WE HAVE A WISH: Let travel be possible, easy and fun again!
Happy New Year to you all!
Free your travels, be a Travelita. #travelita #iamatravelita
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Welcome to Marseille, the capital of the famous region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in France. Only arriving there at the main station is somehow magic, as the building and it’s surrounding is already beautiful. From there, we suggest you walk directly to the port, the center passing a pedestrian zone.
You will see small fish and mussels markets everywhere, and the traditional Marseille soap is sold.
Arriving at the port, that’s U is forming the city center, you can see boats all around that area but – the best part of it is probably the huge mirror right above where you stand. It reflects you, the sea, the boats – or whatever you like, depending on the angle you look at it. You have to try, we had so much fun.
Try a croissant there or traditional french snails. But make sure you get some of the herbs within your food, it’s just tradition.
We recommend visiting la Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, not because we want you to be touristy, but because we loved the view of the city.
Specialty: try it over Christmas. The Christmas market is cute, the mulled wine is cheap and there is beautiful flower decoration everywhere!
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita

1. Okay, Miss Beverley, what was the specific incident that got you to this interview
We have a passion to travel and love experiencing the cultures, traditions, foods, the history, and just learn as much as we can from traveling, but we also want to make memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. We want to make this possible for you, no matter what your circumstances are, simply by sharing our experiences and knowledge.
2. What has earned you the right to be an authority on this topic
In our opinion, we are experienced travelers, providing inspiration, budget tips, and advice, so you can travel more, and follow those travel dreams.
3. What is your brand, your topic exactly about?
Bev & Shams Adventures, are travel bloggers providing inspiration for your next travel adventure, but with a budget in mind.
As we travel, we aim to seek out the best places to stay, eat, visit, and how you can keep your budget to a minimum so you can still have a great travel adventure but won’t break the bank.
4. Why is it important
As we mentioned before, we love to travel, and know so many friends, family, and work colleagues that would love to travel, but do not have the finances. We realized that there are probably so many more people out there who are in the same boat.
We don’t want people to miss out on something they love to do. It was at this point that we realized, we could use our experience and put it to some use. The aim is to get more people inspired to travel and be able to travel, be that to some far-flung destination or somewhere within their own back garden.
5. Now that I know what it is, now that I know why it’s important and relevant, how are you implementing this on your travels? I mean like, is there a process, that you follow when traveling?
Yes, the first and most important thing we do is research. We can’t advise this enough. Once we have established where we want to go, we get online and research, we check fellow travel bloggers and search Pinterest for the answers we need.
Once we have done our research, we then set plans in place such as how much is our budget, where do we want to go (sightseeing), where to eat, are there any tours that are of interest, and of course where to sleep.
We now have a plan set up, we now put this into action, book our accommodation, and create our own itinerary on what we will do on each day, how much we intend to spend each day (budgeting), and apply for any visa where appropriate.
Once we have arrived at our destination, we check into our accommodation. We will often ask the receptionist for a local map of the area, and if they can give us any tips as a local, and any areas that we should avoid for safety reasons.
We will then head out and explore the city using our organized itinerary, taking notes as we go, especially any tips we have picked up from the receptionist, or as we travel.
We will then utilize our findings from our trip, to create an inspiring, helpful, and budget-friendly post on that destination.

