rough itinerary is going to save you a lot of stress. I know, I know, we all want a little spontaneity with our travels but just because you have a plan doesn’t mean that you have to stick to every single detail on it.
Decision fatigue is real and when you’re trying to coordinate travel logistics, balance work, and plan an itinerary, it can be pretty mentally stressful. The more you switch gears during your day, the more energy you use up. Do yourself a favor and plan out a rough itinerary beforehand so that you can just be present and enjoy when you’re actually traveling.
4. Beauty exists in so many different forms
The world is beautiful. Truly. In so many different ways.
Of course we all know that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” and can intellectually understand that different societies have different beauty standards, but to be immersed in a different culture and to actually be able to experience it takes that understanding to a different level.
When you grow up in one society, you get so used to seeing the world through that lens. But when you travel abroad, you open up your mind to beauty in unexpected ways: A body form that is considered beautiful in the US might be different from that which is beautiful in Italy. Nature expresses itself with a different color palate. Food looks and tastes different. Seeing artwork that you’ve only seen in photographs in real life is beyond surreal.
Sure, some places and experiences are probably going to disappoint, but that’s also okay. It’s all part of the process in refining what you see as beautiful. If you show up with an open mind and are willing to just experience, some places really will take your breath away.
5. The world isn’t as scary as you might think
One thing that I was concerned about in anticipation for this trip was safety. Because of recent Asian hate crimes, I was worried that racism in Europe would be pretty bad. I also heard countless warnings about Naples but honestly, the world isn’t as scary as the media makes it out to be.
I definitely felt myself defaulting to some survival-based behaviors and adjusting my image and mannerisms to lean more into the harmless skinny Asian girl ideal, but I truly think it would’ve been safe even if I didn’t try to fit into that stereotype. As long as you’re aware of your surroundings and carry yourself like you should in any big city, you’ll be just fine.
6. You learn to trust yourself
Learn to trust yourself. You learn to trust the choices that you make. Both for safety and for your own enjoyment. You learn what you like and what you don’t like and how you prefer to spend your time. I also learned that I do a pretty good job of setting boundaries. I’ve always known that I was a pretty cautious person, but this trip affirmed my independence and ability to care for myself.
7. Don’t underestimate the power of a greeting
One of the most important lessons that I learned was the power of a simple “hello”, “good morning”, “thank you”, and “goodbye” greeting. Growing up in the states, I felt like greetings weren’t really a necessary part of existing in society. But after traveling abroad (especially in a country where I didn’t speak the language), I realized that greetings actually were an important and effective way to convey basic respect. It lets whoever you’re engaging with know that you come with good intent and also that you’re a foreigner but are doing your best.
8. Take your time
Going back to the first point, there are going to be times during your travels when you feel so exhausted and just want to stay inside and chill. That’s entirely okay. Sometimes when we travel, we feel like we have to see everything all at once. As if this will be the only opportunity to experience this part of the world and if you miss out this time, it’ll be gone…but remember, you can always visit again. Take your time to really soak in the sight and enjoy them rather than feeling pressured or rushed.
Much like Newton’s Law, an object in motion stays in motion…the first solo trip is always the hardest because you need that initial push to get started. Once you’ve experienced it for yourself, subsequent trips get much, much, easier. What are some of the biggest lessons that you’ve learned when traveling abroad?
One of the ways that I’ve incorporated sustainable practices into my everyday life has been in opting out of disposable menstrual products. Whether you use liners, pads, or tampons, conventional period products generate a lot of waste over the course of a cycle, a year, or even a lifetime.
Last year, I bought my first pair of period underwear from Aisle and they’ve completely changed the way I deal with menstruation. Aisle, previously Lunapads, is a period underwear brand that offers reusable pads, liners, underwear, menstrual cups, and more.
Below are my honest thoughts on the brand and their period underwear.
Sustainability:
Aisle’s products are typically made up of multiple layers of different materials. Because they strive for functionality, the underwear and pads consist of a top layer of mesh or cotton; a TrueTek or polyester core; and then Tencel or cotton for the surrounding body. All the different materials are cited on their website and you can easily learn more about the environmental impacts of each individual material.
Ethics:
Aisle makes their pads in Vancouver, Canada, and their underwear in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Both factories are women owned and operated and all workers are paid a living wage and treated fairly and with dignity. You can read about each of their factories here.
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Aisle Period Underwear Review:
I’ve actually only tried their period underwear and have two pairs with different cuts in the same color.
Briefs:
These are probably some of my favorite underwear–not even accounting for the fact that they’re period panties. I love that they’re high-waisted and supportive. They adhere well to the body and are really comfortable all around.
