How to Find Work on the Road

One of the most common questions I get as a full time traveler is: What do you do for work? Or some variation of the question. “Do you have a job?” and “So, do you just have a bunch of money saved up?” Are common too, but the truth is, there are so many ways to make money on the road, so you can keep your trip going infinitely. I know there are so many of you wanting to do full time travel, whether that means vanlife, backpacking, or something of your own creation. Here are some of the best ways to make money on the road.

Work Online

One of the most common types of jobs on the road is a remote job that will allow you to work online while you travel. This will require you to have a fairly stable hotspot connection, or for you to stay near places that provide public WiFi. An online job can take many forms. Some people are fully employed by a company that allows them to work remotely, but some people, like myself, are self employed and part of the so-called gig economy.

My personal full time job outside of Halle’s Wandering Soul is freelance writing. I do everything from copywriting to content writing to social media, on a freelance or independent contractor basis. This makes me a small business owner, and allows me to work on my own schedule, and take days off whenever we choose to go off the grid.

I was able to take this vacation with my family with no notice given to my clients because I was able to work while on the trip.

Content Creation

This option definitely may not be for everyone, but it is a fraction of how I work on the road. Content Creation is a great option if you’re comfortable in front of a camera, and don’t shy away from pitching yourself to others. Content creation includes everything from YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and any type of influencer work. I work with brands to promote their products, in exchange for a free product, and payment for my ad creation. Content Creation can also include affiliate links, which allow you to make a commission for helping a business make a sale through your platform.

If you’re interested in keeping this platform alive by supporting a couple of my affiliate links, or you’re just curious how they work, and what they look like, check out some of my brand partners below!

Another amazing option for content creation is Patreon, where people support you as a creator and you provide extra content to them outside of what you’re normally creating.

Content Creation is my second full time job on the road, and while it’s a ton of work, it’s also a ton of fun!

Seasonal Work

While I personally haven’t used this option, this is something a lot of my vanlife friends do on the road. When it arises that they need to make a little money, they’ll find a short term job on the road that’ll allow them to make some money in a cool place while living in their van. This means they can have a stable income for a few months, while still living rent free. There are a lot of jobs around the US and around the world that are like this, and you can find outdoorsy jobs through sites like Occupation Wild.

Run Your Own Shop

This is something a few of my friends do already (@_littleroamer is a great example), and something that I’ll be venturing into very soon! The main problem here is that you have to have enough room to keep inventory up, and have the means to ship out products while on the road as orders come in. The most effective way people generally do this is by creating one shop update a month, rather than creating certain products. This is a great option for people who want to create something more hands-on than just content.

This can include things that aren’t necessarily physical too though, such as photography prints (which can be sold through sites like Redbubble). You can also create a print on demand type of clothing line, which allows you to create products without having to hold inventory.

My shop: WANDERING SOUL COLLECTIVE will be launching on December 21. Make sure you sign up for my email list on the bottom of this page to find out when it launches!

There are so many ways to make money on the road. There are even some I didn’t list here, so think about your skills and what you enjoy, I’m sure there’s a job out there for you!

Top 5 Underrated Destinations of 2020

Despite 2020’s strange circumstances when it came to travel, the magic of vanlife is that I still got to see quite a bit of the country. We passed through more than 15 states on our way from California to Kentucky, between mine and my boyfriend, Jared’s family. Even though we dealt with COVID-19 closures, restrictions, and stress, there were still quite a lot of places that truly stood out to me. I have a whole list of places I’d love to return to one day, but I’ve complied my top 5 underrated destinations for you to add to your list for future travel.

Ranch horses in the Alabama Hills

The State of Idaho

Idaho is seriously one of the most underrated places in this country. From unexpected mountain ranges to flowing waterfalls to abundant hot springs, Idaho has natural beauty around every corner. Idaho is located in the west, in between Oregon and Washington on the coast and Montana and Wyoming inland. It’s known for its potatoes but it is so much more than that!

City of Rocks, ID

Places worth seeing:

·       Sunbeam Hot Springs

·       Stanley

·       The Sawtooth Mountains

·       City of Rocks National Reserve

·       Craters of the Moon National Monument

Sawtooth Mountains, ID

Badlands National Park, SD

This is an interesting one because I actually visited the Badlands in 2019 too, but didn’t like them nearly as much as I did this time. I recently wrote a whole post on the Badlands so I don’t feel like I need to go into too much detail, but the Badlands are spectacular. They are located in western South Dakota, and are home to animals such as coyotes, pronghorns, bison, prairie dogs, big horned sheep, and more.

Places worth seeing:

·       Yellow Mounds

·       Roberts Prairie Dog Town

·       Toadstool Rock

Alabama Hills, CA

The Alabama Hills were actually the first place we chose to live during quarantine in the vans. Located just outside of Lone Pine, CA in the Eastern Sierras, the Alabama Hills are located on BLM Land, which means free camping, lots of hiking and climbing, and stunning views. The Alabama Hills are known as the “Whitney Portal—” the gateway to Mount Whitney, the Lower 48’s tallest mountain. Because of that, you’ll get both desert rock formations and mountain views when you visit this iconic spot.

Places worth seeing:

·       Mobius Arch

·       Whitney Portal (drive or hike to the Whitney trailhead, depending on the time of year. If you’re up for it, and the trail isn’t snowed over, it’s 11 miles one way to the summit!)

·       Death Valley (This famous National Park is only an hour away and worth the day trip)

Hiking the road up to Whitney Portal

Crested Butte, CO

We spent about a month in Colorado, and while I loved so much of the state, Crested Butte will always stand out to me as my favorite. Famous for being a ski town in the winter, Crested Butte is surrounded by mountains such as Gothic Peak and Crested Butte itself. This area is home to some incredible wildlife such as elk and bears, and mountains that resemble those of Glacier National Park. This is the first place I heard an elk bugle, so in the fall, make sure you keep an ear out!

Places worth seeing:

·       Gothic Peak Trail (even if you don’t make it to the top, the views are pretty incredible)

·       The town itself (the town of Crested Butte is adorable and reminded me of places like Telluride)

·       Crested Butte (this towering formation is hard to miss, and you can hike or bike to the top if that’s your thing)

Mount Hood National Forest, OR

I’d wanted to visit Mount Hood for a really long time, but I didn’t realize how incredible it would really be. This is a place to climb mountains, swim in lakes, dip your toes in an ice river, and camp with a view! Mount Hood is easily my favorite National Forest in the country, only rivaled by the Sawtooth and Wind River Wildernesses. Mount Hood is also full of waterfalls, stunning pine trees, and dog friendly trails.

Trillium Lake

Places worth seeing:

·       Trillium Lake

·       White River

·       Cooper Spur (if you feel like climbing a mountain)

·       Timberline Lodge

·       Tamanawas Falls

Tamanawas Falls

While 2020 wasn’t the adventure we thought it would be, that doesn’t mean there wasn’t plenty to be seen. How many of these places have you visited? How many are on your bucket list?

