The 10 Travelers You Meet on Every Group Trip

Birthday Trip, Turks & Caicos

Let’s Be Honest — Group Travel Is a Social Science Experiment

If you’ve ever traveled with more than one friend, you already know: group trips are where true personalities come out. Forget zodiac signs — nothing reveals who someone really is like watching them navigate airports, shared bathrooms, getting lost in a foreign city, and the emotional trauma of splitting a check six ways.

Traveling together is important because it forces everyone to communicate, compromise, and occasionally apologize for things said while hangry. It’s bonding, it’s chaotic, it’s unforgettable — and it’s the fastest way to learn who you’d survive an apocalypse with.

So let’s break down the cast of characters you always end up with on a group trip. If you don’t recognize at least three of these, congratulations, you’re the problem. Or, if you’re like me, you are at least three of these characters yourself.

1. The Planner (a.k.a. The Trip CEO and Unofficial Travel Agent)

Every group trip has that friend — the one who basically becomes a full‑time project manager the moment someone says, “We should book a trip.” They don’t just plan; they initiate, coordinate, and herd the chaotic cats known as your friend group. I often fall into this role… not because I’m that organized, but because I have the travel insight and contacts that can take the trip from ordinary to extraordinary.

This traveler researches every activity within a 20‑mile radius of your destination. They know which tours are scams, which restaurants require reservations, and which neighborhoods you should avoid unless you want a “character‑building experience.” They’ve watched YouTube vlogs, read Reddit threads, joined multiple Facebook groups, and if you’re me, you reach out to your local hotel and tourism board contacts for hook ups and insider tips.

And then the masterpiece. The itinerary. A beautifully organized document where every minute is accounted for. Breakfast? Scheduled. Pool time? Scheduled. A 12‑minute buffer to “wander and vibe”? Also scheduled. They even include travel time between activities because they know you’ll underestimate it and ruin everything.

At the airport, they arrive early enough to watch the sunrise. They glide through security like they’re on a conveyor belt made of privilege because, of course, they have TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and three credit cards that give them lounge access. They know exactly which card earns 3x points on travel, which one gets free checked bags, and which one has a secret perk like “priority boarding if you smile politely.”

While the rest of the group is eating a sad $14 airport sandwich at the gate, The Planner is in the lounge sipping a complimentary mimosa, charging all their devices, and sending one last reminder: “Don’t forget — we’re meeting at baggage claim. Please don’t wander off.”

They are the backbone of the trip. The glue. The reason you’re not sleeping in a hostel that smells like regret.

And yes, they will absolutely judge you for not reading the itinerary. They spent six hours making it. The least you can do is pretend.

2. The “I’m Just Here For The Vibes” Friend

Every group has that one traveler who floats through the trip like a warm breeze. They show up to the airport and half the trip with nothing but vibes — vibes only. The “just tell me what to book and when to show up” friend and learns about the itinerary in real time as it’s happening. This is the easygoing traveler that you always question if they’ll show up, but know that no matter what they end up doing, they’re having a great time.

This could be the friend who will lean over mid‑flight and whisper, “Wait… where are we going again?” They will ask “What’s the plan?” every 45 minutes, even though the itinerary has been pinned in the group chat for three months. They’re not ignoring it — they simply live in a reality where plans are optional and time is a social construct.

They’re the ones who wander off in the airport because they decided they wanted to go shopping. They’re the ones who show up to a five‑hour excursion wearing flip‑flops because “I didn’t know we were hiking.”

And yet… they have the BEST time. They’re laughing, dancing, vibing, and somehow making friends with locals everywhere they go. They’re the human equivalent of a balloon floating above the group — carefree, unbothered, and radiating main‑character energy.

Here’s the irony: this is secretly where I thrive the most.

Yes, I’m usually The Planner — the one who organizes, coordinates, and keeps the group chat from collapsing into chaos. When I don’t have to plan? I love to show up and go with the flow. I’ve landed at airports I’d never heard of, arrived in cities I didn’t bother Googling, shown up to work conferences without knowing what hotel I was booked in, and once tried to take a taxi to my hotel in Venice like an absolute amateur. The list is long, humbling, and honestly… kind of iconic.

The truth is… I want NOTHING to do with decision‑making. I want to show up, hand over my brain, and let someone else tell me where to be and when. I want to be guided like a toddler holding a leash backpack.

There is something magical about switching off the “trip CEO” mode and becoming the person who just floats along. After weeks of planning, researching, booking, and reminding people to pack chargers, I want to be the one who simply exists. I want to be the friend who says, “Whatever you guys want to do, I’m down,” and actually means it.

So yes — I’m the planner, but spiritually? I’m also the “I’m Just Here For The Vibes” friend. The duality is real.

3. The One Who ALWAYS Loses Something.

Traveling with this person is like being on a scavenger hunt you never signed up for. Their phone disappears before the plane even taxis or every time they take their phone out for a photo op. Their wallet vanishes somewhere between ordering a latte and forgetting to pick it up. Their passport? Oh, that’s off living its own Eat, Pray, Love journey. Meanwhile, you’re becoming a regular at every lost‑and‑found desk on the continent, explaining "again” that your friend “swears they left it right here.”

They spend half the trip retracing their steps and asking if anyone has seen their charger, their sunglasses, their boarding pass, or—on particularly chaotic days—their dignity. They spend the other half of the trip attached to your every move because you are their source of payment, communication, and sense of being for the remainder of the trip. Eventually, you learn to start carrying extra copies of their documents or keep their Apple ID details in a safe place because you know, deep down, they will absolutely lose the originals. And when the inevitable happens, they always say the same thing with wide, innocent eyes: “This is so weird, I never lose things at home.”

Sure, babe. The traveling gods just have it out for you… exclusively while abroad.

4. The Troublemaker (Usually the one who goes to Jail)

Every group has that one traveler who treats rules like gentle suggestions from a distant aunt. They’re the traveler who somehow ends up in places they absolutely should not be. They’ll wander past a velvet rope because “the lighting looked better over there,” climb a monument because “it felt like a viral video moment,” or casually open a clearly locked door just to “see what’s inside.” They’ll feed the animal everyone else is keeping a respectful distance from, hop onto a restricted platform for a photo op, or start chatting up a guard like they’re old friends, only to accidentally insult their entire family lineage. They’re the person who sets off a museum alarm by leaning too close to a priceless artifact, or gets us kicked out of the bar for drinking too much and tried to start a fight.

You blink, and suddenly they’re being “spoken to” by someone in uniform while shouting over their shoulder, “IT’S FINE, I GOT THIS.” They do not, in fact, got this. Meanwhile, you’re standing off to the side rehearsing your “I’m so sorry, we didn’t know” face and wondering how you became the designated adult of the group.

They may not always go to jail, but they definitely collect warnings, stern looks, and “Ma’am, please step back” moments like I collect souvenirs.

5. The Foodie

Every group has that traveler whose entire personality becomes food the moment the plane lands. Maybe they’re the foodie who has a well researched and organized local foodie guide and will drag everyone across the city for a cannoli they saw on TikTok. Maybe they’re the vegan who must research every menu like it’s a college thesis. Maybe they’re gluten‑free and spend half the trip whispering “Do you think this has wheat?” like it’s a conspiracy. Maybe it’s the traveler you must feed every couple of hours before they turn into The Hulk. Or maybe they’re the “ballin’ on a budget” eater who insists on finding “something cheap” instead of the mutually agreed upon spots across the group.

The foodie traveler will debate dinner plans like it’s a UN summit, passionately defend their preferred spot or eating choices, and act personally wounded if you suggest “just grabbing whatever’s nearby.” But you forgive them every time, because whether it’s a fancy tasting menu or a hole‑in‑the‑wall with plastic chairs, the meals they lead you to usually end up being unforgettable — sometimes because the food is superior, and sometimes because the group meltdown over dietary restrictions becomes its own kind of bonding experience. It’s certainly an experience you’ll talk about for years to come after the trip.

6. The Early Riser Who Thinks Vacation Means 6 A.M. Hikes

This traveler wakes up on vacation with the energy of someone who has never known exhaustion. Even if they went out the night prior, you can always expect them to be up before the sun, fully hydrated, SPF‑ed, and already halfway through a motivational podcast. Meanwhile, the rest of the group is clinging to their hotel pillows like emotional support animals. They text the trip group chat at 7:12 a.m. with a chirpy “Rise and shine!” and that’s when you remember to put your phone on “DND.”

They’re the kind of person who believes sleeping past 8 is “wasting the day,” and will proudly announce that they’ve already been to the gym, grabbed coffee, saved pool lounge chairs for the group, and “took a little stroll around the neighborhood” while you’re still trying to remember what country you’re in. They’ll propose a sunrise hike like it’s a casual suggestion, not a threat, and somehow convince you to join — only for you to spend the entire climb questioning every life choice that led you here.

Traveling with them means you will see parts of the city no one else has ever seen, mostly because normal people are still unconscious. And yes, you’ll complain, you’ll drag your feet, you’ll swear you’re never doing this again… but then you’ll reach the top of some hill, see a ridiculous view, and begrudgingly admit they were right. Just don’t tell them that. They’ll schedule a 5:45 a.m. “bonus walk” tomorrow.

7. The Nightlife Enthusiast Who Never Sleeps

This traveler is powered entirely by coffee, adrenaline, and the promise of a DJ set that “you just have to hear live.” They arrive in a new city and immediately know which bars stay open until sunrise, which clubs have the best rooftop views, and which bartenders pour heavy. Within 48 hours, they’re on a first‑name basis with every person who works in nightlife — and somehow also know their last names, childhood traumas, and whether they’re “thinking about switching careers.”

While the rest of the group is brushing their teeth and easing into pajamas, this traveler is slipping on sequins and shouting, “We’re just getting started!” They close down the bar, migrate to the club, then end up at an after‑party hosted by someone named Luca who “has great energy.” They return at 5 a.m. smelling like a nightclub floor, glitter in places glitter should not be, and still manage to show up at breakfast bright‑eyed, ordering a mimosa like sleep is a concept for the weak.

You don’t know how they’re alive. They don’t know either. But somehow, they rally again the next night — because it’s a theme night and we couldn’t possibly miss a cute outfit op,” and apparently, you’re coming too.

8. The Photographer Who Turns Every Moment Into a Photoshoot

This traveler cannot walk ten feet without gasping, “Wait — the lighting is insane right now.” They’ll stop the entire group mid‑stride, mid‑conversation, mid‑existence because a random alleyway suddenly has “major editorial vibes.” They take 100 photos of the same building from slightly different angles, crouching, tilting, backing up into traffic, and whispering things like “Yes… yes… she’s giving.” Every meal becomes a full‑scale production, complete with overhead shots, side angles, and a dramatic pause before anyone is allowed to touch their food and the millennial favorite: a video cheers of our drinks and beautiful smiling faces.

They insist on a group photo every 20 minutes — in front of a fountain, on a staircase, next to a stray cat, inside a grocery store “because the colors are incredible.” They’ll adjust your hair, fix your posture, and tell you to “relax your face” like they’re your personal Vogue editor. I personally love this traveler because I know every moment will be documented and we’ll have incredible photos that give everyone back home “travel FOMO.” They catch all your favorite memories that make the whole trip feel a little more magical while also capturing your best angles that you didn’t even know about.

9. The Overpacker Who Brings Their Entire Personality in a Suitcase

This traveler packs like they’re preparing for a natural disaster, a destination wedding, and a surprise Arctic expedition all at once. Their suitcase is the size of a small hatchback and weighs roughly as much as emotional baggage. They show up at the airport sweating with hopes and prayers that their luggage isn’t over the 50lb  limit, but still insisting that “it’s not that heavy.” Meanwhile you watch the check‑in agent mentally prepare for battle. Inside this behemoth is everything: three jackets for a summer trip, six pairs of shoes “just in case,” 10 going-out outfits for a short weekend, a full pharmacy, backup chargers, emergency snacks, and 5 hair tools that requires its own zip code.

