Dear readers, if you’ve found your way here, a hearty welcome to you. I haven’t updated this blog in a while, but please enjoy the words and photos herein. These stories are timeless and if you’re looking for travel inspiration, inspiration you will find.

When I set out on a grand adventure to Asia in 2013, I never imagined the incredible wealth of memories it would bring. It’s undoubtedly the best thing I’ve ever done. Not only did I travel to more than 15 countries and meet my future husband, I also found out more about myself and my abilities than I could have asked.

Now 5 years later, I’ve recently finished a second journey: a 3-month adventure around South America while dipping toes into the digital nomad life. This trip involved working remotely and establishing a work-life balance while on the go. It was a very different experience for me, but one that was wholly worthwhile. So, while I hope to continue posting about my travels here in the future, for now, this brief update will have to do.

Now, a few words about what I’ve learned in my journeys thus far.

The first step to discovery: Buy a plane ticket

For anyone considering long-term travel, I have two words: Do it.

Don’t worry about all the unknowns ahead. Don’t over plan or over calculate. Things have a way of coming together, especially when you let go a little and tap in to the network of travelers out there that have knowledge to share with you.

When I quit my job back in 2013, I just wanted to travel — I was never looking for an “Eat, Pray, Love” experience of self-discovery. In fact I refused to read the book and actively avoided comparisons to it. I didn’t want to be a cliche. I didn’t want to operate with any pretense. I just wanted to get out there and experience new places through my own eyes. And I did end up having a life-changing experience, but it was on my own terms.

One of the most important things I’ve learned about travel: Everyone’s travel experience is unique. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Just do what feels right for you.

It’s good to do some homework and be prepared, but if you spend too much time obsessing over where to stay, where to go, what to see, you might take time from actually enjoying it. If you start to compare yourself to other travelers, you’re likely to end up disappointed. There will always be someone who has traveled more or found more unique places than you. That’s not why you’re there. Your travel experience is yours and yours alone. Timing, weather, moods, these things vary and it’s not always going to be perfect.

Whenever you’re in a new place one thing’s always true: You are constantly learning and taking in what’s around you. Try to stay in the moment, try to get out of your comfort zone a little bit, try to talk to locals, and see what the world brings to you.