20 PLACES TO TRAVEL IN YOUR 20S THAT AREN’T CLICHÉS

Sooooo you wanna travel in your 20s and not be a walking, talking cliché? I feel you. A while ago (a few years) I wrote a blog post about the best 20 places to visit in your 20s, before I had travelled nearly as much as I have now (60 something countries or so, tbh I have no idea). Back then I wrote a list of clichés. There, I said it. Now – a little older, wiser, and much better travelled, I have 20 places to travel in your 20s that will offer you a much better experience culturally and get you away from the norm. Here they are!Atacama Desert, Chile

When you think of the world’s driest desert, you think there’s probably gonna be nothing there. Wrong you would be! San Pedro de Atacama is the charming little town that lies at the centre of the Atacama Desert, your base for your stay in this diverse area of land mass. When I say diverse I’m talking about salt flats, flamingoes, a cactus valley, llamas (YES!), smoking geysers, stargazing, volcanoes and so much more. If you come to the Atacama Desert be sure to give yourself 4+ days here as there is plenty to see and do, including some great climbs to the tips of volcanoes (some of which are active mind you!)Kruger National Park, South Africa

For as long as I can remember I have wanted to go to the continent of Africa and see lions, zebras, giraffes, rhinos and hyenas (and a long list of other animals but for the sake of your time in reading this article, lets end there!) When I finally did make it to Kruger National Park in South Africa, I saw all of these animals on my first day and continually throughout the rest of my few days on safari. No other experience in the world can compare to seeing these predators in their natural habitat and I would strongly urge anyone who loves animals to make their next trip an African safari! If you are looking to volunteer (as many 20-somethings and beyond do), please please please do adequate research into where you are volunteering and how effective these charities/organisations are. A great documentary to watch before you choose to volunteer with animals is Kevin Richardson’s “Lion Man”, which you can watch here on youtube.Freycinet National Park, Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania has been named the world’s most diverse island and with mountains, stunning coastlines, quaint and charming towns, colonial history and some of the cutest wildlife, it isn’t hard to see why. I’ll be completely honest with you though, I am overtly biased. This is my home. However I can guarantee you if you know anyone who has been to Tasmania, no matter how far away they’ve travelled to get here, almost all of them will say this is one of the most gorgeous natural beauties on this planet. The best way to do Tassie in your 20’s is to grab a bunch of friends for a 2 week road trip around the island (you could do it in 1 week but this is the kinda place you wanna take it slow!)Trans-Siberian Railway through Russia 

Could there be anything more exotic than a train journey across the country of Russia, ending in China, Mongolia or North Korea!? As the longest train journey in the world, there’s a lot of time to kick back and let the world quite literally pass you by on the Trans-Siberian railway. Here’s a really helpful article if you’re looking to book.Reykjavik, Iceland

While a trip to Iceland is expensive, it is entirely worth the investment if you’re looking for something in Europe that’s a little different and a lot exciting. Reykjavik is this gorgeous city pictured above with colourful rooftops, interesting cuisine, and very friendly locals who are proud to call Iceland home.Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Croatia has quickly become a bucket list destination for most 20-somethings, and nowhere is that more so than coastal Dubrovnik and island hopping on yachts in the summer. But if you want to see more of Croatia beyond the hot spots and find a hidden gem of your own, then head on over to Plitvice Lakes National Park (the image above is just a glimpse at this gorgeous natural reserve)Isle of Skye, Scotland

If you’re looking for a getaway that actually means you will get away, then I can’t recommend Scotland enough, particularly the Isle of Skye. I was told this place typically attracts an older clientele, but that only made me want to go more. I just wanted to hide away in a hidden (but cold) paradise where I could wander freely, take some time to myself, write, and breathe. Sometimes you gotta do it!

Belgrade, Serbia

My long time childhood friend once said to me his favourite place in all of his European travels was Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. I was pretty stunned by that statement, not only because I hadn’t been when he told me, but also because it wasn’t even on my radar and this was the first I heard of it! Me being me, I put it on my list for my next trip to Europe and some months later I was there in Belgrade for a few days to see what all his fuss was about. Turns out it really is one of the coolest cities in Europe, with sooooooo many young people (who love to party by the way) and it is also really cheap, so a great place to base yourself for a few days or even a week to just kick back and enjoy this city.Big Sur, California

