Welcome to a non-conventional travel blog, where wanderlust meets storytelling!
In 2023, I embarked on a thrilling adventure, backpacking in Southeast Asia. For over 275 days and 26,745 kilometres, I immersed myself in a whirlwind of cultures, cuisines, and natural wonders that never ceased to amaze me at every turn.
From the ancient temples of Cambodia to the iconic mountainous landscape of Laos, from the vibrant ethnic minorities of Vietnam to the awe-inspiring wildlife of Malaysia, from the mysticism of Bali to the paradisical beaches of the Philippines – this was no ordinary gap year. As a fearless female solo traveller, I sought the authenticity beneath the touristy facade, venturing off the beaten path to uncover the true essence of each destination.
I meticulously chronicled my odyssey with over 40 travel journal entries and countless photographs, sharing intimate glimpses of my experience on PolarSteps, a popular travel tracking app. Beyond mere documentation, writing became a lifeline, a way to bridge the gap of travelling alone for so long and connect with those friends and family I wish I could share the unforgettable moments the trip rendered me. Upon returning, I continued writing and reviewing my travel musings, the only way I found to process a year filled with novelty, adventure and learning, making this experience come full circle.
And so, this travel blog was birthed! I’ll take you beyond the well-trodden paths and into the heart of our world’s rich historical, political, and cultural landscapes. From heartwarming local experiences to hidden gems, this is a space where every post is a gateway to new horizons!
More than just a collection of tales, this blog will become a treasure of hard-earned tips, insights and travel inspiration, meticulously curated to empower fellow backpackers, from navigating language barriers to embracing cultural nuances. For now, get ready for a ride through Southeast Asia’s captivating landscapes, flavours, and stories off the beaten track.
More than just travel writing, this blog is a poignant memoir of self-discovery, a testament to the transformative power of travel for a rising female solo traveller, and a captivating celebration of the extraordinary within the ordinary.
Hopefully, this is just the beginning. A jurist by profession but a writer by passion, I’m open to collaborations, guest blogging opportunities, and partnerships with travel companies. Together, we can inspire others to step out of their comfort zones, embrace the unknown, and turn their bucket lists into boundless memories. Let this be the start of a journey where we collectively ignite a spirit of adventure and exploration in the hearts and minds of our readers!
Fellow wanderers, memoir enthusiasts, kindred spirits, let’s connect! Share your own journeys! Your stories are as important as mine! Who knows, perhaps our tales will intertwine, or we might even plan our next grand escapade together. After all, the world is vast, and the narratives yearning to be told are endless.
Get ready to embody the motto “backpacking light, thinking deep”. This journey will awaken your senses and ignite your soul!
Sofia