Colorado’s 4 National Parks, Ranked

For the past 3 weeks or so, my boyfriend, dog, and I have been traveling around Colorado. Colorful Colorado has so much to offer in terms of nature, and while we’d both been before, there were definitely a couple firsts this time around. Colorado is home to 4 beautiful National Parks: Rocky Mountain, Great Sand Dunes, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and Mesa Verde, along with tons of Forest land, state parks, and other NPS designated sites worth visiting. Each one is completely unique from the last, and they each have their own highlights. Now that I’ve been to all 4 Colorado Parks, it’s time to rank them, so that you can best plan your own trip to one (or four) of Colorado’s iconic National Parks.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

#4: Mesa Verde National Park

While we loved all four Colorado Parks, someone has to be number four. The thing about Mesa Verde is, it’s about the history. You truly need to take the time to read each plaque as a way to understand what it is you’re looking at so you can appreciate the fantastic building skills of the ancient Puebloans. I love learning about history and culture, and MesaVerde is almost like a beautiful outdoor museum. The only reason it’s at the bottom of this list here, is because we visited during 2020, and the tours to go inside Cliff Palace were not running. We didn’t feel like we were able to get the full experience at Mesa Verde, so we’re looking forward to when we can go back and experience it in full (hopefully in cooler weather too.

Mesa Verde National Park

#3: Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is truly a spectacular park. It is one of the steepest and narrowest canyons in the world, and its dark color is what gives the park its name. Here, you can explore by driving the 6 miles of road to the many (dog friendly) overlooks, including Painted Wall and Cedar Point, and drive down into the canyon via the East Portal Road, so you can experience the Gunnison River for yourself. If you’re more adventurous, score a permit to hike into the canyon on one of the three wilderness routes: Gunnison, Tomichi, or Warner. And remember, just because this park ranked #3 doesn’t mean I didn’t like it, I just liked the next two even more!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

#2: Great Sand Dunes

I absolutely love Great Sand Dunes. It’s like a spiritual escape to me. Walking barefoot on the sand at sunrise—there’s nothing better! Great Sand Dunes is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. The entire dunes area is considered wilderness, and the park is home to animals like horned toads, bears, and tiger beetles. The sand can reach up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer during the day, but in the evenings and mornings, it’s pleasant, and even meditative to walk on. We particularly love this park because of how dog friendly it is. Much of the dunes area is an area where dogs are allowed, and there are a few trails where they are welcome too!

Great Sand Dunes National Park

#1: Rocky Mountain

There’s no question Rockies had to be #1. This enormous park is located in northern Colorado, and is home to some of the most beautiful sights in the state. From towering mountains to stunning lakes and rivers, no trip to Colorado is complete without seeing the Rocky Mountains. While I personally didn’t spend a lot of time here (it was too risky to visit this time around due to the fires), I’d still say it’s near the top of my list of parks I need to revisit. This green park is known for the presence of bears, moose, and other large alpine animals you’ll only find at this elevation.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Colorado is wild in itself. It’s quickly become one of my favorite states in the country, and the National Parks here are truly something that can’t be compared to! Which one is highest on your list?

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Why Great Sand Dunes is the West’s Most Underrated Park

As we travel through Colorado, I’m slowly falling in love with a state that, last year, I thought was only meh. Having only really explored the northern part of the state last year, I hadn’t really experienced everything this unique place has to offer. Colorado is the last stop in the Western States before you reach the flat Midwest, but that means it has more to offer than most other states. Colorado is part mountains, part plains, and part southwest all rolled into one. Last week, we had the pleasure of visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park. You don’t hear a lot about this park. It isn’t in any way on the same level as, say, Yellowstone or Yosemite in most people’s eyes, but as soon as we arrived, it quickly made it onto my top ten list of National Parks I’ve visited so far.

Great Sand Dunes was my 36th National Park, and it’s easily one of the most unique. This is why Great Sand Dunes is the most underrated National Park of the West, and why it should top your bucket list.

The Tallest Sand Dunes in North America

Great Sand Dunes is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching over 700 feet above sea level. These dunes stretch far into the distance and are the main attraction in the park. People bring sleds, sand boards, and even skis to experience these unique slopes. While we didn’t have any of these, we still had the time of our lives hiking up the dunes barefoot, and then running down in this low impact environment (perfect for me, who is healing a knee injury). The views at sunrise and sunset are incredible, and the sand is cool as long as you don’t visit in the middle of the day.

A Unique Ecosystem

Great Sand Dunes is more than just sand. In the distance, as you climb the dunes, you’ll see a clear view of stunning mountains, which adds a whole other level to this park. Some of the park is actually alpine zone, which is home to animals like bears and mountain lions. This section of the park is accessible by foot only, which makes it one of the most remote places you can visit within Great Sand Dunes. If you visit in the late spring and early summer, you’ll get to experience the creek that runs through the dunes, creating a unique beach far away from the ocean. The thing to remember is, no National Park is only known for its main attraction, so it’s important to give the rest of the park a chance too!

It’s Dog Friendly

Many National Parks have heavy restrictions when it comes to bringing your dog along for the adventure, but Great Sand Dunes is one of the most dog friendly parks in the country. While they don’t have a Bark Ranger Program, Lassen, our border collie, was able to do everything we wanted to do while in the park. There are a couple trails he could go on, and he was allowed up with us through the first high ridge of dunes. This meant we didn’t have to leave him behind for our sunset or sunrise hikes. Not to mention, he loved it! Running on the sand with us was some of the best fun I’ve seen him have in a long time.

It Isn’t a Popular Park

Both times we entered the park, we got parking right away. This isn’t a super popular park which makes it perfect for those wanting to get away from the crowds and be in nature. Great Sand Dunes is an extremely underrated place in the Western states. So, tell me, is it on your bucket list yet?

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My Top 10 Places From My First Year of Travel

Last week, I officially hit my one year anniversary of being on the road. Last June, I hit the road in my Kia Soul with the goal of driving each of the Lower 48 states in one summer, and boy did I accomplish that. I’m now on my second run around the country, moving in the opposite direction. This year has brought a series of ups and downs, transformation, and unexpected plot twists, but more than anything, it’s brought me to some of my favorite places. These are my top 10 favorite spots I’ve been in the past year.

Luang Prabang, Laos

10: Valley of Fire State Park, NV

This one had to make the list because it’s where my journey began, but more than that, it’s one of the prettiest desert landscapes I’ve ever been to. Known for its red rocks, Valley of Fire is famous for its color, its heat, and its history. This state park was formed underwater, and over hundreds of years, became the desert landscape we know today. It’s home to tons of desert wildlife, and beautiful (but sandy) hikes. The whole park can generally be seen in one day, but give it two if you really want the full experience!

