Travel Tales on tight.fit

Cycling Flores to Rote Island: Ships, Ash, and the Slow Route Across East Nusa Tenggara

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

East Nusa Tenggara had been on my mind for a long time. After my first visit to Labuan Bajo in 2022 for a boat trip, I knew I wanted to return—but differently. This time, I was drawn to a slower kind of journey, shaped by port cities, ship decks, conversations with strangers, and long stretches of road where nothing much seems to happen—until suddenly everything does.

Part of that pull comes from how Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) is built. The province stretches across more than 560 islands, divided into 22 regencies, with major landmasses like Flores, Timor, Sumba, Alor, and Rote forming a loose chain across the eastern edge of Indonesia. It is not a place you move through quickly. Travel here depends heavily on ferries, shifting schedules, and a willingness to let the sea become part of your route.

Getting there is half the fun - from Munich to Gothenburg - Part 2

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Overview

Munich - Kolding - Copenhagen

My flight from Munich to Hamburg left midday. Which suited me quite well, because although I like getting up early, I also like to take my time, have coffee and double check what I’ve packed. So, very relaxed, I packed all my stuff, boarded the train to the airport, went through security check easy peasy (no checking of baggage!), and then treated myself to another coffee. The plane took me to Hamburg in time, and slowly but constantly, my stubbed toe made itself heard.

Annapurna Circuit Trek (Partial Route): A Solo Journey Through High Passes

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Embarking on the Annapurna Circuit does not always mean completing the entire loop from start to finish. In my case, time constraints led me to focus on the high-altitude heart of the circuit: Manang, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, and the descent to Muktinath.

This article is a concise and experience-based record of what I actually did: how I arranged permits as a solo trekker, navigated transportation challenges, managed acclimatization, dealt with difficult trail conditions, and what the journey realistically cost.

One Day Treks Around Pokhara, Nepal, to Do Independently

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal, is a trekker’s paradise. Nestled in a valley surrounded by the majestic Annapurna mountain range, this city offers easy access to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. If you’re looking for a taste of adventure without the commitment of a multi-day trek, Pokhara has plenty of options for short, one-day treks that can be done independently.

Overview

In this article, I like to recommend three great treks that can be done in a single day. The starting and ending points for these treks are relatively easy to reach from the tourist area of Pokhara. Some can be reached by a public bus. Have fun reading and hopefully see you at the treks soon!

Embarking Independently: A Comprehensive Guide to Packing for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Embarking on an independent trek to the Annapurna Base Camp is a journey that promises not only breathtaking landscapes but also a profound sense of self-discovery. Unlike guided treks, shouldering the responsibility of your gear adds a unique layer to the adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essentials for a successful and enjoyable trek, based on our recent experience, with a keen focus on practicality and comfort.

Overview

Packing List
The Lesson Learned from the Packing List
Other important things to keep in mind

Packing List

Previously, we published articles about hiking in Rinjani and provided a packing list for that trek. However, trekking in Annapurna Base Camp offers a completely different experience. During this trek, we’ll be spending most nights in guest houses that provide comfortable beds and blankets. One notable difference is that we won’t need to carry food, as we can conveniently purchase meals at the restaurants owned by these guest houses along the way. It’s worth noting that the prices at these higher-altitude restaurants may be on the steeper side. For a breakdown of spending, refer to our previous article: Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

5-Day, 4-Night Annapurna Base Camp Trek—Mastering Independent Exploration with Comprehensive Preparation

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Embarking on a self-guided trek with friends in the Annapurna region is more than a journey; it’s a personal odyssey filled with shared moments and breathtaking landscapes. In this blog post, I’ll share my personal motivations for choosing this unique adventure, guide you through practical aspects such as arranging transportation to Pokhara and acquiring permits independently, provide a cost breakdown, and ensure a safe and memorable trekking experience.