The big names like Los Angeles and San Francisco are awesome to visit in your 20’s, but so is getting off track by venturing between the two (ROAD TRIP!) and visiting Big Sur on the Pacific Coast Highway. The best way to visit is by driving from San Francisco or, if you’re up for that road trip, travel in either direction between Los Angeles and San Francisco.The Yukon, Canada

For my first trip to Canada I decided I would venture beyond the popular choices (though I would gladly return to visit Vancouver, Jasper, the Rockies and Banff… oh and Calgary for the Stampede!). Instead, I visited the Yukon, which is Northwest and runs to the border to Alaska. It was a really authentic, localised experience that couldn’t have been a better introduction to Canada if it was trying! I’ll definitely be back.Irish Road Trip

One of my favourite solo adventures in my 20s has been driving around Ireland with absolutely no plan whatsoever. I truly had no idea where I would end up each day, just driving until I was tired of adventuring and checking myself into a roadside B&B. It was a really freeing experience to not have plans and no intent on arriving, to just travel for the sake of travelling. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are 8 of my favourite places from my trip to Ireland.La Paz, Bolivia

Perhaps the most terrifying experience of my travels to date (even more scary than bungy jumping, sky diving and swimming with a crocodile) was bike riding death road in Bolivia. As terrifying as it was, it was also completely exhilarating and gave that rush of adrenaline in its purest form. I’m not really sure if I would recommend it or not recommend it, as I’m still scared just thinking about it (!!!) But it was a really great experience to test my limits nonetheless. La Paz, the nearby and capital city of Bolivia is about as authentic as you can get in South America these days. I love the way they’ve held on to their traditions and how rare it is to see the golden arches (I think I saw one) in the city.Lapland, Finland

It was in Lapland, Finland that I decided I would uproot my life, pack all my things, and move to a cabin in the woods. Of course if you follow my blog regularly you will know I didn’t, but it is still a distant dream of mine to buy a cabin in the woods in Lapland – the perfect winter wonderland that resembles a real life Chronicles of Narnia if ever there were one.Essaouira, Morocco

If you’ve ever dreamed of going to Morocco you’ve probably thought immediately to Marrakech, the colourful and vibrant city filled with snake charmers, souks, and spice markets. Whilst I love Marrakech (like, a lot!), I can’t recommend enough that you venture beyond Marrakech and see the rest of Morocco – particularly the seaside town of Essaouira. This town feels much more authentic and relaxed, particularly in the summer as it is filled with both Moroccans and visitors.

 Havana, Cuba

If there’s just one place I want to go more than anywhere else in the world right now, Havana is it. As if it were caught in a time warp, both the buildings and cars have been preserved over the years of the US embargo, making this one of the most authentic countries in the world to visit, as it has not been exposed to Americanisation. Now is the time to go!Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a great choice for travellers wishing to explore Central America and in recent years the country has really picked up in popularity amongst the young adventure travel market. There are also a great selection of eco hotels (and more importantly tree houses!!!) and plenty of animal sanctuaries to visit in order to see the rare animals like sloths, jaguars and pumas! For a full guide to get you going, see this article about road tripping in Costa Rica.India

They say a trip to India stays with you your entire life and after reading this article, you’ll soon see why. Full of culture (like no other), great food, amazing sights and authenticity in every sense of the word, a trip to India should be on every 20-something year olds’ list of travels!Transylvania, Romania

One of my favourite (and completely unexpected) trips last year was to Brasov, a small town in Transylvania, Romania. Like most visitors to this town, I positioned myself here as a base to explore the nearby castles and mountain ranges: particularly Dracula’s Castle and Peleș Castle, which is recognised as Europe’s most beautiful castle. In general a visit East of Poland (as far East as most travellers get) is a complete eye opener and full of more cultural + authentic experiences than you could ever get in the West (don’t get me wrong, there’s culture all over Europe!!!!). But what I love about the East is the fact that it is still less travelled and it opens your eyes to sights and experiences you couldn’t have elsewhere.Istanbul, Turkey

Walking through the labyrinth that is the Grand Bazaar would have to be one of the world’s most exciting experiences. With magic lamps, the colourful spice market, old compasses from hundreds of years ago… it really is a world in itself that allows you to step back in time, imaging the days of Constantinople or even Byzantium.Torres del Paine, Chile

If you’re up for a little more physical activity, pack your bags, train your body for a mission of a hike, and head on over to Chile for the “W” or “O” track in Torres del Paine. These hikes are not only a physical test, but also open your eyes to some of the most stunning scenery and landscapes the world has to offer. Expect snow-capped mountains, icebergs, avalanches, and a rare glimpse at local wildlife.