6. What if people took advantage of your tips and steps you are providing? What will happen, how will their travel change?
We would love for you to utilize our tips and steps to have the best, organized and budget-friendly trip, allowing you to do something you enjoy, make those special memories, and travel more.
7. Now we would like to get just some general information about you and your travels:
– When did you start traveling?
Shams traveled as part of her dance group in her 20s to Singapore and did a lot of traveling through Sri Lanka during the civil war years as part of her dance group. Later on, in life, Shams had the opportunity to come to the UK and study dance, and it was at that point that we met.
I (Bev) started to travel with my family when I was about 11. Our family were not made of money and would take a week or two’s holiday once a year to a caravan site on the coast, and just spent some time as a family, exploring the area. I have always wanted to travel overseas, and in my 20s I got the opportunity to travel to Australia on a working holiday visa as a solo traveler and loved the experience. It was at this point that the travel bug hit me, and all I could think about is traveling.
We have both done some solo travel but now come together and travel as two. We are both grateful that we met each other, and have the same passion and ambition to travel.
Do you remember how you felt when you traveled alone for the first time?
We both have similar stories to tell about our first solo trip, Shams was so excited for her new opportunity to come to the UK and study, not knowing how her life will plan out for the future. The emotions really hit home when she boarded the plane, the uncertainty of what her future holds, and leaving her family behind, in a war-torn country.
I had the same feeling as Shams when I was granted a working holiday visa to Australia. I was so excited, knowing that my life was going to change, but uncertain if for the better or not (definitely for the better). It wasn’t until I was at the airport with my parents saying goodbye that it really hit me, and my parents and I could no longer hold the emotions in. Throughout the flight, all I could think about was leaving my family behind. When I finally landed after my long 24-hour flight, and the weather in Brisbane was sunny that it all changed. I felt that I was starting a new life, and things were going to change, and so they did, I was no longer a naïve child, I had to stand on my own two feet and meet anything head-on.
Since traveling as a couple, we always face some challenges along the way. We both have to consider the other person thoughts and feelings on traveling to certain locations, how much we will set as a budget, are we both going to be interested in the same thing, etc., We both now sit and discuss what we both want out of our chosen travel destination, if we are both going to be satisfied, and plan. Communication is key to keep the relationship balanced, and for us to enjoy our time together and enjoy traveling as a couple.
How did you, or do you deal with fears?
Hahaha, well how about the time I nearly lost Shams in the Grand Canyon, or Shams lost me depending on how you look at it.
To cut a long story short…..
We had gone on a tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon on a bus with a friend of ours. The bus driver dropped us off at the first checkpoint, and made it clear to us that we had to get back to the meeting point at the bus on time, or they will leave without us. Off the three of us went, we found ourselves a spot to take pictures, and do a time-lapse. The friend and I decided, we would leave Shams to do the time-lapse and we would walk a little further up and return.
On our return, we couldn’t find Shams where we had left her. Time was running out, and the friend and I headed back to the bus and meeting point, but Shams wasn’t there. I ran back to where I had left her but still couldn’t see her. At which point, I was very concerned about her. I ran back to the bus, to see if she had made it back, but she still wasn’t there. I was thinking of my options when the bus driver said they really must press onto the next stop and will have to leave us behind. It was luckily at this point Shams comes running back to the bus. We were both glad to see each other, and I was glad she had arrived just in time.
We both look back on the incident and comment that it was a scary point in our life. We both remained calm although we didn’t know where each of us was. We both knew the severity of the situation, which drew us back to the bus point. We say communication is key, and it clearly is in this story.
Is there a place where you have been and you would definitely not recommend it for women on their own and why?
As female travelers, we have never encountered a country that we feel we couldn’t recommend.
Do you still have this excitement, when you go for a trip?
Yes, we don’t think that excitement could ever end for us, just exploring somewhere new and learning something different just excites us.
What are your top 5 destinations and why?
We think the top spot has to go to Sri Lanka, I guess we are a little impartial when it comes to Sri Lanka, being the fact that we have family and friends there. Aside from this, the people are so kind, friendly and welcoming, and what can we say about the culture! It is so colorful, Sinhala and Tamil New Year has been the most beautiful celebration we have the experience together. Apart from the celebrations, there’s such a variety of things to do, such as sunbathing on the glorious sandy beaches, wildlife watching on land and in the waters, ancient cities, tea plantations, scenic train rides, and so many more to mention. If you’re up for an adventure, on a budget, then Sri Lanka is the next best place to come.
The second spot would have to go to Poland, we both fell in love with the country the moment we landed. The people are so friendly and helpful, so much history from Krakow being the former capitol, to Warsaw that was destroyed during World War II and since been rebuilt. The architecture is just incredible, and not to mention friendly on your wallet, it won’t be long before we will be back in Poland, exploring the country.
The next would have to be Co Wicklow in Ireland, the landscape was so beautiful, the people are so friendly and polite. We are an active couple and loved climbing the Great Sugarloaf and wandering around the Monastic city and Glendalough. Ireland has a very relaxed atmosphere.
The fourth place goes to Australia, the way of life is so different out there, the people are so laid back, friendly, and very sociable. The landscape is so different, the coast is surrounded by golden sandy beaches, surf spots, and the famous red and yellow flags on Bondi Beach. In the outback, however, is completely different, in some areas it feels like a ghost town in the middle of a desert, sacred aboriginal sites, and rock formation. We believe this should be on anyone’s bucket list of places to visit in their life.
It is not possible to leave our home country of the UK off our favorite places to visit. It is so important to us, that not only should you visit other countries, but you should also explore places within your own back garden. You’ll be surprised at what you will discover! London, of course, is a must with the city steeped with so much history, amazing medieval architecture, and visiting the Queen at Buckingham Palace, well, it is unlikely you’ll meet the Queen, but you can still visit her residence. Outside of London, you can discover quaint little villages, medieval castles, and beautiful coasts especially Durdle Door, in Dorset, are just a few to mention.
The funniest story that happened to you when traveling?
Neither of us can think of funny stories at this point, but I am sure there must have been plenty.
8. Call to action – What do you want people to do?
We would like people to just get out there and travel more, follow their dreams, have an adventure, and make lasting memories.

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Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita
The most beautiful time of the year comes along – and in this very special year, all the travel restrictions within. It is very difficult to write a recommendation for travel, as we feel like this is a choice that everyone has to do on their own.
Do you want to travel? If yes, and you do not travel for visiting relatives, you might choose a place with fewer restrictions, for your own joy. We don’t believe it too much fun to be in a place where everything closes at 8 pm, and one spends the rest of the night alone in the room.
For details about restrictions concerning the country where you would choose to travel to the country where you are coming from, check the local embassy websites, it will also tell you about the local rules you have to adapt.
Also, what we did not cover so far, but had been a witness of at the airports, please make sure you check if you need a Covid test prior to your flight and that you are within the given time window. Add a bit, in case the flight gets delayed to make sure you travel without any additional interruptions in these strange times.
We wish you a great time planning. If you think about it. And a safe trip!
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita

It is true. Especially if arriving from Austria, you would not notice too much of a difference. Basically, it feels like home, if you are coming from Austria. It is the part of Germany that is behaving to the rest of Germany a bit like the South of Italy to Italy. It belongs to it, but who cares.
Special about Munich is for sure it’s old buildings, which you can find just in front of the Central Station. It’s true, the most beautiful things are just a walk away. Literally, you fall into Stachus, the Viktualienmarkt, and many more things that are worth giving it an eye.
Also what you have to do is try the Biergarten culture – restaurants, where you can bring your own food, but you order their beer. Hint: not the small ones, the big ones is what you order.
Munich goes crazy once a year where the one and only original Oktoberfest was born, it’s taking place on the Theresienwiese and it is exported to many, many countries. But just lookalike, not the same.
Anyways… it’s super safe and a great place to spend a weekend or longer. If you have more time, visit the outskirts and the lakes. You will not regret it!
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita

