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How to Get Comfortable Eating Alone Anywhere
For anyone who feels nervous about travelling solo, there is one specific moment that tends to trigger the most anxiety: walking into a busy restaurant and asking for a table for one.
I was right there with you. But now I actually love eating at restaurants alone.
How Travelling Europe Saved Me From People-Pleasing
When you travel somewhere completely new, where no one knows your history, your past mistakes, or the role you usually play, something magical happens. The expectations waiting for you at home disappear.
The Pros and Cons of Doing a Contiki Trip at Age 35
Having recently explored the Balkans with Contiki, I decided to take the leap right at the 35-year mark. While the classic "party trip" stereotype exists for a reason, the reality of doing a group tour at 35 is far more nuanced, and surprisingly empowering.
How to Spend One Perfect Night in Budapest
If you only have one night in Budapest, don't panic. You don’t need a week to fall in love with the Hungarian capital. Just one iconic evening.
The Over-Thinker’s Guide to Navigating Tokyo Transit
Tokyo’s train system is a masterpiece, but it can feel like a labyrinth if you’re prone to anxiety. Here is how I navigate the city without the panic of feeling lost in the crowd.
Is the Albanian Night Show in Tiranë Worth It?
During my trip to Tiranë, Albania, I attended Albanian Night—an interactive, high-energy theatre experience that turned an ordinary evening into one of the biggest highlights of my Balkans trip.
What It’s Really Like to Plan a Trip With Anxiety
To the outside observer, my travel planning looks like overkill. I have spreadsheets, colour-coded maps, and folders of printed backups. People often tell other travellers to, "Just show up and see where the wind takes you!” But for a traveller with anxiety, the "wind" usually feels like a hurricane of unknowns.
Balkans Eats: Traditional Food Experiences You Can’t Miss
Nothing captures the soul of the Balkans quite like sitting down to a local meal. Here is a deeper dive into the unforgettable meals that defined my journey through the Balkans!
6 Destinations for the Great Outdoors
As someone who loves a quiet trail and a well-marked path, I’ve found that some of the most breathtaking landscapes are the ones that invite you to simply sit, observe, and breathe.
Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Travelling Solo
I used to think solo travel was just about seeing a landmark and taking a photo. I didn't realize it was actually about dismantling everything I thought I knew about myself and the world.
Balkans Discovery: Budapest, Hungary
The final day of a massive tour is always a mix of anticipation and nostalgia. We checked out of our hotel in Belgrade and prepared ourselves for the stretch up to the Hungarian border.
Balkans Discovery: Belgrade, Serbia
Day Eight of my Balkan trip began by waving goodbye to Sarajevo and settling into our coach seats for a long, scenic journey stretching toward the Serbian border.
Balkans Discovery: Sarajevo, Bosnia
Our full day in Sarajevo kicked off with a familiar face. We met up with our incredibly engaging guide from the day before, Enes, for a group walking tour of the city centre.
Balkans Discovery: Mostar and Sarajevo, Bosnia
Seeing Mostar lit up at night was pure magic, but seeing it under the bright morning sun was a whole different experience. The way the light hits the turquoise Neretva River rushing beneath the historic stone arch of the Stari Most is absolutely breathtaking.
Balkans Discovery: Arriving in Mostar, Bosnia
There is a distinct thrill that comes with driving toward a destination you know almost nothing about. As a traveller, those are the places that usually leave the deepest impression.
Balkans Discovery: Tiranë, Albania
There is no better way to get the pulse of a new city than a bright-and-early walking tour. It is the ultimate strategy for a traveller: you get a curated preview of the city's highlights, figure out exactly where you want to circle back to later.
Balkans Discovery: Montenegro & Tiranë
There is always a tiny bit of nervous anticipation that comes with joining a group trip late. I officially met up with the Contiki crew at 7:30 AM, stepping into a group of over 20 people who had already spent a week bonding their way from Budapest through Slovenia and Croatia.
Balkans Discovery: Two Solo Days in Dubrovnik
Before kicking off my multi-country tour through the Balkans, I gave myself two full days to just be in Dubrovnik. No strict agendas, no rush. Just the limestone streets, the Adriatic breeze, and my own internal compass.
My Trip to Tokyo: What it Felt Like Travelling With Anxiety
As a traveller who lives with anxiety, my brain had already played out every worst-case scenario before getting on the plane. But Tokyo turned out to be one of the most grounding, respectful, and comforting cities I’ve ever stepped foot in. Here is the breakdown of what I thought would spike my anxiety vs. the reality.
Is the Blue Lagoon Worth It? Review & Tips
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is likely the first thing that popped up in your research. It’s iconic, it’s otherworldly, and—let’s be real—it’s an investment.