When I first wrote about my stay at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown on Two Monkeys Travel Group, I described it as more than just a boutique hotel. It was an art gallery, a neighborhood hub, and a creative retreat in the middle of the city. That impression hasn’t changed—but what has changed is my journey.

This is now my third time staying at Hotel Indigo and this time I’ve got upgraded to stay at their Super Suite, and every visit feels both familiar and new. The interiors are refreshed with rotating artworks, the community vibe has only grown stronger, and the hotel has become a hub for creators, entrepreneurs, and storytellers in Dubai.

Life Update: From World Traveler to Dubai Local

Since I first published my Hotel Indigo feature, my life has shifted in a big way. After traveling to all 195 UN-recognized countries and spending more than a decade as a full-time digital nomad, I’ve officially relocated to Dubai under the Golden Visa program for creators.

This city is now my full-time home base, where I’m focusing on:

• Building a career as a full-time travel influencer and speaker
• Sharing stories that inspire Filipinos to explore global opportunities
• Launching projects and collaborations that connect travel, culture, and community

Which makes this third stay at Hotel Indigo even more meaningful—it aligns perfectly with this new chapter of my life.

From Guest to Speaker: A Full-Circle Moment

This visit wasn’t just about staying at one of my favorite hotels—it was about being part of its community. I had the honor of speaking at Hotel Indigo’s panel discussion on Solo Travelling (organized with Letswork), alongside incredible voices like Lays Laraya (@freakwentflyer) and Hamza Khan (CEO of Letswork).

As someone who has built a life around solo travel and storytelling, being able to share my experiences in a hotel that has already been part of my Dubai journey felt like a true full-circle moment.

Why I Keep Coming Back

I’ve stayed in hundreds of hotels around the world, but Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown is special. I keep coming back because:

• It’s not just a hotel, but a neighborhood within a city.
• It’s a place where design, art, and community blend seamlessly.

And now, it’s a place where I’ve not only rested, but also shared my story with fellow travelers and locals.

This third stay has been my most memorable one yet—not just because of the comfort and creativity that Hotel Indigo always offers, but because it’s now tied to my own story of becoming a Dubai local.

Learn more about Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown here:

FAQ

Anyone who has previously taken a long-haul flight knows how uncomfortable the long hours of sitting can be, particularly if you haven’t packed anything to make your journey easier. While there’s always the option to grin and bear it, we’re of the opinion that international travel doesn’t need to be something to dread. With that in mind, we’ve created a list of the eight things to do as soon as you board your flight to guarantee that the trip will be exponentially more comfortable—and even enjoyable.

Beginning with wiping down your seatback tray table and culminating with setting up a memory foam footrest to provide yourself with much-needed extra legroom, these steps are a foolproof way to make sitting in coach feel like luxury. Best of all, everything you need to make your next long flight a dream is available at Amazon for $50 or less, so you can save the big purchases for the trip itself.

Step 1: Wipe Down Your Tray Table

How: Purell Premoistened Sanitizing Wipes

Despite the best efforts of the flight crew, it’s no secret that tray tables and seatback pockets are the germiest locations on any plane (the bathroom aside, of course). So, you’ll instantly find peace of mind in wiping down all available surfaces as soon as you board and settle into your seat, and these highly-rated Purell wipes are an excellent solution since they come in individually wrapped packets that make them perfect for travel. Currently on sale for just $10, this box of 100 wipes will cleanse both your hands and your personal space, allowing you to truly relax during your flight.

Step 2: Break Out the Neck Pillow

How: Dot&Dot Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Maximizing your sleeping potential during a long-haul flight is the best way to ensure that you land feeling rested and ready to take on your trip, but that’s difficult to achieve when your head is left to bob around without any support. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have a neck pillow at the ready for lengthier flights, and this memory foam option from Dot&Dot is a clear winner, as it can be repositioned into a number of shapes to keep your head cushioned whether you’re in the window seat or the aisle. It’s fitted with a handy snap that will help you secure it to your backpack for easy access as soon as you board your flight, and right now, it’s on sale for just $20.

Step 3: Cozy Up in a Foldable Blanket

How: Pavilia Travel Blanket and Pillow

The temperature within the airplane cabin is notoriously fickle, so if you’re stuck with an icy cold flight—which, let’s admit it, is far better than too hot—you’ll want to come prepared with a cozy blanket that you can tuck yourself in and get some shut eye without relying on flimsy airline-issued blankets. This packable duo features a silky, soft, plush blanket and pillow that practically ensure sound sleep while flying internationally. When not in use, the blanket folds directly into the pillow and can be attached to your suitcase handle with a convenient clip, and with this in tow, you’re guaranteed to be the envy of your seatmates.