They’ll unpack in the hotel room like they’re moving in for a semester abroad, laying out outfits, accessories, and a toiletry spread that rivals Sephora. And while you mock them relentlessly, you also know deep down that when you need sunscreen, ibuprofen, a safety pin, a poncho, or a phone charger at 2 a.m., they will have it. They always do. They’re chaotic, they’re dramatic, they’re absolutely bringing too much… but they’re also the reason the group survives.

10. The Drama Queen

Every group trip has at least one traveler who doesn’t just bring a carry‑on — they bring chaos as a personal item. While the rest of us are out here trying to live our best hot girl summer, they’re busy starring in a soap opera no one asked to watch.

They’re always “dealing with something back home,” which somehow requires a 47‑minute phone call right as the group is trying to leave for the day. They’re rage texting on their phone throughout every dinner. They’re late to breakfast because someone posted something “vague” and they’re seeking clarity. They’re late to the tour because their situationship said “we need to talk” which sparked a full-blown meltdown. They’re late to the airport because a tiny hiccup — like a misplaced lip balm — instantly becomes a crisis that apparently outranks making the flight.

And if they’re not knee‑deep in drama from home, they’re creating fresh drama on location. Suddenly they’re mad at someone in the group for posting a photo where the lighting was bad. Suddenly they’re crying in a bathroom because the waiter looked at them “weird.” They’ll complain about waiting in line “too long,” the food being “too salty,” and the weather being “too weather‑y,” as if your group personally curated these inconveniences just to ruin their day.

But here’s the thing: they’re also the group’s entertainment. They provide subplots. They keep morale high through sheer absurdity. They give you stories you’ll retell for years — usually starting with, “Remember when she lost it because her phone hit 12%?”

Travel wouldn’t be the same without them. Mostly because you’d actually be on time… but also because the trip needs at least one dramatic cliffhanger.

Every Vacation Needs its Full Cast of Characters

Group travel isn’t just about seeing new places — it’s about seeing your friends in their raw, unfiltered, sleep‑deprived glory. It teaches patience, teamwork, and the art of laughing through mild disasters. These personalities, as chaotic as they are, make the trip memorable. Without them, you’d just have photos of buildings. With them, you have stories you’ll tell for the rest of your life.

Traveling together is messy, hilarious, and occasionally stressful… but it’s also one of the best ways to grow closer. Every group needs a planner, a chaos agent, a foodie, a rule‑breaker, and someone who loses their phone twice a day. It’s the Breakfast Club of travel.

And if you don’t know which one(s) you are? Ask your friends. They definitely know.

Instagram vs. Reality—The Part of Travel No One Posts About

Flight delay on my return home

If you follow my TikTok or Instagram handles @flightsoverfeels, you know I’m usually out here romanticizing travel like it’s a full‑time job. Okay, technically it is my full‑time job. I could talk all day about dreamy destinations, perfect lighting, capturing the moment, and that “look at me thriving abroad” energy. My feed is basically a highlight reel of how incredible exploring the world can be.

But for every glamorous moment I post, there’s an unglamorous one I don’t. I’m quick to broadcast the messy side of modern dating and relationships, yet when it comes to travel, I tend to focus on the magic. The freedom, the beauty, the escape, the growth.

This week, my parents almost canceled their two‑week twentieth anniversary trip because a weather‑related flight cancellation sent everything into chaos. Watching them stress over whether to go at all made me realize something: the unglamorous side of travel deserves just as much honesty as the glamorous side I love to share, because it absolutely contributes to the growth experienced during traveling.

So in honor of transparency, and in honor of them, it’s time we talk about the part of travel no one posts about.

The Truth About Traveling

Travel is beautiful. Transformative. Expansive. It’s the thing people romanticize in movies, write about in memoirs, and curate into perfect squares on Instagram. But anyone who has ever sprinted through an airport, spent the night in a terminal, or eaten pretzels for dinner because everything else was closed knows the truth:

Travel isn’t always glamorous.

Sometimes it’s downright chaotic.

You may see me post a stunning beach sunset, but you didn’t see the eight‑hour flight delay spent sitting on a tarmac beforehand. I’ve shared photos from a lush rainforest, but not of the sixteen swollen mosquito bites that came with it. You’ve seen the fun from a friends’ getaway to Nashville, but not the part where I woke up with a severe back injury where I couldn’t move my body, and I had to figure out how I was going to make it to 6pm for a flight home across the country with a large check-in bag and excruciating pain. Literally fight or flight mode.

And yes, you saw me post having the time of my life in Venice, but you didn’t see me miss my 3:00 a.m. wake‑up call. It was the perfect way to kick off a twenty‑three‑hour travel day that felt like a marathon I never signed up for.

These aren’t the moments we rush to post. But they’re part of the story, and part of the growth I’m always preaching about. The truth is that these messy, unglamorous moments are the ones that shape us. They’re the character‑building chapters that make the beautiful ones feel earned.

The Chaos Behind the Magic

No one tells you that travel is fifty percent magic and fifty percent “figure it out.” But that’s exactly what makes it meaningful.

A missed flight teaches patience, the kind you can’t learn from a self‑help book. It teaches critical thinking under pressure to figure out your next move, which could be a very costly decision. A weather disruption teaches surrender, because when you’re determined to do something, sometimes the universe says “guess again” and there is nothing you can do about it. A reroute teaches adaptability, the kind that reminds you that you’re capable of pivoting faster than a dating app bio. A lost bag teaches resourcefulness, because you can survive with only the items in your carry‑on. Or it teaches you to adapt a new mindset on packing for future trips: “how can I fit only what I need in my carry-on” mentality vs. “how can I fit 20 extra outfits for this trip just in case.”

These moments don’t look pretty. They don’t feel glamorous. They don’t get the likes.

But they teach you, and then they build you.

The Character Development You Didn’t Know You Signed Up For

Travel forces you into situations you can’t control, and that’s where the growth happens.

Eventually, you learn how to stay calm when plans fall apart. You learn how to find joy in the unexpected. You learn how to trust yourself in unfamiliar places. You learn how to laugh when nothing is going according to plan.

And maybe most importantly, you learn that discomfort isn’t the enemy. It’s the teacher.

The chaos becomes the story you tell and laugh about later. In fact, my crazy travel stories mixed with my chaotic dating life became the idea behind “Catch Flights Not Feels” with everyone suggesting I should share my experiences.

Similar to relationships, the inconvenience you experience during traveling becomes the lesson you didn’t know you needed. The discomfort becomes the moment you realize you’re stronger, more flexible, and more resilient than you thought.

The Beauty of Imperfect Travel

Travel isn’t perfect, and neither are we. That’s the point.

The magic of travel isn’t just in the postcard moments. It’s in the moments that force you to breathe, adjust, and try again. It’s in the moments that remind you that you can handle unpredictability, discomfort, and the unknown, and still find joy on the other side.

And sometimes, the ugly moments blossom into beautiful stories.

You lose your backpack in Mexico on the way to your hotel, and a stranger returns it to you, restoring your faith in humanity, and making a new friend along the way. A bus driver no‑showed on a tour to the Cliffs of Moher on my last day in Ireland which would have forced us to cancel the trip, and somehow I became the stand‑in guide for an eight‑hour excursion. One minute I was a tourist waiting for a bus, and the next I was responsible for getting forty strangers to one of the most iconic sights in the country. It was a huge misunderstanding that turned into one of my favorite travel memories of simply winging it. Queen Elizabeth’s wake fell during my trip to England, and I was urged not to go because of closures and flight cancellations. I went anyway and witnessed a historic moment I am honored and lucky to be a part of.

These are the kinds of moments that remind you that travel doesn’t always go according to plan, but sometimes the detour becomes the story.

The truth is that there will always be a reason not to do something. There will always be a warning, a disruption, a closure, a risk. It may not work out. But what if it does? And what if it doesn’t? What if I had gone to England and every excursion really was closed, just like they warned? Maybe that would have been my chance to find something off the beaten path. Maybe I would have wandered into a local pub, the kind where the floors creak and the bartender knows everyone by name. Maybe I would have discovered something I never would have planned.

Travel is messy. Travel is unpredictable. Travel is real.

And it’s in those imperfect moments that we meet the most honest version of ourselves.

How to Embrace Imperfect Travel

If you want to make peace with the messy parts of travel, here are a few things that help:

Leave room for flexibility. Build an itinerary, but don’t marry it. Don’t plan every moment. The best unexpected moments often show up when your plans fall apart or you leave room to wing it.

Expect the unexpected. Delays, reroutes, closures, cancellations. None of it means the trip is ruined. It just means the story is getting interesting. The best thing you can do is stay calm, understand that things happen outside of your control, and getting upset isn’t going to change anything. Take a breath, understand the assignment at hand, and get to work!

Pivot without guilt. Changing plans isn’t failure. It’s adaptability. It’s resourcefulness. It’s character development in real time. If you missed out on something you were looking forward to, understand you can always go back. As if we need any excuse, here it is. Four tours booked and canceled to the Amalfi Coast? Guess it wasn’t meant to be this time. Looks like I’ll be pivoting to try the world’s first pizzeria instead and will need to come back to see the Amalfi Coast.  

Look for the story inside the inconvenience. Every chaotic moment has a lesson, a laugh, or a memory attached to it. Sometimes all three. Next time you experience an inconvenience, I urge to you to think about how it influenced or shaped the rest of the trip. Did you learn something new for future travel? Did something so chaotic happen you had to text the group chat at home in real time for a good laugh? During my 8-hour flight delay, my group chat and I started placing bets on the next chaotic step because it was unbelievable how far it went.

Look for the silver lining. Chaotic moments are inconvenient, but it’s important to remember what’s important. You’re safe and you’re alive. Perhaps that thing that didn’t work out saved you money. That flight that canceled kept you safe. Maybe you weren’t meant to go on that tour today, but there are bigger plans for you in the future.

Ask locals for help when things go sideways. They know the shortcuts, the hidden gems, the backup options, and the places tourists never find.

Trust yourself and your gut. You’ve handled hard things before like a messy breakup. You can handle a missed train or a surprise detour. You’re more capable than you think. Similarly, if something feels off, it probably is. Listen to the voice in your head.

Remember that the magic doesn’t disappear when the plan does. It just shifts. And sometimes it shifts into something better. The most important part is that you will likely try something you never would have stumbled upon and that can be the real magic of travel.

Embrace the Unknown

Travel will test you, stretch you, delay you, reroute you, and then reward you. Yet people often get caught up in the drama of the messy parts: the delays, the disruptions, the unexpected detours. They cancel the trip, cancel the day, or miss out on experiences simply because the chaos feels inconvenient or overwhelming.

But here’s the truth: you can’t let the chaos win. Look it straight in the eye and say, “Not today.”

The magic feels different when you’ve earned it. I talk a lot about the growth experienced from solo travel, and the growth feels deeper when it comes from the moments no one posts—the Instagram vs. reality moments. The moments that force you to adapt, stay patient, and keep going even when the journey gets messy. It’s the version of you that comes home a different person than you left it.

The reward is always there. You just have to get through the chaos to reach it sometimes.

And while we may not post about the chaotic moments, they can often turn into the best travel stories.

Exploring a World of Different Flags—and Avoiding the Red Ones

Traveling the world is supposed to expand your horizons and open you up to a world of new cultures and possibilities — but let’s be honest, it mostly expands your awareness of how many types of men exist on this planet. Every country has a flag, sure. But every man? He’s got a whole flag system of his own.

And in 2026, when dating apps have gone global, remote work has turned everyone into a “digital nomad,” and half the men you meet claim they “found themselves in Lisbon,” navigating these flags has basically become an Olympic sport. Which is ironic, because men love nothing more than showing off their flags during the Olympics — chest out, colors on, full national pride. Meanwhile, women are out here creating our own Olympic event: identifying men’s flags they don’t even realize they’re waving. Sadly, our event has a lot more penalties and lot less scoring.

