Author: Olivia Franzman

After making my way through every country on the classic Southeast Asia backpacking route, including Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines. I’ve experienced just about every type of overland journey imaginable. From cramped overnight buses to bumpy minivan rides and unexpectedly smooth sleeper trains, I’ve had my fair share of long-haul…

Sometimes we find ourselves in destinations or countries that tend to appear in the news for all the wrong reasons. Whether it’s due to recent political unrest, ongoing or past wars, poverty, safety concerns, or high crime rates, these places often carry a heavy reputation. When you hear the name of a country like this,…

When people talk about the downsides of full-time travel, it’s often met with skepticism. How could there possibly be anything bad about a life spent exploring white sand beaches, hiking through breathtaking mountains, and immersing yourself in dozens of fascinating cultures? But trust me when I say, this lifestyle has some very real challenges. Don’t…

Staying in hostels is not everyone’s cup of tea, but as a spontaneous solo traveler who loves to meet new people and share experiences with like-minded individuals, hostels have completely changed the game for me when it comes to traveling, backpacking, and exploring the world. Sometimes I stay at hostels that are super quiet and…

Southeast Asia is a wild ride—especially for backpackers. I can say with confidence that it’s by far the best region in the world for comfortable, budget-friendly backpacking, particularly for newer or less experienced travelers. The countries in Southeast Asia are absolutely incredible, each offering something unique with their rich cultures, stunning nature, and warm hospitality.…

When you picture the ideal Hawaiian vacation, you’re probably imagining a beautiful, sunny day on a white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, palm trees swaying overhead, and lush green mountains as your backdrop. It’s no surprise that the summertime is the most popular time to visit Hawaii. There are a couple of reasons for that:…

No matter what kind of traveler you are, whether you’re a hardcore budget backpacker or someone who enjoys a bit of luxury, understanding the cost of travel in different countries is key to planning your trip. If you’re traveling on a high budget and want to get the most value, visiting a low-cost country can…

Southeast Asia is one of the most enriching regions in the world for yogis, wellness seekers, and those drawn to spiritual and holistic healing practices. It’s a place where ancient traditions and natural beauty come together to create the ideal environment for personal growth, mindfulness, and healthy living. There are many reasons why this part…

Indonesia is an enormous, culturally rich country in Southeast Asia made up of over 17,000 islands. With hundreds of languages spoken, stunningly diverse landscapes, and distinct traditions across each island, every destination in Indonesia feels like an entirely different world. But no matter where I went—whether it was chaotic cities, quiet fishing villages, or spiritual…

If you’re anything like me, the morning is one of the most sacred and beautiful times of day. It’s quiet. It’s still. It’s new. There’s something about those early hours that makes me feel calm, connected, and like I have a fresh start. It’s the time of day I feel most like myself, and when…