Step 4: Put on a Pair of Foldable Slippers

How: Xihalook House Slippers

It’s widely agreed that sneakers and other supportive shoes are the best options to wear through TSA and around the airport as a whole, but once you board your flight, comfort should still be a top priority. Instead of becoming that traveler and going barefoot on the plane, slip on these foldable slippers instead, which hardly take up any space in your suitcase and will instantly transform your flight into a first-class experience. Insulated with a microfleece lining and a polar fleece exterior, these cozy slippers are the key to easing into your journey while still keeping your feet covered for the benefit of your neighbors. They even come in 34 adorable colors and patterns and are on sale for 30 percent off right now.

Step 5: Slip on a Plane Seat Pocket Organizer

How: Airplane Pockets Tray Table Cover

After wiping down your tray table and setting up with a cozy blanket and pillow, it’s now time to prepare your seatback pocket for your in-flight entertainment. Since it’s widely recognized that this area of the plane doesn’t often get much love from cleaners, this genius tech organizer is the best alternative, hooking onto your tray table and providing pockets for your tablet, phone, headphones, and more. It’s lightweight, making it an excellent travel companion. Plus, it will alleviate the stress of your seatback pocket overflowing with belongings since everything has its place.

Step 6: Pull Out Your Seat Cushion

How: Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Seat Cushion

If you often struggle to get comfortable in your plane seat (and really, who doesn’t), this pilot-approved memory foam cushion is a genius hack for making longer journeys more enjoyable for just $50. The supportive seat has earned thousands of five-star ratings from impressed shoppers—including several pilots, one of whom noted that this cushion “rolls up” to “fit into my suitcase,” and is “comfortable, supportive, and priced right.” It works wonders for alleviating tailbone and back pain while simultaneously relieving pressure on your sitbones for a more enjoyable long-haul flight. It’s the easiest way to upgrade your seat without the accompanying price tag.

Step 7: Plug in a Bluetooth Headphone Connector

How: Gmcell Bluetooth Transmitter

Staying entertained during your flight is the key to getting through longer trips, and if you’re flying internationally, there’s a good chance you’ll have a screen affixed to the back of the seat in front of you. However, if you’re tired of shoving uncomfortable, airline-issued headphones into your ears that churn out low-quality audio for the entirety of your flight, picking up a Bluetooth audio converter is a must. This simple transmitter plugs into the headphone jack on your screen and connects to your favorite noise-canceling headphones to drown out the sounds of other passengers while allowing for hours of entertainment with your own personal earbuds. Plus, it’s compact, portable, and so easy to use.

Step 8: Set up a Foot Hammock

How: Basic Concepts Airplane Foot Hammock

Keeping proper circulation can be a difficult task during lengthier flights, especially if you’re seated in coach with minimal legroom to stretch. If this is the case, setting up a foot hammock should be one of the first steps you take to improve your overall in-flight comfort. This memory foam option from Basic Concepts is even flight attendant-approved. The packable device loops over your seatback tray table, instantly elevating your legs, relieving pressure from your hips, and creating a more relaxed and comfortable long-haul flight experience. The adjustable straps mean it can be used for travelers at a wide range of heights, and best of all, it’s just $15.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

London, a city famed for its rich history and iconic sights, is also one of the world’s most exciting culinary capitals. Its food scene is a celebration of immigration, heritage, and innovation—a place where a Malaysian curry and a West African Jollof can be found within steps of each other, both cooked with the same passion as in their country of origin.

Forget old clichés about bland British food. From bustling markets to quiet side streets, London offers a feast that spans continents and tells the stories of countless cultures—on a plate.

Let’s explore some of the best places for international food in London.

Related read: How to Spend Two Days in London: A Local’s Guide

Here’s an overview:

Where to Find the Best International Food in London by Area

London’s international food scene is best explored by neighborhood, each offering its own unique flavors and cultural depth. Brixton is the go-to for bold and soulful West African, Caribbean, and South American eats. Borough Market and South London blend classic British fare like pies and oysters with rich Indian and Caribbean fusion dishes found in nearby Tooting and Covent Garden.

Central London and Chinatown combine historic pubs with a sensory feast of Asian cuisine. Head to East London for some of the city’s most authentic and affordable global flavors—think Afghan dumplings, Malaysian roti, Thai jungle curry, Neapolitan pizza, and iconic 24-hour bagels.

Each area offers a distinct culinary passport, making London a true food lover’s playground.