Valley of Fire State Park, NV

Want access to my 48 state road trip route? Click the button below to get started!

9: Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Joshua Tree will always hold a special place in my heart because it’s the National Park I’ve been to the most times. Five times to be exact! I truly feel like a local when I visit, and I love showing people around. While it wasn’t part of my 48 state itinerary, it was a place I visited 3 times in 2019, and another in early 2020. Joshua Tree is known for its strange agave “trees” that look like something from Doctor Seuss! It’s a hotspot for Park enthusiasts, climbers, and hikers, or just anyone who wants to experience a scenic drive!

Joshua Tree National Park, CA

8: Acadia National Park, ME

Acadia blew my mind when I first arrived at the park. It was the first place I ever saw both pine trees and the ocean in one place. This was also the furthest from home I drove solo on my 48 state road trip, so it’s got a certain nostalgia to it. Acadia sits on the Atlantic coast, and is home to pine trees, rocky cliffs, a gorgeous beach, and Cadillac Mountain, which is super fun to drive up for sunset! While it isn’t a huge park, it’s definitely one of the most unique ones I’ve ever visited, and was the first place that convinced me to stay longer than I’d originally planned.

Acadia National Park, ME

7: Bend, OR

I never thought I’d put any cities on this list, but Bend stole my heart. Tucked away in the Deschutes National Forest of Central Oregon, Bend is one of the most outdoorsy towns out there. Nearly everyone here does an outdoor sport. And from watching the surfers on the river, to hiking the nearby mountains, to climbing at Smith Rock, there’s an endless amount of outdoor activities to experience here.

Smith Rock State Park in Bend, OR

6: Sedona, AZ

Sedona is another town that totally won me over. It’s basically the desert version of Bend, but spiritual. It’s full of vortexes—large areas of strong spiritual energy—so a lot of people come here to meditate, heal, and get away from it all. Sedona is also known for hiking, red rocks, and history. Between exploring the ancient ruins, hiking Devils Bridge, and simply getting red dust all over the car, there’s something for everyone in Sedona.

Cathedral Rock in Sedona, AZ

5: Redwoods National and State Parks, CA

When I first visited Redwoods last summer, it wasn’t all I thought it would be. But when I spent a week exploring the area last month, it quickly became one of my favorite places ever, and easily my favorite place in California (my home state). Redwoods is, of course, known for its towering Redwood trees—the tallest in the world! But it’s also home to coastlines, stunning wildlife, and every bright green plant you can imagine!

Redwoods National Park, CA

4: Devils Tower National Monument, WY

Devils Tower was a place I wasn’t expecting to visit last year, but it’s a place that I always recommend to people when they want to visit Wyoming. This park is known for the remnants of a dormant volcano that now stands silent over the Eastern Wyoming plains. This park attracts climbers, explorers, and lovers of science fiction (after being used as the set for Close Encounters of the Third Kind), and is home to wildlife such as prairie dogs, which you can meet up close!

Devils Tower National Monument, WY

3: Thailand

Oh yeah, I went to Southeast Asia for the winter! Thailand totally changed the way I see adventure travel. It was the first country to truly introduce me to another culture in depth, and it really opened my eyes to how international travel could and should be. I spent time in remote villages, trekked for free roaming elephants with their Mahouts, and gave back to communities in need. This trip brought me through caves, drove me through rivers, and taught me a new language. While Thailand is easily one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, it’s one where I truly beg you to get off the beaten path and explore some more remote areas instead of sticking to Bangkok and the coastal parts.

Mueang Khong, Thailand

2: Glacier National Park, MT

This was so hard not to put as #1, so let’s just say this is my top choice for domestic, US travel. Glacier National Park was truly the most incredible place I went to in the Lower 48, and as I continue to travel here, it remains in that position. Glacier is known for its glaciers, alpine landscape, myriad of wildlife, and scenic drive. It made such an impact, I actually wrote a whole in-depth guide to it, which you can find by clicking the button below.

Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park, MT

1: Laos

Laos is truly my favorite place in the world. It was a place I wasn’t expecting to love as much as I do, and a country that blew my mind every turn I took. Here, I spent most of my time volunteering in the weaving village of Sop Chem, but because of that, it was truly the most unique travel experience I’ve ever had. We swam in waterfalls, fed Moon Bears, climbed a mountain, and made connections with the locals, who are some of the kindest people I’ve ever met. Laos is a small country with a rich history, and it’s definitely underrated when it comes to Southeast Asia travel.

Learn more about Laos by clicking the button below!

Nam Ou River, Laos

The past year of travel has truly changed my life. I’ve explored so much, and I can’t wait to share these places with those I love, and continue to add more places to the list (although it’ll be hard to take some of these off as I grow my been-there list!).

Want help planning a trip to any of these places? Consider me your travel expert! Click the button below to get started!

Honorable mentions:

Bryce Canyon National Park, UT

Bryce Canyon National Park

Alabama Hills, CA

Alabama Hills

Mono Lake, CA

Mono Lake

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Craters of the Moon National Monument, ID

Craters of the Moon

Mount Hood National Forest, OR

Mount Hood

10 Things to Know Before Visiting Laos

When I hear people planning trips to Southeast Asia, they usually list Thailand, Bali, Cambodia, and Vietnam on their list. But the truth is, there is no country like Laos. When I first visited Southeast Asia, I included two countries in my itinerary: Thailand and Laos, and I expected to fall in love with Thailand, with Laos being just another cool place to say I’ve been, but the opposite ended up being true. I fell head over heels for this unique landlocked country in a way I never expected to. So, if this post doesn’t convince you to go to Laos, I don’t know what will. And if it does, here are the 10 things you should know before going.

Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links

So… where is Laos?

Laos is a landlocked Southeast Asian country that shares borders with five other countries: Thailand, Vietnam, China, Myanmar, and Cambodia. It is home to some of the most amazing, lush, green landscapes I’ve ever seen, and is full of flowing rivers, including the famous Mekong. Its capital is Vientiane, ad the official language is Lao (which I’ll get back to later!).

When most people visit Laos, they stick to Luang Prabang City and some surrounding villages in Luang Prabang Province such as the backpacking village of Nong Kiaw.

Restaurant in the remote village of Ban Sop Chem

What currency do they use there?

Laos is a very interesting country when it comes to spending money. Due to the fact that they are a less developed country, many of the vendors and shop owners do not even have card readers. Instead, there are ATMs located throughout the city that are generally safe to use. If you’re nervous about pulling out more cash in this practically cash-only country, pull out enough when you land at the airport from the airport’s ATMs. I personally used them and they are safe.

Laos’ currency is known as the Lao Kip. It’s fairly easy to convert, but of course won’t be exact. About 10,000 Lao Kip is equal to $1.50 USD, so you can pull out $150 USD here and be a millionaire! Things are very cheap in Laos, and you’ll be able to stay at a good hostel for only about 150,000 Kip per night (only about $15 USD). Food is also very cheap, as are souvenirs.

