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by asianmapleleaf | Dec 3, 2017 | 0 comments

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About me

My name is Barry and I am an Asian-Canadian living in New York. I fell in love with traveling the first time I flew to Hong Kong when I was a kid, and since then I have been exploring new destinations each year. Read more…

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asianmapleleaf

Gay traveler, writer, host & creator
Quit 9-5 to travel the world w/ @teraj08 ❤️👨🏿‍🤝‍👨🏻🌎
Inspiring discovery through our love of travel ✈️

Happy Valentine’s Day, @teraj08! 💕👨🏿‍

Happy Valentine’s Day, @teraj08! 💕👨🏿‍🤝‍👨🏻👨🏿‍❤️‍👨🏻 Thank you for supporting my passion for travel and making my dream of an around-the-world trip come true. I still cannot believe WE made it happen!!! It was truly an epic journey, but made extra special because you were there with me, creating forever memories together. I cannot wait for our next adventure. Happy Valentine’s Day to my IG fam as well. ❤️❤️❤️ I am grateful for those who followed along with our travels and our journey together. I appreciate each and every one of you, and I wish you all the love, whether it’s self-love, couple love, or love for friends. #happyvalentinesday #valentines #love #loveislove #intergaycial #celebratelove #lovewins #couplegoals #gaylove #gaycouple #couples #lovestory #flytographer

I’m BACK! lol. Well, at least back to posting a

I’m BACK! lol. Well, at least back to posting about our trip after I took a brief break to fully savor our around-the-world adventure! ✈️ Last year, we ventured to the Maldives for the first time and indulged in an unforgettable floating breakfast in our infinity pool at our overwater villa overlooking the ocean. It had always been a dream of mine after seeing all the pictures on social media. If you were wondering, no, we did not actually eat it in the pool. Eww! We took it out and ate by the pool because ain’t nobody want pool water in our food. Haha 🤣 Our stay at the @jwmmaldives, booked through @marriottbonvoy points, was delightful. Tip: If you book 4 nights with Bonvoy points, you get the 5th night free. You also receive a bunch of welcome points from signing up for both the personal and business @americanexpress Bonvoy credit cards, along with free breakfast with status. #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #maldives #maldivesislands #maldivesresorts #jwmmaldives #traveltips #gaytravel #lgbtqtravel #gaycouple #gayasia #gaypride #intergaycial #gaylove

2023 has been life-changing for me, surpassing any

2023 has been life-changing for me, surpassing anything I could have imagined. I left my finance job after over 20 years in the industry, packed my bags, and traveled to over 30 countries. I’m immensely grateful for this opportunity and for @teraj08, who supported my travel dreams. ❤️ Throughout the year, numerous special moments occurred, making it challenging to select just one per month. However, here are a few I randomly picked:
▪️Jan: New York, right after New Year’s
▪️Feb: Thailand with @oneikaraymond
▪️Mar: Quality family time
▪️Apr: Wore rainbow wigs for GPL Wigstock
▪️May: Celebrated my parents’ 50th anniversary
▪️Jun: Loved in Capital Pride in DC @visitwashingtondc
▪️Jul: Explored Iceland
▪️Aug: Visited Amsterdam
▪️Sep: Experienced Petra
▪️Oct: Hong Kong with @d3nniskong and @ddivineblackk
▪️Nov: Enjoyed a private island in Indonesia
▪️Dec: Witnessed Iguazu Falls I’m also truly grateful to all of you who followed our journey. Xoxo. Happy new year! 🎉🙌🥂 #2023 #yearinreview #happynewyear #traveltheworld #quitmyjobtotravel #firemovement #inspirational #gaytravel #gaycouplegoals #machupicchu #machupicchuperu #dreamscometrue #travelaroundtheworld

Have you heard of Sarawak in Malaysia? It’s on t

Have you heard of Sarawak in Malaysia? It’s on the island of Borneo, the world’s 3rd largest island, shared with Brunei and Indonesia. It’s a place you can add to your bucket list in Asia. ❤️ In the heart of Sarawak in Kuching, our stay at Cove 55 was the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. Amid serene moments at the resort, we embarked on exhilarating excursions, from meeting orangutans to exploring the Malaysian countryside on bikes—we had the best time! 🌿🚴‍♂️🐵 It was honestly a great break from bustling city visits. Also, it doesn’t hurt that the food here is delicious and inexpensive, haha! 🤤 📍Sarawak Malaysia staying at @cove55 #barryandteraj✈️🌎 #malaysia #sarawak #kuching #sarawaktravel #cove55 #malaysiatravel #gaytravel #lgbtq #travelblogger #travelreels #beautifuldestination #travelideas