Our friend, Kash, explored many of these top spots, check out: Best Cheap Eats London

Brixton – West African, Caribbean, and South American Vibrance

Brixton is where London’s global flavors hit their stride. This lively neighborhood is a sensory explosion of music, murals, and unforgettable food. Here, African, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures converge—and the food tells all their stories.

Maureen’s Brixton Kitchen brings Gambian comfort food to life with slow-cooked, richly seasoned dishes. Jollof House Kitchen levels up the West African classic with their famed Jollof fries, adding just the right crunch and heat.

Looking for bold Caribbean flavors? Maureen’s Kitchen (yes, a different one!) dishes up some of Brixton’s best Caribbean soul food. Step into Pop Brixton for more: try the juicy smash burgers at Bun n Sum or explore the bold, homey dishes at Black Star Kitchen, where Caribbean food is reimagined with flair.

Latin American bites also thrive here: Cantinho Mineiro and Salpike serve Brazilian and other South American eats with hearty flair and warm hospitality.

Borough Market & South London – British Staples and Indian-Caribbean Fusion

Borough Market’s bustling food stalls are a magnet for foodies chasing everything from the freshest oysters to rich, hearty pies.

At Richard Haward’s Oysters, you’ll find fresh Essex oysters paired with affordable sparkling wine—simple, elegant, and refreshing. For classic comfort food, Arments Pie & Mash serves traditional meat pies and mashed potatoes with parsley liquor, a nostalgic bite of old-school London.

In South London’s Tooting area, South Asian food culture is rich and accessible. Dawat Tooting and Adchaya offer authentic Indian and Sri Lankan food with deep, aromatic flavors.

Head north to Covent Garden, and you’ll stumble upon New Delhi Deli—a hidden gem offering hearty Indian-Caribbean fusion dishes in generous portions. Oxtail curry, jerk chicken, duck, and pork are just some of the daily-changing specials that have regulars lining up.

Farther south, India House on Wellington Road is a great-value stop serving vibrant vegetarian and meat dishes. Favorites include Navratan Korma, Aloo Gobi, Dal Makhani, and Jeera Rice, all delivering a satisfying blend of spice, richness, and balance.

Central London & Chinatown – Pub Culture and an Asian Culinary Wonderland

Central London effortlessly blends tradition and variety. Begin with a pint at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, a pub that has served Londoners since the 1600s. Or check out Aria Golden Grill, where global grill favorites make for a satisfying stop in the city’s heart.

Then follow your nose (and your appetite) into Chinatown, where every alley and neon-lit shop window promises something special.

Chinatown Bakery is a sweet tooth’s paradise, from coconut buns to matcha rolls. At Old Chang Kee, grab a golden curry puff and snack like a local in Singapore.

New favorites have also popped up: Bun House elevates the humble bun with bold fillings, but don’t miss their Kaya French toast—a creamy, coconutty revelation. At Kung Fu Noodle, try the spicy potato fries starter—crispy, punchy, and totally addictive.

And for the iconic? Four Seasons is your go-to. Its roast duck is famous citywide: lacquered, juicy, and worth every bite.

Related read: A Guide to the Best Historical Pubs in London

East London – From Bagels to Afghan Dumplings, Malaysian Rotis, and Fiery Thai Curries

East London is a crossroads of cultures and cuisines—unpretentious and endlessly rewarding.

Start with a classic at Beigel Bake on Brick Lane, where freshly baked salt beef bagels are served 24/7 and still cost less than a coffee.

Italian street food lovers flock to Sud Italia at Spitalfields Market. Their pizza a portafoglio is folded and street-ready, with thin, chewy dough and fresh ingredients straight from Naples.

A few blocks away, Roti King delivers deeply comforting Malaysian Tamil food. The Roti Chennai, crisp on the outside and soft inside, is best paired with their signature chicken curry.

Craving Afghan flavors? Near Oxford and Wonderland, King Kebab is more than just kebabs. Try the traditional Qabli pilow with lamb shank, sweet carrots, and raisins; the bolani (stuffed flatbread); or mantu dumplings topped with yogurt and lentils. It’s food made for sharing—and remembering.

One more can’t-miss spot: Nakhon Thai. Tucked in East London, this warm and welcoming Thai restaurant is the real deal. The star dish? The Jungle curry—ferociously spicy and fragrant, not for the faint of palate. If your spice tolerance isn’t at least a 9 out of 10, consider yourself warned.

Beyond the Plate: Tips for Your London Foodie Adventure

• Venture off the tourist trail: The best food is often found outside central zones—in neighborhoods like Brixton, East London, or Tooting.
• Embrace the markets: Street food stalls in Spitalfields, Pop Brixton, and Borough offer unbeatable value and flavor.
• Go global with your tastebuds: Treat each area like a passport stamp—from Gambian to Malaysian to Afghan in a day.
• Be curious, not cautious: Some of the most memorable dishes come from trying something unfamiliar—like Jungle curry or mantu.