1. Okay, Miss Nathalie, what was the specific incident that got you to this interview?
I form part of the Facebook group Wandering Women Travel Bloggers and saw her post about an interview to connect women around the world and encourage them to travel even if alone as you can find many beautiful and cool stories of other women and connect with them. It felt like something I would like to read, for sure, so why not write about it as well?
2. What has earned you the right to be an authority on this topic?
I’ve been doing budget traveling since I can remember. First with my family and later alone when I moved to Hungary. Plus, the fact that I’ve been living in Hungary for almost 4 years has given me a lot of insight and experience in the different processes to follow.
3. What is your brand, your topic exactly about?
The two main topics of my blog are budget traveling and living and traveling in Hungary. As I said, I’ve been living here since 2016 so I felt like it was important to describe my experience as a non-European citizen. I have a lot of experience in the kind of paperwork you need to do, how to travel around the country, and I love sharing these details with everyone who is thinking of visiting or moving to the country.
4. Why is it important?
People, and especially women, often avoid traveling to different places because they don’t speak the language, or don’t think they will find someone who speaks English. They also fear that it will be difficult to enjoy the experience if the culture is too different from theirs. Another big issue is not knowing how to find the exact info about how to move around so I wanted to make sure that everyone felt confident enough to visit Hungary. It’s such a beautiful country and it has so much to offer and you can, for sure, have an amazing time. Plus, it is not an expensive destination, so it still fits the “travel on a budget” category.
5. Now that I know what it is, now that I know why it’s important and relevant, how are you implementing this on your travels? I mean like, is there a process that you follow when traveling?

I have a 9-5 job, so that means I can’t grab my bags and leave whenever. And if I want to make good use of my holidays throughout the year, they cannot be luxury travels. For every trip, I plan the location, what to do, and especially the budget in advance. This last one using a budget travel sheet of my own creation that everyone can get for free on my website.
6. What if people took advantage of your tips and steps you are providing? What will happen, how will their travels change?
I’m sure that if they decide to use my budget traveling sheet, they will see a great improvement and control over their expenses before and during their trips. It will help them plan better for future travels and have a reference point in case they go back to a city or want to advise a friend on costs.
7. Now we would like to get just some general information about you and your travels:
(if not answered before)
– When did you start traveling?
With my family, we were always traveling together around Venezuela, and by myself, I started traveling more when I moved to Hungary in 2016.
– Do you remember how you felt when you traveled alone for the first time?
It was in 2017, I went to England for the World Camp Jamboree, I was 16. It felt literally like having a dream come true in all the movie style. Of course, I was traveling with the whole delegation but it was my first time outside the country and without my family.
– How did you, or do you deal with fears?
I try to focus on what I will be experiencing doing the trip, the things I’ll get to explore and know.
– Is there a place where you have been and you would definitely not recommend it for women on their own and why?
So far I haven’t been to a place where I would highly advise not to go on your own. But I do recommend to always be careful about where you’re going, who’s close to you and which streets you walk. No matter where you are, you always have to be safe and alert.
– Do you still have this excitement, when you go for a trip?
DEFINITELY! Just thinking about traveling gives me the goosebumps and makes my heart race!
– what are your top 5 destinations and why?
– The funniest story that happened to you when traveling?
Once I was traveling with my family back in Venezuela. We went to the countryside and wanted to visit some famous caves. They are called “las Cuevas del guácharo”. We asked in the hostel where we were staying how to get there and how long it was, they said an hour and a half. So we go out, set up a course (no GoogleMaps as there’s no satellite signal there). After a half-hour we stopped and asked someone on the road if we were on the right track and how long we still had left and they guy said: “at a steady speed, an hour and a half”. We rode for one hour more and asked another person on the way who also said: “at a good speed, an hour and a half”. This happened with I think two more people. We ended up eating at a restaurant on the way there and only after 5 to 6 hours we made it to the caves. We were able to enter the caves with the last tour group. And they literally told us to run to catch them. On the way back, we decided to take another road home (the right one it just so happened to be) and guess what: it was an hour and a half! From that moment on, every time someone asked us how long it took to get somewhere, we would always say: “an hour and a half”.
8. Call to action – what do you want people to do?
I’d love everyone to start traveling, going on new adventures, and exploring. Either with friends, family, or by themselves. Reach out to locals, ask them for advice, and maybe even a beer and you’ll have a companion to show you around. I’m always open to helping people, talking with them, and giving them all the tips I can and know about a place. And you can also find a lot of info on my blog www.boletworldwide.com or through my IG @boletworldwide.
For anything, please let me know!! These are my social pages:
IG https://www.instagram.com/boletworldwide/
Pinterest https://hu.pinterest.com/boletworldwide/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BoletworldwideTwitter https://twitter.com/boletworldwide
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita

