top of page
Published Stories
Meaningful stories to inspire your next journey
Featured Destinations: Portugal · USA · Seychelles · Japan · Malaysia · New Zealand & more


Tradition & Discipline: My Morning in a Sumo Stable
To understand a culture, you have to immerse yourself in its traditions. During my trip to Japan, I had the opportunity to visit an authentic sumo stable; an experience that left a deep impression on me. Behind the brief, intense moments in the ring lies a world of centuries-old rituals, iron discipline, and years of sacrifice. In my latest blog, I share what it was like to step inside their home and what this unique encounter taught me about the heart of Japanese culture. Re
Ilse Woorts


48 hours Hong Kong: this is how you make it a perfect stopover
48 hours in Hong Kong: See a lot at a relaxed pace An efficient route that combines the iconic Kowloon skyline with the city's creative art districts.
Ilse Woorts


Wats & Wheels: Temple Hopping by Bike in Ayutthaya
Escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and discover magical Ayutthaya by bike, where ancient Wats and a vibrant street food scene come together. From mystical sunrise rituals to romantically lit ruins in the evening: this is the ultimate guide to an unforgettable stay in the old royal city. Curious? Read more on 🇳🇱 Reisleven.nl x Travelsbyilse Now, go where the story takes you...
Ilse Woorts


Experience the real matcha in Japan: Why this green gold is worth the trip
The magic of matcha in the heart of Japan A journey of discovery to the origins of matcha: from the meditative tea houses in Kyoto to local treats on Japan’s remotest islands. Explore the full story on 🇳🇱 Triptalk.nl x Travelsbyilse Now, go where the story takes you...
Ilse Woorts


TeamLab Planets Tokyo: Barefoot in a World of Art
Shoes off, trousers rolled up, and senses wide open. Imagine wading through warm water filled with glowing koi fish, or lying under a canopy of thousands of floating orchids that move with you. TeamLab Planets is not just a museum; it’s a portal to another dimension. Ready to become one with the art? Discover why this is the ultimate Tokyo bucket list experience. Step Into the Light. Read the full story on 🇳🇱 Reisleven.nl x TravelsbyIlse Now, go where the story takes you...
Ilse Woorts


What Makes Japan So Different: Culture, Traditions & Respect
Stepping into Japan feels like landing on another planet—one where high-tech toilets meet ancient bowing traditions, and silence is the ultimate sign of respect. From the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing to the warm glow of red lanterns in narrow alleys, Japan is a masterclass in discipline and beauty. Ready to dive into the fascinating world of Ojigi and Shinkansen? Discover the Wonders of Japan 🇳🇱 Reisleven.nl x Travelsbyilse
Ilse Woorts


Visiting the Iban Tribe in Borneo: Jungle, Culture, & Longhouses
Deep in Borneo: Meeting the Iban Tribe Step into the jungle and experience life with the Iban tribe. From traditional longhouses to daily rituals and a jungle lunch by a waterfall, this immersive adventure reveals a community deeply connected to nature and ancient traditions, offering a true insight into authentic, deep travel. 🇬🇧 Read more on One Planet Journey x Travelsbyilse Now, go where the story takes you...
Ilse Woorts


The Flavours of Japan: so much more than sushi
Step into the heart of Japan’s food culture. Let yourself be surprised by the refined art of tempura, steaming bowls of ramen, and the warm hospitality that makes every meal unforgettable. 🇳🇱 Taste the journey at Reisleven.nl x Travelsbyilse Now, go where the story takes you...
Ilse Woorts


Kyoto on Two Wheels
Discovering Kyoto by bike is easy and enjoyable, Gion Discovering Kyoto by bike? Absolutely! Seeing the city on two wheels gives you a completely different perspective. You can cycle along the Kamo River, ride from the Golden Pavilion to the Silver Pavilion, and discover quieter corners of Kyoto that you might easily miss by bus or metro. And as a Dutchie, cycling through Kyoto feels almost like coming home. 😉 Although an e-bike is definitely worth considering when heading t
Ilse Woorts


Eye-to-Eye with Giants: The Magic of Borneo’s Orangutans
There are travel moments that stay with you forever. For me, it was standing in the heart of the Sarawak jungle, holding my breath as a majestic orange figure swung through the canopy. At Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, there are no cages, just pure, wild nature. Ready to discover why this encounter is about so much more than just a pretty picture. Step Into the Jungle and read the full story on Reisleven.nl x Travelsbyilse Now, go where the story takes you...
Ilse Woorts


Next-Level Luxury: The Qatar Airways Qsuite Experience
Imagine stepping into your own private cocoon above the clouds. A glass of chilled champagne, a multi-course fine dining menu, and a fully flat bed wrapped in velvet. My 24-hour journey from Amsterdam to New Zealand felt like a dream thanks to the "World’s Best Business Class." Ready to see what it's like to fly in a private suite at 35,000 feet? Step inside the Qsuite. Read the full story on 🇳🇱 Reisleven.nl x TravelsbyIlse Now, go where the story takes you...
Ilse Woorts
bottom of page