Backpack Summary,

Traveling around South-east Asia has been a blast. I only wish I could have stayed longer in each country and explore it even more. A vacation must come to an end and now it's here. I have managed to do a lot of thing during these weeks, so I decided to do a little shortlist of places and attractions I have visited and things that I have done.

Philippines: Got the Open Water Diving certificate in Puerto Princesa. A few nights in El Nido with diving, breathtaking islands, eating and being ill. Back to Puerto Princesa and a visit to the Underground River, one of the seven wonders of nature. From Puerto Princesa - Manila - Siem Reap. 

Cambodia: Siem Reap as our first stop. A hot air balloon took us over the city and this event was a big thing for the local kids aswell. A must-do trip to the Angkor Wat temple and visit to the famous night market with plenty of fish spas. From Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by bus. Phnom Penh offered us walks in the city, a visit to the Royal Palace and other important attractions. 

Malaysia: Arrived in Kuala Lumpur and to our One-Stop Hotel close to the city center. Amazing view from the 11th floor over the big city and the hotels private pool. A quick reunion with Christina and Livia, my german friends who are also studying in South Korea. Together we went 400 meters up in the air, to the KL Tower. After a great view, it was time to dine in Kuala Lumpur's own China Town. The following days were spent in the beautiful city just looking around and shopping. 

From KL to Langkawi Island. Diving, elephant riding, horseback riding, monkeys, kayaking and beach, beach, beach. 

Thailand: The original plan was to go to Indonesia, but since a few friends were in Phuket, I thought it would be more fun to go there. From Kuala Lumpur I flew to Phuket where my friend Taru was waiting for me. Staying with her for a week was great. Diving with Taru at the Phiphi Islands and a crazy night out at Bangla was exactly what I needed. A little scooter accident, a lot of finnish tourists, ladyboys and shopping!

Singapore: From Phuket to Singapore, a destination I was waiting for since the trip started. Mira and Waikit, two singaporeans I met in South Korea, had sat up a touristic schedule for me so I could get the most out of my short time in Singapore. They were both waiting for me at the airport, and I must say that I'm lucky to have them as my friends but also they were making my stay so comfortable. As we usually said, they are my private tour guides! Staying at a capsule hotel located in the city center was so cosy, since I love capsule hotels! Shopping at Orchard Road, one day at the Sentosa Island, waterpark, picnic, a beautiful sunset at the Marina Bay barrage and new great memories with lovely friends.

All of these countries were mostly unfamiliar to me. What I like about traveling is to be surprised, traveling to the unknown and see what will pop up. That's how I did when I decided to go to South Korea for exchange. I had no clue where I was going, and it turned out to be the best choice!

After being away from South Korea for almost six weeks, it's great to get back home. Yes, home! Normal routines, friends and also a lot of things to deal with. Nervous, but excited to meet my new roommate and wait for all the new exchange students to arrive. There will be trips done during this semester aswell, for example to Jeju Island, Busan and maybe a country I haven't visited yet. Until next time!