Oh, we have read so many things about it, that we had to pick the topic up. But don’t worry, it will be a completely different approach than what you might have been reading before.
Yes, it is true. I don’t know if this applies to everyone, but especially now, as the case numbers are rising as the northern hemisphere is approaching winter, comments are getting disgusting. We are the crazy ones, the ones that bring Covid. It almost feels like there is just one reason for Covid 19 to spread: Traveling. And don’t even try to argue with these people, as they have 1 Mio arguments that will contradict whatever you say.
So here is our approach: we do not judge anyone, it is ok, whether you are traveling or you stay at home. In both cases, we would ask you to do the following thing: protect yourself so you won’t get a virus. Yes, a virus. There is another mortal virus for the same “target” group, it is called the flu. Please don’t get any of this.
How to protect yourself? Live a healthy life! Wash your hands. Eat good food and fill your mind and soul with good thoughts, energy, and loads of love. Strengthen your immune system, do sports, go for a walk. Add supplements, if you need to. And have fun, because this helps to fulfill all the mentioned above. This is where you start. And if you don’t get ill, you will not spread the virus. No virus. At all.
STAY HEALTHY! BE HAPPY! ENJOY LIFE!
Free your travels, be a Travelita. #travelita #iamatravelita

It is difficult to say this is a recommendation from us to you, and that you will enjoy your visit. You might not. But it is difficult to truly enjoy a place that was purely built to kill, to punish, and mistreat people, just because of their religion, their belonging to a certain group, or because of the sexual preferences. Or just because.
And this is exactly what happened there. Meanwhile, the Birkenau part is very peaceful, in Auschwitz itself one can feel tightness, fear, and death waiting just around the corner. It is not the locations themselves, like the gas chamber. It is the atmosphere. It is the way you walk. It is the wall you see. It is as if you are a witness of the shots that were executed randomly, behind that wall, just to frighten, just to show power. Or for fun? Who knows that.
One can hardly imagine the number of people letting their life at the concentration camp, especially in the gas chamber. Only if you see the hair kept from the people, you get an idea and this is the toughest part. Knowing, it was not even all of them. Knowing, that clothes were made from the hair, and the hair found was only the leftover, after the de-installation of Auschwitz.
So do we recommend to visit there? Yes, we do. Not because of history, not because of showing off or making you feel weird. Only because one might start to realize one big truth, that might have been in the head, but never believed as to be completely likely: it can happen again.
Free your travels, be a Travelita. #travelita #iamatravelita

1. Okay, Miss Alexis, what was the specific incident that got you to this interview?
I honestly found this interview by accident on a Facebook page I follow – Wandering Women Travel Bloggers. Tina posted in the community that she was looking to connect with travelers who would love to be interviewed about their travels and adventures. She is building a resource for female travelers to help them connect with local women to help them plan their adventures.
2. What has earned you the right to be an authority on this topic?
I have been a traveler my entire life. I did my first international trip when I was 3 years old when we immigrated to the United States. And since then, travel has been a large part of my life and my passion for travel has only grown. In 2017, I circumnavigated the globe on a ship with Semester at Sea for my university study abroad semester. And since then, I have been traveling 4-5 months out of the year. I also moved to Indonesia in January 2020 as an expat to teach English at an English learning institute.
3. What is your brand, your topic exactly about? Why is it important?
I created The Soul Traveler Diaries as a resource for travelers to find their voice and feel empowered to share their narrative. My goal is to help travelers master the art of travel through storytelling. I want to encourage the travel community to not just share the travel tips and travel guides, but to share their authentic and vulnerable travel experiences – the good, the bed, the ugly, and the fucking crazy. Through the power of our words and our stories we can share our travels with the world.
4. How are you implementing this on your travels?
To help me with my anxiety and depression when I travel, I carry a journal with me to help me process my thoughts and feelings. But, I also found it so helpful for me to document my adventures as I was traveling. I have been journaling my travels for over 3 years now and have found it so helpful. But my stories were never shared with anyone other than my family.
On my blog and social media posts, I honestly had no personality in my stories and my travel experiences. I was sharing travel tips and advice, but there was no person behind them. In April 2020, in the middle of COVID-19 and the world in isolation, I decided to make an investment in myself and changed that.
So, with the inspiration of Glo (@glographics), I decided to create an Instagram series – A Traveler’s Story – to share my travel stories. I began sharing stories of near-death experiences, love and happiness, stupid decisions and mistakes, and so much more. I dug into the vulnerable and authentic side of myself and my travels that is not shared with the travel community.
I found that my audience loved the vulnerable and authentic stories of my adventures more than the travel tips and guides I was trying to put out. Sharing a story was more impactful that travel tips that you can now find in every corner of the Internet. But, sharing your personal story about your travel experience or adventures, gives the destination more value and more memorable for you and your readers.
So, I now find myself changing my direction on my blog and social media. I am sharing these stories to encourage others to share their own and to inspire the community to go out and experience the world for themselves
5. What if people took advantage of your tips and steps you are providing? What will happen, how will their travels change?
Sharing our travel experiences through a story will absolutely change the way we look at travel the same way social media has changed travel. Social media platforms, like Instagram, changed the travel industry and changed the way people planned their destinations and adventures. Sharing our travel adventures will do the same thing. We change the narrative from a monotone, list of places to visit or food try, to a powerful story that hooks the community and encourages them to go out and experience those places and food and adventures for themselves.
By becoming a travel storyteller, you put the power back into your words and the experience.
They say that a picture is worth a thousand words.
But it is worth so much more than that. It is worth the endless happy moments remembered, the countless tears shed, and the infinite memories created. Those memories and stories are worth sharing.
About You:
When did you start traveling?
I always knew I wanted to travel the world.
My family introduced me to travel at a very young age. When I was 3 years old we emigrated from Canada to the United States, and when I was 4 and 5 years-old, we traveled to Sicily, Italy to visit my dad’s family. We took numerous road trips across the US as a family and we even did a family cruise to Mexico and Honduras.
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a wildlife veterinarian who lived and worked on conservation and rehabilitation centers all over the world (seriously, I don’t know where this ambition comes from).
I visited Spain and France with my high school language classes and traveled through Europe in university. But, it wasn’t until I studied abroad with Semester at Sea in my final semester at university that I was truly bitten by the travel bug. I spent four months circumnavigating the globe on a ship that was my home and my school all in one.
And in the 2.5 years since disembarking from my study abroad journey, I have traveled almost non-stop. I would travel for weeks, if not months at a time, exploring new places and enjoying places I had already explored. I traveled for 4-5 months of the year and would work the other months to pay for my next adventures.
I am very thankful for my parents providing me with the opportunity to travel the world at such a young age and for my ambition and passion to continue traveling that has led me to the life of full-time travel.
Do you remember how you felt when you traveled alone for the first time?
When I was 11 years old, I flew on my own for the first time. And I was so nervous and scared. I knew my mom would be waiting for me at the airport when I got home, but the 6-hour flight from England to Canada was so daunting. Since then, I had traveled back and forth between Colorado and Detroit on my own to head home during school breaks. I got used to the idea of traveling on my own and navigating airports.
But, that nervousness that I had felt at 11 years old came back tenfold when I was preparing for my first international backpacking trip. I was so anxious and not sure if I could do it. I planned out my trip to start off with familiarity by visiting family friends and my best friend.
My first stop was in Seattle to visit old family friends whom I hadn’t seen in at least a decade. I then made a stop in Hawaii for a week to visit my best friend. We had not seen each other in over 2 years and a visit to her was well overdue. Plus, why not go to Hawaii for a week!
By starting off my trip with familiar people and places, it really helped to ease some of my nervousness and anxiety. I also kept a journal. I wrote daily about my thoughts, feelings, and adventures of the day. This really helped me to process everything that was going on and to help calm my mind and anxiety.
Did it completely go away?? No. I had varying levels of anxiety throughout that entire trip. But, I am so glad that I went.
I challenged myself daily to overcome my anxiety and to enjoy where I was. I also challenged myself to step even more out of my comfort zone. I tried new foods, met new people, and slept in hostels or in cars while road-tripping through Southeast Asia and Oceania.

