Where does one even begin with Istanbul? This sprawling metropolis of over 16 million people is unlike any other city I’ve ever been to before. If the world had to choose a single capital city, I truly think Istanbul would be a strong candidate. It is the crossroads where Europe meets Asia, and it shows… Read More The Backpacker’s Complete Guide to Istanbul, Türkiye | 2026
Peru is possibly my favorite country in the world. There is so much diversity in this country. From the Amazon Rainforest to the Pacific Ocean and everything in between, Peru can almost feel like several countries packed into one. Throw in some desert and some of the tallest peaks in South America and you’ve got… Read More The Top 25 Travel Destinations in Peru | 2026
Ecuador was initially meant to be a quick stop-over en route to Peru. That quick stop-over turned into 43 days. Sandwiched in between two of South America’s powerhouse travel destinations, Ecuador often goes overlooked in favor of neighboring Peru and Colombia. I also harbored a fairly unenthusiastic attitude towards Ecuador, and had my sister not… Read More The Top 10 Best Travel Destinations in Ecuador | 2026
Last updated: 2026 | For first-timers, weekend warriors, and anyone who’s been on the fence My first solo trip was to Colombia. I wasn’t a backpacker, then. I lugged around a carry-on sized suitcase, followed a rigid two-week itinerary, and had approximately zero flexibility. Then, I met a trio of British female travelers, was introduced… Read More Is Backpacking Right For You? An Honest Beginner’s Guide
One of Patagonia’s best hidden gems is the small village of El Bolson. While the town itself is small, the adventures surrounding it are grand.… Read More El Bolson, Argentina Travel Guide: Patagonia’s Secret Paradise
One of the most incredible experiences that I’ve had in the Philippines, and perhaps across all of my travels, is swimming with whale sharks in Southern Leyte. Known as tiki-tiki in the local language, these gentle giants have been coming to feed off the shores of Pintuyan for as long as anyone can remember. Recently, Pintuyan… Read More Swimming with the Whale Sharks in Pintuyan, Leyte | Philippines
Picture this. You’re deep in the wilderness of Nepal surrounded by tall grass, the punishing South Asian sun beating down on you. Sweat drips from your brow as you maneuver a narrow, overgrown trail through the deep brush. A leech surreptitiously latches on as your ankle grazes the prickly blades of grass. Another one sneaks… Read More Tracking Wild Tigers on Foot in Bardiya National Park, Nepal
I’ve been leading group expeditions to Pakistan for five years now (and going for my sixth year this June 2026) and it is no secret that I am one of the biggest advocates for traveling to this underrated and misunderstood country. The sheer contrast between everything I’ve been told about the country and the amazing… Read More Top 10 Reasons to Visit Pakistan in 2026: Pristine Natural Beauty & Rich Culture
Hidden gems have become increasingly hard to come by, especially in this region of the world where cruise ships make their unceasing rounds and streams of backpackers lug their Ospreys north and south like parades of ants. My expectations were fairly tempered as I boarded my flight to El Salvador. I was excited to set… Read More The Backpacker’s Crash Course Travel Guide to El Salvador | 2026
El Salvador is rapidly emerging as a top travel destination. With picturesque landscapes, vibrant towns, and rich culture, it offers diverse experiences for backpackers. Highlights include San Salvador, the Ruta de las Flores, Santa Ana’s volcanoes, and the coastal towns El Tunco and El Zonte, perfect for relaxation and adventure.… Read More Two Weeks in El Salvador: The Ultimate Backpacking Itinerary