Best Travel Shirt for Hot Climates: Columbia Omni-Shade Review

Columbia Travel Shirt: Sun Protection for Tropical Adventures

For travelers who value performance, style, and practicality, the Columbia travel shirt stands out as a top-tier choice. In my latest video, I explore the features that make this shirt a reliable companion for frequent travel. Watch the full review here: Columbia Travel Shirt Review on YouTube.

Designed with Columbia’s Omni-Shade™ UPF sun protection, this shirt is particularly well-suited for destinations with strong sun exposure, such as the Maldives, Thailand, and other tropical regions. The fabric blocks harmful UV rays, offering an extra layer of protection without the need for constant sunscreen reapplication.

In addition to sun safety, the shirt features Omni-Wick™ moisture control, which helps regulate body temperature and keeps the wearer dry in humid conditions. Its quick-dry capability makes it ideal for travelers who prefer to pack light and wash on the go—perfect for multi-day trips or minimalist packing strategies.

Its functionality is further enhanced by hidden pockets, roll-up sleeves, and a lightweight, breathable design. These elements make the shirt adaptable for a range of activities, from urban exploration to outdoor excursions. It transitions easily from daywear to evening attire, maintaining a polished look without sacrificing comfort.

The Columbia travel shirt is not just about convenience—it’s about smart travel. Investing in gear that performs across climates and situations allows for smoother, more efficient travel experiences. This shirt exemplifies that philosophy.

For those planning trips to sun-drenched destinations or simply looking to upgrade their travel wardrobe, this shirt offers a compelling blend of protection, performance, and style.

7 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Malaysia

Malaysia Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Malaysia? This vibrant Southeast Asian destination offers a mix of culture, nature, and cuisine. To make your journey smooth, here are seven essential travel tips every visitor should know.

1. Complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

All foreign travelers must fill out a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days of their arrival. This mandatory form helps speed up immigration processing. Submit it at the MDAC Portal. Each traveler, including children, must complete a separate form.

2. Visa Requirements for Malaysia

Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days. If your country requires a visa, you can apply online for a Malaysian e-visa. Always check the latest visa rules before traveling.

3. Best Time to Visit Malaysia

Malaysia is split into two regions: Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak), separated by the South China Sea.

Peninsular (West Coast): Best from November to March

East Coast & Borneo: Best from April to September

This helps you avoid rainy monsoon seasons and enjoy better weather for sightseeing and island hopping.

4. Currency and Payments

The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is essential for rural areas, street food stalls, and local markets.

5. Language and Communication

Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. You’ll have no trouble communicating, but learning a few local phrases can make your experience more engaging.

6. Malaysian Food and Hygiene

Malaysia is a food paradise. Try local dishes like nasi lemak, satay, and char kway teow. Street food is generally safe—choose busy stalls with high turnover for guaranteed freshness.

7. Cultural Etiquette

Malaysia is multicultural and predominantly Muslim. It is recommended to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering homes or temples and be respectful during Ramadan.

Final Thoughts

Malaysia offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural richness. With these tips, you’ll be well prepared to enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer.

Your Travel eSIMs Found Routing Data Through China (Holafly)

  Your Travel eSIMs Found Routing Data Through China (Holafly)

Security Alert: Travel eSIMs Secretly Use Foreign Networks

When I came across this news, I was telling myself, “Oh no, not my eSIM!” A recent study has uncovered alarming privacy and security risks associated with travel eSIMs, revealing that many providers route user data through foreign telecommunications networks — including Chinese infrastructure — without informing customers. Conducted by researchers from Northeastern University and presented at the USENIX Security Symposium, the investigation analyzed eSIM profiles from 25 providers such as Holafly, Airalo, and eSIM Access.

The researchers found that in most cases, the public IP address assigned to a device did not match its physical location. Instead, traffic was routed through third-party countries. One notable example involved Ireland-based Holafly, whose eSIM service routed connections through China Mobile’s network. In that test case, the device received an IP address allocated to China Mobile International Limited in Hong Kong, making it appear as though the device was physically located in China. Disabling GPS on the test device further reinforced this illusion.

This unexpected routing allowed access to region-restricted content, such as ViuTV, without the use of a VPN. The study also highlighted how easy it is to become an eSIM reseller, with platforms requiring only an email and payment method. Resellers gain access to sensitive user data, including IMSI numbers and location information accurate to within 800 meters.

Imagine if you are using Holafly eSIM, someone can access your data and track you anywhere in the world as close as 800 meters in accuracy. The eSIM I usually use are Airalo and Saily. Although they are doing the same thing, but in not China. I am on some level comfortable sending my data to other countries (if I have no choice), but sending my info to CHINA is a big NO for me.