Savoring London’s Endless Feast

London isn’t just a city you visit—it’s a city you eat. And with each bite, you’re tasting more than flavor; you’re tasting migration, culture, memory, and family recipes carried across oceans.

From Caribbean stews in Brixton to fiery Thai curry in East London and silky duck in Chinatown, London’s food scene is a true global table. So arrive hungry and stay curious—because here, the whole world is waiting for you on a plate.

Visiting Botswana has always been a dream of mine, and I finally got the chance to explore the wonders of Chobe National Park in Botswana. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast like me, a Chobe safari is an experience you’ll never forget.

I met travelers who had just come from Burundi and Niamey. They shared stories of wildlife, rivers, and road adventures that brought their journeys to life. It reminded me that Africa offers endless routes to explore, each with its own rhythm and beauty.

Let me share with you the highlights of my unforgettable adventure in one of Southern Africa’s most stunning national parks. This region is a paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and those who dream of close-up wildlife photography.

Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions

I arrived in Kasane. It’s the main entry point to Chobe National Park. We set off in a safari vehicle towards our first destination – Chobe Elephant Camp. Staying connected while traveling here can be tricky, but using Eskimo eSIM kept me online without expensive roaming fees.

Driving along the Chobe Riverfront, I was already spotting wildlife along the way. We saw kudu, baboons, and more. The drive along the river was full of life.

The land had open floodplains and fresh water sources. These attract animals all year. The lodge was quiet and offered comfort. Guests could relax and enjoy nature.

Suggested Tour: Chobe National Park

Day 2: Exploring Chobe National Park

The next morning, we set out for a full-day safari experience. Chobe National Park is famous for its elephants. It has one of the biggest elephant populations in Africa.

We saw large herds of elephants near the Savuti Marsh area and Linyanti River. There were wildebeest, impala, giraffes, and lions. We also saw wild dogs, hyenas, warthogs, waterbuck, and even a leopard. A rare sighting of roan antelope and puku made the day even better.

Later, we joined a boat cruise on the Chobe River. We spotted hippos and crocodiles in the water. Watching from the boat gave us a new view of the park. The Zambezi Queen, a luxury boat, passed by. It looked like a floating hotel.

After that, we went on another game drive for more game viewing. The animals were everywhere. Our guide shared great info about them. We even spotted cheetahs in the distance, resting in the shade.

Suggested Tour: Victoria Falls

Day 3: Day Trip and Wildlife Encounters

On my last day, I took a Chobe day trip that included a visit to the Ngoma Safari Lodge. Nestled near the edge of the park, this haven provided a stunning view of the surrounding plains. I could see herds of elephants and buffalo in the distance as I enjoyed a delicious breakfast.

We then continued our journey with a day trip to the Okavango Delta, one of the most famous and beautiful areas in Botswana. Even though it was just a day trip, I could feel the magic of the delta, with its waterways and diverse wildlife.

It reminded me of how interconnected all of Southern Africa’s wildlife areas are – from the Serengeti National Park to Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, and from Victoria Falls to Namibia, Zambia, and beyond.

Suggested Tour:

Trip Essentials

Reflections on My Botswana Safari

My Chobe National Park Botswana trip was perfect. I loved seeing large herds of elephants, the Savuti Marsh, and calm river cruises. You can choose a luxury lodge or a camping safari in a tent. Both are great.

If you plan to visit Chobe National Park, do it. You get both land and water safaris. You can book online. There are budget and high-end options. If you’re traveling from Johannesburg or anywhere in South Africa, it’s worth the trip.

The best time to go is during the dry season, from April to November. Wildlife is easiest to spot in August and October. Chobe National Park in Botswana gave me memories for life.

From the wild to sunsets, the whole trip was unforgettable. It gave me a deeper love for the African wilderness!

FAQ

About The Writer

I’m Cyrine, a 19-year-old Filipina writer navigating college, freelancing, and the journey to becoming a digital nomad. I share real stories, budget tips, and lessons from chasing freedom through remote work, one step at a time.

I’ve only been robbed while traveling once—but that was enough to make me take my personal safety and the security of my belongings seriously. Despite that incident, I’m constantly planning my next getaway, and my TikTok feed is packed with travel hacks, clever gadgets, and safety tips from influencers and flight attendants alike. From scrunchies that secretly double as drink covers to zipper clips that stop pickpockets from opening your backpack, these viral finds prove that travel safety doesn’t have to be cumbersome or expensive.  