Is there a place where you have been and you would definitely not recommend it for women on their own and why?
To be completely honest, not really. I have been in very uncomfortable situations and walked through some really sketchy areas. But never have I felt that the entire place or city was not safe for traveling or exploring.
Each place presents its own challenges for different people. Some women have had amazing experiences in places that other women have had horrible or uncomfortable experiences.
The best advice I can give solo female travelers is to know your comfort level and to trust your gut – ALWAYS. If something feels off or uncomfortable, recognize that feeling immediately. Do not ignore it and get yourself out. Walk away, make up an excuse, and find a safe place – a cafe, grocery store, shop. Trust your gut and always have your wits about you.
What are your top 5 destinations and why?
The most memorable places I have ever visited are:
The funniest story that happened to you when traveling?
Well, funny you should ask. One of the funniest things that has happened to me was when I was traveling with my little sister through Europe on a Super Sibling Adventure. We were spending two weeks in Europe and one of those weeks on a Mediterranean cruise.
After disembarking for our cruise and waiting for our overnight train to Paris, we decided to share a gelato ice cream cone. And that’s where things got really interesting.
THAT TIME MY SISTER MURDERED GELATO
“Ice Cream!” I found myself saying out loud. My sister beamed with approval. A perfect treat for the long train ride ahead.
We strode over to the gelato stall facing the Grand Canal. We practically plastered our faces on the glass deciding what flavors to pick. In broken Italian, I ordered mango and strawberry on a sugar cone to share.
As I placed our payment on the tray, a delicious cone was placed in my face. My eyes grew large with excitement and desire. “Grazie,” I bowed to the woman barely tall enough to reach over the counter. She reminded me of our Nonna.
I passed the deliciousness to my little sister and her eyes burst with excitement. She immediately took the first lick and then a second and a third. Moaning in approval of our treat.
I finished putting away my wallet and turned towards the train station. We walked side-by-side passing our gelato back and forth. She was excitedly speaking and trying to lick at the same time. And then it happened.
As she took another lick, her tongue pushed the mango scoop right off the cone and it began to fall. We screamed as I attempted to catch the scoop in mid-air.
The cold and half-melted mango gelato smashed in my hands. We sighed in relief. I looked at my sister as I put the scoop back on the scoop. You know the look. That “don’t ever do that again” look.
We walked into the station, laughing and loudly expressing our excitement of the epic gelato save. I searched for our train to Paris on the timetable. “On Time.” Perfect.
I turned back to my sister and we continue talking. She took a big lick and the mango gave way again, wishing to be free rather than stuck on a cone. In slow motion, I fumbled to catch the mango. It bounced from one hand to another to another and splattered on the cement floor.
My sister let out a loud cry of despair and I cried inside. People turned and stared at our failed attempt to save our gelato. I picked up the splattered mango and threw it in the bin.
Disappointed and upset, we held a moment of silence for our fallen treat.
** You can find this story and so many other travel stories on my Instagram (@_thesoultraveler)**
Call to action
“You can do it!”
My mom texted me after living here in Indonesia for 1 month asking what was my favorite thing I had learned about myself. And my response was “I can do it!”
Not that I didn’t believe that I couldn’t live and work on my own halfway across the world. But, more so that I had just lived an entire month here in Indonesia and I proved to myself that I really can do it. I can reach my goals and dreams.
And you can too!! Whatever it is you want to do, you will find the way to do it if it is founded by a dream and driven by passion. You are going to get there one way or another. You will find the means and the finances and the will. And when you look back on that journey, and at times may have been a struggle as well, you can say that you did it and can still do it to keep moving forward towards your dreams.
I believe in you because You Can Do It! And your story is worth sharing.
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Alexis Cannella | The Soul Traveler
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita


As we talked about the traveling in these strange times earlier this year, we want to come back again, after the “official” announcement of the second wave. Which – curiously – did not happen to all countries. So let’s take a quick look at different areas and how they dealt with it. As you know, Sweden took a completely different approach to the situation, so let’s compare them to the rest of Europe.
Sweden: the Covid19 situation seems to be past them already. There are almost no masks around anymore, and if you see them, it is rare. Public life just went back to normal and the only reminder of the pandemic is the hand gels you see at toilets and in some public places.
So arriving in Sweden, actually one feels like nothing has ever happened. This turns into the exact opposite once you leave for Denmark, where masks are mandatory and hand gel dispensers are around basically every 10 meters of distance. But still, the handling of the situation seems to be quite relaxed.
Arriving in Germany, every changes. Again. One is not allowed to drink the coffee at the Airport Starbucks tables anymore, you need to take it to your gate. Checking the numbers, Germany seems to control them quite a bit, but it comes quite close to a second lockdown. Airport areas are deserted like in a zombie apocalypse.
So what did we experience on our trip? Huge differences. From complete freedom in Sweden to complete control in Germany. We do not want to judge right or wrong. Only, we want to experiment on the thought if it is really worth to shut down life completely, restrict everything, including freedom and a middle way of tasting the beauty of life still, despite everything that is happening.
Tell us your thoughts and experiences on the Covid19 traveling. If you did some.
Free your travels, be a Travelita. #travelita #iamatravelita

Traveling to Malmö, you better do not even consider transit by land, as it is too simple to travel through Kopenhagen. And that trip includes passing the famous Øresund Bridge as well, and you will arrive directly in the heart of Malmö, and see the beautiful train station.
Is there something special about Malmö? The best part is to just go and stroll through its little streets and discover the details all around. The lovely town center is very inviting and has a very particular charm. You will love it. Don’t forget to get yourself a Fika, which is the Swedish coffee break.
The details are what you will like best about it. When taking a break in nature and going for a walk in the huge parks just in the middle of town, you will probably find a nice arrangement of flowers, little ponds, just placed so you can sit and enjoy. Particularly nice was the area around Malmöhus, with the small windmill.
If you are into architecture, the turning tower might be your point of interest. Also, there is the beach area, which is inviting to go for a walk. Just be warned, it is likely to be quite windy.
Do you have any special tips for Malmö? Share with us.
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita

1. Okay, Miss Allison, what was the specific incident that got you to this interview?
I was scrolling through Facebook and noticed you were looking to interview women who have traveled solo before.
2. What has earned you the right to be an authority on this topic?
I started traveling quite young, but always with friends. It took me years to finally leap and take a true solo trip, which was life-changing. I want more women to gain the confidence and self-awareness that comes with traveling solo.
3. What is your brand, your topic exactly about?
I hope to inspire others to travel again once this global pandemic ends. On Ally Travels, I’ll share valuable tips, explore other cultures, and push my boundaries in far-off places. And, most shockingly, I’ll do all of this while living out of two suitcases!
4. Why is it important?
Travel is essential for the soul. I always learn so much about myself on these trips. I find every trip opens me up as a person and broadens my perception of the world. I think solo travel is an especially important experience to have. It really builds your confidence in having to rely only on yourself.
5. Now that I know what it is, now that I know why it’s important and relevant, how are you implementing this on your travels? I mean like, is there a process that you follow when traveling?
When traveling I like to research the location and come up with a few things that I’d love to do. I hate feeling too scheduled, so I choose a loose plan, then just see where the day takes me.
I try to say yes to as many things as safely possible. Journaling is something I also love to do. It’s so interesting to look back a year later and read it. I always realize how much personal growth I’ve had since the last entry.
Also, taking photos!
Solo travelers: Take as many selfies and photos as you can. I know it feels stupid, but trust me you’ll be so happy you have them later. Besides, you’ll likely never see these people again, so who cares if they judge you?
To avoid selfies, I try to spot another person trying to take a cute photo and offer to take a photo if they’ll take one of me. I’ve gotten such amazing photos this way (sometimes it takes a few tries).
6. What if people took advantage of your tips and steps you are providing? What will happen, how will their travels change?
They will likely have less stress, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
7. Now we would like to get just some general information about you and your travels:
(if not answered before) – When did you start traveling?
My first international trip was 5. My family moved to the island of Saba for 6 months. Then I to a summer acting program at Trinity College in Dublin for a month in high school. My first truly solo trip wasn’t until two years ago.
– Do you remember how you felt when you traveled alone for the first time?
It felt so freeing going off on an adventure. I love the anticipation of what lies ahead, anything could happen.
Personally, I had a really hard time dining alone before my first solo trip. I had so much anxiety about having to eat out alone so much on this trip. It always felt so awkward to me to be sitting there quietly playing on my phone or reading. Or doing the alternative of sitting silently staring into space.
That was a big leap for me. Being forced to face yourself can be daunting. We are always expected to be moving, to be doing something. We’re so busy that we rarely give ourselves time to reconnect with ourselves.
I walked away from that trip knowing more about myself and needs. For the first time in a long time, I felt really grounded and confident in myself.
– How did you, or do you deal with fears?
I remind myself that the reward is greater than the risk in most cases. Plus, the adrenaline feels so wonderful once you’re done facing down your fear.
In the dining alone case, I’d treat myself to a really delicious cocktail or glass of wine. Then order anything my heart desires on the menu with absolutely no guilt. I made it like a date night out with myself.
– Is there a place where you have been and you would definitely not recommend it for women on their own and why?
I’ve had really positive experiences on all my solo trips. While in Istanbul visiting a friend, he was very insistent that I shouldn’t go off alone. Personally, I felt safe but the fact he’s local and didn’t want me wandering off alone concerned me. I’d probably just try to be extra aware of my surroundings in Istanbul if I went back solo.
– Do you still have this excitement, when you go for a trip?
The anticipation and butterflies are my favorite part of the start of a trip. I love not knowing what adventures are ahead. I love how I feel traveling, there’s no greater high.