The researchers are calling for greater transparency and regulatory oversight to ensure users are informed about how their data is handled. They propose mandatory disclosure of routing practices and clearer accountability among network operators, resellers, and wholesale providers.

This study raises serious questions about the safety of using travel eSIMs and underscores the need for stronger consumer protections in the rapidly-evolving mobile connectivity landscape.

Sinking Island Country Tuvalu’s Future Floats to Australia

Tuvalu’s Climate Exodus: Australia Opens Doors to a Sinking Nation

Since I was a kid, I have dreamt of a not-so-known tiny island nation in the South Pacific. Then I found out that this country is facing extinction from climate change and will sink one day. This worried me and I’ve been keeping an eye on the news occasionally. Here I’ll talk about the latest developments, which raise hope for the residents of this nation. Thanks to Australia!

Why Tuvalu Is at Risk: The Falepili Union Agreement

In a historic and compassionate move, Australia has agreed to accept the entire population of Tuvalu, a Pacific island nation facing existential threats from rising sea levels. Tuvalu, with an average elevation of less than two meters above sea level, is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. Scientists warn that the island could become uninhabitable within the next 80 years, with two of its nine coral atolls already nearly submerged.

The Falepili Union Agreement: What This Means for Tuvaluans

Under the Falepili Union, signed in 2024, Australia committed to offering 280 climate visas annually to Tuvaluan citizens. This agreement is the first of its kind globally, providing a dignified pathway for climate-induced migration. The program has seen overwhelming interest—over 80% of Tuvalu’s population, approximately 8,750 people, have applied for relocation.

The visa allows Tuvaluans to live, study, and work in Australia, offering not just refuge but opportunity. It also includes a legal commitment from Australia to defend Tuvalu in the event of natural disasters, health crises, or military threats. This pact ensures that Tuvalu’s sovereignty and statehood will be recognized even if its land disappears beneath the waves.

A Model for Future Climate Migration?

While hailed as a landmark in climate justice, the program also raises concerns about the long-term impact on Tuvalu’s workforce and cultural heritage. Experts warn that a mass exodus could drain the island of skilled professionals and young talent.

Nevertheless, the Falepili Union stands as a powerful example of international solidarity in the face of climate change. It offers hope not only to Tuvaluans but to other nations facing similar threats, setting a precedent for future climate migration policies.

How To Use AI To Created Perfect Malaysia Itinerary

How AI Created My Entire Malaysia Itinerary: A Travel-Planning Experience with Google Gemini

Planning a multi-city trip across Malaysia can be a challenge, but I decided to let Google Gemini take the lead—and it turned out to be one of the smartest travel decisions I’ve ever made.

I started by asking Gemini a simple question: “What are the best things to see in Kuala Lumpur and Penang?”. It responded with a curated list of top attractions, from the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves in KL to George Town’s street art and Penang Hill. But the real magic began when I started customizing the list. I added places that matched my interests and removed others that didn’t appeal to me. Gemini adapted instantly, refining the suggestions with each conversation.

Once I had my must-see spots, Gemini built a day-by-day itinerary. I asked it to break each day into morning, afternoon, and evening segments, which made the schedule feel more manageable and realistic. It even matched activities based on where I was staying, pulling location data to ensure I wasn’t crisscrossing the city unnecessarily.

One of its most helpful features was Gemini’s ability to estimate travel times and directions. From my arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, it mapped out how long it would take to reach my hotel, and how to get to each attraction—whether by train, Grab, or walking.

My itinerary includes 2 days in KL, followed by a trip to Penang for 3 days, and then 3 more days back in KL before flying to Malé in the Maldives. Every leg of the journey was planned with Gemini’s help, making sure I had time to explore, relax, and travel efficiently.

I plan to share this itinerary on my YouTube channel during the trip, showing how AI can transform travel planning into a personalized, stress-free experience. If you're planning a trip and want a smart assistant that listens and adapts, Gemini is worth trying.

💡 Tips for Using AI to Plan Your Trip

1. Start with broad questions like “What are the top things to do in [city]?”

2. Refine results by telling the AI your interests (e.g., food, history, nature).

3. Ask for day-by-day breakdowns and request time-of-day planning.

4. Share your hotel location so the AI can group nearby attractions.

5. Request travel times and directions to better manage your schedule.

6. Use follow-up prompts to simplify or adjust the itinerary as needed.

AI won’t replace your travel instincts, but it can definitely enhance them. If you’re planning a trip, give it a try—you might be surprised how much easier it makes everything.