How did you go about writing Asian Girls Are Going Places?
I was writing the book during lockdown here in Sydney so it was the perfect opportunity to reminisce, research and dream about travelling again. It was so special being able to interview some amazing Asian women around the world about their travelling experiences and advice.
Advice you’d give to a solo traveller… trust your intuition and always be in touch with at least one person who knows your whereabouts or plans for the day.
How to navigate a group trip?
Know when to pick your battles, and when to compromise! Be open to the idea of splitting up at certain points so that everyone gets to do and see the things they’d like to on the trip.
5 things you wish you knew before travelling the world…
Always carry a pack of tissues with you in case there’s no toilet paper!
Roll your clothes to save space in your suitcase.
If you desperately love something you find overseas, there’s always the option of shipping it back home.
When you're travelling alone, take pictures of yourself to remind you of items you found.
Always eat as the locals do - never in touristy areas!
Best travel story… going to an onsen with my sister in Japan and relaxing in steaming baths surrounded by other women of all ages and races. It was a lovely bonding experience!
Most memorable trip… country-hopping in Europe in my 20s and visiting world-famous galleries and museums.
Where have you found the best food?
The chicken rice noodle soup in my mum’s hometown, Ipoh in Malaysia.
3 destinations everyone should visit…
New Zealand, for the stunning natural beauty.
Spain, for Gaudi’s architecture.
Thailand, for street food.
3 emerging female creatives you’d like to spotlight…
@corriechen Corrie Chen, my best mate and an incredible film and TV director.
Yerin Ha, an exciting actor who’ll be starring in Spielberg’s Halo.
@majimb.o Elsa Majimbo, the most hilarious comedian who’s taking the world by storm.
What are your plans for the summer?
It will be winter over here in Australia, so I’ll be snuggling up, hopefully checking out some winter markets and catching up on new releases at the movies.
In The Booth w/ Michelle Law, Author of Asian Girls Are Going Places
This International Women’s Day, we spoke to Michelle Law, author of Asian Girls Are Going Places, to discover her guide to navigating the world as a female Asian traveller. In her book, Michelle shares her unique adventures, advice for travelling solo and tips for staying safe, as well as interviews with other experienced Asian travellers. We caught up with Michelle to find out more.
Illustrations by Joey Leung Ka-yin
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