One year ago today, atop the Top of the Rock in NY

One year ago today, atop the Top of the Rock in NYC, we said ‘Yes’ to forever. It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since our engagement, and in just 365 days, so much has changed in our lives— from me quitting my job to our travels around the world together. Amidst all this change, one constant remains: our unwavering love for each other and our mutual passion for discovering new places. One such place is Cempedak Island (@cempedakisland) - a secluded private island adorned with stunning bamboo villas, exuding romance and offering the perfect sanctuary for us. Our time there felt like a dream as it often seemed we were the only souls on the island. From snorkeling to archery to hiking around the island, those moments allowed us to truly reconnect. Words cannot express my gratitude for you and this year of shared adventures, with the promise of countless more ahead. Here’s to us and the incredible journey awaiting us! 💖💍 #cempedakisland #privateisland #cempedakislandresort #anniversary #engagementanniversary #oneyearanniversary #gaylove #loveislove #gaytravel #OneYearOfLove #celebratelove

Totally late with posting, but Happy Pride, Taiwan

Totally late with posting, but Happy Pride, Taiwan! 🌈❤️ Congratulations on hosting another successful Pride march, and thank you for being the rainbow bastion of hope for the LGBTQ+ community in Asia. We were in Taipei (as part of our around-the-world trip) just before Pride, and we could feel the excitement of the city in anticipation of Pride. It was also heartwarming to see my Asian community being proud of who they are and embracing love. It was a beautiful sight seeing so many allies taking pictures with the rainbow crossing. ❤️ #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #taiwanpride #taiwan #gaytaiwan #taipeipride #taipei #gaytaipei #pride
#gaytravel #lgbtqtravel #gaycouple #discovertaiwan #gayasia #gaypride #intergaycial

Oops, I ate too much while in Japan! Especially in

Oops, I ate too much while in Japan! Especially in Osaka, also known as the kitchen of Japan because of all the amazing food you can find. From Okonomiyaki 🥞to sushi 🍣 to Yakiniku (Japanese grill) 🍢 to strawberry mochi 🍓to melonpan with matcha ice cream, we had it all. I cannot wait to go back and do it again. No regrets. 📍Osaka #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #discoverosaka #osaka #osakajapan #osakatravel #japan #osakafood #foodie #japanfood #okonomiyaki #yakiniku #melonpan #strawberrymochi #sushilovers #oopsididitagain #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple

Design that defines luxury with views of the Osaka

Design that defines luxury with views of the Osaka skyline that stole our hearts. Our stay at the Conrad Osaka was an unforgettable experience that made Osaka and our trip to Japan even more memorable. @teraj08 and I really had such a great time exploring and eating our way around the city! 📍 @conradosaka #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #conradosaka #discoverosaka #osaka #osakajapan #osakatravel #japan
#conradhotels #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple #gaykisses

As we continued on our around-the-world adventures

As we continued on our around-the-world adventures, we were fortunate enough to journey through the beautiful city of Kyoto and stay at the Roku Kyoto, where it was like a Japanese fairytale come to life. Here are a few moments we captured during our short time there:
1-5) Our own piece of paradise at Roku Kyoto; our favorite part was the view from our room and the minimalistic design of the hotel that honestly brings out the zen in me ❤️. They also have the Kyoto’s only outdoor natural onsen pool drawing hot spring water from the nearby resort.
6) Kinkaku-ji (the golden pavilion) is only a short walk from the hotel.
7) Yasaka Shrine lit up at night with many beautiful lanterns 🏮.
8) Kennin-ji Temple - the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto; the double dragon painting commemorates the 800-year anniversary of the temple.
9) Pontocho is a narrow alley lined with restaurants and bars where you may spot some geisha.
10) Macho Bar is a bar we stumbled across, thinking it was a gay bar, but instead, it’s a macho bar with macho men making macho drinks. No complaints. Lol 💪 Like and save if you are planning a trip to Kyoto. ❤️ #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #rokukyoto #hiltonhotel #kyoto #japan #kyotojapan #kinkakujitemple #yasakashrine #machoman #travelinspiration #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple #traveltips #gaylove #gaykiss #worldtraveler #Wanderlust #visitjapan #visitkyoto

