I'm a solo traveler and online TEFL teacher with a passion for discovering new and exciting travel destinations while sticking to a budget. Whether it's hopping on a plane for a quick getaway or embarking on a months-long trip, I'm always ready for a new adventure at a great price. I haven't been to every country yet, but I'm working on it!I'm not just a travel blogger, though – I'm also a travel advisor. I can help you plan and book your next dream vacation. Whether it's finding the best hotel deals with perks or creating a personalized itinerary, I'm always happy to help.As a travel blogger and advisor, my mission is to inspire others to travel more and create unforgettable experiences. So, if you're looking for fun and adventurous travel recommendations or help planning your next trip, look no further!
2022 was a pretty great year for me. This 2022 travel recap video, gives a glimpse of some of the things I did during my 2022 travels.
Before heading off to Africa for the second time, I spent lots of time with my family. I had the honor of being a bridesmaid at my younger sister’s wedding. I was proud to watch her marry the man of her dreams. My mom and I, being beach lovers, visited Wrightsville and Myrtle beaches several times in the spring. We went again in the fall after I returned from my trip to Africa. A travel buddy, Damien, accompanied me this time. We spent a little over three months in Africa visiting Egypt, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and South Africa.
After returning to the US, we spent about four days in Atlanta. Afterward, I returned to North Carolina and set out for the beach again. In early December, I earned #bestauntieever points by joining my niece on her first field trip. The rest of the month leading up to Christmas and after was filled with hard work on upcoming projects and travels.
I can’t wait to show you my 2023 adventures!
If you haven’t already, be sure to sign up for my newsletter to get all the latest updates and exclusive offers!
Do you automatically assume you’ll travel with a companion when you think about a trip? You’re not alone—according to a survey by Agoda, most respondents said they preferred to travel with someone. Though that may be the case, there are plenty of reasons why solo travel might be the better option for you, whether you’re looking to save money or simply want the freedom to do what you want when you want. Here are five things to think about if you’re on the fence about traveling solo.
1. You’re in Control
One of the best things about solo travel is that you call all the shots. You move at your own pace, change your plans on a whim and choose precisely what activities you want to do without compromising with anyone else. This is especially beneficial if you enjoy traveling spontaneously or like to go off the beaten path. When you’re by yourself, there’s no need to worry about whether your travel companion is up for an adventure.
2. It Can Be More Affordable
If you prioritize saving money, traveling solo can be cheaper than taking a trip with someone else, especially if your travel companion’s budget needs differ from yours. When booking airfare, hotels, and tours, you won’t have to pay any extra “single supplements” (additional fees charged for single occupancy). You can take advantage of discounts for seniors, students, and more. Eating alone is less expensive than dining as a twosome or group since most restaurants charge per person rather than per dish.
A common concern among solo travelers is feeling isolated or lonely while on the road—but the truth is, it’s easy to meet new people when you’re traveling alone. Whether you start a conversation with somebody while waiting in line for a tour or share a table at a restaurant, chances are good that you’ll walk away from your trip with at least a few new friends (and maybe even some lifelong ones). If meeting new people isn’t really your thing, that’s perfectly OK, too. Remember, one of the best parts about solo travel is that YOU get to choose how social (or not) you want to be.
4. Solo Travel Forces You Out of Your Comfort Zone
Stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary. It can also be exhilarating and empowering. If you constantly reject new experiences because they make you feel anxious or uncomfortable, traveling alone can push you out of that rut and into something new and exciting. Of course, there’s no pressure to take risks if they don’t feel right for you; ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how far outside your comfort zone you’re willing to step while on your trip. Baby steps count, too!
5. It Helps You Relax and Unwind
It can be hard to unplug from technology in our fast-paced world and simply relax. It’s paramount to make time for yourself now and then to de-stress and recharge. When traveling solo, there will be plenty of opportunities for much-needed ‘me time.’ That may mean getting lost in a good book while lounging on the beach or finally getting around to those yoga poses during a morning meditation session.
Some travelers (me) find being solely responsible for their trip helps them relax since they know no one else is relying on them. Others find that the ability to track their progress and itinerary helps strike a better work-life balance. Whatever reason works best for solo vacationers, one thing is sure: taking some time out for yourself is always beneficial.
A Final Word
When you travel solo, you’ll have the opportunity to explore your interests and discover who you are. You’ll meet new people and make lifelong friends. You will also experience things you might not have been able to if you were traveling with a group. Furthermore, no opinion or preference must be considered when traveling solo but your own. When deciding where to go next, what activities to do, what food to eat at restaurants – everything really – the decision is yours alone and based solely on what you want for your trip.
I just returned from an amazing trip to Cancun with my little brother. The weather was amazing! When I felt the chilly air flowing through the ORD Airport jet bridge, I was ready to book another flight back! I will gladly trade this bitter NC cold for a nice, hot winter in Cancun!