Hand woven fabrics hang outside of homes in Ban Sop Chem, Laos

Night markets

Speaking of money, something many Southeast Asian countries are famous for are their night markets. Night markets are an incredibly fun way to get to meet some locals, buy local goods, and practice your bartering skills. Yes, bartering skills! The locals known what tourists look like, and they’ll likely try to charge more for their goods than they’re worth, so if you find yourself at the Luang Prabang night market, feel free to do some bartering.

The view from my hostel in Luang Prabang City

What religion do they practice in Laos?

Laos is a largely Buddhist country. Nearly everyone there practices Buddhism, and one of my guides when I visited even used to be a Buddhist monk. There are plenty of temples to visit, and you can even look into participating in the morning alms giving ceremony, a daily ritual where patrons will wake up at 5 am to offer rice to the monks who are commuting to temple for the day.

See this ceremony in action in my Youtube video on Laos!

Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang City

What should I wear?

Due to this being a Buddhist and communist country, it’s important to recognize that their customs are on the more conservative side. While it’s okay to wear shorts in Luang Prabang City, and even in some backpacking villages like Nong Kiaw, it’s also important to respect the culture. By the end of my trip, I felt uncomfortable wearing anything that showed my knees while walking around town. Generally, to be culturally appropriate, it’s important to cover your knees and shoulders in a way that doesn’t show off your figure (yes, for girls and guys). This is particularly important when it comes to visiting temples and smaller villages like Ban Sop Chem.

Key staples for packing include:

Elephant Pants (which you can purchase at the night market—bring less than you think you need)

T Shirts (bring one more than you think you need)

One sweatshirt (Laos has mountains)

One bathing suit (for the waterfalls!)

Plenty of comfy socks

Sandals you can slip on and off when you enter temples and your hostel

Hiking/walking shoes

Dressed up for the traditional Buddhist Baci Ceremony in Ban Sop Chem

Where are the waterfalls?

When you google Laos, you’ll likely see endless photos of Tat Kuang Si National Park, a national park just outside of Luang Prabang City known for its bright blue waterfalls. These are known as Kuang Si Falls, and they’re absolutely gorgeous, and definitely worth stopping at, despite how touristy they are. Here, it’s appropriate to wear an American bathing suit, and there are changing rooms available at the falls.

If you’re looking for a way to give back a little during your time in Laos, Tat Kuang Si National Park is also home to Free the Bears Sanctuary, a rescue focusing on Moon and Sun Bear conservation.

Laos is also home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world, so make sure you branch out and explore a little more than just this most common national park.

Kuang Si Falls in Tat Kuang Si National Park

The country has a tough history

Laos is the most heavily bombed country from the Vietnam war. Today, there still exists UXO, or unexploded ordinance in the remote villages of the country. Children are taught from a young age how to recognize UXO and avoid them, and there are bomb squads that are actively clearing the country of UXO. It is an integral part of the country’s history, and one that can’t go overlooked when visiting. For more information, please visit the UXO museum during your time in Laos.

Government

While completely safe to travel in (and safe for solo female travelers), it’s important to note that Laos is a communist country, which means their economy and land ownership work differently than in other countries you may have visited in the past. One of the places you’ll see this most is in the presence of China in Laos. China is currently building a railroad through the country, as well as damns in many of the major rivers. While there are pros to these projects, such as jobs for Lao citizens and better transportation of goods via the railroad, there are also cons including flooding of the rivers and drought in some areas.

The children of Ban Sop Chem

Key Phrases

It’s always good to enter a country with a few key phrases under your belt so that you can better communicate with the locals. Here are the phrases I found useful during my time in Laos:

Sabaidee: Hello

Khob jai: Thank you

Khob jai lai lai: Thank you very much

Tao dai: how much?

Kor thod: sorry

Sabaidee ton sao: good morning

Sabaidee ton laeng: good evening

Bor pen yang: it’s all good!

Bo me nam nom: no milk (for my vegans!)

Ngam lai: very beautiful

The view from Pha Deang Peak in Nong Kiaw

All about food

I actually love Lao food. It’s flavorful, and different from that in a lot of other Southeast Asian countries. It kind of reminded me of a mix between Thai, Indian, and Western food. It uses a lot of the same flavors as Thailand, but also uses a lot of potatoes, and much more bread than Thailand! Expect curries, sticky rice, and something my guide called “crack sauce,” which is soaked chilis and garlic in soy sauce. It’s used for dipping sticky rice and it’s amazing! There is also fried rice, noodles, and stir fries galore. If you go to the street market, you’ll find plenty of street food, as well as fruit shakes, which can easily be made vegan.

If you go to any remote villages, expect to take part in some traditions. During my time in the remote village of Sop Chem, we learned to make rice wine and sticky rice, and got to take part in a welcoming tradition, where you take shots of Lao Lao (rice whiskey) for good luck.

If you’re vegan, or plant based, like me, you might be concerned about being able to maintain your plant based diet while traveling, so I just wanted to reassure you that in Asia, it’s fairly easy to be plant based. Often, there is no milk used in food, and in curry, it’s usually coconut milk anyway. In the above section, I did cover how to say “no milk,” but you can rest assured that usually, unless it is a meat dish, it will be vegan as long as there is no fish sauce.

After the Buddhist Baci Ceremony

Laos is truly one of the most underrated Southeast Asian countries. While it borders a lot of the countries many people love to travel to, it’s often overlooked, but it’s home to some of the most beautiful nature, kindest people, and best food on the continent. It should be on everybody’s list, and considering the fact that they want tourists, there’s no better reason to go and support this beautiful place.

For comfy clothes perfect for travel, check out my friend Riah’s shop: THE WANDERFUL SOUL! Use code HALLE for 15% off!

My Top 3 Wildlife Encounters From the Road

One of the most frequent questions I get about National Parks is “where can I see bears?” Wildlife is one of my favorite parts of travel, and in the US, where I’ve done the majority of my travels in the past couple years, there is so much wildlife to see, nearly everywhere you turn. From bison to bears, from bald eagles to seagulls, every landscape has its iconic animal residents, and I’ve encountered quite a few unique furry, feathered, and scaly friends over the years. These are my top three wildlife encounters, and where you can see some of the best!

Note: Please do not approach wildlife. Always leave 25 yards of distance between you and a wild animal, unless the animal approaches you. Even then, use caution.

Disclaimer: this post may include affiliate links

While not on this list, this one almost made the cut: a deer encounter on a trail in Voyageurs National Park

The Armadillos in Congaree

This is one of my favorite animal encounters I’ve ever had because A) armadillos won’t kill you (unless you lick them—they carry leprosy!) and B) I was with some little cousins of mine and they were completing their first Junior Ranger Program.

