Bookends is primarily a book blog, but I also have a huge passion for travel. I love to research locations, create detailed itineraries, and then put it all to the test when I actually get to visit the place. During my trips, I keep detailed travel journals. I also love sharing this information with friends and family: what I did, what I learned, and what I’d do differently if I did the trip again.
I figured I’d throw in a few posts here and there where I share information about trips I’ve been on. To tie it back to Bookends, I’ll feature a book that I’ve read that is somehow related to the trip, whether it’s a book about the location or just a book I read along the way (or both).
I hope you like this idea. I put a lot of time and thought into the first post (my trek to Machu Picchu in Peru). Please comment with any thoughts! I also would be happy to answer any questions you might have about any of these locations and what I’d recommend!
I’ll keep a list of my travel posts up to date under the Travel header.
My travel style
Travelers come in all forms, and of course my tips aren’t going to be useful to everyone. Here’s what’s most important to me when I travel:
- Adventure: I’m a hiker, a camper, and a see-as-much-as-I-can type of girl. I generally don’t travel to sit at a pool or hang out in a resort. Maybe for a day or so to refresh, but usually I am on the move as much as possible.
- Frugality: I like to see as much as I can, but I generally don’t splurge on expensive hotels or fine dining. If my recommendations aren’t camping, they’re budget hostels and cheap hotels.
- Flexibility: I like to plan it all myself, do the things I want to do, and not waste time with things I “should” be doing that don’t interest me. I don’t like to be locked into a schedule, because I love to go with the flow (but at the same time, I’m a crazy planner…go figure). My friends know that if they travel with me, I’m going to do the things I want to do. They’re always welcome to join but I won’t think twice about leaving them behind if they’re not interested!
- Efficiency: I’ve only checked a bag three times in the last eight years: going to New Zealand for a three-month program where I needed everything from business attire to hiking gear, moving from Boston to Las Vegas, and one hiking trip in Canada where I needed my trekking poles. Some of this has to do with cost, but even when I could have checked a bag for free I prefer carry-ons. I don’t want to waste a second of my trip, either at the baggage claim or god forbid dealing with lost luggage!
If any of this sounds like you, check out my posts and please tell me what you think!
All posts are based on my personal experience and preferences. What works for me may not work for you, and there’s nothing wrong with that!