Welcome to Flights Over Feels, where we don’t just collect passport stamps — we collect stories, delusions, and the occasional emotional bruise from ignoring obvious warning signs. Consider this your international guide to romance, chaos, and the flags you’ll encounter along the way.

Exploring a World of Flags

Before we get into the emotional flags men wave, let’s acknowledge something: have you ever noticed how actual countries put intention into their flags? They’re not warnings — they’re previews. Little visual hints about identity, personality, and what you’re about to experience.

• Japan keeps it clean and centered — calm, minimal, balanced energy.

• Switzerland is structured and dependable — peaceful and neutral.

• Brazil is bright and bold — vibrant, fun, full of life.

• Canada? Polite, steady, maple‑leaf sweet.

Flags don’t say “beware.” They say, “Here’s who we are — welcome.”

And honestly? I wish more men were the same. Wouldn’t it be great to have a symbol or visual preview of the type of energy or character we’re about to encounter? Don’t get me wrong… every guy has his own personal flag system — colors, patterns, and signals that tell you exactly what you’re about to encounter—if you know how to look for them and read them. They’re there, but they’re not as obvious up front as the countries you visit.

The Green Flags (Rare, Like a Free Upgrade)

Green flags are like spotting a unicorn in the boarding area or hitting the jackpot in Vegas: unexpected, magical, and probably not real. But when they appear? Chef’s kiss.

• He packs snacks for both of you. A man who thinks ahead? A man who brings extra? That’s a man who deserves TSA PreCheck. If he’s a green flag? He probably already has it.

• He actually reads the itinerary. Not just skims it. Reads it. Asks questions. Offers suggestions. This is emotional maturity disguised as Google Docs engagement.

• He knows the difference between “traveling” and “running from his problems.” If he’s in Bali for “clarity,” run. If he’s in Bali because he likes surfing and sunshine? Green flag.

• He doesn’t treat flight attendants like his personal staff. Respect is sexy. Always has been.

• He charges his devices before the flight. A man who prepares for the journey prepares for the relationship.

• He’s curious. Have you ever traveled with a man who travels like he’s back home? Eats at McDonalds and wants to sleep in until 11am. A man who’s interested in exploring other cultures, meeting the locals or eating their food is giving green flag energy.

• He already has Global Entry. This needs no explanation. IYKYK   

Green flags are the quiet comforts of travel — the little signs that maybe, just maybe, this man won’t become a cautionary tale on your blog. They’re rare, they’re reassuring, and honestly? A green‑flag man is the real upgrade. Not the seat, not the lounge access, not even the free Prosecco — him. And in a world full of red‑flag turbulence, that kind of upgrade feels downright first‑class.

The Yellow Flags (Proceed With Caution, Babe)

Yellow flags are tricky. They’re not deal‑breakers… yet. They’re the “delayed flight” of dating: annoying, but survivable. The ones you have to convince yourself “I’m not settling, am I?”

The warning signs:  

• He says he’s “spontaneous,” but it means “unprepared.” Spontaneous is booking a last‑minute flight. Unprepared is showing up with no wallet, no plan, and no deodorant.

• He insists that hostels are part of the experience. Yes — the experience of being 19. You’re 39. Grow up.

• He has a favorite country… and it’s concerning. If it’s Thailand, Colombia, or anywhere with cheap beer and cheaper decisions? Yellow flag with red undertones.

• He insists on boarding the second they call Group 1… and he’s in Group 7. Calm down, Maverick.

• He says “let’s go camping instead.” Not a crime, but not for me.

• He insists on checking a bag. If he packs more than me, I’m not judging. But I have questions.

• He says “I’m not really into planning.” Translation: I will be planning.

Yellow flags are the soft warnings — the gentle nudges from the universe that say, “Sweetheart… keep your eyes open.” They’re not red enough to run, but they’re not green enough to relax either. They’re the men who pack too much, plan too little, and somehow make a two‑hour flight feel like a long‑haul. You don’t bail… but you absolutely keep your seatbelt loosely fastened.

The Red Flags (Do Not Board)

These are the flags you can spot from the other side of the terminal. The flags that scream, “ABORT MISSION! Turn around NOW.”

• He can’t commit to a date. If he commits to trips like he plans your dates, run!

• He posts the trip, but not you. If you’re not in the frame, you’re not in the future.

• He says “I hate culture.” He just travels for the McDonalds and hotel Wi-Fi.

• He’s chronically “between jobs.” For three years. On purpose.

• His opening line on a dating app is “I see you like to travel. Where are you taking me?” Into my “unmatch” file. Next!

• He claps when the plane lands. I’m sorry. I don’t make the rules.

• He “forgets” his wallet. At the airport. At dinner. At life.

• He calls every ex crazy. Usually there’s a common denominator. Spoiler alert: it’s YOU!

• He treats the middle seat like a territorial conquest. Elbows out, legs wide, vibes hostile.

• He’s rude to staff and doesn’t tip well. Lack of respect gives me the ultimate ICK.

• He thinks “digital nomad” means “unemployed but with Wi‑Fi.” Red flag with a side of delusion.

• He turns his phone off and doesn’t reach out when he travels without you. Sir, did you attend a silent retreat?

Red flags aren’t subtle — they’re the full‑body shiver you get when the turbulence hits. They’re the behaviors that don’t just inconvenience you… they cost you. Time, energy, sanity, peace. They’re the men who turn vacations into recovery periods and relationships into survival missions. And once you see a red flag clearly? You don’t negotiate. You don’t rationalize.

You grab your carry‑on, keep your dignity, and head straight for the nearest exit — no gate change required.

Learning the Signals

In the end, exploring men is a lot like exploring countries: every flag has meaning. Some welcome you in, some make you pause, and some tell you to turn around immediately. But that’s the fun of it — learning the signals, trusting your instincts, and knowing when to stay, when to wander, and when to book a one‑way flight out of there. Because the world is full of flags… but you only need one that feels like the right destination. Welcome to the life upgrade.

And if all else fails? There’s always the upgrade list as a backup plan.

It’s Not Ghosting—It’s an Irish Goodbye

A Travel‑Girl Guide to Leaving Situations and Places Quietly and Gracefully

The Irish have introduced us to so many great things — whiskey that warms your chest, pubs that feel like home even if you’ve never been, river dancing that makes your jaw drop, and of course… the Irish Goodbye.

And out of all their cultural contributions, the Irish Goodbye might be one of my personal favorites — especially in the world of dating. Because while ghosting feels cold and careless, an Irish Goodbye is something else entirely. It’s understanding when it’s time to go without asking for permission. And instead of sending a paragraph, starting a fight, or waiting for someone to magically become emotionally literate, you simply… leave. It’s intentional. It’s graceful.

And maybe I understand it so well because I’m a traveler at heart. Travel teaches you to read a room, a moment, a vibe. It teaches you when to linger, when to explore, and when to catch the next train before it leaves without you. It teaches you that not every stop is meant to be a long stay — and that leaving early doesn’t make you unkind, it makes you intuitive.

And somewhere between my travels and my dating life, I realized something important: This is exactly the energy I need in modern romance.

Because let’s be honest — dating today is full of disappearing acts. People vanish mid‑conversation, mid‑connection, mid‑“I really like you.” We call it ghosting, and it stings. But an Irish Goodbye? That’s different. That’s choosing peace over chaos, clarity over confusion, and self‑respect over someone else’s mixed signals.

It’s not ghosting — it’s knowing when it’s time to go.

✨ Ghosting vs. The Irish Goodbye — There Is a Difference

Ghosting is disappearing without intention. An Irish goodbye is leaving with clarity.

Ghosting is messy. An Irish goodbye is clean.

Ghosting is “I don’t care.” An Irish goodbye is “I care about myself more.”

And if you’ve ever been in an Irish pub, you know exactly what I mean. People don’t announce their exit. They don’t gather the room. They don’t perform. They simply slip out when they’ve had their fill — of the night, the noise, or the nonsense.

Tell me that isn’t the perfect metaphor for dating.

✈️ Travel Has Taught Me When to Stay — and When to Go

Travel has this quiet way of teaching you things you didn’t realize you needed to learn. In Ireland, it’s the Wild Atlantic Way — winding, unpredictable, breathtaking — that teaches you to embrace detours. It’s standing at the edge of the Cliffs of Moher, wind whipping your hair, realizing how small a single moment can be in the grand scheme of things. And sometimes it’s wandering through Dublin’s cobblestone streets, where every turn feels charming but also a little uncertain, that reminds you to watch your step and trust your pace.

Travel gives you signs. Ireland just makes them impossible to ignore.

It sharpens your intuition. It makes you pay attention. It shows you that timing, energy, and environment matter more than we admit.

When you land somewhere new, you can feel it almost instantly — that subtle internal yes or no. Sometimes a place wraps around you like a warm hug. Sometimes it feels like a pair of shoes you want to love but can’t quite break in. And sometimes, you know before you even unpack that this isn’t where you’re meant to be.

Dating is no different.

Travel taught me that you don’t force a connection with a city — you either feel it or you don’t. You don’t guilt‑trip yourself into loving a destination that doesn’t fit your vibe and energy. You don’t stay in a hotel that feels off just because you already checked in. You don’t keep wandering streets that don’t feel safe or inspiring.

You move on. Gracefully. Quietly. Without apologizing for trusting your instincts.

And that’s the beauty of the Irish Goodbye — it mirrors the traveler’s mindset. You don’t need a dramatic exit to validate your decision. You don’t need to justify why you’re leaving. You don’t need to explain the vibe shift. You simply know when it’s time to catch the next train, the next flight, the next chapter.

Because the truth is, not every destination is meant to be a forever place. Some are meant to be a lesson. Some are meant to be a layover. Some are meant to show you what you don’t want. And some are meant to prepare you for the place that finally feels like home.

Travel taught me that leaving isn’t failure — it’s direction. It’s clarity. It’s choosing alignment over obligation.

And in dating, that’s not ghosting. That’s an Irish Goodbye.

☘️ Ireland Inspired This Entire Mindset

Ireland has a way of giving you a fresh perspective on life — in the best possible way. It’s a place that feels both familiar and magical, like you’ve been there before even when you haven’t. The people are warm, the conversations are easy, the scenery is breathtaking, and the nights stretch longer than you planned because somehow you’re always having “just one more.”

But here’s the thing no one tells you until you experience it yourself: Ireland is also a masterclass in knowing when to slip out quietly.

Walk into any pub in Dublin, Galway, or Cork and you’ll see it. People come and go like tides — no drama, no announcements, no performative goodbyes. One minute they’re beside you, laughing over a pint, and the next they’ve disappeared into the night air without a trace.

Not because they’re rude. Not because they’re avoiding you. But because they trust the moment enough to leave it exactly as it is.

And honestly? That’s the energy I want in my dating life.

Ireland taught me that not every exit needs a speech. Not every ending needs a breakdown. Not every connection needs a post‑mortem. Sometimes the most respectful thing you can do — for yourself and for the other person — is to leave quietly when the moment has run its course.

Traveling through Ireland made me realize how beautiful that can be. How freeing. How… grown.

Because when you’re on the road, you learn to honor timing. You learn to honor your intuition. You learn that staying too long in the wrong place can dim the magic of the right one.

And that’s when it clicked for me: It’s not ghosting — it’s an Irish Goodbye. A gentle exit. A peaceful boundary. A quiet promise to yourself that you’re allowed to move on without guilt.

Ireland didn’t just give me stunning photos and endless memories. It gave me a philosophy.

💅 Why Leaving Quietly Isn’t Heartless — It’s Honest

There’s this idea that if you don’t give someone a long explanation, a perfectly worded goodbye, or a full emotional debrief, you’re being cold. But travel taught me something different: sometimes the most honest thing you can do is leave without turning it into a performance.