In the heart of Tokyo, we found our own slice of h

In the heart of Tokyo, we found our own slice of heaven at the @conrad_tokyo 🌃✨ Unbelievable views, unforgettable memories, and inspiring love – all in one unforgettable anniversary month celebration. Exploring Tokyo’s vibrant energy and culture, while coming home to luxury was truly a dream. 👨🏿‍🤝‍👨🏻❤️ #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #ConradTokyo #AnniversaryLove
#anniversarymonth #gaycouple #tokyo #japan #travelinspiration #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple #traveltips #gaylove #aroundtheworld #worldtraveler #Wanderlust #visitjapan #visittokyo

Go to Kruger, they said. It’s beautiful, they sa

Go to Kruger, they said. It’s beautiful, they said… We clearly went at the wrong time! #barryandteraj✈️🌎 #instagramreality #safari #krugernationalpark #krugersafari #reality #visitsouthafrica #southafrica #funnystory #couplestravelgoals #instagramvsreality

Week 13 on our global escapade brings us to Cape T

Week 13 on our global escapade brings us to Cape Town! The Radisson Blu Waterfront, our home away from home, served as our launchpad for memorable experiences. We hiked Lion’s Head for the best views of Table Mountain and the city, visited the cutest African penguins, and explored the many shops and restaurants by the Waterfront. This chapter of our journey was filled with wonder and joy. 🌍🏨🏞🐧🍽️ 🏨 - @radissonblu_waterfront
🥾- Lion’s Head
🐧- Boulder’s Beach
🎡 - V&A Waterfront Save and share if you have Cape Town on your #bucketlist! @radissonblu @radissonhotels #barryandteraj✈️🌎 #capetown #visitcapetown #southafrica #visitsouthafrica #travelblogger #traveltips #capetownsouthafrica #tablemountain #boulderbeach #penguins #africanpenguin

Unbelievable encounter in the heart of the Serenge

Unbelievable encounter in the heart of the Serengeti! 🌿🐆 This curious cheetah turned our safari into a wild rooftop adventure! Can you imagine having this majestic feline as a rooftop guest? 😱🚗 #barryandteraj✈️🌎 #Serengeti #cheetah #serengetinationalpark #tanzania #safari #wildcats #tanzania🇹🇿 #catsofinstagram #cats #gamedrive #wildanimals #tanzaniasafari

A few weeks ago (week 11), Teraj and I visited Rwa

A few weeks ago (week 11), Teraj and I visited Rwanda and embarked on an incredible journey through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of the endangered Silverback gorillas. 🦍🌿 Here’s what you need to know. You must obtain a gorilla permit that costs $1,500 USD in Rwanda to see these magnificent creatures. This permit includes trackers and guides, and it also contributes to the conservation of gorillas. Currently, only 96 permits are issued per day, so booking in advance is essential. You arrive early at the park to meet your group (maximum 8 participants) for a briefing, and then you begin your hike into the park in search of the gorilla family you’ve been assigned to. The hike’s duration can vary, ranging from 30 minutes to 4 hours. Once you find the gorilla family, you get to spend a precious 1 hour with them before heading back out of the park, filled with unforgettable stories and memories. Wow! Rwanda, with its incredible wildlife, truly captured our hearts. 🇷🇼💚
#BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #rwanda #rwanda🇷🇼 #gorillatrekking #gorillas #silverbackgorilla #visitrwanda #traveltips #africa #mountaingorilla #travelideas #volcanoesnationalpark

Jordan: A Bucket List Dream Realized on Our World

Jordan: A Bucket List Dream Realized on Our World Tour 🌍✨ From ancient marvels to rich culture, this destination exceeded our wildest dreams. Big thanks to @IntrepidTravel for being our guide! 🙌 Save and share if you have Jordan on your #bucketlist #IntrepidTravel #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #visitjordan #jordan #petra #petrajordan #deadsea #wadirum #travelinspiration #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple #traveltips #gaylove #aroundtheworld #worldtraveler #Wanderlust #bucketlistadventures

Week 10: Jordan - A Bucket List Adventure Fulfille

Week 10: Jordan - A Bucket List Adventure Fulfilled 🌍✨ Exploring ancient wonders, savoring local flavors, and diving into the vibrant culture of Jordan! Thanks to @IntrepidTravel for guiding us on this unforgettable journey.
1. Enjoying the view in Petra with an incredible view of The Treasury, one of the many rock-cut tombs
2. The magical approach through the narrow canyon or Al Siq
3. Kisses at lesser known, but equally as impressive, Monastery
4. Embracing the moment in one of the many caves in Petra
5. Exploring the ancient Crusader castle at Shobak
6. Rejuvenating mud mask at the Dead Sea
7. Getting our rainbow travel engagement rings at a local store that also donates back to the community
8. All smiles at Wadi Rum
9. Enjoying the beautiful sunset at Wadi Rum
10. Cheers to the best travel group and #IntrepidTravel tour leader ❤️ Save and share if you have Jordan on your #bucketlist! #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #jordan #visitjordan #petrajordan #petra #deadsea #wadirum #travelinspiration #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple #traveltips #gaylove #aroundtheworld #worldtraveler #Wanderlust