In Congaree National Park, South Carolina, there is tons of wildlife to be seen, from snakes, to spiders, to one lone and invasive crocodile. Even if you don’t want to do an extensive hike, you’ll see plenty of unique animals just outside the visitor center on the boardwalk trail. This trip was special because I was looking at everything on the boardwalk from a child’s perspective as I helped my cousins (about 9 and 4 years old) look for animals and plants to check off their Junior Ranger checklist. Toward the end of the boardwalk, we saw quite a few people gathered by the side of the trail, and to our surprise, we noticed 3 armadillos just waddling about! They had gotten really close to the boardwalk, so we were able to safely observe them without disturbing their territory (at Congaree, staying on the boardwalk is key!).

Learn more about Congaree and the other East Coast National Parks HERE!

Want to help animals? Shop ethical apparel and help give back to animal sanctuaries at Wholesome Culture and receive a special Halle’s Wandering Soul discount!

While I wasn’t able to get a picture of the Armadillos, here’s a great reason to visit Congaree. To see a video of them, though, head to my Congaree highlight on my Instagram

The Bison in Yellowstone

Yellowstone is ideal for wildlife viewing. Almost nobody visits the park without seeing a bison (or getting caught in a traffic jam—which I’ll explain in a minute). Yellowstone is home to wolves, elk, grizzly bears, bison, and so much more. It truly is the pinnacle of the old American West. If you’re looking to see some incredible wildlife, head out to the park’s Lamar Valley (and if you don’t want to make the trek, don’t worry, you’ll see plenty of animals during your trip).

I only got to spend one night in the park, and stayed at Canyon Campground (which will forever remain one of my favorite campgrounds in the US). On my second day in the area, when I was going to head to Grand Teton National Park, I got up around 6 am, hoping to be on the road before the day’s tourists showed up. I stopped by Artists Point and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and was greeted by one lone bison on the side of the road. This was a cool experience in itself, but I was surprised to turn the corner as I exited the canyon and find a herd of about 20 bison grazing near the road. I stopped to take a picture (from inside my car), and they proceeded to surround me in a classic Yellowstone traffic jam. Talk about morning rush hour! After about five minutes, they dispersed, and the entire time, I was the only one on the road.

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The bison herd in Yellowstone

The Bear in Yosemite

The other stories in this post are just cool, stunning interactions I had with animals, but this one is the reason I always try to tell tourists, “You don’t want to see a bear.” Yosemite is teeming with wildlife. It’s an incredible park full of towering cliffs and animals around every corner, but it’s important to remember that National Parks are not zoos or amusement parks—when we visit National Parks, we are in another creature’s home.

Yosemite is home to black bears. Black bears are slightly less dangerous than brown bears and grizzly bears, which you’ll find in the Rockies (I have seen two grizzlies though, but they were far away). Black bears are small, like the size of a large dog, but since I was visiting in November, they were on the hunt for food, as they were going to be hibernating soon. Because of this, a ranger came around to each site in Upper Pines campground, where I was staying, to tell us what to do if we did encounter a bear in the middle of the night. You’re supposed to say, “bear bear bear Bear Bear BEAR BEAR,” and keep getting louder to scare them off. Of course, you forget all of that when you’re actually faced with a bear.

It was about 10 degrees that night, and I lay in my dad’s old sleeping bag. I was new to tent camping still, and after this trip, I invested in my own 0 degree bag. After the ranger left, we had all gone through our tents and cars (Yosemite bears can break into cars), and since I had nothing in my tent that would smell like food, I felt fairly safe sleeping in active bear country with only a piece of fabric separating me from the outside world.

When camping in bear country, make sure that everything that smells like food is put away in your bear box, bear canister, or bear bag. You can also string your food up in a tree if backpacking. Some parks are less of a worry than others, and you can keep food in your car, but check with a ranger or camp host first.

Around 4 am, I woke up to snarling. Something huge was sniffing at our bear box, which I was camped maybe 10 feet from. I lay still, and quiet—the opposite of what you’re supposed to do, and I swear I remember hearing this bear walk right by me. Holding my breath, I just hoped she would go away, and after a few more seconds of sniffing at the bear box, she ran off into the woods.

It was dark, so I couldn’t snap a picture of the bear, but here’s a reason to visit Yosemite

Wildlife is simply one of the best parts about traveling in the national parks. Every state has such unique animals, and getting to know the nature of each spot is what makes everywhere so special. Check out some of my favorite spots for viewing wildlife below, and start planning your next road trip!

For bison: Badlands National Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park

For bears: Shenandoah National Park, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Glacier National Park

For deer: Glacier National Park, Shenandoah National Park, Voyageurs National Park

For lizards and snakes: Joshua Tree National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park

For interesting insects: Joshua Tree National Park, Congaree National Park, Hot Springs National Park

For big horned sheep: Glacier National Park

For pronghorns: Badlands National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park

For mountain goats: Glacier National Park

For elk: Yellowstone National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Redwoods National and State Park

For sea life: Olympic National Park, Redwoods National and State Park

If you’re interested in planning a giant trip around the country that includes most of the parks listed here, check out my ebook, Around the States in 90 Days in the SHOP!

A Complete Guide to Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park in Montana is truly one of those treasures that can’t be missed in the Lower 48. From its sprawling landscapes to its abundant wildlife, there’s nothing not to love about Glacier. It’s truly my favorite place in the entire contiguous United States. For people who haven’t visited, it often tops their National Parks bucket list, and for those who have been, it’s often a destination they’re trying desperately to revisit. Glacier National Park is a special place, and one that should be visited with care, to protect its rapidly changing natural landscape.

Because Glacier is such a large National Park, with multiple sections, I’ve found that it’s a bit intimidating to people who either haven’t been or who aren’t incredibly familiar with the National Parks System. This blog is here to answer your questions, and to be your essential guide as you plan your first trip to the park.

(Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links)

The view from the Logan’s Pass Visitor Center area

Know Before You Go

First, let’s cover the basics. Glacier National Park is located in northern Montana, on the Canadian border. You can cross into Canada from Glacier easily, to explore the Waterton Lakes area. Glacier is located in the center of multiple small towns, including Babb and Whitefish, and bordered on one side by National Forest. On the east side of the park, you’ll find the Blackfeet Indian Reservation of Montana. Due to the proximity of these towns and the preserve, it is important to enter the park with respect.

To enter Glacier National Park for one week, you will be charged a $35 entrance fee per car, or $25 in the winter, when the Going to the Sun Road is closed. I highly recommend investing in an America the Beautiful Pass or other interagency pass if you plan on visiting more than 3 National Parks in one year.

Dogs are allowed in the park, but are not allowed on most trails. They can visit the park in front country campgrounds, picnic areas, roads, parking areas, and in boats. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, and cannot visit the backcountry, lakeshores, or inside visitor centers. If a road is closed to vehicles due to winter weather, it is considered part of the backcountry.