Think about it — when you’re on the road, you don’t stay in a hotel that feels unsafe just because you already checked in. You don’t force yourself to love a city that doesn’t feel right just because it looked good online. You don’t keep wandering a neighborhood that gives you the wrong kind of butterflies.

You trust your instincts. You pivot. You move on. And no one calls you heartless for that.

So why is dating any different?

Here’s the truth: If someone wanted you to stay, they would give you a reason to.

Effort. Consistency. Presence. Intention.

If those things aren’t there, you’re not ghosting — you’re simply choosing not to linger in a place that doesn’t feel like home. You’re walking away before you start to negotiate your worth.

You’re doing what travelers do best: Moving on to the next adventure with grace, curiosity, and zero regrets.

🌍 The Irish Goodbye Is the Rebrand Ghosting Needed

Ghosting has such a bad reputation — and honestly, deservedly so. It’s messy. It’s abrupt. It feels like someone slammed a door in your face and then evaporated into thin air. But the Irish Goodbye? That’s different. That’s a quiet exit with centuries of cultural charm behind it. It’s slipping out of a pub in Dublin without the theatrics, without the drawn‑out goodbyes, without the emotional labor of explaining something that’s already over.

It’s not disappearing. It’s disengaging with dignity.

And maybe that’s exactly what modern dating needs — a rebrand. A softer, more intentional version of leaving. A way to say “this isn’t for me” without turning it into a dramatic monologue or a three‑day text exchange that ends exactly where it started.

Because here’s the truth: Travelers know when it’s time to move on.

We know when a city has given us everything it’s going to give. We know when a detour becomes a dead end. We know when the vibe shifts from adventure to obligation. We know when staying longer won’t make the experience better — it’ll just make it heavier. You just slip out quietly, gracefully, and with the same confidence you carry through every airport terminal.

And that’s the beauty of the Irish Goodbye. It’s not about avoiding someone. It’s about honoring yourself.

Because maybe we’re not disappearing. Maybe we’re just done explaining ourselves to people who never listened in the first place.

Maybe we’re not cold. Maybe we’re just choosing peace.

Maybe we’re not afraid of confrontation. Maybe we’re just tired of conversations that go nowhere.

And maybe — just maybe — the Irish had it right all along.

Slip out quietly. Protect your energy.

Leave the party (or the situationship) without making a scene. And trust that the right people will notice your absence — and the wrong ones never deserved your presence.

Cruising 101: A Beginners Guide to Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line in Jamaica

If you’ve ever been curious about cruising — or maybe even skeptical — you’re not alone. I’ve spent years working for and with several cruise companies, and I’ve heard every question, every misconception, and every “I’m not really a cruise person” comment you can imagine.

But here’s the truth: Cruising isn’t one thing. It’s not one style, one ship, or one type of traveler. It’s a whole world of travel options — and most people only know a tiny piece of it.

So let’s start simple. Let’s break down what cruising actually is, why it’s so popular, and how to figure out whether it might be right for you.

This is the first post in a series where I’ll walk you through the basics, debunk myths, and help you choose the cruise style that fits your personality, pace, and travel goals.

🚢 What Even Is a Cruise? (Yes, I’m serious)

Let’s make this simple: a cruise is like a floating hotel that moves. That’s it. You unpack once, and you see the world.

But depending on the type of cruise you choose, that “floating hotel” might feel like:

• A resort

• A boutique inn

• A safari lodge

• A cultural immersion trip

• A luxury retreat

• A basecamp for adventure

• A destination

This is why cruising is so misunderstood — people assume all ships are the same we all know they’re thinking mega-liners. They’re not even close.

🌍 The Three Main Types of Cruises (And Why They’re So Different)

1. Ocean Cruises

Think big ships, small ships or luxury yachts, lots of dining options, entertainment, nightlife, family-friendly and adults only options, and a mix of travelers. Just like a hotel, right? Perfect for: first‑timers, families, couples, groups, people who want variety.

2. River Cruises

Smaller, intimate ships, slower pace, culture‑focused itineraries, and docking right in the heart of cities. Imagine always being surrounded by country-side and beautiful scenery at every point of the journey. Perfect for: foodies, history lovers, adults, travelers who want depth over crowds.

3. Expedition Cruises

Small ships built for adventure that take you to the most remote destinations of the world — think Antarctica, the Arctic, the Galápagos. Often include expert guides, wildlife encounters, and educational programs offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  Perfect for: nature lovers, photographers, bucket‑list travelers, explorers.

Each one offers a completely different experience. Choosing the right type is the key to loving your journey.

🧭 Why People Love Cruising (Even If They Didn’t Expect To)

Here’s what I’ve seen again and again from travelers, including myself:

• They love waking up somewhere new every day

• They love seeing multiple countries and destinations with one set of flights and only having to unpack once (seriously guys, that’s a huge flex!)

• They love not having to plan every detail

• They love the mix of relaxation and exploration

• They love the value (yes, value — more on that in a future post)

• They love the community and connection onboard

• They love the up close and personal view of the sunrise and sunset on the horizon (or maybe that’s just me)

Cruising takes the stress out of travel without taking away the adventure.

🏨 Cruise vs. Hotel: The Simplest Comparison

A hotel gives you one destination that you can really explore in depth. A cruise gives you the option to see multiple destinations on the same itinerary while waking up in a new city every day.

A hotel gives you a room. A cruise gives you a room, entertainment, food, transportation, and activities — all in one place. And, if you’re lucky, it’s all included!

It’s not that one is better than the other. They’re just different tools for different types of trips.

Here’s what I always suggest to travelers because both of these types of people exist. If you’re going somewhere new, go on the cruise first to explore many countries or cities at once and see which one gives you butterflies. On the next trip, go back to that destination that gave you butterflies at a hotel and spend more time in the location to explore further.

💬 Why I’m Writing This Series

After working for a cruise company, I know there is a huge buzz around cruising right now. If you’re still living on fears that you had 20 years ago, you’re missing out on something great. Because cruising has changed, it’s evolved, it’s got a solution for every type of traveler.

And then it dawned on me, it’s not that people dislike cruising—it’s just that people don’t understand it yet.

So, this series will break it all down in a way that’s simple, honest, and helpful. No jargon. No sales pitch. Just real insight from someone who has the insight.

🌟 What’s Coming Next in the Series

Here’s what I’ll cover in upcoming posts:

• Ocean vs. River vs. Expedition: How to Choose the Right One

• Cruising Myths, Debunked

• The Value of Cruising

• How to Pick the Perfect Itinerary

• Cruising vs. Land Travel: Which One Fits Your Style

And more — because trust me, I’ve got stories.

Most Friends Can’t Coordinate Dinner While Mine Plan International Trips

A celebration of the chaotic, committed, passport‑ready friendships

Most friend groups can’t even agree on a dinner reservation. Someone’s “not doing carbs,” someone else “already ate,” someone’s running late, someone can’t afford the venue and someone mysteriously disappears the moment the words Where should we go hit the chat.

Meanwhile, my friend group? We’re out here planning international trips like it’s our part‑time job. Oh wait, it technically is my job so I suppose it helps when you have one in the friend group always planting the seed.

While other groups are still debating sushi vs. tacos, we’re comparing flight prices, comparing outfits, dropping hotel stay links, and casually saying things like, “Should we just do Turks & Caicos?” We don’t pick a restaurant — we pick a country.

And honestly? I’m so proud of us.

It’s a big enough challenge for me to get a boyfriend to commit to a trip. Actually, it’s just challenging to get a man to commit to plans on a Saturday. These men are clearly part of the other friend groups who can’t even plan dinner.  

Getting a group of adults to commit to anything — let alone a trip that requires PTO, passports, and a full itinerary — is nothing short of miraculous. It’s diplomacy. It’s logistics. It’s blind optimism. It’s friendship at its highest difficulty setting.

What’s even more impressive is the diversity of our friend group all being in different places in our lives to come together and make it happen. Some are married long term, some are newlyweds that we’ve known since the beginning of their love story, some are divorced, some are newly engaged and some of us are as single as our passports are stamped. But, it just works.

And when it works? When the trip actually makes it out of the group chat? It becomes the kind of memory that bonds you for life. 📱

When the Trip Actually Makes It Out of the Group Chat

There’s a moment — a sacred, almost spiritual moment — when a group trip crosses the threshold from chaotic fantasy to actual reality. It’s when the group chat shifts from memes and unhinged voice notes to… logistics. Real logistics. The kind that require calendars, commitment, and courage.

It always starts with one brave soul typing the words that change everything:

“Okay, but seriously… are we doing this.”

Suddenly, everyone plays into a role. You have the friend who always asks to go on trips with you but will never commit. They are the ones that watch but go silent. You have the core group that you know will always say “count me in” because we can’t bear the FOMO that will come from missing out on the memories from another international debauchery. You have the friends who are already looking up flights and hotels before we even decide where we’re going and the others who just say “tell me what to book” and just show up.  

And then it happens. The moment that separates the dreamers from the doers:

Someone finally books their flight.

That’s the point of no return. That’s when the trip officially escapes the gravitational pull of the group chat. That’s when everyone else has to either commit or admit they were never serious.

If you’re lucky, your friend group has a points guy who travels so much for work that he accumulates the highest level of status and invites everyone on his itinerary to book business class for under $200 per person. If your friend group doesn’t have that guy, start looking for one.

And when the confirmations start rolling in — seat selections, hotel reservations, business-lounge access, passport renewals — you realize something magical:

This isn’t just a trip anymore. It’s a collective triumph.

A logistical miracle. A testament to the fact that your friend group is built different.

🌍 We’re Not Just Friends — We’re a Travel Task Force

Every group has roles, and ours are elite:

• The Planner (this is usually me as the Travel Industry hook up)

• The Points Guy

• The Flight Deal Hunter

• The Spreadsheet Queen

• The “I’ll Go Anywhere” Wildcard

• The Boat Guy (yes, our trips often involve being on a boat)

• The Human Yelp Review

• The One Who Packs Like They’re Fleeing the Country

• The One Who Packs 20 Minutes Before Leaving for the Airport

Together, we’re unstoppable. Separately, we’re… well, still unstoppable, but with less shared luggage.

🧳 We Don’t Just Travel — We Commit

We’ve mastered the art of:

• Coordinating PTO like a synchronized swim team

• Booking flights at 2 a.m. because “the price dropped $14”

• Pretending we’ll wake up early to journal and drink water

• Packing all brand new outfits we bought for the trip that we absolutely will not wear but may gift to our trip mates

• Fixing our schedules so that we never miss a sunset

• Creating itineraries that are 40% realistic and 60% delusion

And somehow, it all works.

Because the moment we step off that plane — sleep‑deprived, over‑packed, possibly over-stimulated and buzzing with excitement — everything clicks. The chaos becomes comedy. The planning becomes payoff. The group chat becomes a living, breathing adventure and our base of sharing the hilarious or oh-so-cute photos we took of each other.

🌄 We Collect Memories, Not Just Menus

Some friend groups bond over brunch. Ours bond over:

• Getting lost in foreign cities

• Catching boats and daily sunsets

• Themed nights and matching outfits for the cutest photos

• Laughing until we cry while pregaming in someone’s hotel room

• Sharing chargers, snacks, beverages and emotional support

• Turning every mishap into a story we’ll tell forever

We don’t just go out to dinner — we go out into the world.

And that’s the difference.

💛 Because These Are the Friendships Worth Traveling For

Anyone can show up for a meal. But showing up for a passport‑stamped, time‑zone‑crossing, memory‑making adventure? That’s a different level of friendship. That’s family.

It’s commitment. It’s chaos. It’s love. It’s choosing each other — not just for a night out, but for a whole experience.