Overview

Trekking in Nepal

Nepal, cradled in the embrace of the Himalayas, stands as a trekking haven, seamlessly blending awe-inspiring landscapes with profound cultural immersion. The trails wind through living histories, guiding trekkers through ancient villages and diverse communities. From the lush terraced fields to the serene alpine meadows, Nepal’s vistas etch an indelible mark on the soul. Beyond being a mere physical endeavor, trekking in Nepal unfolds as a spiritual journey, with fluttering prayer flags and ancient monasteries creating an ethereal ambiance. The allure of Nepal’s trekking extends across all levels, offering challenges like the iconic Everest Base Camp and cultural odysseys through Annapurna, catering to diverse aspirations.

Exploring Mount Rinjani: A Checklist of Equipment for an Unforgettable Adventure!

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

After completing an epic trek on Mount Rinjani, I returned with a sense of happiness and unforgettable memories. The magnificent scenery, lush nature, and the thrill of reaching the summit all became part of my challenging and wondrous journey.

Careful planning was key to ensuring the smooth and joyful progress of my expedition. The packing list played a vital role in my adventure, and I made sure to bring all the necessary equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Project Hollow Tree – Reviving Rural Japan part 2

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Pictures by Jan Gruber & Max de Bever

On the 3rd of July 2025, the adventure finally began. With our bags packed and excitement high, we made our way to Munich Airport. Our journey would take us first to Hong Kong, then Seoul, before finally arriving in Japan for the World Expo and, most importantly, our time in rural Hayakawa in the Yamanashi prefecture.

Overview

First Stops: Hong Kong and Seoul

After landing in Hong Kong after two flights, we checked into a small hotel in the city center that was affordable, convenient, and perfect for exploring. For four and a half days, we immersed ourselves in the exhilarating city: dim sum and noodle shops, hidden stores stacked across different levels of old buildings, and classic sights like Victoria Peak. We even challenged ourselves with a hike up to Lion Rock Country Park. It was sweaty and exhausting, but the panoramic views over Hong Kong were unforgettable.

Conquering Mount Rinjani: A Journey of Majestic Heights and Breathtaking Beauty of West Nusa Tenggara

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This article was written during hike on July 2023

Several times I had plans to experience the thrill of conquering the second highest mountain in Indonesia, and finally, after previous failed attempts, in the second week of July 2023, I had the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Mount Rinjani in West Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia, with my friends.

In this post, I will share my personal preparations before embarking on the hike, information about the journey to Lombok, my experience with registration and collaboration with local guides and porters, profound impressions during the ascent, and other alternative tourist spots to visit while in Lombok.

Getting there is half the fun - from Munich to Gothenburg

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Planning / What happened so far

One of my friends is doing an Erasmus year in Gothenburg. And I’d wanted to explore Scandinavia for some time now anyway. My ‘northernmost’ journeys so far have taken me to Ireland and the North Frisian Islands. So I killed two birds with one stone and planned a visit to Gothenburg with a stopover in Copenhagen. I also wanted to see a bit of the country en route and decided on a train journey - which I cut short with a flight to Hamburg, as I’d already had some pretty bad luck on the Munich - Hamburg rail route.

Project Hollow Tree – Reviving Rural Life

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Pictures by Jan Gruber & Max de Bever

Overview

Preparing for the Journey

Life is full of opportunities, some more obvious than others, and often it’s up to us to take them. This one started with curiosity for abandoned places. Places that once flourished and thrived, but now stand silent with only stories left to tell. We always found ourselves wondering: who was here before? What used to be here? And why is it now left behind?

Journey Through the Sacred Highlands of North Toraja

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Toraja, nestled in the misty highlands of South Celebes, Indonesia, is one of the most culturally compelling and spiritually rich destinations I’ve had the privilege to explore. Renowned for its unique animist beliefs, awe-inspiring mountain scenery, and world-famous funeral rites, it’s a place where life and death share the same sacred space.

“Celebes" is the former English name for the Indonesian island now known as Sulawesi. The name “Celebes” was given to the island by Portuguese explorers, and it became the common English name following Indonesian independence.