Steph Hays
She/Her
Based in Chiang Mai, Thailand
English
Trips starting at $300/night
Steph Hays
Ask me about
My Story
Based in Chiang Mai, Thailand but having called Chattanooga, NYC, Shanghai, London, and Mumbai home, I live to travel and love inspiring others to see the world through thoughtful, well-planned trips... usually motivated by food.
Travel Style
You'll find me seeking out local experiences, be it an overnight train ride (my fav!), enlisting a local guide to introduce me to all the street food, or resting my head in a small, unique hotel. But ultimately, I like a bit of everything and have tried it all.
Stay connected
Reviews (31)
Mirjam B.
travel to Phuket
6 days ago
Very easy booking process and we really appreciated that Steph always replied so quickly to our messages and arranged requests with the hotel. Would highly recommend getting Steph involved in booking your next holiday!
Sam C.
travel to London
7 days ago
Steph was a huge help in making our honeymoon memorable. She gave us great travel tips, things to see, and curated the exact type of travel experience that fits us.
Geoffrey C.
travel to London
7 days ago
Easy, efficient, seamless conversation with Steph. She respects my preferences and budget, and I especially appreciate her expert opinions and advice that she gives on each possibility she suggests.
Kevin Y.
travel to Singapore
25 days ago
The booking experience through you was excellent. Everything was handled professionally, and the process was seamless from start to finish. I truly appreciate your help in coordinating this trip. Thank you again for the great service.
Trent O.
travel to Osaka
26 days ago
I can't say enough good things about working with Steph. She is always on the ball with communication, she finds a way to fold into our itinerary any obscure requests we throw at her, and she always finds us great deals! I have recommended her to several friends and I will be continuing to do so.
Mirjam B.
travel to Phuket
6 days ago
Very easy booking process and we really appreciated that Steph always replied so quickly to our messages and arranged requests with the hotel. Would highly recommend getting Steph involved in booking your next holiday!
Sam C.
travel to London
7 days ago
Steph was a huge help in making our honeymoon memorable. She gave us great travel tips, things to see, and curated the exact type of travel experience that fits us.
Geoffrey C.
travel to London
7 days ago
Easy, efficient, seamless conversation with Steph. She respects my preferences and budget, and I especially appreciate her expert opinions and advice that she gives on each possibility she suggests.
Kevin Y.
travel to Singapore
25 days ago
The booking experience through you was excellent. Everything was handled professionally, and the process was seamless from start to finish. I truly appreciate your help in coordinating this trip. Thank you again for the great service.
Travel ideas (5)
Falling in Love with Chiang Mai: A Local's Guide
I’ve never met anyone who visited Chiang Mai and didn’t fall in love with it. The city offers a perfect blend of a relaxing pace and the conveniences of a big city. Here, bustling markets coexist with serene temples, and you can immerse yourself in nature within minutes. And let’s not forget the delicious street food on every corner, making every meal an adventure. Chiang Mai leaves a lasting impression from the moment you arrive. It enticed me to spend a winter freelancing here, followed by a permanent move to the city in 2024. This guide highlights some of Chiang Mai’s most wonderful gems.
Falling in Love with Chiang Mai: A Local's Guide
I’ve never met anyone who visited Chiang Mai and didn’t fall in love with it. The city offers a perfect blend of a relaxing pace and the conveniences of a big city. Here, bustling markets coexist with serene temples, and you can immerse yourself in nature within minutes. And let’s not forget the delicious street food on every corner, making every meal an adventure. Chiang Mai leaves a lasting impression from the moment you arrive. It enticed me to spend a winter freelancing here, followed by a permanent move to the city in 2024. This guide highlights some of Chiang Mai’s most wonderful gems.
A Complete Guide to Lijiang, China’s Mountain Gem
Lijiang was an unexpected highlight of a recent trip through China—one of those places that lingers in your memory long after you leave. The snow-dusted peaks, quiet canals, and rich Naxi culture made it feel both peaceful and deeply alive. A workshop on Naxi script, an unforgettable local market (seriously one of our favorites ever), and learning about the culture through its food added layers of meaning to our experience. With a little effort—and the right tips—it’s possible to look beyond the surface and connect with the true heart of this fascinating place.
A Complete Guide to Lijiang, China’s Mountain Gem
Lijiang was an unexpected highlight of a recent trip through China—one of those places that lingers in your memory long after you leave. The snow-dusted peaks, quiet canals, and rich Naxi culture made it feel both peaceful and deeply alive. A workshop on Naxi script, an unforgettable local market (seriously one of our favorites ever), and learning about the culture through its food added layers of meaning to our experience. With a little effort—and the right tips—it’s possible to look beyond the surface and connect with the true heart of this fascinating place.
Experience Mumbai like a Local
Having called Mumbai home for two incredible years, I’ve seen firsthand how this “City of Dreams” can capture your heart. From the majestic Gateway of India to the lively streets of Colaba and the hip hangouts in Bandra, Mumbai’s charm is undeniable. Whether you’re diving into its diverse food scene, admiring colonial architecture or feeling the pulse of Bollywood, this city promises an unforgettable adventure. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite spots that truly capture Mumbai’s spirit.