Most friend groups can’t even plan a trip to dinner. Mine plans international trips. And honestly? I wouldn’t trade them for anything. From Newport, to Nashville, to Cabo, to Las Vegas, to Tulum, to London and Paris, to the Mediterranean, to Miami, to Turks & Caicos and the Bahamas, I can’t wait to see where the next adventure takes us and the memories that come along the way.

I Hope Someday Someone Looks at Me the Way I Look at a Travel Brochure

I always say I hope someday a man looks at me the way I look at a travel brochure — and if you know me, you know that’s saying a lot. Because when I look at a travel brochure, my whole demeanor lights up. My eyes soften, my shoulders relax, and my whole body leans in like I’m falling in love with possibility itself.

And maybe that’s because I don’t just read travel brochures. I create them for a living.

I can spend my days choosing the perfect photos, writing the words that make people dream, and curating the kind of moments that make someone whisper, “I need to be there.” I know what it looks like when something is crafted with passion and intention — when every detail is chosen to spark excitement, curiosity, and hope. I aim to create a sense of FOMO—you can’t live without experiencing something so beautiful and powerful.

Somewhere along the way, I realized: That’s the same energy and reaction I want in love.

✈️ Travel Has Become the Great Love Story of My Life

Travel has never disappointed me the way dating has recently. Travel shows up. Travel makes plans. Travel gives me butterflies and excitement before I even arrive.

When I’m creating a travel brochure, I’m imagining the best version of a place — the golden hour glow, the hidden corners, the exquisite sunsets, the magic that doesn’t always show up on the first page. I give destinations the kind of attention and admiration that most people reserve for relationships. I study them. I celebrate them. I’m in awe of their beauty before I ever step foot there.

And honestly? I deserve someone who sees me with that same wonder.

🌍 What a Travel Brochure Taught Me About Love

A travel brochure is full of intention. It’s curated. It’s thoughtful. It’s an invitation.

And that’s what I want from a partner — someone who looks at me with curiosity, excitement, and a genuine desire to explore who I am.

Not someone who takes 48 hours to respond. Not someone who can’t plan a date but expects me to plan my entire emotional availability around them. Not someone who gives me the bare minimum and calls it effort.

If I can create a brochure that makes strangers want to cross oceans, then surely someone out there can bring that same energy to loving me.

💅 I Want to Be Someone’s Dream Destination

I want to be someone’s dream destination — not a layover, not a quick weekender, not a “maybe someday.” I want to be the place someone circles in their mind the way I circle a potential next vacation spot in my brochure: with excitement, curiosity, and the quiet certainty that something unforgettable is waiting there.

I want someone who sees me the way I see a new city or a beautiful new resort — full of potential, full of stories, full of reasons to stay a little longer. When I arrive somewhere new, I don’t rush through it. I take my time. I wander. I pay attention. I let myself fall in love with the details most people overlook. That’s the kind of energy I want coming my way.

Someone who studies the details — the way my laugh sounds when I’m genuinely happy, the way my eyes light up when I talk about a place I’m passionate about, the way I soften when I feel safe. Someone who’s excited to discover the hidden gems — the quirks, the layers, the parts of me that don’t show up on the first page. Someone who doesn’t rush the experience but also doesn’t take it for granted — who understands that the best things unfold slowly, intentionally, and with presence.

And most of all, someone who chooses me with intention — the way I choose every photo, every headline, every word in the brochures I create. I craft. I curate. I imagine the experience someone will have when they step into that world I’ve built. I want someone who sees me with that same care, that same thoughtfulness, that same desire to explore what’s possible.

🧳 Until Then, I’ll Keep Loving the World

Until someone looks at me with that same spark, I’ll keep doing what I do best: Falling in love with the world.

One brochure. One boarding pass. One breathtaking moment at a time.

Because if travel is the great love story of my life, I’m not complaining. It’s shown me beauty, adventure, and versions of myself I never would’ve met otherwise.

And maybe — just maybe — the right person will find me the same way I find my favorite destinations: By being in the right place at the right time.

If this story made you smile, nod, or whisper “same,” then you’re exactly who I write for. Travel has a way of showing us the love, excitement, and intention we wish people would give us — and I’m here to celebrate every version of that journey.

If you’re ready for more travel stories, destination guides, and soft‑savage reflections on life, love, and boarding passes, make sure you subscribe so you never miss a new post. Your next adventure — and maybe your next revelation — is waiting.

✨ Is Travel Like Finding Your Soulmate? It’s All About Being at the Right Place at the Right Time

I was rewatching an old episode of Sex and the City when Carrie asked if timing is everything when it comes to finding a soulmate. Is every second of our lives controlled by fate? Or is life just a series of random occurrences?

Naturally, this sent me into a spiral — because if timing matters in love, does it also matter when it comes to travel? If I hadn’t postponed a trip… If my flight hadn’t been delayed two hours… If I’d chosen a different weekend entirely…

Would the trip have been different? Would my life be different? Would I be different?

Then I got to thinking — which is always dangerous — and I landed on a conclusion that feels both unhinged and deeply poetic: Travel might be the closest thing we have to finding a soulmate.

Not in the “I fell in love with a man named Luca on a Vespa in Rome” way (although if that happens, please contact me immediately). I mean in the way that travel, like soulmates, shows up when you need it, changes you when you’re ready, and makes absolutely no sense until suddenly it does.

Some people believe soulmates are written in the stars. I believe they might be written in your passport.

Let’s unpack this.

🌍 Travel Finds You When You Need It Most

You know how people say you meet “the one” when you’re not looking? Travel works the same way.

Some of my best trips weren’t planned. They were spontaneous, chaotic, and full of moments that felt like the universe nudging me forward.

It’s like the universe said, “Sweetie, you’re spiraling. Here’s a cheap flight to London. Go reset.”

So, I did.

Travel arrives the same way a soulmate does — unexpectedly, and if you’re lucky, right on time.

✈️ Timing Is Everything (In Love and in Layovers)

You can visit the same city twice and have two completely different experiences. You can meet the same person twice and feel something entirely new.

Just like finding your soulmate, travel is all about timing:

• who you are when you arrive

• what you’re carrying emotionally

• what you’re ready to let go of

• what you’re open to discovering

The right place at the wrong time feels off.

I once went to a tiny, charming island in Exuma, Bahamas — it was a complete disaster. Everything possible went wrong and ended with a full-blown melt down.

I swore I’d never go back.

But a couple years later, the opportunity came again and I felt I owed it to myself to redo my experience. And this time, everything aligned. It was a perfect trip from a flight upgrade, to multiple celebrity sightings, checked off a bucket list item going to see the swimming pigs, and so much more.

Same place. Different timing. Completely different experience.

The right place at the right time feels like magic.

💫 You Have to Be Open to the Unexpected

Some of the best travel moments happen when you ditch the plan or ditch the expectations. Some of the best relationships happen when you ditch the checklist.

I’ve had trips where:

• I showed up to a city I knew nothing about and ended up in a 5-star cliffside resort in a city built out of fairy chimneys and caves

• a wrong turn led to the best meal of my life

• a missed tour led to everlasting memories involving the best jazz music you’ll ever hear with new friends

• a spontaneous “why not” led to me leading an 8-hour tour in Ireland with zero experience

• a random conversation shifted my entire perspective

Travel rewards openness. So do soulmates.

You can’t script the magic — you just have to show up for it.

💛 Both Teach You Who You Really Are

Travel shows you who you are when no one knows you. Soulmates show you who you are when someone finally sees you.

Both experiences:

• stretch you — because growth never happens in your comfort zone

• challenge you — because you can’t evolve without friction

• soften you — because vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness

• reveal you — because the real you shows up when you’re unguarded

Travel teaches you who you are when you’re alone. Soulmates teach you who you are when you’re loved.

And somewhere in the overlap — in the courage, the curiosity, the softness, the honesty — you meet the truest version of yourself.

🌙 Some Places (and People) Feel Like Fate

There are cities that feel familiar the moment you land. There are people who feel familiar the moment you meet.

You don’t know why. You don’t question it. You just feel it.

I went to Spain, and it instantly felt like home. I don’t speak much Spanish, but I felt like I could move there and start a life for myself. This place made me feel alive like my first great love.

Maybe it’s déjà vu. Maybe it’s intuition. Maybe it’s the universe winking at you.

Some places imprint on you the same way certain people do — quietly, deeply, permanently.

🌺 Not Every Place Is “The One” — And That’s Okay

Just like dating, not every destination is life‑changing.

Some trips are fun but forgettable. Some are chaotic but educational. Some are healing. Some are transitional. Some you don’t appreciate until they’re gone.

But every single one teaches you something:

• what you want

• what you don’t

• what you’re ready for

• what you’re done tolerating

Travel is basically the dating app of self‑discovery — except the views are better and no one says “sorry, I’m bad at texting.”

🌅 When It’s Right, You Just Know

There are places where everything clicks:

• the energy

• the people

• the food

• the version of yourself that shows up there

You feel grounded and alive at the same time. You feel like you belong without trying. You feel like you could move there tomorrow and start a new life.

That’s Spain for me.

That’s how soulmates feel too — effortless, aligned, and strangely inevitable.

✨ Maybe the Real Soulmate Is the Journey

Here’s the plot twist:

Maybe the soulmate isn’t a person or a place. Maybe it’s the version of yourself you meet along the way.

Travel becomes the love story. You become the main character. And the world becomes the partner that keeps showing up for you.

Right Place. Right Time. Right You. 

I Sat on More Planes Than Men Last Year — And Honestly, Thank God

Some people measure their year or success in relationships, milestones, or personal growth. I like to measure mine in boarding passes.

Last year, I sat on more planes than men — and before you feel bad for me or judge me on this, don’t. If I had said this 5 years ago when I thought I had life figured out, I most definitely would not be admitting this publicly out of shame or embarrassment. In reality, it was the best accidental life choice I’ve ever made. I wasn’t lonely. I wasn’t heartbroken. I wasn’t “focusing on myself” in that sad, post‑breakup way. I was thriving. I was glowing. I was collecting passport stamps last year like they were Labubus. I was genuinely the happiest I had been in a while. Not a single relationship yet living the dream.

Because while men were sending mixed signals, airplanes were sending me confirmation emails. While men were inconsistent, flights were on time (well… some of them). And while men were asking “wyd,” airports were asking, “wyltu” (would you like to upgrade). While men found a way to ruin my day before 9am, I chose to board flights off to my next adventure at 9am instead. It’s ironic that the excitement I get when the staff crew shows up for the flight is nearly the same level of excitement I get when a situationship actually shows up to something.

I got tired of getting excited for the bare minimum when there is a world of excitement to explore out there. I don’t remember the last time a man made me light up with excitement the way the Eiffel Tower did when I saw it light up at night. Now I’m supposed to get excited when a man confirms plans on a Saturday?

Travel Gave Me What Dating Used To But Doesn’t Anymore

Dating last year felt like a series of plot twists written by a bored intern or a group project where I did all the work but still failed. I didn’t want to be bothered by the drama, inconsistency and the inability to make plans. Travel, on the other hand, gave me:

• clarity

• excitement

• adventure

• peace

• and an excuse to buy cute outfits (spoiler: it used to be for men!)

Men gave me… well, mostly anxiety and a reason to drink. 🍷

Every time a situationship fizzled, I booked a flight. Every time someone said “I’m not ready for something serious,” I said “Perfect, because I’m not ready to stay in this city.” If I ever felt stuck, I got myself unstuck real quickly at 30,000 feet.

Travel became my rebound, my therapist, and my escape plan all in one.

I Found Myself in Airports, Not Relationships

Airports became my happy place. Not because they’re relaxing or always reliable (because they’re not), but because they represent possibility and new experiences.

When you’re walking through a terminal alone with your carry‑on and your iced coffee, you feel like the main character. You’re not waiting for someone to choose you — you’re choosing yourself.