Over to you! What are some of the best destinations you have visited out of the ordinary?

THE 12 MOST ROMANTIC SMALL TOWNS IN EUROPE

In need of a little romance away from the bustling crowds, city lights and sounds? Head to one of these romantic small towns in Europe for a holiday you (and your partner) will never forget…
1. Brugge, Belgium

Brugges is often cited as Europe’s most romantic little town – and it’s not hard to see why. Whether you visit in Summer or Winter (or in between), its impossible not to fall in love with effortlessly romantic Brugges.2. Hallstatt, Austria

This little hidden gem is the perfect winter escape you’ve been looking for. Snow? Check. Charm? Check. Dark cozy nights by the fire? Check.3. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Just a couple of hours drive south of Prague one will find the impossibly charming Cesky Krumlov. It’s the perfect place to escape reality for a few days and enjoy true Czech hospitality that you just won’t find in the busy capital!4. Cinque Terre, Italy

It’s no secret this would have to be one of the most romantic picks in all of Europe. Sure, it’s ‘been done before’. But one look at that picture and you know why… it’s hard to beat! Cinque Terre is in fact an area made up of a few little towns – giving you more than one reason to visit!5. Wroclaw, Poland

 Lesser known Wroclaw is a perfect choice for travellers looking to get off the beaten path and enjoy a town less frequented by crowds of tourists. It is also home to oodles of charming and colourful architecture with each building distinct from the next! Sure, Wroclaw is a large city itself – but the old town of Wroclaw won our hearts and subsequently a place on the list.6. Bavaria, Germany

Why include just one town when you can visit many? Although Bavaria is a region in Germany, it is eerily similar throughout – and we couldn’t pick just one town to visit! Hire a rental car and make a road trip out of it – this is undoubtedly the most romantic area in all of Germany!7. St Moritz, Switzerland

Although it is packed with avid ski enthusiasts during the winter, St Moritz is a true hidden gem in the warmer months. There’s a great variety of hiking in the area and the small Swiss village seems as if it could pass as a ghost town during summer – making it the perfect escape for couples.8. Haarlem, the Netherlands

 Lesser known Haarlem has all the Dutch charm of Amsterdam and more. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in the Netherlands, this is our top pick!9. Porto, Portugal

Whilst Porto was once overlooked by tourists and travellers heading straight for the capital, Lisbon, the fishing town has now become a strong contender for tourism. It is impossibly charming and an accurate depiction of Portuguese culture past & present. Porto is in fact the second largest city in Portugal — but the old town is simply too charming for this destination to not be included.10. Colmar, France

With a strong German influence just over the border into France, Colmar is a romantic dreamboat if ever there were one.11. Gdansk, Poland

Although lesser known to the likes of Warsaw and Krakow, Gdansk is equally charming and certainly the top choice for the closet romantic. Expect fascinating architecture, lively restaurants and bars, and more than enough romance to keep you loved up for a few days.12. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled hardly needs an introduction… especially if a picture tells a thousand words. There could quite possibly be nothing more romantic than a visit to one of Europe’s most stunning lakes, rowing a boat to the island and climbing the stairs to the church once there. 

50 WAYS I SAVED (A LOT) OF MONEY TO TRAVEL THE WORLD

They say planning leads to progress. I don’t know who they are — but they’re right.
When I had the idea (or maybe it was more a ‘calling’ of sorts) to travel the world, I was fearful that I would never be financially able to travel the world unless I won the lottery, came into possession of a money tree, or joined some form of group involved in illegal activity that would result in riches (piracy I could do if it means coming into possession of the Black Pearl and a mascot monkey).
The idea first popped into my mind many moons ago, so long that I have no idea when the notion of travelling the world full time really came about in my mind. It was a distant dream I never thought could become my reality – but it has.
When I first said to myself “I want to travel the world full time”, I too thought it was a crazy idea. I was pessimistic that I would ever be able to afford full time travel, especially since I would have to save every penny for my dreams myself.
My parents have never funded my travels.
Here’s how I did it:
50 WAYS I SAVED (A LOT) OF MONEY TO TRAVEL THE WORLD
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They say planning leads to progress. I don’t know who they are — but they’re right.
When I had the idea (or maybe it was more a ‘calling’ of sorts) to travel the world, I was fearful that I would never be financially able to travel the world unless I won the lottery, came into possession of a money tree, or joined some form of group involved in illegal activity that would result in riches (piracy I could do if it means coming into possession of the Black Pearl and a mascot monkey).
The idea first popped into my mind many moons ago, so long that I have no idea when the notion of travelling the world full time really came about in my mind. It was a distant dream I never thought could become my reality – but it has.
When I first said to myself “I want to travel the world full time”, I too thought it was a crazy idea. I was pessimistic that I would ever be able to afford full time travel, especially since I would have to save every penny for my dreams myself.
My parents have never funded my travels.
Here’s how I did it:

