We feature some of the brightest Instagram storytellers in the Passion Passport community through our Instagram Spotlight series. This week, the father-son duo of Bodo and Vincent Wewer (@travel.world.factory) show us around the diverse countries that have caught their attention, all around the world.

Although Bodo and Vincent don’t usually travel together, Vincent regards his father as his greatest source of photographic inspiration — which is why they created their joint Instagram account. Here, Vincent discusses his experiences and feelings about Bali, Israel, the United States, and Honduras, while Bodo shares his musings about Morocco.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali was the first destination I visited abroad, and I associate many insights and emotions with my time there. Whether you’re new to Instagram or have been around for a long time, you’ve probably seen more than a few pictures of Bali on your feed. I know I have, and because of this, I had a certain expectation in my mind before I ever traveled there.

But what you see in pictures does not truly depict the atmosphere and diversity that you can find on this beautiful island. Bali is not very large, but it offers varied nature and surroundings that are not present in many countries.

Whether you choose to watch a sunrise from the Agung (a volcano in the northeast), discover hidden waterfalls in the jungle, or explore the rice terraces near Ubud, Bali has something for everyone. Take my word for it — exploring the island via motorbike is the best and most fun way to experience the landscape.

Likewise, Balinese cities each offer very different environments. Kuta and Denpasar, the capital city, have become increasingly touristy over the years, but farther south or inland lie the villages that comprise the real Bali.

I lived in Ungasan, a small village located in the very south of the Bukit Peninsula, for 8 months. Working in a children’s home there, I had the opportunity to get to know Bali from a completely different angle. My time in the orphanage showed me how hospitable and helpful the local community is. Regardless of what people have, I found that if they have the opportunity to give or share something with you, they will do it.

With all of that said, I would recommend visiting this paradise as soon as possible, and to travel with the local community and culture in mind.

— Vincent

Israel

Israel was one of my more recent destinations. Since part of my family comes from this country, it was an emotional trip for me, and I was able to create many memories that I’ll cherish forever.

I ventured to cities like Jerusalem, which are difficult to describe to people who haven’t visited for themselves. Something exciting is always happening in and around Jerusalem, and the streets are filled with people of all religions and backgrounds. It is one of the most multicultural cities I have ever visited, and sights like the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Nativity of Jesus Christ took my breath away.

Smaller cities like Bethlehem and Nazareth also offer a lot to explore, and their history is very interesting and engaging. Israel boasts a beautiful coast as well, which is lined with cities like Tel Aviv — a very modern and open metropolis — and Haifa with its famous Bahai gardens. But the desert in the south of Israel is just as impressive as any city in the country — I even swam in the Dead Sea, a bucket-list item I’d wanted to try for a long time.

Of course, my trip also gave me the chance to learn more about the political situation in the Middle East. I visited the West Bank Wall, which has separated Israel and Palestine for several years, and realized that it’s very different to see something in real life than it is to hear about it on the news. For this reason, I encourage others to travel to Israel and reach their own conclusions.

— Vincent

USA

I had dreamed of road-tripping throughout the United States for a long time. Last year, I finally made this dream come true with an unforgettable four-week trip from New York to Florida.

The East Coast of the U.S. has so much to offer that it’s difficult to even categorize my extremely varied road trip.

We started in New York City and traveled on to Washington, D.C. — these are two places where something is always going on. To me, everything seemed extremely large and impressive. I had only known those locations from movies, but once I was finally there, experiencing them for myself, I was awestruck by the aura of Times Square at night and by sitting directly in front of the Lincoln Memorial.

But on the way to Miami, Florida, I visited cities like Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, which are very quiet in comparison. They have changed less over time and simply have a nice ambience. I mostly enjoyed walking through the small streets of each city and exploring any corner I could.

And, of course, Miami offers a completely different environment than those small cities. This beach metropolis is crowded with parties, beaches, bars, and outgoing people, making it a great destination for anyone looking for a livelier atmosphere. It was the perfect place to end my travels!

— Vincent

Honduras

I visited Honduras during a three-month backpacking trip through Central America. To be honest, I didn’t really know what to expect, since the internet touts so many stories about the country’s crime rates and violence. Because of this, my family was not particularly pleased when they heard about my plans to travel there.

But, it turned out that their worries were misplaced — at least, for my own travels. I wish more people would write about Honduras’ fascinating wildlife and scenery, as well as the ancient Mayan ruins that are hidden in the depths of its jungles.

That said, Honduras has more to offer than just rainforests and ruins. Along its coast are beautiful Caribbean islands like Roatan and Utila, which are surrounded by the Mesoamerican Reef. It’s the largest reef in the Northern Hemisphere, and with hundreds of species of fish, this underwater world is a call to adventure. I suggest scuba-diving or snorkeling!

I must say that at every stage of my journey through Honduras, I felt safe and welcome. Although I could not speak Spanish at the time, every person I came in contact with was open and helpful. In short, it was a vacation that I’ll never forget.

— Vincent

Morocco

Unfortunately, my last trip to Morocco was limited to the city of Marrakech. Although Morocco has so much more to offer than Marrakech, the beautiful capital is always worth a visit.

Travelers can expect an incredible number of sensory impressions while visiting the former imperial city — the sounds, the smell of spices, and the colorful markets lining the streets are impactful and stick with you long after you’re gone.

Although many people advise international visitors not to stray from the bustling areas and tourist attractions across the city, I encourage everyone to explore the off-the-beaten-path side of Marrakech. The city’s true character is waiting in its winding side streets, and you’ll have a better idea of what everyday life is like there by encountering the locals going about their jobs and daily activities.

It’s also important to note that you shouldn’t be disturbed by the locals’ well-intentioned (and business-minded) offers. Visitors who are polite and respectful toward the locals will get to know another side of Marrakech and will leave with many new impressions and adventures under their belt. That is the real beauty of Morocco.

— Bodo