Kolkata (Calcutta), India was an unforgettable trip as we tasted many of the excellent street food options including the chicken egg roll, puchkas, and bhapa doi. We rode on the crowded train from Howrah Station, stopped to visit the Ganges River, and drank coffee in the iconic College Street Coffee House. Hoping in and out of rickshaws, Ubers, and taxis, we experienced the vibrant culture that is the home to over 12 million people. Knowing that getting a shave in an authentic street barber … [Read more...] about Kolkata, India – World Barber Shop Adventures
Podcast 53: Kolkata (Calcutta) India {23 Hours in the City of Joy}
We had the chance to spend 23 hours in Kolkata on a long layover from Hyderabad, India to Bangkok, Thailand, so we jumped on it. Based on a relationship that I had in the city, we set up a local guide who took us to a few authentic places that left us with a sense of how the people of Kolkata really live. We tested many of the excellent street food options including the chicken egg roll, puchkas, and bhapa doi. We rode on the crowded train from the extremely busy Howrah Station. Visiting the … [Read more...] about Podcast 53: Kolkata (Calcutta) India {23 Hours in the City of Joy}
Hyderabad, India – World Barber Shop Adventures
Hyderabad, India is a vibrant, densely populated city of over 10 million people, some put the number closer to 13 million. This was my fourth trip to India having spent a combined total of three months around the country. Getting the chance to go back to visit our friends for their wedding was a no-brainer. Not only did this trip give us the opportunity to partake in the ceremonies of the marriage including Sangeet, Haldi, Groom’s Day, Bride’s Day, Mehndi, and the huge wedding event, but we also … [Read more...] about Hyderabad, India – World Barber Shop Adventures
Podcast 52: Hyderabad, India (Indian Wedding + Much More)
Having the chance to go back to Hyderabad, India for a wedding of our two friends, Preetham and Spandana, was an unforgettable experience. Not only did we have the opportunity to partake in the many ceremonies of the marriage including Sangeeth, Haldi, Groom’s Day, Bride’s Day, Mehndi, and the huge wedding event, we also visited Hitec City, Nalgonda, and Gandipet. The incredible visit included a trip out delivering invitations on a motorbike, dancing choreographed steps to Indian music, and … [Read more...] about Podcast 52: Hyderabad, India (Indian Wedding + Much More)
Podcast 51: Why We Love Southeast Asia
We have spent plenty of time during our journey in Southeast Asia. We love everything these countries have to offer travelers. The people, food, scooter lifestyle, gorgeous beaches, and affordability are all part of the reasons why we have stayed 7 months in this region that includes Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. We have still yet to see the beauty of Laos and the Philippines, but that will happen someday soon. In this episode of Passport Joy Travel Talk, we … [Read more...] about Podcast 51: Why We Love Southeast Asia
Da Nang, Vietnam – World Barber Shop Adventures
This was my third visit to Ky Lee’s Barber Shop in Da Nang, Vietnam. Barber shops are also called cắt tóc nam in Vietnam. Ky Lee recently opened this second shop, and he works alternating days between the two. Ky Lee is a strong entrepreneur, an outstanding barber, and a teacher to his barber crew that he continues to grow. During my visit, he was continually informing his team on barbering techniques while having a fun time singing to the music in the process. His crew of barbers has swagger … [Read more...] about Da Nang, Vietnam – World Barber Shop Adventures
Podcast 50: Da Nang, Vietnam (Trip of a Lifetime)
Da Nang is a fantastic city in Central Vietnam with a vibrant culture and gorgeous coastline. We have had the privilege of spending 50 days in this city over the last two years. We have gotten to know all of the great places to visit, fabulous restaurants, fun bars, and must-see sights around the city. Hoi An is only 30 minutes away and on everyone’s travel destination list. When my brother and his wife decided to visit us during our journey, we were excited to suggest Da Nang as the location to … [Read more...] about Podcast 50: Da Nang, Vietnam (Trip of a Lifetime)
Podcast 48: India is Incredible (2 Months Traveling 7+ Cities)
Having the chance to spend two months traveling to a few different cities in India is something we will always remember about our journey around the world. Seeing the Taj Mahal outside of Delhi, celebrating two weddings, and exploring the wonder of Kerala are all experiences that will stay with us forever. Our time in Indore, Nagpur, and Bhopal were filled with excitement as they are non-traditional tourist location, but the families that took us in were kind, welcoming, and fantastic cooks. We … [Read more...] about Podcast 48: India is Incredible (2 Months Traveling 7+ Cities)
Hanoi, Vietnam – World Barber Shop Adventures
This was my third trip to Vietnam and it is without a doubt one of my favorite countries. Hanoi is the country’s capital and has a population of about 8 million people. The Old Quarter is the heart of culture within Hanoi and a great place to explore the narrow streets to find unique shops and unforgettable food. We visited during the build-up of the AFF Championship against Malaysia where Vietnam took home the trophy! Việt Nam vô địch! The city was electric with excitement and pride. We also … [Read more...] about Hanoi, Vietnam – World Barber Shop Adventures
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – World Barber Shop Adventures
Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city in Cambodia with about 1.5 million people. We visited during Bon Om Touk, or the Water Festival, which brought in Cambodians from all over the country to celebrate. It was a lot of fun to walk along the riverside path and watch the longtail boat races and fireworks. Tasting the exotic food options like roaches and crickets was new for me and actually very good. Phnom Penh, along with Siem Reap, are significant tourist destinations in SE Asia. … [Read more...] about Phnom Penh, Cambodia – World Barber Shop Adventures