Pickyourtrail Travel Blog

Imagine stepping into a village where voices intertwine across courtyards, where drums echo along ancient paths, and where the fragrance of incense mingles with the aroma of local delicacies. This is the Lim Festival, a vibrant celebration of Quan họ, northern Vietnam’s signature paired folk music. Set in Lim village, Bắc Ninh Province, the Festival […]

Tết Nguyên Đánm, Vietnam’s most important holiday, marks the Lunar New Year celebrated from late January through early February each year. Unlike the Western New Year, the Tết festival is when Vietnam’s entire calendar pivots around multi-generational family reunions, ancestral honouring, and prosperity rituals. In 2026, Tết begins on February 17th, welcoming the Year of […]

The Hoi An Lantern Festival transforms this UNESCO World Heritage Old Town into a mesmerising spectacle every full moon. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, this Vietnam cultural festival sees electric lights replaced by thousands of handmade lanterns illuminating ancient streets and the Thu Bon River. Whether planning night photography, seeking authentic […]

Are you organising a trip to Vietnam? It will be suicidal to do without travel insurance to Vietnam, just like walking into the monsoon without an umbrella. An conceals the reality of real-life threats: motorbike accidents, extreme weather, lost passports, and health issues. Being a backpacker, family traveller or digital nomad in Vietnam, you can […]

Vegetarian dining in Vietnam is not just about discovering meat-free dishes but also about experiencing the country’s rich culinary traditions and spiritual heritage. From Hanoi and Hoi An to Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, each destination offers its own unique take on vegetarian cuisine. This Vietnam travel guide to vegetarian food answers one […]

Planning a trip to Vietnam from India? Vietnamese culture emphasises social hierarchy, respect for elders, and public decorum, elements that differ subtly from Indian traditions. This comprehensive guide to Vietnamese customs, etiquette, and cultural norms will help Indian visitors navigate social interactions, dining customs, temple protocols, and daily encounters with confidence. Whether you’re bargaining in […]

Discover the magic of autumn in Japan, where vibrant red maples and golden ginkgo trees transform the landscape from October through December. This comprehensive guide helps you plan the perfect Japan fall foliage trip with accurate peak timing windows, essential booking strategies, and expert photography tips. Whether you’re chasing koyo colours in Kyoto’s temples or […]

Imagine savouring vibrant, aromatic dishes while exploring bustling streets and serene corners of Vietnam—this is the magic of its vegan cuisine. For travellers seeking authentic flavours, plant-based meals in Vietnam are a passport to local culture, creativity, and culinary heritage.  From Hanoi’s delicate phở chay to Ho Chi Minh City’s lively bánh mì chay stalls, […]

Navigating Japan local transport has never been easier or more exciting. Renowned for its precision, punctuality, and advanced technology, Japan’s transportation network connects every corner of the country with seamless efficiency. Whether you are exploring major cities or taking day trips to nearby regions, Japan’s well-connected transportation system makes it simple to explore the best […]

Why Osaka Is the Best City in Japan for Family Travel Osaka, Japan’s lively heart, might appear dense and commercial, yet those very traits make it one of the best family travel destinations in Japan. The city’s energy, accessibility, and playful urban character blend into a perfect environment for both parents and kids. If you’ve […]

When choosing where to stay in Hiroshima, travellers often find themselves balancing price and proximity. However, unlike most cities, Hiroshima offers a pleasant surprise; its main attractions are conveniently close to each other. Whether you’re near the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Station, or the Miyajima ferry port, you’ll find that distances are short, public transit […]

In 2026, anime cafes in Japan have evolved into cultural landmarks that blend themed dining, storytelling, and immersive design to create unforgettable experiences for fans around the world. From the iconic Pokémon Cafes in Tokyo and Osaka to the legendary Gundam Café in Akihabara and limited-time pop-ups in Kyoto and Ikebukuro, these cafes are more […]