Most of these travel essentials cost less than $30, with some starting as low as $7 at Amazon. They’re small enough to stash in a carry-on bag, smart enough to stop pickpockets, and discreet enough that they don’t scream “tourist.” Ahead, I’ve rounded up the TikTok-viral safety devices that are giving travelers—and me—peace of mind on the go, for less than the cost of checking a bag. 

Best TikTok-Viral Safety Devices at Amazon

Apple Airtag

Small, but mighty, the Apple AirTag is a best-selling tracker and an essential travel accessory. It slips discreetly into your luggage or gear and links directly to your iPhone’s “Find My” network, letting you monitor your bag’s location even when it’s out of sight. With more than 10,000 purchased in the last month, it’s a regular top seller on Amazon. Right now it’s 25 percent off, and the perfect time to snag one for your upcoming fall travel. 

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

One of our favorite travel safety devices at T+L, this little gadget is able to emit a powerful 130-decibel siren and flashes a bright strobe light that will draw the attention of anyone nearby. It’s compact so it’s easy to travel with and can be clipped to most bags, so it’s easily accessible when you need it—let’s just hope you never do.

Master Lock Portable Lock Box

After seeing this portable lock box on TikTok, I don’t think I’ll ever travel without one now. It’s the perfect device when you want a sense of extra security when staying in hotels or rentals. The box provides a secure place to store your smaller essentials like jewelry, cash, small electronics, and a passport. While it looks hefty, it only weighs 1.6 pounds, so it’s easy to bring along on any trip.

Fengwangli Anti-theft Zipper Clips

These little double-sided carabiner zipper clips may look unassuming, but they’re a sneaky travel hack to stop pickpockets. Snap them onto your bag’s zippers and they prevent the pulls from being yanked apart or slid open. They’re lightweight, tool-free, and inconspicuous enough to slip onto backpacks, purses, or carry-ons without calling attention. They’re ideal for subways, hotels, or anywhere you want your belongings secure without lugging around a bulky security device. 

Nightcap Drink Cover Scrunchie

As an avid traveler, I always appreciate a multitasking accessory. This clever scrunchie conceals a silicone cover in a hidden pocket for nights out when you want to keep your drink safe. Just stretch it over your glass or cup to seal your beverage. Plus, you can even stick a straw through it. It’s compact, wearable, and makes for an effective safety tool against drink tampering—especially when you’re navigating nightlife in an unfamiliar place.

Venture 4th Slim Money Belt

Money belts are a low-profile method for keeping your essentials, like your passport and wallet, safe from pickpockets. Designed to be worn under your shirt, keeping your items close to your body, this one uses RFID-blocking lining to guard your cards from digital deceivers. It’s an easy layer of security—lightweight and essentially invisible—while you’re waiting in airports, crowded streets, and anywhere you’d rather keep your valuables out of sight. 

Hnhmt Portable Door Lock and Door Stop Alarm Set

I spotted a flight attendant on TikTok calling this one of her favorite travel companions for extra security and protection in hotel rooms or home rentals. The door stop alarm wedges into the floor or window tracks to block unwanted entry from the outside. If someone unexpectedly opens the door to enter the room, a harsh alarm will sound to scare off the intruder—adding an extra layer beyond the hotel’s typical locks. The set also comes with a portable door lock that’s small enough to carry in your pocket or a handbag. 

Forge TSA-approved Luggage Locks

Think of these TSA-approved luggage locks as your suitcase’s tiny bodyguards. The flexible steel cable threads through zippers or loops, and the resettable three-digit combo means you won’t have to keep track of keys through travel. Plus, they’re designed with a special mechanism that allows security agents to open them with a master key for inspection without breaking anything. Toss one on your carry-on or checked bag and you’ll have peace of mind that pickpockets won’t be able to unzip your bag. 

Cacoe Phone Lanyard Neck Strap 2-pack

The Cacoe adjustable phone lanyard is one of those clever, low-key safety tools that feels tailored for travel. It attaches to your phone case to create a crossbody strap that allows you to keep your phone right in front of you without risking the safety of your device. Plus, you can explore your destination while staying hands-free, and the straps are adjustable to fit various heights and builds. 

Inicat Travel Sling Bag

One of the items that TikTok travel influencers always recommend is a dependable travel purse. Luckily, Amazon has options like this one that’s not only smart for travel, but stylish enough to go with your outfits. This sling bag comes with dual zip compartments, interior card slots, and enough room for your small travel essentials. When worn across your chest, you can keep your essentials close, in view, and out of reach of sneaky hands.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.