Where are you from?

I grew up in Southern California, U.S., and I currently still live there.

How long have you been traveling?

I’ve been traveling more frequently the last four years. I didn’t travel outside Southern California (my hometown) much at all during my childhood. In 2020, when I finally paid off my college debts, I started to travel more. But since this also coincided with the pandemic, I did a lot of road trips until the world opened up.

Why did you start this blog?

I wanted a space to share all of the research I do before each trip. I love writing and planning and thought blogging might be a good fit for me. Lo and behold, it was!

Who writes on your blog?

Just me. EVERY post on this blog is written by me based on first-hand experience and my own research. I spend hours crafting each post to make them as helpful as possible. I also take my own original photos (sometimes with the help of a travel partner). I do not use AI to write my posts.

How do you make money? Do you do sponsored posts or work with brands?

At this time, I do not go on sponsored trips or work with brands. I spend my own money to travel and write honestly about my experiences. I do add affiliate links, after the fact, for tours and hotels I liked and recommend. This helps me make a little money at no cost to you. It’s not enough to live off of yet, so I still work full time.

What camera gear do you use?

My starter camera was an Olympus PEN E-PL8, and I used that for years. In 2022, I upgraded to the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, which I love. Both are lightweight, mirrorless cameras, perfect for traveling. The built-in wifi on both cameras makes it super easy to transfer photos on the go. I own four lenses and primarily use two when traveling because they are so lightweight: Panasonic Lumix 25mm f/1.7 and Panasonic Lumix 14mm f/2.5. I also own the Olympus kit lens that came with my first camera as well as a zoom lens, the Olympus 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6.

How many places have you been?

So far, I’ve been to 8/195 countries, 15/50 U.S. states, and 25/63 U.S. national parks.

What’s your favorite destination you’ve been to and why?

My favorite would definitely be Edinburgh, Scotland, a city that surprised and amazed me, and I can’t wait to go back.

Where are you going next?

I have immediate plans to visit more of the U.S. as well as several countries in Europe and Asia.

If you could live anywhere else, where would it be?

Edinburgh, Scotland.