The 50 Ways I saved (A LOT) of Money to Travel the World
Before I had even booked my one-way ticket overseas, I was on a super-saving mission to fund my dream of travelling the world. I stopped paying $5 for coffee and convinced myself my homemade brew was the next best thing. I stopped meeting friends for dinner and instead invited them over for a homecooked meal. I had a few glasses of wine at home with friends and didn’t purchase overpriced drinks in bars anymore. I stopped buying expensive takeout and learned to cook for myself. I have been a vegetarian for 10 years, so saved money with my plant-heavy diet. I would eat what was already there in the fridge or pantry instead of satisfying my cravings. I walked to the supermarket instead of driving.
I sold my car and hitched a ride to work each day. Thus I didn’t have to pay car insurance, petrol, or car servicing. I stopped buying new clothes – there was nothing wrong with the old ones anyway. I sold old clothes at a local market and walked away with $1556.00 towards my travels. I stopped upgrading everything like iPhones, computers, and various other technologies. I cut my phone plan and started using wifi only. I gave up my gym membership and took up running/bike riding outdoors. I saved oodles of money by living with my parents and offering to cook meals, clean, and run errands in place of paying rent. But when I did live out of home I was brutally economical – I wouldn’t use the lights during the day, would have shorter showers, and even charged my devices at work instead of at home. I was on a mission to save EVERYWHERE, ALL THE TIME, ON EVERYTHING.I stopped buying magazines and books and relied on the internet for new knowledge, articles and ideas. I cooked my lunch meals in bulk at the beginning of the week to save on time, money and eat healthily. I even started growing my own herbs, fruits and vegetables (some more successful than others). I watched old movies instead of paying extortionate amounts to go and see new ones. I may have even raided my brother’s money box once or twice for emergency funds – but thankfully made it up to him by flying him to Bali for his Christmas present a year later.
I found new ways of making money.
I started a blog about my love for travel, which soon turned into my full time career about my travels. I started charging money for advertising, receiving sizeable sums from Google Adsense, got paid per views for my Youtube Videos, branched out into merchandising, wrote a book, consulted for brands on social media, wrote as a freelance journalist, received more sizeable sums for affiliate programs, and started working for large corporations to endorse their products.
I learned to travel smarter.
I learned to travel smarter, not cheaper. I learned how to save money on flights, how to pack smarter to save excess baggage fees, how to spend less in expensive locations. I stopped eating out and started snacking on-the-go. I would rent an apartment for long term stays so I could cook and wash my clothes without paying extortionate hotel fees (the sooner they change this the better). I mixed it up and travelled to cheaper countries for longer periods of time – consider the likes of Eastern Europe or Southeast Asia. I gave away things I didn’t need anymore instead of travelling with so many ‘things’ and attracting more of those outrageous excess baggage fees.
I never stopped learning.
Of course there were times where I spent too much money on things I learned I didn’t need, or found new ways to do it cheaper. I learned that paying extra was not necessarily better – for things such as theatre tickets, seats on planes, or priority access. I also learned that you could go to the theatre in Vienna for 3-4 euros. I sacrificed comfort for those ghastly budget airline flights around Europe and still found the fun in it. I looked at the positives – like a beautiful view – when eating picnic after lunch picnic. I flew where the flight sales encouraged me to and made last minute decisions to avoid change/cancellation fees.
But most of all, I learned that all these little changes led to a longer journey around the world doing what I love… and no sacrifice was ever too much to live the life I dreamed of.