Hipster:
Similar in feel to any other bikini-cut underwear that you would come across. They sit on the hips and provide a good amount of butt coverage.
Common Problems:
I’ve found that the gusset area is actually a little too wide for me. It sometimes rubs against my inner thighs and the friction is not the most comfortable. I understand that the construction is that way so that there’s no leakage, but it’s the one thing stopping me from wearing them on really light/normal days.
On heavier days, the liner portion of the underwear will feel a little damp. It never gets as wet as a pad does, but it still feels a little stickier than wearing a tampon.
Additionally, as I’ve had the underwear for a few years now, the front edge of the gusset sometimes doesn’t sit flat against the rest of the underwear and sometimes can cause a little irritation.
Period Absorbency:
I’ve had these for almost a year now and I really like them! They’re an easy alternative to liners, tampons, or pads and I never have to think about changing the disposable products out. My flow is pretty light so the fact that each underwear holds up to 2 tampons worth of fluid without the booster and up to 4 with the booster makes it a really practical zero-waste menstrual product for me.
Since I’ve removed my IUD, my flow has gotten a little heavier and there have been one or two minor occurrences of leaking through.
Cleaning:
The cleaning process is really easy. I just soak them in cool water to remove any blood and then wash them with my normal clothes.
Overall:
Aisle is one of my favorite period panties brands and I’m definitely interested in trying a few more of their products out. They’re extremely inclusive all around and feature products that support people with different identities and sizes. I haven’t come across any issues with their products yet but will let you know if/when their underwear starts losing its absorbency.
Would you wear period underwear? Have you tried any other brands? Leave any questions that you have down below!
2022 was pretty extraordinary. A year of phenomenal experiences with intimate moments of mundane sprinkled in.
This year, I pushed really hard in my personal life. I started the year with an intention of connection and while it didn’t quite pan out in my romantic life, I really did get the chance to connect with friends and family members near and far.
2022 marked a year of constant travel, learning new skills, spending time being the person that I wanted to be.
Highlights:
• Traveling across three continents with notable stops in Iceland, along the west coast, NY, outlying Taiwanese islands, Italy, and France • Reconnecting with friends that I hadn’t seen in YEARS and meeting new like-minded friends • Meeting the new fur babies, bonding with family over seasonal activities in NY, establishing new traditions with Dad in Taiwan quality time • Spending time developing skills and creative passions: learning to freedive, creating small pieces of jewelry, learning to play the guitar
Low points:
• Breakup in April • Feeling lost and misaligned regarding career • Being exhausted physically and spiritually
Looking back at it, this year was jam packed with activity. Part of that was feeling like I needed to numb out the heartbreak but part of that was also because I made a promise to myself to explore as much as I could this year.
Intentions For 2023:
Going forward this next year, I’m going to let myself fully savor the little moments rather than being afraid of accidentally opening the emotional floodgates to negative feelings. I want to take more time in each place and fully appreciate what I get to experience. I also want to focus more on my career because that’s been taking a backseat to my personal life lately…
I also want to spend more time basking in Taiwan’s beauty. I miss the foggy grey skies, soft yellow greens, and striking cerulean blues. I miss the lush earth and assorted vegetation. I miss the salty spray of the sea and the clear, refreshing rivers. I miss the silence and the safety and intend to spend more healing time there.
February – Surprise hot springs trip, Sending friend off, Planning a special Valentine’s day excursion, The hike, Sunny days in Daan park
March – Impossible beach escape to Yilan, Birthday trip to Taichung, Staying with best friend in Seattle, Iceland, Daily fika, Cherry blossoms in Seattle
April – Portland, Breakup, Meeting new friends and hanging with people I haven’t seen in a while, Bay area, Meeting IG friends, Camping trip with Taiwan friends in CA, Staying with friends and reconnecting in LA, Spontaneous trip to Coachella
May – Returning home to NY, Spending time in nature connecting and healing, Spontaneous beach day, Family time
June – Hosting a clothing swap, Discovering NY as an adult, Reconnecting with high school friends, Strawberry picking, New plants, Fly back to Taiwan, Begin quarantine
July – Quarantine, Penghu, Fireworks for Chinese Valentines
August – Green Island, Lanyu, Making jewelry
September – Sunflower fields, Lotus fields, Houtong Cat Village, Hanging at home, Liuqiu, Kaohsiung
October – Learning to freedive to Liuqiu, Flying back to NY, The Rose concert, Seasonal bonding with family, Friend’s wedding
November – Naples, Pompeii, Hernaculum, Vesuvio, Capri, Sorrento, Amalfi Coast, Rome, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, Venice, Milan
Dec – Venice, Milan, Annecy, Lyon, Paris, Flying back to Taipei, NYE at Xinyi