Wander Wonder Wonton

28/07/2025

One of the best parts of Taipei? The food. I had no idea where to go or what I was ordering most of the time... and that’s kind of what made it so fun!

From local breakfast joints with mystery buns to night markets packed with dumplings, pineapple buns (that aren’t pineapple), and the best XLB at Din Tai Fung… I was very happy, very full, and somehow didn’t get sick once.

All the tasty bits are in the blog:

A food-lover’s guide to Taipei: street eats, noodle bowls, night markets, and dumplings worth travelling for.

27/07/2025

Taipei surprised me in all the best ways. Clean, bustling, chaotic in the good kind of way - and a whole lot of walking, eating, and getting lost (on purpose).

I’ve written up my take on the city – how to get around, what to expect, a few things I did (spoiler: Elephant Hill at sunset is worth the sweat), and why you absolutely need a portable charger.

If you’re heading to Taiwan soon or just love reading travel rambles, you can read the blog here: https://www.wanderwonderwonton.com/2025/07/18/taipei-city-travel-guide/

14/07/2025

Poolside cocktails, sunshine, and a proper resort experience - Elements Byron Bay delivered.

We booked a winter getaway deal and lucked out with perfect weather. From the moment we arrived, it felt like a proper resort retreat, which is surprisingly hard to find near Brisbane.

The adults-only pool was the highlight- Greek food, a swim-up bar, and cocktails that weren’t just sugar bombs (yes, I tried five, and yes, they were all excellent). The vibe? Sun loungers, cabanas, and total relaxation.

A few takeaways:
✔ The pool is where you want to be - cocktails + sunshine = happiness
✔ Dinner at the resort was disorganised—no main menu, no bar menu, just pizza (why?)
✔ Getting back from Byron at night was a mission—Ubers were impossible to get
✔ Spotted a huge snake outside the villa - classic Byron moment, and no one cared

Would I go back? Absolutely. Just bring some snacks and plan ahead for nights out.

Full blog here:

You immediately get that holiday feeling upon arrival. The resort features individual villas, which lend a sense of privacy and space...

06/06/2025

Okinawan Turquoise - no filter required ♥️
Just look at that water!! Absolutely stunning ☀️

01/04/2025

Uluwatu is a must-visit if you're heading to Bali. From world-class beaches and incredible surf to iconic beach clubs and hidden food gems, this place has it all. If you’re planning a trip, here’s your go-to itinerary:

🏖 Padang Padang Beach – White sand, clear water, and legendary surf breaks.
🍹 El Kabron – Book a VIP table and party into the night with live music.
🍴 Mason & Tabu Supper Club – Next-level dining with top-quality ingredients.
🌅 Ulu Clifftops & Single Fin – Sunset drinks, panoramic views, and the best surf-watching spots.
🛵 Cruising Uluwatu on scooters – The best way to explore.

Save this list and steal the itinerary for your next Bali adventure.

Discover the ultimate Uluwatu itinerary! Explore the stunning cliffside views, vibrant nightlife, world-class beaches, and top dining spots.

28/03/2025

If a place is busy every time you walk past, you know it’s going to be good!

On my last day in Brunswick Heads, I finally stopped by Yami for a casual, light lunch before the drive home—and it did not disappoint. The falafel was crispy outside, soft inside, and packed with flavour, served with fluffy pita, fresh salad, hummus, tahini, and the perfect pickles to break it all up. I went for chilli on the side, which was a great call.

Yami is laid-back, no-fuss, and always packed for a reason. If you’re in Brunswick Heads, add it to your list.

Yami is a must-visit in Brunswick Heads. From crispy falafel to fresh pita and vibrant salads, this casual eatery is loved...

08/03/2025

It was a hike to the top, but worth it for these views ⛰️
Cyclone Alfred has me vacay dreaming.. where to next?!

08/03/2025

🇮🇹 A slice of Amalfi in Brisbane! 🇮🇹 We visited Settimo Brisbane for a leisurely lunch, and for just $45pp, the Amalfi Pronto Lunch Menu served up:
▪️Fresh Caprese with heirloom tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella (those green tomatoes are unforgettable!)
▪️Pizza Fritta with provolone and spinach – so crispy and delicious
▪️ Spaghetti alla Nerano – buttery, garlicky, and full of Amalfi flavors
▪️And more!
Paired with a refreshing Settimo Spritz, it was the perfect way to escape to Italy without leaving the city.

🍝 Full blog here:

Discover Settimo Brisbane, Guy Grossi's Italian gem. Savour the Amalfi Pronto Lunch with authentic flavours in a vibrant CBD setting.

09/02/2025

I finally visited Central Restaurant, from the creators of the infamous GC Rick Shores - given that they serve dumplings, and I'm a big bug roll fan (IYKYK), this spot has been on my list since its doors opened.
They deliver creative flavors and a vibe that’s as cool as it is industrial. Think low lighting, pumping music, and incredible dishes like:
▪️ Shandong Crispy Skin Chicken (vinegar lovers, this one’s for you!) - my pick from the menu
▪️ BBQ Pork Puff with fluffy pastry and Manuka honey
▪️ Classic Prawn Har Gow with bamboo and caviar

The service? Excellent. Even when my wine glass broke (it wasn't me, I swear!), they swooped in and handled it like pros.

If you’re in Brisbane, don’t sleep on this spot.

Discover Central Restaurant in Brisbane for bold flavours, creative dishes, and a cool industrial vibe for an unforgettable night out.

29/01/2025

If you’re after waterfront views and a relaxed vibe, Fosh Portside in Hamilton is a must-visit. I recently dined there for both dinner and lunch, and here’s what stood out:

✨ Oysters from Tasmania – Creamy, plump, and just perfect with a glass of rosé.
✨ John Dory Fillet – Cooked to perfection with a dreamy lemon, caper butter sauce.
✨ Soft Brioche – Steaming hot, sesame-topped, and paired with cultured butter. Trust me, order this. Apologies to your waistlines
✨ Kingfish with Ponzu – Fresh, delicate, and full of flavor. There's never enough.

While the food is slightly on the pricier side, the atmosphere, service (special shoutout to Dan, the hilarious maître d’), and stunning location make it all worth it.

It’s the ideal spot for a long lunch with oysters and cocktails or a relaxed dinner by the water.

Enjoy waterfront views and relaxed dining at Fosh Restaurant Brisbane. Perfect for a long lunch with rosé, oysters, and great service.

24/01/2025

Looking for the ultimate escape in Brisbane? I recently stayed at The Calile Hotel, and it’s safe to say this place lives up to the hype (and its title as the best hotel in Australia and Oceania!).

If you’re planning your next getaway, book in – you won’t regret it. Oh, and don’t forget to join Friends of The Calile for all the perks!

Ready to treat yourself? Check out my full experience here:

Voted Australia and Oceania’s best hotel, The Calile on James Street is Brisbane’s top staycation spot. Here is why I love staying...

13/01/2025

🍽️ I recently visited Koji Restaurant in Wellington NZ, and it did not disappoint! Combining Japanese and Southeast Asian flavors, Koji serves up creative, bold dishes like venison pie with star anise and kaffir lime and the yellow curry donut (yes, it works!).

The vibe? Chic and low-lit, perfect for a relaxed evening with a touch of sophistication.

Read about my experience and the standout dishes here:

Discover Koji Restaurant in Wellington, where Japanese and Southeast Asian flavours collide in an innovative, flavour-packed menu.