Why I Started Traveling
I had always enjoyed hiking, but it wasn’t until I joined a local hiking group of women that I found other people to hike with.
We traveled together, explored the outdoors, and went on some backpacking trips. I keep doing it because I love nature, and being outside truly makes me happy.
How I Plan My Trips
I go somewhere at least twice a month and sometimes even once a week. My trips vary from all-day adventures to a couple of months.
How I Choose My Next Destination
I like to keep lists of places I want to travel to. I have a bucket list filled with international and domestic adventures. I break it down by the time of year, and I incorporate the places I really want to go to on my travel inspiration board for the year. I prepare for bigger trips by planning months in advance. I’ll collect information, make a list of places, create a map and make notes such as opening hours, information about hikes, etc.
Essentials That I Can't Go Without
I like to pack a couple weeks in advance when possible so I know if I need to purchase anything for my trip. I think about the weather and pack clothing for that. I think about activities such as biking, swimming, city walking, etc., and pack those.
Then, when it gets closer to the trip, I edit it down if needed. I always take my camera gear because I have to have a good way of capturing the trip. Sometimes it’s minimal gear; other times it’s a drone, GoPro, Insta360 camera, DSLR, and more.
My Most Remarkable Adventures
One of my most remarkable adventures in the US has been road-tripping Highway 395 through California and up to the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. There is so much natural beauty along that drive. From epic mountain views, amazing hikes, beautiful lakes, and so much more.
Another place that comes to mind is Huasteca, Potosina, Mexico. This beautiful region is filled with the most incredible waterfalls and the bluest water!
Traveling through Patagonia is high on my bucket list, and I’d love to visit soon.
Inspiration For Starting Blogging
I wanted to share what I was doing and how I was traveling along with tips to make it easier for others to do the same. I really wanted to help my audience travel more, and it's been my mission to make travel easier for more women. My podcast supports the blog and also amplifies diverse voices in travel.
Favorite Memories Of Meeting & Exploring With New People
I met some of my greatest friends while traveling. When I was in Bali back in 2017, I met a traveler named Mikala. We traveled a bit in Bali and Lombok together during that trip. We have since traveled back to Bali years later; we went to Peru together, and she’s even visited me in LA. You never know who you’re going to meet when you’re traveling.
My Experience In Peru
Peru is such an incredible country. I’ve been twice now, and it's somewhere I can keep returning to because there is so much to see. Experiencing the Inca Trail is one of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I’m so glad I did. No matter how challenging something may seem, if you ever want to do it, do it while you can.
Safety Measures That I Take
I like to research a place to see how other women feel about being there. This is great to do in forums where people write about first-hand experiences. I like to hear from other women, Latinas especially, so I know what to expect.
My Thoughts On GAFFL
I think GAFFL makes solo travel very approachable and less intimidating. If you want to travel solo but still want a travel buddy to meet up with, GAFFL is the perfect place to make that happen.
There’s a Facebook group called Latino World Travelers that’s great for meeting other travelers. I also recommend the Facebook group, Girls Love Travel.
Major Challenges That I Have Faced
Working while traveling can definitely be a challenge. I have to dedicate time, usually in the morning or late at night, to catch up on work. And during long trips, I’ll take breaks from traveling just to get work done.
Advice That I Can Share
Do your research and go with confidence, even if you still feel scared. Keep yourself open to meeting new people and saying yes to new experiences (as long as you’re comfortable, of course).
Things I Wish I Would Have Known When I First Started Traveling
I wish I would have known that it wasn’t going to be so scary and to have just gone for it sooner than I did. I’ve learned that you usually never regret the money spent on travel, so splurge when you’re able; you can earn the money back later. However, take this with a grain of salt. It’s possible to be financially responsible and splurge every now and then.
