Travel Far. Write More.
I arrived in Bangkok expecting to marvel at centuries-old temples and stand before the Emerald Buddha. Instead, I found myself in the middle of a royal mourning period that had quietly transformed one of Thailand’s most iconic landmarks. What began as a disappointing change of plans became an unexpected lesson in history, tradition, and the… Continue reading
Who can refuse a baray, the Khmer word for cigarette when it’s local and you’ve just spent the last 6 hours with high school students/teachers and you’ve been on your absolute best behavior? I know I can’t. Judge away if you will, but that cigarette… excuse me, baray… changed the course of one night. Quick… Continue reading
Have you ever seen the Lizzie McGuire movie? School trip to Rome. Lizzie tosses a coin in the Trevi Fountain. She is swept off her feet with the ultimate summer fling, Italian heartthrob Paolo only to get her heart ripped out. Yet, somehow still lives out her dream on stage and becomes an iconic star… Continue reading
look toward the blue sky where the sunlight threads the pines drawing bright paths through the needles as though the forest remembers exactly where it belongs and perhaps i do too
How to Start Traveling Alone Without Feeling Lost Solo travel doesn’t start with confidence. It starts with a decision to go anyway. This guide is for beginners figuring it out in real time. Start Small: Safety Basics: What Surprises Most People: Emotional Reality: There may be moments of discomfort. That’s normal. It usually passes faster… Continue reading
Italy Travel Guide for First-Timers: Cities, Food & Slow Travel Moments Italy is not a checklist country. It’s a pacing country. This guide is for first-time travelers who want structure without rushing the experience. Cities to Consider: How to Move Between Cities: Food Approach: Simple Travel Flow: Italy rewards presence more than planning. The less… Continue reading
3 Days of Food, Walks & Easy Exploring Austin Weekend Itinerary A simple 3-day Austin itinerary designed for easy exploring, good food, and a flexible weekend pace. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this guide focuses on walkable areas, relaxed scheduling, and places that actually feel worth your time. Day 1: Arrival + Downtown… Continue reading
1. 🔋 Portable Charger There is nothing worse than being lost in Madrid with a dead phone and no map! A portable charger is hands down the most important travel accessory I own. I never leave for the airport without it fully charged. 👉 VEGER Portable Charger with Built-in AC Plug and Cables – Check… Continue reading
Looking for the best travel journal? Here are my top picks based on years of solo travel journaling — from classic lined notebooks to dotted journals perfect for ticket stubs and souvenirs. This post contains affiliate links. See my full Affiliate Disclosure for details. Introduction I have a journaling problem. And I mean that in… Continue reading