Author: Olivia Franzman

Long-term travel is an incredible experience, but it can also be exhausting in ways you might not expect. Constantly moving from place to place, packing and unpacking your bags, planning your next destination, and even just staying social and engaged can become overwhelming. The freedom of travel comes with its own set of challenges, and…

Do you find joy in lounging at an all-inclusive beach resort, sipping on a perfectly mixed piña colada? Or do you feel most alive while sipping a cup of local tea in a remote jungle village? These contrasting experiences reflect two distinct travel styles: travelers and vacationers. While they might share a love for exploring…

There is no place where I feel more at peace, more fulfilled, and more connected to nature than the beach—especially on an island. There’s something about the rhythm of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the soft sand underfoot that makes everything else fade away. Whether it’s swimming in the open ocean, lounging…

Seeing a city from above is one of the best ways to really take it all in. You get a sense of how massive it is, how everything connects, and just how much is happening at once. There’s something about looking down at the streets, the buildings, and the people going about their day that…

Singapore is often ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world. With its futuristic skyline, world-class attractions, and high cost of living, it’s easy to assume that visiting on a budget is nearly impossible. From luxury hotels and fine dining to high-priced entertainment, Singapore can quickly drain your wallet if you’re not…

As much as I advocate for how safe and comfortable solo female travel can be, there are also downsides and unfortunate realities that sometimes come with it. While I wholeheartedly believe that solo female travel is not only doable but also incredibly rewarding, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges and risks that exist. I’ve had…

Long-term travel is an adventure, but it can also be exhausting—constantly meeting new people, moving from place to place, and searching for comfort in unfamiliar spaces. Not every destination or hostel offers a true sense of home and community, but my time at Wonderland Siquijor was a beautiful reminder that it’s the people who make…

When traveling in the Philippines, the sheer number of islands, towns, and beaches to explore can be overwhelming. With over 7,000 islands, it’s virtually impossible to see everything in one trip, or even try and explore the entirety of one region. Getting around the country requires either booking multiple flights, which can be very expensive,…

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Palawan. It’s one of the country’s most famous islands, and for a reason. Picture this: towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear blue waters, stretches of white sand beaches, and the ultimate tropical vibes. Palawan is the epitome of a picture-perfect island escape.…

As a full-time backpacker from the United States who has traveled to over 30 countries and hundreds of cities, islands, and villages, I’ve encountered a mix of reactions, conversations, and stereotypes about being an American. Some of these experiences have been extremely eye-opening, others more frustrating, and some just downright funny. I’m incredibly grateful for…