The winter season in Cancunis different from the one in the US. In the US, it is cold and snowy with plenty of snow days. In Cancun, it is not as cold as it is in the US but there are days that can get a bit chilly.
Cancun’s winter is known for its windy and dry weather. The sun shines a lot during this time of year. There are also some rainy days, which can be quite pleasant because they cool the city down. The average temperature during this time of year ranges from the high 60s to the mid-80s (degrees Fahrenheit), which makes it perfect to go out and enjoy some activities like water sports or going on a nice walk by the beach or through one of Cancun’s many parks.
My Bite-Sized Guide To Getting The Most Out Of Your Trip
Traveling is the best way to explore new places and cultures. It can be challenging, but you can make it a lot easier on yourself by ensuring you’re prepared for possible issues. To help you get on your way and make the most of traveling, here are a few tips!
1. Have A Plan
It’s a good idea to have a plan before you leave. Ensure that it is achievable and enjoyable. Decide where you want to go and what you want to see. Map out the places you want to visit and how you will get around.
Got plans?
2. Set a budget
Determine how much you can afford. Then, decide how much money you are willing to spend and what things are worth spending more money on. This will help you stay within your means and not overspend.
Make sure you have your coins right!
3. Pack light
You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy bag with you all day. That will take a toll on your feet and back! Pack light and prepare for different kinds of weather conditions. Bring only the essentials to save space and weight. This will make it easier to move around and enjoy your trip.
My occasional travel buddy knows how to pack light.
4. Be prepared
Research the area you are visiting and familiarize yourself with the culture and customs. Make sure you’re prepared for any situation that may come up while traveling. Check the weather forecast before leaving and pack accordingly! Doing these things will help you avoid surprises and mishaps while on your trip.
Know important details about your destination.
5. Have fun
Traveling should be a fun experience where you come back home with new memories and stories! Embrace and enjoy every minute of it! Don’t just think about the destination but think about the journey, too.
After a couple of months away, I’m back. If you’ve been following me on Facebook or Instagram, you know that I had a great time in México. I arrived in Mérida on October 2nd and left from Cancún on December 14th. México received the honor of being my final international destination for the year.
My mom flew out to hang with me for a few weeks in Mérida. I love solo traveling, but sometimes a travel partner is fun to have. My mom arrived in Mérida on Tuesday, October 26. She was originally supposed to stay for a week and a half, but enjoyed her stay so much that she stayed for a full 3 weeks!
Mom and me at the Patria monument on the Paseo de Montejo.
We took a ton of photos, ate too much food, visited Valladolid, and just enjoyed being free to do whatever. We had a great time. It’s a shame it ended so soon. As the saying goes, “Time flies when you’re having fun.” All good things come to an end at some point. Besides, Mom had some things back home that she needed to take care of. It’s all good. We’re planning another trip for the Spring.
After my mom left, I spent another two weeks in Mérida. I took a day trip to the Uxmal archaeological site to check out the ruins. Next, I flew out to México City. There, I met up with some friends. I ate at as many vegan spots as I could find because finding good local vegan spots in Mérida was a difficult task. Besides eating a ton of food, I spent most of my time just chillin’. After a week and a half in México City, I headed to Cancún.
The pyramid at Uxmal.
In Cancún, I stayed in a quiet downtown neighborhood and—you guessed it—just chilled. I only spent five days in Cancún. Due to a shooting that happened two days before my arrival, I decided not to visit the hotel zone in Cancún. I hopped on a bus and went on a day trip to Playa Del Carmen instead. I really enjoyed Cancún and Playa Del Carmen. I plan to return to Cancún and spend a bit more time there in the Spring.
Now, I’m back in North Carolina for a few weeks. Since being here, I’ve been to Myrtle Beach. This unusually warm winter weather was perfect for a few days on the beach.
Watching the sunrise from the balcony at Myrtle Beach with my niece—traveler in training.
Today is the last day of 2021. I’m grateful for the travel experiences I had this year and look forward to more adventures in 2022. Did you do any traveling this year? Where was your final destination for 2021?
I hope 2022 has great things in store for you! Happy New Year and Happy Travels!
I arrived in Mérida, Mexico, yesterday afternoon. The flight went well. My Airbnb situation didn’t go so well, however. I’ll tell you about that later. Anywho, I’m enjoying my first morning here in sunny, Mérida.
I’m currently lodging at a hotel in Centro. My stay included breakfast. I thoroughly enjoyed that bowl of fruit and fresh orange juice.
Next, I took a stroll around the block while showing my mom around via WhatsApp. I also chatted with a fellow solo traveler who’s finishing up her adventures through Egypt.
After my stroll, I sat and chilled in the park, Parque de Santa Lucía. It’s hot out, but there was a light breeze that made sitting under the shade of the trees feel awesome.
Now, I’m in my room updating this post before heading out to get lunch.
Yeah, there’s not too much going on being a Sunday and all. Let’s see what tomorrow has in store!
