Louise Southerden

Louise Southerden

Louise Southerden is a freelance travel writer from Sydney, now based in northern NSW, who never dreamed of travelling the world and writing about it. A three-month trip across Africa in the back of an overland truck 25 years ago changed that and she has since won several awards, including the Australian Society of Travel Writers' Travel Writer of the Year award - four times. Louise specialises in nature-based experiences and is passionate about simple, sustainable travel.

OMO5 has walking tours for its guests – with a twist.

Sparkling sake and yoghurt liqueur at this quirky Japanese design hotel

A hostel vibe within a sophisticated design hotel is Japanese cool at its best.

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The bubble-sided Prada "Epicentre" designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron.

Cutting-edge Tokyo's most impressive buildings

Tokyo's skyline might be forever changing, but the impermanent designs tend to stay with you.

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Road trip around Japan's southern 'onsen island'

The cutest van, onsen everywhere and amenities set up for holidaymakers on wheels, make this an unmissable experience.

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Tiny houses: Discover simple living during a stay in a tiny house in a rugged beauty spot

Cabin fever is suddenly very cool.

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Cathay's great service begins even before you board the plane.

Flight test: An enhanced experience in one of the world's best economy cabins

With its excellent service, spacious cabins, slightly wider seats and low aircraft noise.

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In December, the world's first single-use plastic-free flights flew across the Atlantic between Lisbon and Natal in Brazil.

How airlines are making your flight eco-friendly

With more of us flying than ever before, airlines are finding new ways to help the planet.

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The nine things you must do in Fukuoka, Japan

Ancient shrines, tranquil gardens and outstanding ramen are just some of the reasons to visit.

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The t-Lounge by Dilmah in Colombo is an inviting space with comfy leather chairs as well as bar seating.

Six of the best cafes in Colombo, Sri Lanka

So much superb tea, so little time, alongside hip decor, top-drawer coffee and tempting treats.

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The limestone islands of Raja Ampat in West Papua.

Avoid overtouristed destinations and visit these 10 unsung hotspots instead

Sidestep overtourism by visiting these 10 countries that are welcoming tourists with open arms.

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Ichiran Ramen chain in Fukuoka at Hakata railway station.

Three ways to eat Japan's favourite noodle

Whether on a plastic stool in the street or a "flavour concentration" booth for one, eating ramen is a serious business in Fukuoka.

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Japan's largest Buddhist rock carvings, near Kumano Shrine.

Hike Japan's 'very forgotten place'

A 10-day hike through mountainous forest trails beloved of monks, allows visitor to experience the traditional lifestyle of rural Japan.

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Exhibitions on display at The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.

Grimly fascinating: Japan's atomic bomb museum

This museum in a city devastated by a 1945 atomic bomb doesn't shy away from the awful truth.

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Airline review: Dragon airline like stepping aboard the Starship Enterprise

Sometimes airlines skimp on the service on short flights. Not Cathay.

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Book And Bed hostel's are based around the idea that "the finest moment of sleep" is when you doze off while reading.

This hostel is the ultimate accommodation for book lovers

This quirky designer hostel adds new meaning to "booking" a room.

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The palace of Presidential Secretariat Office on Galle Main Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Three-minute guide to Colombo, Sri Lanka

With unrest well behind it, Sri Lanka's capital is refurbishing magnificent colonial buildings, erecting hotels with ocean views and adding to its already lively cafe and dining scene.