– What are your top 5 destinations and why?
Cote d’Azur: The South of France is stunning! I’ve been twice now, and I’m dying to go back again. There are a ton of tiny little beach towns to explore. It’s absolutely magical, and easily one of the most beautiful places that I’ve been to.
London: I am a big theater fan, so I love going to London to see shows. They also have an incredible restaurant scene. It’s great wandering around London, I find it to be really charming.
New York: New York is my home, and one of the greatest cities in the world. Plus, I can’t get enough of the theater scene there. The city has a really unique energy. There’s always something new to see. You’ll never be bored.
Nairobi: I haven’t been yet, but I’m dying to go. I know it’s a bit touristy now but I’d love to stay at Giraffe Manor. Between the giraffe encounters and elephant adoption, it’s every animal lovers’ dream. Africa itself is a continent that I still need to get to. I can’t wait to get over there.
Australia: This is another spot that I need to check off my list. Hopefully, I’ll be there with my boyfriend later this year (he’s Australian). I’m really excited to explore with him and especially thrilled about meeting kangaroos and koalas. Oh, and TimTams…they are these really delicious Australian biscuits covered in chocolate. My boyfriend has me addicted to them!
– The funniest story that happened to you when traveling?
While in St. Remy, France, I made friends with a horse that was tied up near the town. When the owner came back, he let me ride the horse all the way into the center of town to my dinner reservation with my dad. I should mention nobody else in this town had horses. It was an unusual sight.
We ended up parking the horse next to the outdoor section of the restaurant and all shared a few glasses of rose together. I should mention this man didn’t speak any English. My dad speaks no French, and I only have a limited high school level of French. There was a lot of miming and stifled laughter!
8. Call to action – what do you want people to do?
Take a leap, book that trip you’ve always dreamed of going on. I promise you’ll return feeling like a new person. Travel always changes you for the best.
Socials:
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita

We have read it over and over… how do you have enough money for your travels? And yes, that is a question, that needs to be taken care of best before you start traveling, nothing worse than running out of money or making debts, it takes even longer to go traveling again.
But what about considering doing something meanwhile you travel, so you never have to stop traveling again?
Thank takes a second thought, get that. And does it change travels? Yes, to be honest, it does. But not necessarily in a bad way. It takes away the complete state of „relax and think of nothing“, but it adds value in the sense that wherever you are, you do not have to worry that something happens and you are not there.
And – you can stay. As long as you want. Something you wanted to see but did not quite catch it? Go for it tomorrow. Stay another day, another week, or forever, whatever you wish for.
That is freedom. We have tried it, and we liked it. And we want you to have some of this freedom too.
So we created a basic course on how to start working online immediately and from scratch, going into even building an online business. The program will get you started and will explain to you what steps you need to take to a life that is free from being at one specific location at a specific time. Unless you wish to.
There is only one thing that you have to do first: go and check it out… We have put together a free 20 min masterclass, so you know what you get:
www.travelitasworld.com/masterclass.
This time it is real:
Free your travels, be a Travelita. #travelita #iamatravelita

The Italian capital is a must-see un your bucket list. Not only for all the ancient, historical buildings, where you walk around literally feeling how life must have been in ancient times, but mostly having the complete opposite just waking you up of your amazing historical daydreams: the Italian way of living.
Let’s face it: Italians are a little loud, they talk in huge gestures and they love their own food. Which is understandable, because it is so good. So what you should not to is to leave Rome without trying Cacio y Pepe, this is traditional Romanian pasta with pecorino and pepper, and it is delicious. And get some wine, for your well-rounded experience.
Other than that, whatever you are up to do in Rome, you will probably get the real Italy. If you have a bit more of time, do not exclusively stick to tourist places, Vatican city and experiences, find out a bit more and enjoy the „dolce far niente“, the gestures, the style, the people and the food. You will not regret it!
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita

1. Okay, Miss Izabela, what was the specific incident that got you to this interview?
I am very much into supporting women and I believe travel is one of the fields where we women are scared to travel (either alone, or with our kids, or in general) so when I saw an opportunity to be part of this project I had to jump at it and contribute.
2. What has earned you the right to be an authority on this topic?
If we had to look at the numbers I have traveled to 24 countries so far, some of them I visited more than once and among my friends I am ’the traveler’ apart from that I read and watch everything travel related. For some travelers 24 countries are nothing, for others, it’s a dream number to tick off. However; I focus on the travel experience and adventure, not the number itself, and I do believe each of us has a different and unique travel need and my style of traveling may be useful to someone looking for similar experiences.
3. What is your brand, your topic exactly about?
I am a traveler; my style of travel could be described as an affordable luxury, I like to stay in nice boutique hotels but also I am looking for a local experience. I would not be able to spend 2 weeks just on the beach. I need to explore!
4. Why is it important?
Anyone, who wants to visit a country and take inspiration from places I had been to, will be able to find on my blog almost ready itineraries to borrow and adjust to their liking. I write my blogs in a way that they can be used as itineraries.
5. Now that I know what it is, now that I know why it’s important and relevant, how are you implementing this on your travels? I mean like, is there a process, that you follow when traveling?
I always do huge amount of research before I travel (unless I travel last minute and do not have much time – although then I use time on the plane or airport to research). Therefore my travel itineraries are well planned to maximize the number of places visited in the least time possible. My trips become perfect itineraries for adventurous travelers who want to see more, experience local culture, and have fun.
6. What if people took advantage of your tips and steps you are providing? What will happen, how will their travels change?
First of all, they will have itinerary that will be extremely busy but you will see a lot in a day, two etc. … I focus on seeing places that are important to see, but also look into the culture; food, music, etc. For instance, in Lisbon you must eat Pasties de Belem and you can combine that with seeing Belem district – so I combine two in one history, architecture and culture. Plus I love a good fun fact so every time there’s the opportunity I include that in my blog too!
7. Now we would like to get just some general information about you and your travels:
(if not answered before) – When did you start traveling?
I can’t really remember the exact time, I know I was traveling with my parents to neighboring Slovakia which was at the time an international trip! I must have been as little as 4 years old. But I remember trips in a car, different currency, and the fact that people spoke different languages. Then when I was 12 I went for a children camp by Polish seaside, it was exciting to be on a night train with other kids for 12 hours it was a great adventure, I guess my travel bug was already there. Then at the age of about 14/15, I went for holidays to north Greece where I discovered culture way different to what I knew already from my neighbor country trips. The food, music and smiles of Greek people together with charming views and beautiful sea just cemented my travel addiction. I was hooked on travel.
– Do you remember how you felt when you traveled alone for the first time?
It was scary, exciting, and that I am alone and can count only on myself. Not knowing what’s going to happen build in me resilience and self-confidence – I could only count on myself.
– How did you, or do you deal with fears?
I try to prepare as much as I can, I look up routes, connections, have screenshot of maps (if I worry about internet connection). I also try to find anyone who has been to that country to learn some tricks and useful tips.
– Is there a place where you have been and you would definitely not recommend it for women on their own and why?
I think this will have to be India. I was on this trip partially on my own and partially with Indian friends who joined me later. Even though I was in New Delhi I found that people were shocked that I was there as a woman on my own. Which causes some unpleasant moments. I also found people staring and almost ogling uncomfortable knowing that rape is also quite common in India. When I was with my Indian friends it was more safe, but still a lot of stares! Don’t get me wrong India is a beautiful country, but not for solo women travelers.
Another city I know it’s tough on women is Marrakesh – the hustlers have no mercy (apparently even if you are with a man too) I was there with my friend and that constant hiss and hustle as we were in souks was tiring.
– Do you still have this excitement, when you go for a trip?
Always!
– what are your top 5 destinations and why?
1. Peru – for Inca trails and Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca plus wonderful Peruvian food and funny lamas
2. French Polynesia – amazing diving plus luxury overwater villas and turquoise blue waters
3. Cook Islands – beauty of the atolls and marine life
4. Japan – culture, food, scenery
5. Georgia – wine and landscape plus snowboarding in the winter
– The funniest story that happened to you when traveling?
There are many… hard to pick one perhaps that one time when I was in Thailand and it was Thai New Year (Songkran) and everything was closed so when I arrived in Chiang Mai I could not buy food anywhere. After a lot of walking and searching for an open place, I ended up in someone’s garage which looked like they serve food there. I was so hungry that I did not care anymore and just ordered a dish from a lovely old man who could not speak a word of English so he was showing me photos of the food. There was a bird in the cage above my head and my partner laughed that we will soon be eating that bird (that’s how rough this place looked) but after a while, we were served our meals which were one of the best dishes we ate in Thailand. Full of flavors and made my grandma in a garage! Now it sounds funny but at the time I was so desperate to eat and so hungry that I wanted to eat anything anywhere! It turned out to be a very good experience. As they say: Don’t judge the book by its cover!
8. Call to action – what do you want people to do?
Come visit my blog for more stories about my adventures and ready itineraries to use for your travels: www.postcardfromizabelitatravels.com
Thank you for the interview!
Free your travels, be a Travelita! #travelita #iamatravelita
Covid has hit the world hard, and we feel it is getting more and more difficult to pack a bag and travel. It’s not impossible, but rather t...