I learned more about myself wandering foreign streets alone than I ever learned from a man who couldn’t decide if he liked me or just liked the attention. I found confidence in navigating new places. I found joy in being alone. I found peace in knowing I don’t need a partner to live a full, exciting life.

And somewhere between Gate A12 and Gate C7, I realized something important: I’d rather be single and stamped than cuffed and miserable.

🧳 Travel Filled My Life With Stories — Not Excuses

Men gave me excuses: “I’m busy.” “I’m confused.” “I’m not ready.” “My ex came back.” “My phone died for three days.”

Travel gave me stories: “I got lost in Paris and found the best bakery.” “I met a couple on the cruise who became lifelong friends.” “I watched the sunrise in a place I’d never been.” “I tried something new and didn’t die.”

“I remembered who I am.”

One of those lists is worth writing home about. The other went in the friend group chat for comedic relief to which they said “you should write a blog and share your dating experiences.” So, here we are.

💛 Choosing Planes Over Men Wasn’t Avoidance — It Was Alignment

I didn’t travel because I was running away from love. I traveled because I was running toward myself.

I wanted adventure. I wanted growth. I wanted to feel alive after consistently being disappointed by what was waiting for me at home.

I wanted to stop shrinking myself for people who couldn’t meet me halfway.

And the truth is, when you stop waiting for someone to join you, you start living the life you actually want. If a man wants to be in my life, he’s going to have to keep up — emotionally, mentally, and maybe even at the airport. Maybe I’ll meet him on the journey to my next destination or at the hotel bar when we arrive. You never know who is around the corner, especially when you’re going places!

Because last year taught me something I’ll never forget:

A boarding pass will never break your heart.

And if I end up sitting on more planes than men again this year—Well… that sounds like a win to me.

✈️ This Year, I’m Still Choosing Flights Over Fights

Will I date again? Sure. Will I lower my standards? Absolutely not. Will I stop traveling? Not a chance. And if I’m lucky, maybe this will be the year I catch flights and feels. 

What Beach is Right For You

Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos

(Because Not All Beaches — or Travelers — Are Created Equal)

Having worked in travel for most of my career—primarily in tropical destinations—I often get asked what the best beach is.

Some people think “a beach is a beach,” but those people have clearly never tried to relax on a windy coastline while being pelted with sand like a human exfoliation treatment. Beaches have personalities. Attitudes. Vibes. And choosing the wrong one can turn your dream vacation into a “why did I do this to myself” moment.

So let’s figure out which beach is actually right for you — based on your travel style, your energy, and your tolerance for chaos.

🏖️ If you want powdery-white sand with turquoise waters:

Turks & Caicos — Grace Bay

Arguably my favorite beach spanning the world, Grace Bay frequently tops “world’s best beach” lists from travel magazines and publications. Spanning 7 – 12 miles, there’s no shortage of space to find your quiet beach spot, even during peak season. The sand is famously fine and soft—often compared to powder while the bay is naturally sheltered by a barrier reef offshore, which keeps waves gentle and the water remarkably clear.

Grace Bay may just be the closest thing to a “perfect beach” with:

• Stunning views

• Relaxing atmosphere

• Warm, gentle water

• Clean, uncrowded stretches of sand

• Picture‑perfect sunsets

Tip: If you’re fortunate to stay in a resort located on Grace Bay, pay for an upgrade to ocean view. I promise you will regret not waking up to the calm turquoise waves every morning when you sip your coffee on your balcony as much as you would regret going all the way to Tahiti and not staying in an over-the-water bungalow. Pay for the ocean view. Every time.

🍹 If you want beach + nightlife + “I might make questionable decisions”:

Spain — Ibiza

If you want energy and entertainment, Ibiza is unmatched.

Globally known as the top party destination in Europe, Ibiza perfectly blends world‑class DJs and nightlife lovers with legendary beach clubs and pool parties, creating a lively daytime‑to‑nighttime atmosphere.

Ibiza has a beach for everyone. Enjoy hidden coves and rugged coastlines with beautiful turquoise waters or long stretches of calm beach.

Perfect for you if:

• you love a good beach club

• you want sun and chaos

• you enjoy meeting strangers who become your best friends for 48 hours

Tip: The island is small, so you can visit multiple beaches in a single day—each with a different vibe.

🌺 If you want romance, beauty, and “I’m the main character” energy:

French Polynesia — Bora Bora

This is the beach you go to when you want to feel like you’re starring in your own honeymoon, even if you’re single. The water is so blue it looks filtered. The bungalows are so pretty you’ll question your entire life choices.

Perfect for you if:

• you want luxury

• you want serenity

• you want to dramatically stare into the ocean and reflect on your life

• you want dramatic sunsets

Also perfect for couples, but honestly, go alone — it’s still magical if you seek adventure mixed with serenity and luxury.

🐠 If you want adventure and snorkeling:

Australia — Great Barrier Reef

This is for the traveler who wants to do all the things, not just tan. You’ll snorkel. You’ll dive. You’ll see fish that look like they were designed by a toddler with a crayon box.

Perfect for you if:

• you get bored lying still

• you want wildlife

• you want to brag about your trip for the next decade

Tip: If you want to get more attention from the wildlife, wear a bright-colored swimsuit. Fish are more genuinely curious about you if you look like part of the reef. But don’t touch anything… Australia’s creatures are beautiful but dramatic.

🐬 If you want turquoise water, boat days, and “I’m living my best life” energy:

Bahamas — Exuma

Exuma is the definition of “postcard perfect.” The water is neon turquoise, some of the clearest water in the world. The sand is white. The vibe is “I’m on a boat and I’m never going home.”

Perfect for you if:

• you want to swim with pigs

• you want boat days to go island hopping

• you want to feel like you have your own private beach, especially in the smaller cays

• you want to find shallow sandbars, reefs, blue holes and explore underwater caves

• you want beaches that look fake because they’re too perfect

Tip: Plan to spend at least one day on a boat — it’s the single best way to experience what makes the islands extraordinary. Exuma is all about shallow sandbars, hidden coves, and tiny cays you can only reach by boat, so a day trip opens up the real magic of the region. Like your budget, Exuma isn’t meant to be spent all in one place.

🌊 If you want dramatic cliffs, cinematic views, and “I’m in a movie” vibes:

Santorini, Greece — Black Sand, Red Sand, and Caldera Magic

If you’re questioning why Santorini made the list, I understand Santorini isn’t your typical beach destination — it’s the beach’s glamorous, dramatic, slightly mysterious cousin. The cliffs here don’t just rise; they perform. Whitewashed buildings spill down the caldera like they’re posing for a postcard, and the sunsets are so theatrical they deserve their own IMDb page.

But here’s the twist: Santorini’s beaches are unique—volcanic, bold, and unlike anything you’ve seen.

Perissa & Perivolos : These are the famous black‑sand beaches, created by ancient volcanic eruptions. The sand gets hot (like, “I’m doing a fire‑walk challenge” hot), but the vibe is unmatched — beach clubs, deep blue water, and a backdrop that looks like a movie set.

Red Beach: This one is straight out of a sci‑fi film. Rust‑colored cliffs. Deep red sand. Water that glows against the rock. It’s dramatic in the best way — the kind of place where you take a photo and people assume it’s edited.

Kamari Beach: Another black‑sand beauty, but with a more relaxed, family‑friendly vibe. Think loungers, tavernas, and that “I could stay here all day” energy.

Perfect for you if:

• you want beaches that feel different

• you love a dramatic backdrop

• you want photos that look like they belong in a travel magazine

• you enjoy a mix of cliffside luxury and unique shoreline

Santorini is the place where you can spend the morning tanning on black sand, the afternoon exploring red cliffs, and the evening watching the sun melt into the caldera like it’s performing just for you.

It’s romantic. It’s iconic. It’s cinematic.

And yes — it absolutely counts as a unique beach destination.

🌺 If you want culture, flavor, and beach bliss all in one place:

Jamaica — Seven Mile Beach, Negril

If you want a beach that comes with soul, rhythm, and personality, Jamaica is the destination. Seven Mile Beach isn’t just a stretch of sand — it’s a whole mood. Powder‑soft sand, turquoise water, reggae floating through the air, and sunsets so fiery they look like the sky is showing off.

But what makes Jamaica special isn’t just the beach — it’s the culture that wraps around you the moment you arrive.

You’ll hear music everywhere. You’ll taste flavors that ruin all other jerk chicken for you. You’ll meet people who make you feel like you’ve been friends for years.

You’ll feel the island’s heartbeat in everything — the food, the music, the energy, the warmth.

Perfect for you if:

• you want a beach with personality, not just pretty views

• you love music, dancing, and a little island spice

• you want culture woven into every moment

• you want to float in turquoise water by day and listen to live reggae by night

Seven Mile Beach gives you the best of both worlds: calm, dreamy beach days and vibrant, soulful nights. You can snorkel, sip rum punch, eat fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, and then wander into a beach bar where someone is singing Bob Marley under the stars.

It’s warm. It’s lively. It’s unforgettable. And it’s the perfect pick for anyone who wants their beach vacation to feel alive.

🧘‍♀️ If you want spiritual, calm, “I’m finding myself” energy:

Maldives

The Maldives is the ultimate “no one can reach me, I’m going off the grid” destination. Picture overwater villas, endless turquoise water, and a level of quiet so pure you can hear your own heartbeat. It’s peaceful in a way that feels luxurious — like the universe is giving you a private retreat.

This is where you go when you want to disappear from the world and reemerge as your best self.

You’ll float in warm, clear water. You’ll journal on your deck with nothing but ocean around you. You’ll watch the sunset from a hammock and suddenly understand why people say the Maldives changes you.

Perfect for you if:

• you want total peace and privacy

• you want to disconnect from everything

• you want a beach that feels like a sanctuary

• you want to heal in style

The Maldives is serene, dreamy, and deeply restorative — the kind of place where you remember who you are.

🌺 If you want adventure, nature, and “I’m living inside a postcard” energy:

Kauai, Hawaii — Hanalei Bay

Kauai is the kind of place that makes you believe the Earth has favorite children — and Hanalei Bay is clearly one of them. This isn’t just a beach; it’s a full‑body experience. Lush mountains wrap around a crescent of golden sand, waterfalls spill down cliffs like nature’s jewelry, and the whole scene looks like it was designed by a director who said, “Make it more breathtaking.”

Hanalei Bay is where you go when you want your beach day with a side of adventure. You can paddleboard in calm morning water, surf gentle waves by afternoon, and wander into town for shaved ice and fresh poke when you need a break. And if you’re feeling bold, the nearby trails and lookouts will absolutely deliver those iconic moments.

Perfect for you if:

• you want beaches surrounded by lush, cinematic scenery

• you love a mix of relaxation and adventure

• you want to snorkel, paddleboard, or hike between beach naps

• you want nature to be the main character

Kauai gives you that rare combination of beauty + adventure + serenity. It’s peaceful without being boring, wild without being overwhelming, and stunning in a way that makes you consider canceling your return flight.

It’s the kind of place where you don’t just take photos — you take deep breaths.

🌞 Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Beach Is Out There

At the end of the day, the right beach isn’t just about sand or water — it’s about the version of you that shows up there. Maybe you’re craving adventure. Maybe you want culture and connection. Maybe you need a reset, a romance, a dramatic view, or a moment that reminds you how big and beautiful the world can be.

There’s a beach for every mood, every chapter, every version of yourself you’re still becoming.

Whether you end up floating in Maldives-blue water, wandering Kauai’s lush coastline, dancing on Jamaica’s Seven Mile Beach, or watching the sun melt into the caldera in Santorini, the right place has a way of finding you when you need it most.

Let the ocean pull you exactly where you’re meant to go. Your perfect beach — and your next story — is waiting.

