How to Travel Like Me

I've just purchased a treadmill desk attachment so I can work while getting my steps in. 💪

However, since I don't own a treadmill, I take this desk to my local Planet Fitness.

I was so excited about my new productivity hack that I shared my setup with my friends. However, they were embarrassed for me.

But, as a travel content creator who takes solo trips, I have little regard for social norms.

Let's be real - this situation wasn't as extreme as when I changed my clothes in front of City Hall next to a police car, so I don't understand the fuss. (I got some great content that day!)

Therefore…

I'm keeping the treadmill desk attachment in my trunk, and I'll take it out each time I need to get my steps in.

This weekend, I ran into an old friend at an event who asked me how I travel so much.

I often receive this question because people assume I'm loaded.

So, I'm going to share my approach because you are my people. I promise, it isn't as complex as you might think.

Have a System for Collecting Credit Card Points

I'll keep this simple, as the key is to get started. Once you begin, you can determine how involved you want to be. Here are a few rules:

1. Use a credit card for as many purchases as possible.
2. Pay off the full credit card balance every month. Failure to pay off your credit card each month nullifies any advantages gained from credit card points. 
3. Ensure every credit card purchase has a points multiplier. For example, a $100 restaurant bill earns me 300 points (x3 multiplier) instead of 100. Over time, this adds up. If I spend $10,000 on dining out annually, that's 30,000 points or essentially two free flights!

Stay Flexible

Be flexible when booking flights. While it may seem simple, it's challenging as it requires a shift in mindset. Many people prioritize destination and timing over cost, but cost should be the primary deciding factor.

Let me repeat this in another way: If you're set on a specific time and place, you'll likely pay more.

So broaden your horizons, as every location has travel deals. If you're patient, you'll eventually get where you want to go.

For example, I missed a travel deal to Brazil in 2022, but another opportunity appeared the next year. I ultimately paid about $500 for the ticket. Normally, ticket prices to Brazil can range from $1,000 to $1,500.

Spend Wisely

I've noticed that people tend to overspend while on vacation. They seem to believe they need to make the most of their time, so they start burning through money.

I went through this phase, and it quickly grew old for me.

Like Marie Kondo, identify what genuinely brings you joy.

For me, it's all about experiences. I don't need to eat out for breakfast as I'd rather spend that time sightseeing. I don't pay extra for seat selection on flights because I usually sleep. I also avoid eating out all the time to stay fit, thus saving money that would have been spent at restaurants.

Try out some of these tricks and let me know how they work for you.

What is your travel style?

Cocktail of the Week

The Penicillin is a modern classic cocktail that was created by bartender Sam Ross at Milk & Honey in New York City. It was first served in 2005 as a tribute to the 1928 discovery of penicillin by Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming.

• Recipe for Penicillin:
  • 2 oz Blended Scotch Whisky
  • ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • ¾ oz Honey Syrup*
  • ¼ oz Islay Single Malt Scotch (such as Laphroaig) for garnish
  • Candied Ginger for garnish
• Preparation:
  • In a shaker, combine the blended Scotch whisky, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
  • Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well chilled.
  • Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
  • Float the Islay single malt Scotch on top of the drink.
  • Garnish with candied ginger.

*Honey Syrup: Combine equal parts honey and hot water, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved. Allow the syrup to cool before using.

Random Travel Thought

Traveling is the light that exposes the darkness of prejudice

Follow me on Instagram.

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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