Along the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Wildlife

Glacier is home to some of the most abundant wildlife in the country. This Park is largely wilderness, which makes it the ideal place to spot incredible animals, such as deer, black bears, grizzly bears, mountain goats, big horned sheep, and elk. It is also home to more elusive animals like pikas, bats, lynx, mountain lions, and wolverines. This truly is the ideal place to spot wildlife in their natural habitat, and I was lucky enough to see mountain goats, black bears, grizzlies, deer, and big horned sheep during my visit. It’s important to view wildlife here safely, though, and remember, wildlife is wild!

It is not recommended that you visit the park without someone in your party carrying bear spray, which can be purchased at the visitor centers, and any shops in the park. Bear spray is a one-time use deterrent equivalent to a large canister of pepper spray. It is to be used to defend yourself against a bear (usually a grizzly), in the case of danger. Do not spray a bear who is minding their own business, and do not use bear spray indoors or on a person.

Two deer in my site at Rising Sun Campground

When should I visit?

The only time of year you will be able to experience all of Glacier National Park is in the summer. During the winter, the main roads are closed. Keep in mind that winter in northern Montana can range between late September and late June, and no one knows when the Going to The Sun Road will open for the summer season—it all depends on weather.

The best and most popular month to visit is July, since there is still a considerable amount of snow on the mountains. However, I visited in late August, and there was still plenty of beauty to be seen!

Wildflowers blooming in late August in Glacier National Park, MT

Should I stay in East or West Glacier?

This is one of the most common questions when it comes to planning a trip to Glacier National Park. So, which is better? East or West Glacier?

Glacier National Park is divided into three sections, and two of those sections—East and West Glacier—are connected by the Going to the Sun Road, which I’ll cover later in this post. When it comes to which side to visit, my answer is: visit both, if possible! If not, due to weather or time, I would say East Glacier is home to most of what people picture when they picture visiting Glacier National Park.

St. Mary’s Lake in East Glacier

West Glacier is largely forested, and won’t provide you with the views that East Glacier has. However, it is incredibly peaceful, and is a great place to stay if you’re looking for some quiet. It is also home to the only visitor center with legitimate cell service (Agpar Village), so if you need to call home, it might be worth making a stop here. As far as trails in West Glacier, they aren’t quite as impressive as the ones in East Glacier, but they are still worth checking out. The one that should definitely be on your list is Trail of the Cedars, a family friendly short trail that will allow you to get up close and personal with some of the Park’s largest flora.

East Glacier is home to many of the views people want to see during their trip, which is why I suggest heading here if you’re short on time. This is where you’ll find lakes, tall mountains, waterfalls, and views of the valley. You’ll also find a few more amenities in East Glacier, such as WiFi at the St. Mary’s Visitor Center, and a restaurant and motel at Rising Sun. This is also where you’ll find boat parking, and day parking for vehicles over 21 feet.

One of the many beautiful wooded views in West Glacier

What is Many Glacier?

Many Glacier is the third section of the park, and truly one of the most spectacular. To access Many Glacier, you definitely need a car, as the park shuttle doesn’t go here. During 2020, the road to Many Glacier will be under construction, so be prepared for traffic and limited parking. There is also the option to hop on a boat from East Glacier, but this is not ideal for budget travelers.

You will have to show your entrance receipt or pass again when you enter Many Glacier.

Many Glacier is home to the Park’s main hotel, as well as some of the most famous sites in the park: Iceberg Lake and Grinnell Glacier. It’s important to remember that reaching these sites is not for everyone—you will be at elevation, and they are only accessed by trail.

Many Glacier is definitely one of my favorite sections of the park. It’s wild, largely untouched, and home to one of the last true glaciers in the continental US. This is also where I saw my first grizzly bears.

Grinnell Glacier, one of the most beautiful places in Many Glacier

What is the Going to The Sun Road?

The Going to The Sun Road is one of the key parts of a full experience in Glacier National Park. This 50 mile long road will take you from East Glacier to West Glacier, and is only fully accessible to vehicles less than 21 feet long and park shuttles.

Driving this road is not for everyone. It is incredibly windy in the alpine section, and usually crowded. To beat crowds, I suggest hitting the road as early as 6 am. Here, you’ll find overlooks, pullouts, and three visitor centers with unique views and wildlife viewing opportunities. I suggest stopping at each exhibit, and making a whole day out of this unique drive.

My number one tip for experiencing the Going to The Sun Road is to take the shuttle, specifically if you plan on stopping in Logan Pass, the highest elevation on the road. There will not be parking at Logan Pass, as it is the most popular spot in the park, and the site of the High Line trailhead. If you do take the shuttle, when riding from Logan Pass to East Glacier, make sure you sit at a far-right window at least once—this is the best way to get views into the deep valleys below, but definitely isn’t for anyone afraid of heights!

The view from the Going to The Sun Road, heading East

There are also private tours of the Going to The Sun Road. If you would like a guided tour, check out the Red Bus Tours, which are not affiliated with the National Park Service.

Please keep in mind that the road is closed during the winter season, which can range anytime between September and late June, so it is best to plan a summer visit.

The view from the Going to The Sun Road heading West at 6am in late August: A Valley Filled With Clouds

What can I see in the Park without hiking?

Glacier truly is a hiker’s paradise, but if you’re not a hiker, or aren’t physically able to do so, there is plenty you can still experience. The Going to The Sun Road is going to be your best bet for views comparable to those you might see on one of the Park’s longer hikes, and you can see Jackson Glacier from one of the first stops (coming from East Glacier). This is a great spot to stop and take pictures, but truly, any of the pullouts will do—Glacier’s views can’t be beat!

One of Glacier’s many waterfalls, as seen from a pullout along the Going to The Sun Road

What are some family friendly hikes?

If you are traveling with kids, rest assured that there are plenty of hikes with good views that are ideal for families. While the park is a hiker’s paradise, there are quite a few trails that are short, or have little elevation gain (or both!). The first one I’d suggest checking out is the previously mentioned Trail of the Cedars in West Glacier. This magical spot is perfect for families with really young kids, as it does have a boardwalk, allowing those with strollers to experience these magnificent trees.

Another great family friendly hike in Glacier National Park is St. Mary’s Falls. These glacial waterfalls run bright blue, and the entire hike to see all three falls is less than 3 miles (out and back).

The first waterfall you’ll encounter along the St. Mary’s Falls Trail

The last family friendly hike in Glacier that I’d highly recommend is a bit harder because it does gain some elevation, but the view is rewarding. At Logan Pass, you’ll find the Hidden Lake Overlook trailhead. This is the first section to a much longer hike (Hidden Lake), but this part is fairly easy for kids (I saw plenty on the trail). The trail is mostly made of man-made steps, and the peak will give you a spectacular view that can’t be beat. This is also where I saw my first ever mountain goats!

When traveling with kids, it’s important to give them the chance to learn and have fun. Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at any visitor center, and help them earn a badge they can proudly wear throughout their trip.