Solo Travel or Bust

Solo Travel or Bust: Why Going Alone Might Be the Most Empowering Thing You Ever Do

There comes a moment in every woman’s life when she realizes she has two choices: wait for everyone else to get their schedules, finances, and emotional stability together… or just book the trip for yourself. This is where Solo Travel or Bust is born — not from fearlessness, but from the refusal to put your life on hold for people who can’t commit to brunch, let alone Bali.

Solo travel isn’t just a trend. It’s a movement. A mindset. A declaration that your joy, your growth, and your experiences are too important to delay. And if you’ve ever felt the itch to book a flight alone, consider this your sign to do it.

💛Why Solo Travel Is the Ultimate Power Move

1. You Stop Waiting for Permission

Group chats are where travel plans often go to die. Someone’s broke, someone’s pregnant, someone is waiting to get their work schedule, someone is waiting to see who else confirms first, and someone’s boyfriend suddenly has a lot of opinions.

Solo travel removes the committee. You want to go? You just go. You want to leave tomorrow? Pack the bag. You want to spend three hours in a museum or skip it entirely? Don’t need to check in with anyone.

It’s freedom in its purest form.

2. You Learn What You Actually Like

When you travel with others, you compromise — on food, activities, pace, even sleep schedules. When you travel alone, you discover your real preferences:

• Are you a sunrise hiker or a sleep‑in‑til‑10 girl

• Do you prefer street food or white‑tablecloth dining

• Do you want to sit on a beach and party all day or wake up early for a full day of excursions

• Do you want to wander aimlessly or plan every hour

Solo travel is the equivalent of dating yourself… except you actually get to pick the restaurant.

3. You Become the Main Character

There’s something cinematic about walking through a new city alone with your headphones in. You’re not lonely — you’re mysterious. You’re not lost — you’re exploring. You’re not alone — you’re in your independent‑woman era. You get to write your very own Emily in Paris story, and hopefully it comes with a Gabriel.

Solo travel gives you the kind of confidence that doesn’t come from compliments or validation. It comes from proving to yourself that you can handle anything.

4. You Open Yourself Up to Meeting Locals and other Travelers Alike

I think one of the biggest myths about solo travel is that it’s going to feel lonely. I think many don’t realize just how social solo travel can be. When you’re alone, you naturally become more open, more approachable, and more curious about the people around you. You’re not tucked into a friend group bubble — you’re out in the world, and the world responds.

You might meet another group traveling who takes you in as their own and create a lifelong friendship. You may meet a local bartender at this trendy bar you passed while wanderlusting the streets on your own. Your driver to the hotel may give you this great life advice and you still talk about him today. The possibilities are endless.

5. Unexpected Opportunities Find You More Easily

One of the most underrated parts of solo travel is how many unexpected, serendipitous opportunities show up when you’re not tied to anyone else’s plans. When you’re alone, your schedule is flexible, your energy is open, and the universe seems to slide little surprises your way.

You end up saying yes to things you never would’ve considered at home. One of my favorite travel stories is when I ended up hosting an 8-hour trip to the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland over a very big misunderstanding. I played along and just went with the flow—otherwise I would not have made it on the trip, especially if I had a plus one!

Other examples that may inspire you:

·         A last‑minute invite to a sunset boat ride

·         A cooking class you stumble into because you smelled garlic and followed your instincts

·         A local festival you didn’t know existed

·         A spontaneous day trip with people you met an hour ago

·         A hidden beach a taxi driver insists you “have to see”

·         A job lead, creative idea, or life‑changing conversation that happens because you sat next to the right person

Solo travel teaches you to stay open, curious, and willing to pivot.

💛 The Emotional Benefits No One Talks About

You Build Trust With Yourself

When you navigate a foreign place alone, you learn to rely on your instincts. You make decisions without second‑guessing. You become your own safety net — and that’s powerful.

You Heal Faster

Breakups, burnout, friendship fallouts — solo travel has a way of clearing emotional clutter. There’s something about being far from home that makes everything feel lighter, less permanent, less overwhelming.

You Become Comfortable With Your Own Company

Silence stops feeling scary. Alone stops feeling lonely. You realize you’re actually pretty great to hang out with. This is how you learn to fall in love with yourself.

The Fears Are Real — But So Are the Solutions

“What if something goes wrong”

Things go wrong at home too. The difference is: you’re capable everywhere.

“Won’t I feel awkward eating alone”

Only for the first five minutes. Then you realize no one cares — and you start to enjoy it.

Is it safe?

With research, awareness, and common sense, solo travel can be incredibly safe. Women do it every day. If you’re struggling with this, perhaps try somewhere close first to see how it feels. If you felt comfortable navigating on your own, go somewhere further next time.

The Truth: Solo Travel Changes You

You come home a different person. More confident. More grounded. More aware of what you want and what you deserve.

You stop shrinking yourself. You stop waiting for others. You stop apologizing for wanting more.

Solo travel teaches you that the world is big, life is short, and you are capable of far more than you ever gave yourself credit for.

✈️ Girl Math: The Unofficial Financial Philosophy Powering Women’s Travel Trips

Girls trip to Tulum

If you’ve ever justified a plane ticket because “future me deserves this,” or declared that a hotel upgrade is “basically free” when split four ways, congratulations — you’re already fluent in Girl Math, the playful, logic system that makes travel feel more joyful and a lot less guilt‑ridden.

Girl Math didn’t appear out of nowhere. It grew out of a generation of women where everything — housing, groceries, travel, even basic fun — costs more than it ever has. And let’s be honest—we’re no longer marrying men to help out with our financial situation. It’s our way of saying: If the world is going to financially screw me anyway, I’m at least going to find a loophole to enjoy where I can.

Girl Math isn’t about ignoring financial responsibility. It’s about reframing spending in a way that aligns with how women actually experience travel: socially, emotionally, and with a healthy dose of humor. And honestly, it works.

Let’s break down how Girl Math shows up on female or solo travel trips — and why it makes those trips even better.

💄 1. The Pre‑Trip Purchases That Don’t Count

According to Girl Math, anything you buy before the trip is an investment in the experience — and therefore not a real expense.

• New swimsuit? “I’ll wear it for multiple trips and summers to come, so it’s basically free.”

• Matching vacation outfits? “Memories and the cute photos are priceless.”

• New luggage? “Purchasing a new carry-on saves me time and money from checking in.”

The logic isn’t about denial; it’s about acknowledging that preparation is part of the fun. Women often bond through planning, and Girl Math turns that bonding into a guilt‑free zone.

👗 2. The “Save Here, Splurge There” Equation

Girl Math thrives on balance — or at least the illusion of it. Nowhere is this more obvious than in the way women prep for travel. We’ll hunt down $12 SHEIN dresses, $6 sunglasses, and a $9 bikini set… all while boarding a $10,000 vacation like it’s nothing.

Because in Girl Math, outfits are temporary, but the experiences are forever.

It’s not hypocrisy. It’s prioritization.

• Cheap outfits = “I’m being financially responsible.”

• Expensive trip = “I’m investing in my happiness.”

• A once‑in‑a‑lifetime excursion = “You can’t put a price on memories.”

We want to look good, but we want to feel even better — and that feeling comes from the trip itself. The laughter, the late nights, the beach days, the inside jokes, the photos we’ll scroll through for years. The clothes are just props; the moments are the main event.

Girl Math says: If I save money on the little things, I’ve earned the right to splurge on the big things.

🧮 3. Cost Per Wear… But Make It Travel

Girl Math loves a good cost‑per‑use calculation. On trips, this becomes cost‑per‑memory.

A $200 excursion? If you talk about it for the next five years, that’s practically pennies per emotional return.

A $50 beach hat? If it appears in 12 photos, the cost per Instagram moment is unbeatable.

A new $2,000 Louis Vuitton bag that I’ve been obsessing over? I will be wearing it for life and I saved $400 getting it tax-free overseas! And the stories that will surround this special purchase… priceless. It’s not just a bag, but the bag I got at the flagship, two-story Louis Vuitton store in Paris strolling along the Champs-Elysees.

Travel isn’t just about the activity — it’s about the story you’ll tell later. Girl Math simply quantifies that truth.

👯 4. Splitting Costs = Everything Is Cheaper

One of the greatest gifts of women’s group travel is the communal approach to spending.

• A $400 villa split among six friends? “Practically free.”

• An upgrade from Garden to Ocean View split between friends? “No brainer.”

• Shared Ubers? “Cheaper than staying home.”

• A charcuterie board for the table? “Group expense — doesn’t count.”

Girl Math thrives in community. When women travel together, the financial load becomes lighter, and the emotional payoff becomes bigger.

🙋‍♀️ 4. Investing in Future You

One of my favorite and most-used forms of Girl Math is the art of spending today so future you can thrive on vacation. It’s not delusion — it’s long‑term financial strategy with a side of serotonin.

·         Pre‑Booking an All‑Inclusive = Future Me Lives for Free. There is no greater Girl Math high than stepping onto an all‑inclusive resort property and realizing everything is already paid for. Suddenly, every meal, every drink, every poolside snack is “free.” Honestly, I’ve spent less on a week at an all‑inclusive than I have on groceries, gas, and random Target runs at home. That’s not a vacation — that’s financial optimization.

·         Gambling for Future Discounts. Is it risky? Sure. Is it Girl Math? Absolutely. If you gamble enough on a cruise or at certain hotels, you can qualify for discounted or even free future trips. So yes, go play that roulette, sis — you’re not losing money, you’re investing in future vacations.

·         Loyalty Points: The Girl Math Retirement Plan. Hotel chains and airlines practically beg you to earn points, and Girl Math says it would be irresponsible not to. The more you travel, the more freebies you unlock — room upgrades, lounge access, bonus nights. It’s like a rewards program for being fabulous.

·         Travel Credit Cards = Future Flights in Every Purchase. If you’re not earning points on every coffee, grocery run, or impulse buy, you’re leaving future vacations on the table. Travel cards turn everyday spending into flights, hotels, and upgrades. That’s not debt — that’s an investment to future joy.

·         Booking Your Next Trip Before You Leave. One of the most powerful Girl Math moves: booking your return trip while you’re still on vacation. Resorts and cruise lines often offer massive discounts if you book before you leave. And honestly, what better time to commit to another trip than when you’re sun‑kissed, relaxed, and convinced you’re moving abroad permanently.

🍹 5. Vacation Calories and Vacation Dollars Follow the Same Rules

Just like vacation calories “don’t count,” vacation dollars operate in a parallel universe.

• The $18 cocktail is part of the ambiance and support of the local economy.

• The overpriced airport snack is a survival tactic.

• Ordering the region’s signature dish isn’t indulgence — it’s research. You’re educating yourself about other cultures. That $28 entrée? A tuition fee.

• The souvenir bracelet is a future heirloom.

• The rooftop bar is an ROI on excellent photos.

Travel Girl Math says: if it enhances the vibe, it’s worth it.

👜 6. Time Is Money — And Girl Math Values Time Highly

Women often juggle work, caregiving, emotional labor, and social commitments. So when they finally take a trip, time becomes the most precious currency.

That’s why Girl Math justifies:

• Paying extra for a direct flight—Bonus Girl Math: If you take the red-eye flight, you pay for one less hotel night and increase your time abroad by having a whole extra day!

• Upgrading to a hotel closer to the city center—Bonus Girl Math: staying in the city also saves you money by paying less on transportation if it’s a walkable city.

• Booking the spa appointment instead of “roughing it”.

It’s not indulgence — it’s efficiency.

🌍 7. Experiences Are Assets

Girl Math reframes travel as an investment in personal growth, friendships, and mental health.

You don’t “spend” on travel. You gain:

• Confidence

• Connection

• Perspective

• Joy

• A camera roll full of serotonin

In this framework, travel isn’t a luxury — it’s a form of self‑care.

💖 Why Girl Math Works for Women Travelers

At its core, Girl Math is a playful way of acknowledging something deeper: women deserve rest, adventure, and pleasure without apology.

It’s not about ignoring budgets. It’s about giving yourself permission to enjoy the life you work hard for.

