Welcome to the Young Pioneer Tours Blog, the place where we we keep you informed about everything YPT, from current tours, to future tours and a whole lot of eclectic stuff in between.
YPT first started blogging in 2008 and are considered the best North Korean Travel blog that there is.
But, as Young Pioneer Tours have expanded our locations, so have we expanded our blog. Now we have one of the best travel blogs in the world!
And while most of our content is about the numerous destinations we go, including travel guides and what to pack, we also delve into more serious subjects such as the safety of certain destinations, as well as how LGTBQ+ friendly the places we visit are.
While the vast majority of our content is produced in-house, we are always on the look-out for guest bloggers and writers. Want to write for us? Then simply get in touch.
You can also check out our sister publication YPT Life.
Check out and subscribe to the YPT Blog and travel magazine
29 January 2025 / by Gareth Johnson
The Maluku Islands, a remote and often overlooked archipelago in Indonesia, have a dark and complex history that has been shaped by centuries of conflict, colonialism, and resistance. Situated between Sulawesi and Papua, the islands have long been a cr …
29 January 2025 / by Gareth Johnson
For decades, the dream of Korean reunification wasn’t just a political talking point—it was a fundamental pillar of identity on both sides of the 38th parallel. Known as “Tongil” (통일) in Korean, reunification was once the ultimate goal, with both the N …
28 January 2025 / by Andy Khong
by Andy Khong Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant celebrations in Chinese culture, marked by vibrant traditions, family reunions, and a sense of renewal. In 2025, this cherished festival falls on Wednesda …
27 January 2025 / by Caitlin Graham
If you are planning on taking a trip to the Middle East, you must-see mosques in the Gulf while you are there! From local mosques to large, tourist filled mosques – there are no shortage of interesting and unique mosques to choose from. There are many …
24 January 2025 / by YPT Team
Why does it matter to consider drone photography guidelines in China? In recent years, drones have revolutionized the way we document and share our travel experiences. By providing unique aerial views, they allow photographers and videographers to high …
23 January 2025 / by Gareth Johnson
You often hear that the Rungrado May Day Stadium in Pyongyang is the largest stadium in the world, but is that really the case? The world of colossal stadiums is as fascinating as the events they host, from sports and concerts to massive political gath …
21 January 2025 / by Gareth Johnson
Since the 1990s, North Korea has periodically attempted to bolster its economy through the creation of special economic zones (SEZs). These zones are designed to attract foreign investment and foster economic growth by offering a more flexible business …
21 January 2025 / by Gareth Johnson
If you find yourself traveling to Shanwei, a small and often overlooked coastal town in Guangdong Province, chances are you’ll stumble across its most peculiar claim to fame: Coffee Castle. Touted as the number one tourist attraction in Shanwei, this q …
21 January 2025 / by Gareth Johnson
When most people think of North Korea, they envision a secretive state shrouded in political intrigue. However, beyond the headlines lies a land of unexpected natural beauty and an impressive array of wildlife. For the adventurous traveler, North Korea …