View from the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Is visiting Logan Pass worth it?

Logan Pass is the highest point of elevation along the Going to The Sun Road, at over 6,000 feet. It truly is not something that should be skipped, and is key to having a full Glacier experience. Logan Pass is probably what I would consider the main visitor center, as it is exactly halfway between East and West Glacier. It is home to the Hidden Lake trailhead, as well as the High Line trailhead, and is integral to the shuttle system, as it is the only place you can transfer shuttles to get to West Glacier (the East Glacier shuttles are too large to go through the alpine section). Logan Pass is key to how the park runs, so make sure you don’t skip it!

In terms of that shuttle transfer, make sure you ask what time the last shuttles leave, and what time you should be back at Logan Pass to make it to East Glacier. The shuttles do stop running before sundown, and if you miss them, your only option will be to hitchhike back.

One of the many views near Logan Pass

What hikes should be on my list?

If you are a hiker, Glacier is the ideal park for you. Apart from backcountry experiences, which you can read more about on the park website, there are two main hikes that you cannot miss during your trip to Glacier.

Disclaimer: please do not attempt without bear spray.

Located in Many Glacier, you’ll find the Grinnell Glacier trail. This 12.8 mile round trip hike will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the park, under a small waterfall, and to one of the last standing glaciers in the continental US. This is a very difficult hike, and it’s recommended that you start early in the morning to find parking and beat the crowds. If you’re not sure of your ability, there are paid ranger-guided hikes that will take you up this trail and to the glacier. This is a hike to try and do as soon as possible. The glacier is melting fast, and will continue to do so due to global warming.

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Top of the Grinnell Glacier Trail

The other must-hike trail in Glacier National Park is known as the High Line, which connects to The Loop. The High Line itself is a 16 mile out and back ridge hike that is not for the faint of heart—you will be on cliff edges for part of this hike! Most people connect the High Line to The Loop, a downhill trail that will make your trip an 11 mile one-way trip, rather than 16 miles out and back. The Loop, however, doesn’t have much to see, and will be 3 miles of steep downhill (so if you are prone to knee injuries, you might want to opt for the longer trip). The High Line is a spectacular hike with stunning views that will take you to a view of the other side of Grinnell Glacier. Here, you’ll see pine forests, towering mountains, and wildflowers. This is a very popular hike, and I would suggest heading out as early as possible. Since the trailhead is at Logan Pass, it is recommended that you take the first shuttle to the trail, rather than drive.

For either hike, make sure you have the right gear, including a rain layer.

One of the views you’ll catch on your way to Grinnell Glacier

Where should I stay?

There are tons of options when it comes to where to stay in Glacier National Park. One of the best ways to truly experience the park is to camp. While a few of the campgrounds to require reservations (Many Glacier, St. Mary’s, and Agpar), plenty are also available on a first come first served basis, and there are quite a few backcountry campgrounds available as well. On the west side, Avalanche is a good campground to stay in, due to its proximity to East Glacier. This is a great way to experience the West side of the Park at night, and have a shorter ride to the East side and Logan Pass during the day.

My favorite spot in Glacier is Rising Sun Campground. This campground is located in East Glacier, just 6 miles from the St. Mary’s Visitor Center. It is fantastic for solo travelers, and has its own shuttle stop. A stay at Rising Sun will also put you close to one of the park’s only restaurants, as well as a general store and pay showers. It’s also got one of the most unique sunrise views in the park, so make sure you get up early!

For camping in Glacier, I highly recommend using a 0 degree sleeping bag, no matter what time of year it is—it does get very cold at night. THIS is my favorite 0 degree bag, from Madera Outdoor.

There are also a few hotels and motels in the park, located at Rising Sun (East Glacier), Agpar Village (West Glacier), and Many Glacier. These are great options if you’re not into camping, or if it is simply too cold out to do so.

If you’d like to stay outside the park, there are options for that as well. On the West side of the park, you’ll find the town of Whitefish, Montana, an adorable little mountain town home to plenty of shops, restaurants, hotels, gas stations, and a hostel.

The sunrise in Rising Sun Campground

Glacier National Park is truly one of the treasures of the United States. No matter where you’re from, you should add it to your list, so that you too, can experience its incredible views, wildlife, and rapidly changing landscape. Glacier is unique, and is one of the largest and most popular National Parks in the United States, so let’s hit the road, and head out to the very north of Montana, to see what’s left of the United States’ true wilderness.

Top 10 Things to Do In Philadelphia

When it comes to cities I’ve visited in the US, Philadelphia stands out to me. While New York gets all the hype, and Los Angeles is a summer tourist destination not to be messed with, Philadelphia is easily one of my favorite big cities in the Lower 48.

I visited Philadelphia in the summer of 2018 with my mom and grandparents following a family reunion in Lancaster, PA. While I’m definitely more of a nature girl, I’m also all for saying yes to new experiences, and since Philly was a city I had never been to, I jumped at the chance to go.

Philadelphia truly is the City of Brotherly Love. My mom and I spent the majority of the trip wandering the city streets, and compared to most cities, we felt very safe as a couple of very small female travelers relying on Google Maps for directions. People were incredibly kind, and the tourist attractions didn’t feel super touristy to me. While there’s plenty to do in Philly, here are the things you absolutely can’t miss during your time there.

Itinerary info: This is based on a 5 day trip. All of these activities can easily be fit into a week or less, depending on your travel style.

Standing in front of a fountain at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Art:

When I visit a big city, one of the main things I like to do to get acquainted with its culture is to visit its art museums. Philadelphia has so many museums, it would be impossible to visit them all in one trip, but these Philadelphia art museums truly stand out.

Philadelphia Museum of Art:

Even if you’re not a fan of art, this museum deserves a spot on your Philadelphia itinerary due to its pop culture significance. This is the spot you’ve been looking for if you’ve been trying to figure out where the Rocky Steps are! Outside this huge museum, you’ll find a statue of Rocky himself, and the steps he runs up in the movie, so don’t be afraid to reenact that famous scene (plenty of people will be doing it).

If you are into art, however, it’s definitely worth a trip inside the museum. This spot reminds me of a combination of the Louvre in Paris and the Getty Center in Los Angeles. This huge building is home to many different styles of art, and is so large, you can easily get lost in its hallways.

Admission to the Philadelphia Museum of Art is just $25 for adults and offers senior and student discounts.

The Barnes Foundation:

If you’re a fan of Impressionist or Post-Impressionist art, The Barnes Foundation is the art museum for you. This smaller Philadelphia museum is perfect for an after-lunch stroll through the halls, and includes multiple rooms full of unique art by your favorite artists (think Van Gogh). This beautiful museum also includes an on-site restaurant and gift shop, and was voted the #1 museum in Philadelphia.

Admission to the Barnes Foundation costs $25 for adults and offers senior and student discounts.