And honestly? If Girl Math is what gets you on that plane with your best friends, it’s worth its weight in gold.

Jamaica—One Love

Doctor’s Cave Beach, Jamaica, 12/15/25

Bob Marley said it best: One Love, One Heart, Let’s Get Together and Feel Alright.

No truer words could describe my feeling towards this incredible country—especially a month and a half after being hit by the strongest hurricane ever in history. As a frequent traveler and passionate admirer of this beautiful country, nothing could have prepared me for the roller coaster I experienced these past couple months.

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Jamaica: Where Every Vibe Feels Like Home

Jamaica isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling, it’s a culture, it’s a vibe. From the moment your feet touch the island, you’re wrapped in warm breezes, rhythmic music, and a culture that moves to its own soulful beat. Although I’ve never had the true pleasure of vacationing here since I often go for work, I’ve always said that nothing says vacation to me more than a swim-up bar or beach with a cocktail in my hand while listening to reggae music in the background. That is vacation. That is Jamaica.

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The Island’s Natural Beauty

Although Jamaica has some of the most breathtaking beaches, the island’s landscape is a masterpiece of natural hidden gems. While powdery white- or gold-sand beaches line the coasts with sparkling turquoise waters, you have the emerald green mountains rise dramatically inland. The Blue Mountains are famous for producing some of the world’s best coffee, while natural surprises such as Blue Hole and Dunns River Falls invite visitors to climb, swim, jump, and reconnect with nature in the most refreshing way possible.

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A Culture That Changes You

When I say Jamaica is what vacation means to me, it’s not just the beaches or the reggae music. It’s the language, the laughter, and the deep sense of community—something I didn’t know was as strong as it was until after Hurricane Melissa. It’s the chill vibes and calm attitude that remind me to slow down and savor the moment.

I’ve only ever been to Jamaica for work, but it has left a lasting impression. Our driver, Kevin—who’s worked with my company for 20 years—quickly rose to the top of my favorites list. He has this energy that makes you feel like everything will be alright. I didn’t realize how “LA” I was until I met Kevin—constantly asking about pickup times, deadlines, and schedules. He’d just smile and say, “Don’t worry, mon, I got you.” I’d reply, “I know you got me, but what time do you have me? I need to do XYZ…” And he’d calmly repeat, “Don’t worry about that. It’s going to be alright.”

That was the moment I realized I was on island time—and none of the things that stressed me out mattered anymore. Rain during the commute? Don’t worry. Running 10 minutes late? Don’t worry. Eventually, I started to embrace their way of thinking.

Even now, when life feels overwhelming, I ask myself: What would Kevin say? Throughout my life—whether it’s at home, work, relationships, setbacks—my colleague and I often remind each other, “It’ll be okay—Kevin would say that.”

I even sat through my first eight-hour flight delay on the way to Jamaica this past September, receiving constant upsetting news without an ounce of stress or frustration… just laughter. No one on the flight was upset either… I couldn’t believe it. Jamaica just does something to you—it changes your attitude and your outlook. I can’t explain it.

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Flavor in Every Bite

Jamaican cuisine is bold, flavorful, and unforgettable. From flaky patties to my favorite—Scotchies jerk pork and chicken—there’s no shortage of dishes that will have you salivating the moment you arrive. Pair that with a sip of Jamaican Red Stripe or a piña colada made with Appleton Estate Rum, and the island greets you with flavor and feel good times.

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The Jamaican Spirit

What truly sets Jamaica apart is its people—their warmth, resilience, and pride in their heritage. Visitors aren’t just guests; they’re family. Every time you return, you’re always welcomed home. It’s no wonder Jamaica has such a high number of repeat visitors.

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Knocked Down, Never Knocked Out

On October 28, 2025, Jamaica was devastated by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. Homes were destroyed, the island lost power, hotels shut down, and landmarks were damaged. Everything I loved about Jamaica felt shattered.

I wasn’t just heartbroken over the resorts—I grieved for the spirit of Jamaica, wondering if it could ever be the same. Were our friends safe? Did they have food, shelter, or electricity? Without electricity, I couldn’t get a hold of our friends to check in and see if they were okay. So, we had to rely on hopes and prayers. I felt helpless for an island that had given me so much.

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Let’s Get Together, It’ll Be Alright

I’m grateful for my relationship with the Jamaica Tourist Board. Just days after Melissa hit, we jumped on a call for updates. We laughed, cried, and comforted each other in ways I didn’t know I needed. They told us they aimed to reopen by December 15 of 2025! I thought, No way—that’s impossible. You just had the strongest hurricane ever on record hit a couple weeks ago. I saw the video with the airport flooded, received daily reports of hotel closures and extensions of closures, and roads damaged. But they invited us to visit on December 15 to “Come See for Ourselves”—which is coincidentally their marketing tagline that we used prior to Hurricane Melissa. The goal was for us to see for ourselves so we could feel confident in offering travel to our guests there again.

My colleague and I returned with heavy hearts, very somber, bracing for devastation. We barely spoke to each other on the way out. We didn’t want to say out loud what we were expecting to walk into. We expected to walk into a war zone. But what we found was nothing short of miraculous.

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How the Spirit of Jamaica Saved Them

We visited Negril, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Trelawny. The hotels that reopened looked as good as before—some even better. Roads were cleaner, beaches had more sand, and attractions retained their natural beauty.

Yes, some hotels remain closed, and certain areas will take time to recover. But the tourist regions? You’d never know a hurricane hit.

What moved me most was the spirit of the people. It didn’t break—it grew stronger. Everywhere we went, workers shared stories of loss, yet they were grateful to be alive and proud to welcome visitors back with a smile. Resorts housed displaced staff, built homes, and funded supplies. The sense of community and resilience was overwhelming.

Since October 29, Jamaicans have worked tirelessly to restore tourism—often prioritizing that over their own homes. They’re not bitter, not broken, not asking for handouts or pity. They’re simply grateful.

I never expected to see what I did. And I can say with confidence: if you book a trip to Jamaica today, you’ll have the time of your life. The best way to give back is to go back.

And I promise you this—the Jamaica you visit a year from now will be stronger than ever. Not even the most powerful hurricane in history could break them. They are proud. They are unstoppable.

Jamaica—you are my one love.

Red Eyes Over Red Flags

There comes a point in life when you realize exhaustion is temporary, but emotional chaos has a way over overstaying its welcome.

Red-eye flights get a bad rap. They can leave you sleepless, exhausted and questioning life choices at 5:00 a.m., and occasionally with back pain. But, then again, so do men with red flags. The difference is… a red eye takes me somewhere new and exciting and leaves me with an abundance of adrenaline and excitement to get me through the day. Whereas a man with red flags makes me question if it’s even worth getting out of bed that day. The most exciting place he takes me is a trip to go see a therapist to uncover the mental gymnastics he’s played on my mind.

At least a red-eye flight is honest. You know exactly what you’re getting into. You know up front you’re going to be uncomfortable and lose some sleep. Red flags? They’re disguised in lies and make you believe they’re charming, but you’re just left with confusion and bullshit.

I once dated someone who only showed up or texted when it was convenient. Plans were always tentative. Texts came in waves. When I would bring it up, I would be gaslit. That same month, I booked a quick weekend getaway to visit a friend. With no vacation time, I took the red eye, and arrived exhausted, makeup smudged, and running on fumes—yet I had felt lighter than I had in weeks. It occurred to me I was willing to be tired for the experiences and people who showed up, but bending myself into knots for someone who didn’t.

We’re so quick to take the chance on something that appears amazing, even if we know it’s covered in red flags. But the honest option that may pose minor inconveniences but you know exactly what you get often gets disregarded.

Why I’ll Always Take The Red Eye:

·       If you live on the west coast and you travel east, you gain an entire day with a red eye without having to take an extra day off work!

·       If you get to the resort after 5pm, you are paying the hotel for a day you didn’t get. You’re also paying the airline for a seat to sit in all day that same day! You’re paying for a day that you didn’t get.

·       2:30 a.m. wake up calls? No, thank you! Living in Los Angeles, I could have to leave the house 4-5 hours before my flight time thanks to 24-7 traffic hell. With a 6:00 a.m. flight, that would mean getting up when my friends are just getting home from the clubs.

·       I’ll never get tired of watching a sunrise from 35,000 ft. in the air

Essentially, I look at red-eye flights as an initial setback that pays off! It appears bad at first but the outcome is so much better than what you expected. Essentially—the opposite of a red flag.

Why I Stopped Accepting the Red Flags

While a red eye has a destination, the red flags just keep you circling. It’s an ongoing flight that you can’t get off.

I’d rather:

·       Be tired than confused

·       Be jet-lagged than emotionally drained

·       Arrive groggy with excitement instead of rested and unsettled

Sleep can be recovered quickly. Trust takes forever to recover.

Preferring a red eye doesn’t mean I enjoy discomfort. It means I prefer to sacrifice a little discomfort on the front end to have more time to enjoy and play on the back end.

Final Boarding Call

These days, if I have to choose between temporary discomfort and long-term misalignment, I’m grabbing the carry-on and heading to the gate.

I prefer a red eye over red flags. At least one of them gets me where I’m going and where I belong.

✈️💘 I Can Plan an International Trip Before He Can Plan a Date

Let’s talk about something I’ve recently discovered about myself:

I can plan a 14-day international itinerary — complete with flights, hotels, cruise, activities, restaurant reservations, currency tips, and a color-coded Google map — faster than a man can decide what time he’s free on Friday.

And honestly? That says a lot.

Here’s the thing: When I want to go somewhere, I book the flight.

When I want to see something, I do the research and build an itinerary.

When I want a vibe, I make it happen.

Meanwhile, he’s still “figuring out his schedule.”

His schedule = absolutely nothing but vibes and vague commitments he made to himself in the shower.

✈️ There’s a special skill in being a woman who travels

Women who travel solo, often, or even with their girlfriends all have the same superpower: we make things happen.

Quickly. Efficiently. Effortlessly.

Need flights? Done.

Need hotels? Booked.

Need a full list of activities, hotspots, rooftop bars, hidden gems, and cute photo spots?

Already saved to a folder.

Meanwhile, the guy you’re texting is still typing, deleting, and retyping:

“What do you wanna do?” Or, my favorite: “WYD?”

💬

Here’s why we can plan trips so fast:

1. We’re used to taking care of ourselves.

We don’t wait for someone to make our lives fun or memorable — we just go.

2. We know what we like.

Food, views, vibes, hotels… we have standards, and we’re not shy about them.

3. We’ve learned not to rely on men for planning.

Because let’s be honest:

If I left my weekend up to him, I’d end up making plans my friends instead because he waited too long to decide what he wants to do or I get a last-minute request to come over and watch a movie that we’ve already seen.

4. We have main-character energy.

We’re not waiting around for someone to choose us — we’re choosing experiences.

✈️ Planning a date shouldn’t be harder than booking a flight

A date is literally:

1. Pick a day

2. Pick a time

3. Pick a place

ONE place.

Not five hotels, two airports, three train stations, and a ferry.

And still…

Men act like this is the most complicated decision of their lives.

If I can cross a border, navigate a foreign subway system, and order food in a different language, he can… bare minimum… choose a restaurant.

But somehow? No.

💘 So what does this mean?

It means I’m done over-investing in under-planned men.

If I can plan a whole international trip in 24 hours, I’m not accepting:

• “Let’s just see what happens”

• “I’ll let you know later”

• “What do you wanna do?”

• “I’m bad at planning”

• “WYD”

You’re not bad at planning.

You’re bad at effort.

And effort is the bare minimum.

✨ Final thought

If a man wants to see you, he’ll plan.

If he wants to date you, he’ll make it clear.

If he wants your time, he’ll value it.

Until then?

I have flights to catch. ✈️

And I promise you:

I will always book a plane ticket faster than I will wait on someone’s bare-minimum energy.