Author: Olivia Franzman

Traveling can be both incredibly affordable and surprisingly expensive—it really depends on how you choose to spend your money. A short vacation often comes with a “treat yourself” mentality—think fancy dinners, boutique hotels, and paid tours packed into just a few days. But when you’re traveling long-term, that approach just isn’t sustainable. Whether you’re on…

Traveling is often said to be about the places you see, but for me, the real beauty of travel lies in the people you meet along the way. There’s something uniquely special about connecting with strangers in foreign lands, hearing their stories, and sharing your own. These moments create friendships that span the globe—friends you…

When most people hear “Indonesia,” their minds instantly go to Bali—an island known for its beaches, yoga retreats, rice terraces, and vibrant nightlife. Bali has become of a well known name for travelers around the world, and for good reason. But what many people don’t realize is that Bali is just one tiny piece of…

Java, one of Indonesia’s most culturally rich and geographically diverse islands, is a place of epic natural experiences—especially when it comes to volcanoes. Indonesia lies in the Ring of Fire, home to more than 130 active volcanoes, and Java island boasts some of the most awe-inspiring and unique among them. Nestled between Sumatra and Bali,…

This might sound a little crazy at first—why would I visit a place in its off-season? Isn’t there a reason it’s called the off season? Won’t the weather be bad? Will everything be closed? All valid questions, and I totally understand the hesitation. Especially when we’re talking about destinations that experience real seasonal changes and…

Have you ever been to an airport that’s so massive and full of global routes, yet still manages to feel calm, efficient, and almost luxurious? An airport that somehow removes all the usual travel stress and actually makes you want to spend time there? Coming from JFK as my home airport, I never thought this…

If you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for a skydiving experience in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth, Siquijor Island in the Philippines needs to be on your list. This island isn’t just stunning from the ground—it’s absolutely unreal from the sky. In March, I had the chance to jump with Skydive Siquijor, and…

Indonesia, with its vast expanse of over 17,000 islands, is known for its rich natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Among its most extraordinary features are the countless volcanoes scattered across the archipelago. From dormant giants to highly active volcanic wonders, Indonesia offers a unique opportunity for adventurers to explore the raw power of the earth.…

Traveling the world is about more than just seeing beautiful places, stunning scenery, and having life-changing experiences. One of the biggest things that adds to a place—and sometimes even makes a place what it is—is the people. Throughout the world, locals can be both exceptionally kind and welcoming or reserved, cold, and even rude. If…

Eating local food is one thing, but eating local food with the locals? That’s where the true magic happens. It’s not just about the food you’re eating. It’s about the people, the way that they eat, the traditions that they uphold, and the stories that they share with each bite. Sitting down with locals doesn’t…