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The 6 Best Cafes in Salvador, Brazil - Including My Digital Nomad Rating
Having lived in Salvador, Brazil for a total of six months, here is my guide to my favourite six cafes in Salvador, Brazil. Including digital nomad rating!

Ilse
Aug 5, 20254 min read


Why I Skipped Popoyo Secret Party in Nicaragua and What It Brought Me (My First Paid Writing Gig)
In an attempt to go beyond the usual hostel small talk, I asked a fellow backpacker what activities or places they had consciously skipped. It led to a great conversation in which I shared how I had skipped Popoyo's Secret, supposedly one of Nicaragua's must-do activities, when backpacking in Nicaragua and how it brought me my first paid writing assignment. Continue reading for that story and other examples.

Ilse
Jul 22, 20255 min read


The Reality Behind the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
The Taj Mahal needs little introduction. Rising from the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, it is one of the most famous monuments in the world, receiving over six million visitors per year. But there is a reality that is quite literally behind the Taj Mahal that we do not see in photos and films. Look at atypical Taj Mahal photos and read about the true story behind the Taj Mahal, India that you experience when you visit.

Ilse
Jul 14, 20255 min read


The Downsides of Being a Digital Nomad
After over a year of remote work and fulltime slow travel, I’ve come to realise that the digital nomad lifestyle isn’t always as effortless or energising as it appears. In fact, the more I’ve embraced it, the more I’ve learned about the complexities and downsides of being a digital nomad. Read further to learn from my mistakes.

Ilse
Jul 8, 20254 min read


How I Landed My First Online Job and Became a Digital Nomad - Then Quit
How I landed my first digital nomad job without a degree, allowing me to travel in countries like Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Brazil, and Ecuador. There are downsides to the digital nomad lifestyle that I only learned as I went, eventually leading me to quitting my remote job and finding something much better.

Ilse
Jun 19, 20258 min read


A Guide to (Solo) Travel in Nicaragua - From a Female Backpacker's Perspective
Although many backpackers and other travellers consider Nicaragua one of their favourite destinations, after visiting I could not disagree more. In this Nicaragua travel guide, I share my experiences, travel tips for Nicaragua and specific recommendations of what I would do differently if I were to visit again.

Ilse
Jun 11, 202522 min read


How To Ride a 'Chickenbus' in Guatemala - All You Should Know About Prices, Routes and Safety
How to ride a chickenbus, how to pay, how much they cost, where to find the schedules and bus stops, and where in Guatemala they go.

Ilse
Sep 30, 20247 min read


What to Do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico: A Slow Traveller’s Guide
Here is the ultimate slow traveller's guide to Puerto Escondido, Mexico – from where to stay and eat, to the best surf spots and more.

Ilse
Sep 23, 202412 min read


What Is Authentic Travel?
The word ‘authentic’ is used quite widely in the travel and tourism industry. But what does authentic travel actually mean?

Ilse
Sep 16, 20245 min read


My Favorite Yoga Studios in São Paulo, Brazil - Ashtanga yoga, Kundalini yoga, Hatha yoga, Vinyasa yoga, Yin yoga and more
Discover the best yoga studios in São Paulo, including a guide to ashtanga yoga in São Paulo, but also styles such as Kundalini yoga, Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin and more.

Ilse
Sep 9, 202412 min read


The 6 Best Cafes in Xela (Quetzaltenango), Guatemala - Including my Digital Nomad Rating
Having lived in Xela for over six months, here is my guide to my favourite six cafes in Xela. Including digital nomad rating!

Ilse
Sep 2, 20248 min read


Embrace the Journey: What is Slow Travel?
Slow travel helps you foster deeper connections and allows for more authentic travel experiences. Learn how to slow travel here!

Ilse
Aug 15, 20245 min read


Top Things to Do in Popoyo, Nicaragua: A Slow Traveller’s Guide
Everything you should know about Popoyo - Nicaragua's best surf town: where to stay, where to surf, where to eat, and when and how to visit!

Ilse
Aug 1, 202411 min read


Top Things to Do in El Paredon, Guatemala: A Slow Traveler's Guide
Uncover upcoming backpacking and surf destination El Paredon, Guatemala with this Slow Traveller's Guide.

Ilse
Jul 4, 20247 min read


Visit Papakōlea Beach on Hawaiʿi (the Big Island): One of Four Green Sand Beaches in the World
Papakōlea beach Hawaiʿi (the Big Island) is one of the green four sand beaches in the world. Read my guide with essential tips to visit!

Ilse
Jun 18, 20245 min read


Top Things to Do in Quetzaltenango (Xela) Guatemala - A Slow Traveller's Guide
From Spanish language schools to traditional weaving classes and scenic hikes, this city is a must-see for travellers in Guatemala.

Ilse
May 23, 202410 min read


Solo Travelling Mexico as a Female: A Counter Narrative
What to make of contrasting experiences and narratives when travelling Mexico, or any other foreign country? Here is what it is really like

Ilse
Feb 20, 20247 min read


Hiking Volcan Santa Maria in Guatemala: A Guide with Personal Stories and Photos
The ultimate guide to hiking Volcan Santa Maria near Xela, Guatemala (either by yourself or with a guide)

Ilse
Jan 30, 20246 min read


Hiking Acatenango and Fuego Volcanoes in Guatemala: A Guide with Personal Stories
A guide to hiking Acatenango and Volcan Fuego (which actively erupts each hour, shooting lava) with essential tips and personal anecdotes

Ilse
Jan 23, 202410 min read


Solo Hiking Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands Trail) on Haleakalā, Maui, Hawaiʻi
What it is like to solo hike Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands Trail) on Haleakalā, Maui, Hawaiʻi. Including photos and tips and advice!

Ilse
Jan 22, 20248 min read
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