Discover the vibrant city of Hanoi, Vietnam, where ancient pagodas meet bustling markets. Explore landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the Temple of Literature. Enjoy the rich history, street food delights, and lively cultural scene.
Our travel story began with romantic getaways, grew into family adventures with kids, friends, and relatives, and has now come full circle — back to just the two of us, exploring the world together.
With our children grown and off on their own journeys, we’ve entered a new chapter. Rae retired in 2020 and launched Suitcase Escapes to share our passion for travel. John’s still working full-time (for now!), but retirement is just around the corner — and with it, even more time to hit the road together.
We’re not full-time nomads, and we haven’t sold everything to travel the world — but we’ve built a lifestyle that lets us explore often, comfortably, and on our own terms.
When we’re not out discovering new places, we’re deep in research mode — reading blogs, watching vlogs, and planning our next escape. We love mixing culture, cuisine, and adventure with a splash of wellness and the occasional indulgence. Think: Thai foot massages after a long hike, 13km of white-water rafting in Bali, or sharing shisha and street food with locals down a hidden alley.
We’re fiercely independent travellers who love crafting our own itineraries, finding free self-guided gems, and occasionally joining small group tours for a social twist. John’s all about road trips and scenic drives, while Rae’s the one spotting photo ops and roadside treasures.
We believe in balance — between luxury and simplicity, adventure and relaxation, giving back and treating ourselves. From hiking national parks to supporting ethnic communities like the Hmong in Sapa, Vietnam, we travel with open hearts and curious minds.