From the charm of Paris to the opulence of Dubai -

From the charm of Paris to the opulence of Dubai - Week 9 had it all! Here are some highlights and random thoughts from the week: 1. 😘❤️ @teraj08 - Eiffel Tower
2. "Oui to carbs" - Paris (thanks @flytographer for capturing this moment)
3. "Another perfect day" - view from the "2nd" floor of the Eiffel Tower
4. "Mirror mirror on the wall" - Hall of Mirrors at Versailles
5. "I see dead people" - Paris Catacombs
6. "Damn, that's tall" - Dubai Burj Khalifa
7. "Damn, that's a big water fountain show" - Dubai Fountain
8. "I am melting, and the water is like a hot tub" - JBR beach
9. "Looking at the bigger picture" - Dubai Frame
10. "A taste of home 🇨🇦" - Tim Hortons Dubai We are traveling for 200 days so follow along for more adventures! #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #paris #france #eiffeltower #eiffel #parisianlife #catacombs #instaparis #dubai #burjkhalifa #dubaiframe #timhortons #travelinspiration #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple #gaykisses #intergaycial #gaysian #gaylove #aroundtheworld #worldtraveler #flytographer

Loving our Parisian fantasy in the City of Love! ❤️Finally experiencing one of Teraj’s favorite cities for the first time, and it has exceeded all my expectations. From the sparkling Eiffel Tower to the charming streets and cozy cafes, this trip is extra special to me as it symbolizes our recent engagement and the celebration of our love. Thanks to @flytographer and the talented Olga, we effortlessly captured our love story in this romantic city. Olga, a professional photographer who knows all the best spots, made our experience unforgettable, especially in the bustling Parisian streets where a tripod was out of the question. 📷✨ Book with BARRYTERAJ50 for a $50 discount!! #flytographer #barryandteraj✈️🌎 #paris #parisfrance #eiffeltower #eiffel #cityoflove #lovestory #parisphotography #lgbtqtravelers #intergaycial #travelcouple

From Budapest’s charm to Parisian romance - Week

From Budapest’s charm to Parisian romance - Week 8 was a whirlwind of culture and exploration. 🌍🗺️✈️ #AroundTheWorldAdventures. Here’s a photo dump of some of this week’s adventures: 1) Discovering Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest - crowded, but you can get the same view in the cafe underneath
2) Taking a dip one of Budapest’s many thermal baths
3-4) Unexpectedly wowed by St. Stephen’s Day fireworks - one of the best I’ve seen
5) Dealing with the reality of 7 months of travel - laundry day at it’s finest
6) Bonjour at the Arc de Triomphe, our first stop in our Parisian adventure
7-8) Oui Oui to art at the Louvre and the stunning glass pyramid entrance
9) Saying hello to Mona for the first time. Love her smirk
10) Savouring my first Parisian crepe. La perfection! This is just the start of our Paris escapades - follow along for more! #BarryAndTeraj✈️🌎 #Budapest #paris #france #arcdetriomphe #parismonamour #parisianlife #instaparis #lourvre #louvrepyramid #monalisa #travelinspiration #gaytravel #lgbtq #gaycouple #traveltips #gaylove #aroundtheworld #worldtraveler

If you’ve been following along with our adventur

If you’ve been following along with our adventures so far, you know I quit my 9-to-5 corporate job to travel the world with @teraj08 . I figured life was too short to ignore my passion, so we packed up our NYC apartment and embarked on a 7-month around-the-world adventure. We are about 2 months in, and I couldn’t be happier we took the leap towards a life less ordinary. We’re capturing all the moments and making everlasting memories together. And you know what? Life starts now… I hope you are inspired to pursue your dreams. Save+Share+Follow along our journey of discovery. Also, let me know if you want to learn more about how I saved to retire early and how I planned this trip! Xoxo. #barryandteraj✈️🌎 #chasingdreams #livinglife #adventureawaits #earlyretirement #aroundtheworld #worldtraveler #motivation #pursueyourpassion #gaytravel #gaycouple #9tothrive #travelblogger #outtraveler

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