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Julia D'Orazio

Julia D'Orazio

Travel writer

Perth-based writer Julia D'Orazio changed her degree to tourism after her first backpacking trip. She has lived in Estonia, England and France, travelled to more than 70 countries and contributed to international travel books.

The dormitory-style beds on board the Vireak Buntham Express.

Forget sleeper trains – I took a sleeper bus in Asia for just $24

A lot has changed since I last took an overnight bus in South-East Asia just over a decade ago.

  • Julia D'Orazio
Le Bokor Palace was restored to its former glory and reopened as a luxury hotel in 2018, but still feels unsettling.

The eerie Asian ghost town once a holiday spot for the elite

Abandoned French colonial ruins, a former king’s residence, empty townhouses and a hilltop palace-turned-hotel. Bokor is an unsettling destination.

  • Julia D'Orazio
Bus 142, better known as the “Magic Bus” or “Into the Wild” bus.

This infamous bus had a grisly history. Then tourists made things worse

A shocking death caused this remote, abandoned bus to become a tourist attraction, until the tourists also started getting into trouble.

  • Julia D'Orazio
Historic Linden Hotel in Old Town Fort Collins.

Disneyland in real life: The gorgeous town that inspired the theme park

Cinderella Castle took cues from Germany’s Neuschwanstein. But when it came to the blueprint for Main Street, Disney found a muse closer to home.

  • Julia D'Orazio
America played a large role in Exmouth becoming what it is today.

The remote Australian town built by America

It started off as a slice of American pie in the outback, but has now become a tourist destination better known for its famous reef.

  • Julia D'Orazio
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The entertainment system is clunky to use.

This airline’s economy class gives you a taste of business for $25

You win some, you lose some. I got a business class meal but my “window” seat has no window.

  • Julia D'Orazio
Chefchaouen, in the Rif Mountains, is known for its blue-washed buildings.

Eighteen things that will surprise first-time visitors to Morocco

From a unique take on tacos to a mysterious blue city, Morocco is a sensory overload in the best way. Here are 18 of its most surprising highlights.

  • Julia D'Orazio
On board for a taste bud bonanza… Hong long’s dim sum bus.

Want the best dumplings but short on time? Board Hong Kong’s dim sum bus

Soon after departure, I receive my version of a Happy Meal: a dim sum set by Michelin-rated casual eatery One Dim Sum.

  • Julia D'Orazio
Currywurst? More like currybest.

Forget fine dining. When I’m overseas, I want the local fast food

It may not look appealing at first glance, but the fast food of other nations is usually popular for good reason.

  • Julia D'Orazio
The Old Rectory, Witchery, Edinburgh.

This Edinburgh hotel is fit for a royal

Cast yourself in a period drama with a boutique hotel stay straight out of a royal romance.

  • Julia D'Orazio

Original URL: https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/by/julia-d-orazio-p536u7