25 SECRET SMALL TOWNS IN EUROPE YOU MUST VISIT

1. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

There’s no other town in the world that I am more fond of than the quaint, charming, fairytale-like town of Cesky Krumlov in southern Bohemia. It’s as if you have stepped into a time warp – small cobblestone roads, bridges every which way you look, and no, there’s no McDonalds! It’s a great short day trip from Prague if you find yourself there but for the best experience, visit Krumlov in the summer season and raft down the Vltavy River.2. Colmar, France

Situated in Alsace, Colmar is a unique blend of French and Germany architecture, culture and spirit. It’s as colourful in real life as it looks to be in the photos and is one of France’s true hidden gems.3. Marsaxlokk, Malta

This town in Malta is the main fishing village for the entire country. It’s colourful, playful, and filled with Maltese spirit.4. Hallstatt, Austria

The lakeside town of Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has even been dubbed the prettiest lakeside village in the entire world. Whether you visit at summer or winter time, you are sure to fall in love with what will always be one of Europe’s most charming small towns.5. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges has become incredibly popular for travellers looking to photograph the lego-like houses in the city centre (pictured above). It still remains to be one of Europe’s prettiest little towns, but is now more popular than ever.6. Bled, Slovenia

There’s much to see and do in Bled, however the greatest attraction is undeniably Lake Bled – one of the world’s most stunning lakes and a favourite for visitors to Slovenia7. Bibury, England

This would indeed have to be the most photographed street in Bibury, England. This small town is filled with old world charm and could very well be the most charming town in England!8. Albarracin, Spain

Some would say Albarracin is the most charming village in all of Spain. It’s just a two hour journey from Valencia and a 30 minute train ride from Teruel.

9. Pucisca, Croatia

 Croatia has well and truly opened itself up to tourism in recent years so it may not be as much a secret as it once was, however a visit to the Dalmation coast once in your life is an absolute must. It’s little gems like Pucisca that explain why!10. Eze, France

 Not too far from Nice is the Southeast town of Eze, France – a great little getaway!

11. Annecy, France

Annecy is built around a 14th Century Chateau and is arguably more charming than any other French town you will find. The town is also surrounded by the French Alps, making it even more picturesque!

12. Manarola, Italy

The image says it all – Manarola would have to be one of Italy’s most charming little towns on the coast. But there are so many more! Italy is filled with hidden gems to discover – be sure to take your time in this beautiful country!

13. Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland

Think it’s difficult to say? It’s just as difficult to get here. This small town in Greenland can only be reched by taking a once-per-week flight from Iceland, then a helicopter ride to this small galacial town in Greenland. But of course, it looks to be worth it!

14. Reine, Norway

This small fishing village in Norway is SO picturesque – if a picture tells a thousand words, this would have to tell double. Stunning!

15. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

 The small town of Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina has got to be one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. If you find yourself here, be sure to visit nearby Blagaj – another charmer!16. Odense, Denmark

 Although it is the third largest city in Denmark, Odense has a small town charm that can’t be found elsewhere in Denmark – a true treasure!

17. Freiburg, Germany

Freiburg is home to around 230,000 people and is located in the Southwest of Germany – the picture says more than enough

18. Goreme, Turkey

This town was first built by the Romans and was carved into the hard rock – truly incredible!19. Ghent, Belgium  

  Ghent is one of Flanders’ two hidden delights (alongside Bruges). Just a short 20 minute train ride from its’ more popular neighbour, Ghent is equally charming however in a completely different way – be sure to visit to see why!

20. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is indeed the capital of Slovenia and thus a city as opposed to a small town, however it simple has to be included due to its’ small town charm – it is one of Europe’s most understated capitals

21. Toruń, Poland

Situated in Northern Poland, this is one of the countries’ most charming towns (indeed, there are many of them). If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Poland and away from popular Warsaw and Krakow, this would be a good place to start.

22. Rothenberg, Germany

Look familiar? Walt Disney used Rothenberg as the inspiration for his film Pinocchio!

23. Arosa, Switzerland

Arosa will indeed always be a special place to me as it is where I shot the cover of my book, “The World of Wanderlust Story”. The reliatively small town in the Swiss Alps is a hot favourite of the English Royal family, so if it’s good enough for them I’m sure it’s good enough for all of us!

24. Bergen, Norway

Bergen is arguably Norway’s most charming, picturesque town. Situated on the West Coast of the country, Bergen was established before 1070 AD!

25. Leavenworth, USA

I just had to throw this one in for good measure. Yes, you read correctly – Leavenworth is in fact in the United States, not in Europe. The town is modeled on a Bavarian village and thus, I decided to include it in the list. If you’re in the States and craving a little European culture without the price of an airfare ticket, perhaps this one is for you