Experience Mumbai like a Local
Having called Mumbai home for two incredible years, I’ve seen firsthand how this “City of Dreams” can capture your heart. From the majestic Gateway of India to the lively streets of Colaba and the hip hangouts in Bandra, Mumbai’s charm is undeniable. Whether you’re diving into its diverse food scene, admiring colonial architecture or feeling the pulse of Bollywood, this city promises an unforgettable adventure. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite spots that truly capture Mumbai’s spirit.
Three Days in Ninh Binh & Tam Coc: Exploring Vietnam’s Halong Bay on Land
Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most famous destinations, and for good reason — its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts make for a breathtaking landscape. However, it’s also one of the most tourist-heavy spots in the country. If you’re looking for a more serene and equally stunning alternative, Ninh Binh should be on your radar. I’m a huge fan of this swap that puts you in paradise a mere 2.5 hour drive away from Hanoi and have crafted the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your time there.
Three Days in Ninh Binh & Tam Coc: Exploring Vietnam’s Halong Bay on Land
Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most famous destinations, and for good reason — its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts make for a breathtaking landscape. However, it’s also one of the most tourist-heavy spots in the country. If you’re looking for a more serene and equally stunning alternative, Ninh Binh should be on your radar. I’m a huge fan of this swap that puts you in paradise a mere 2.5 hour drive away from Hanoi and have crafted the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your time there.
Discovering Hoi An Beyond the Tourist Hotspots
Hoi An, Vietnam, is a city of undeniable charm, where lantern-lit streets and historic shophouses create a storybook atmosphere. The ancient town is a delight to explore, but its popularity means it can also be packed with crowds. I had the privilege of spending three months living in this charming city in 2022, so this guide goes beyond the busiest spots, helping you uncover Hoi An’s quieter corners, local flavors and hidden gems. From peaceful countryside escapes to vibrant markets and cultural experiences, discover how to enjoy a more well-rounded and authentic side of this beloved destination.
Discovering Hoi An Beyond the Tourist Hotspots
Hoi An, Vietnam, is a city of undeniable charm, where lantern-lit streets and historic shophouses create a storybook atmosphere. The ancient town is a delight to explore, but its popularity means it can also be packed with crowds. I had the privilege of spending three months living in this charming city in 2022, so this guide goes beyond the busiest spots, helping you uncover Hoi An’s quieter corners, local flavors and hidden gems. From peaceful countryside escapes to vibrant markets and cultural experiences, discover how to enjoy a more well-rounded and authentic side of this beloved destination.
Falling in Love with Chiang Mai: A Local's Guide
I’ve never met anyone who visited Chiang Mai and didn’t fall in love with it. The city offers a perfect blend of a relaxing pace and the conveniences of a big city. Here, bustling markets coexist with serene temples, and you can immerse yourself in nature within minutes. And let’s not forget the delicious street food on every corner, making every meal an adventure. Chiang Mai leaves a lasting impression from the moment you arrive. It enticed me to spend a winter freelancing here, followed by a permanent move to the city in 2024. This guide highlights some of Chiang Mai’s most wonderful gems.
Falling in Love with Chiang Mai: A Local's Guide
I’ve never met anyone who visited Chiang Mai and didn’t fall in love with it. The city offers a perfect blend of a relaxing pace and the conveniences of a big city. Here, bustling markets coexist with serene temples, and you can immerse yourself in nature within minutes. And let’s not forget the delicious street food on every corner, making every meal an adventure. Chiang Mai leaves a lasting impression from the moment you arrive. It enticed me to spend a winter freelancing here, followed by a permanent move to the city in 2024. This guide highlights some of Chiang Mai’s most wonderful gems.
A Complete Guide to Lijiang, China’s Mountain Gem
Lijiang was an unexpected highlight of a recent trip through China—one of those places that lingers in your memory long after you leave. The snow-dusted peaks, quiet canals, and rich Naxi culture made it feel both peaceful and deeply alive. A workshop on Naxi script, an unforgettable local market (seriously one of our favorites ever), and learning about the culture through its food added layers of meaning to our experience. With a little effort—and the right tips—it’s possible to look beyond the surface and connect with the true heart of this fascinating place.
A Complete Guide to Lijiang, China’s Mountain Gem
Lijiang was an unexpected highlight of a recent trip through China—one of those places that lingers in your memory long after you leave. The snow-dusted peaks, quiet canals, and rich Naxi culture made it feel both peaceful and deeply alive. A workshop on Naxi script, an unforgettable local market (seriously one of our favorites ever), and learning about the culture through its food added layers of meaning to our experience. With a little effort—and the right tips—it’s possible to look beyond the surface and connect with the true heart of this fascinating place.
Experience Mumbai like a Local
Having called Mumbai home for two incredible years, I’ve seen firsthand how this “City of Dreams” can capture your heart. From the majestic Gateway of India to the lively streets of Colaba and the hip hangouts in Bandra, Mumbai’s charm is undeniable. Whether you’re diving into its diverse food scene, admiring colonial architecture or feeling the pulse of Bollywood, this city promises an unforgettable adventure. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite spots that truly capture Mumbai’s spirit.
Experience Mumbai like a Local
Having called Mumbai home for two incredible years, I’ve seen firsthand how this “City of Dreams” can capture your heart. From the majestic Gateway of India to the lively streets of Colaba and the hip hangouts in Bandra, Mumbai’s charm is undeniable. Whether you’re diving into its diverse food scene, admiring colonial architecture or feeling the pulse of Bollywood, this city promises an unforgettable adventure. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite spots that truly capture Mumbai’s spirit.
Travel photos