The Rodin Museum

This was one of the spots I was most excited to visit during my trip to Philly because it is one of the only museums in the world to house Rodin’s famous statue: The Thinker. Closest to many of the museums located in Europe, this sculpture museum is home to many of Rodin’s famous pieces, and is one of the only places in the world to see a collection this vast of his work.

Admission to the Rodin Museum is based on a Pay What You Wish principle, but it is suggested that adults pay $12 admission, with student and senior discounted suggested prices. There is also an option for a two-day ticket that gets you into multiple museums in the area.

Running up the Rocky Steps is a rite of passage in Philly!

History:

If you’re visiting Philadelphia, it’s important that you visit at least one place of historical significance so that you can truly get the idea of this city’s foundations. While the city has plenty to see in terms of historical significance, the one spot you cannot miss during a trip to Philadelphia is actually run by the National Park Service, and is known as one of the smallest National Park Service Sites in the country.

The Liberty Bell at Independence National Historical Park

Seeing the Liberty Bell is easily one of the most iconic things to do in Philadelphia. Formerly the State House bell, the Liberty Bell is now located in Independence Hall. This bell has existed as a symbol of Philadelphia since 1751, and took on further historical significance as a symbol of liberty in the 1830’s. Here, you can learn about the city’s history with abolitionists, women’s suffrage, and civil rights, and read the words on the bell for yourself: “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof.”

Admission to Independence National Historical Park is free. This is one of the best things to do in Philadelphia for budget travelers.

You haven’t been to Philly if you don’t take your picture with the Liberty Bell

Culture:

While you might think that no US city could have the culture cities in other countries have, the truth is, each city has its very unique rhythm worth experiencing.

Explore:

My mom and I did a lot of walking during our time in Philly. Truly, walking the streets just looking for interesting things to do is one of the best ways to dive right into a new city. We found unique parks this way, as well as bookshops, statues, and coffee shops.

The Love Statue:

One of the most iconic symbols of Philadelphia is the Love Statue. Known as the City of Brotherly Love, you can’t visit this iconic American city without a picture in front of this quirky statue, located in Love Park. This statue was created by Robert Indiana in 1976, and was briefly taken down in 1978 before popular demand brought it back. Now a symbol of the city, you can’t travel to Philly without seeing this symbol on t-shirts, postcards, and more.

Reading Terminal Market

Easily one of the most bustling places in Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market is an indoor street market full of restaurants, food vendors, and souvenir shops. Here, you’ll find merchants selling everything from full-on meals, fresh fruits and veggies, and kitchen essentials, and its fast-paced rhythm is sure to pull you in as you experience this little corner of Philadelphia for yourself.

The Love Statue truly is a symbol of Philadelphia

Vegan Food:

I am vegan, so I will not promote any restaurants directly that support animal cruelty. The good news is, these spots are so tasty, anyone would love them (and you might not even be able to tell the difference!).

Hip City Veg

Hip City Veg is one of the best convenient vegan restaurants I’ve ever been to. Located only in Philadelphia and Washington DC, Hip City Veg was so good, we had to go back a second time, and I even ended up buying a souvenir t-shirt from them. This vegan spot is known for burgers, salads, and milkshakes, and my mom and I made a huge point to order different things every time so that we could try more of their amazing menu.

Tip: Make sure you get a milkshake, and ask if they can do half chocolate and half vanilla (they can, but it might not be on the menu!). Also their Kale Lemonade is to die for!

V Street:

If you’re looking for a nice sit-down restaurant to indulge in during your time in Philadelphia, this is the spot for you. V Street is a share-style restaurant where you order multiple small plates, which come out one at a time, and share them with your table. The service here was absolutely amazing, and we loved everything we ordered. They even brought us an extra dish when we said we were visiting from California!

Grindcore House:

A little off the beaten path, this was one spot we had to take a Lyft to because it was just a little too far from our hotel. Worth the extra miles, Grindcore House is a cute little hole-in-the-wall coffee house that specializes in vegan coffee and pastries. The staff was awesome about recommending the right milk for the drinks we ordered, and the punk atmosphere makes for one of the most unique Philly experiences we had while in the city.

Coffee and pastries at Grindcore House, Philadelphia, PA

Getting Around:

Philadelphia is a fairly walkable city. We walked nearly everywhere we went, as nothing was too far from our hotel, which was in the center of the city. The streets are a bit confusing at first, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it, and Google Maps is your friend!

Lyft and Uber are also available for any spots that are just a little too far to walk, and there is public transport as well, although we found we didn’t need it during our time there.

Another option, if you don’t want to walk, is to take a tour bus. Now, this is not my favorite way to see a city, but it’s great if you’re traveling with young kids or grandparents who might not be able to walk as far. All of the art museums are part of the hop on hop off bus route, and you’ll get a fairly comprehensive tour of the city when you take one of these buses as well.

Modern art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

When planning a visit to Philadelphia, there are a few things you just can’t miss. From Independence National Historical Park to amazing food, and unique culture, the City of Brotherly Love has a little something for every type of traveler. But don’t hesitate to just let the sidewalks tell you where to go—letting your soul do the wandering is half the fun!

How to Truly Experience New York City

I know what you’re thinking: me? Not writing about a National Park or natural space? Weird, right? Well, this week, in one of the many travel groups I’m in on Facebook, someone asked for recommendations for New York City. And after writing all of my favorite spots out for her, I realized, wow, I’ve been to New York a lot and could probably write something about this.

Disclaimer: I am in no way encouraging travel during COVID-19. Please use this as a reference for all trip planning and daydreaming during this time. Thanks!

I’ve visited New York city so many times since I was a kid, I’ve honestly lost count. My first trip there was when I was about 8 years old, and my last one was during my solo road trip this past summer. In between that, it was a mix of New Year’s Eves spent with family in Upstate New York with interspersed day trips into the city, and a cross country train trip I took with my grandma from LA to NYC the year I graduated high school.

So, I think I know my way around fairly well at this point. These are my must-sees, for a well-rounded trip that’ll show you everything this city has to offer.

The New York City Skyline, as seen from the Empire State Building

The High Line and Chelsea Market

The High Line is awesome. Attached to the famous and quirky Chelsea Market, an indoor market with people selling all types of food at established shops, the High Line is an elevated sidewalk above the streets of the city. It’s beautifully decorated with plants and benches, and serves as a small, incredibly unique park above the city chaos.

MoMA and Starry Night

One of my favorite experiences in NYC has been to the Museum of Modern Art. When I visited New York with my grandparents that summer after finishing high school, I was very into art, especially the impressionists and post-impressionists. The one thing I wanted to do in the city was visit art museums, and out of the ones we visited, MoMA will always be my favorite. The reason for this is, on the top floor, lives Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night. Now, I had no idea that my favorite painting ever created was housed here, and I almost didn’t go up to the top floor. I didn’t even notice it at first. I was just looking at other famous paintings by other artists I loved, and turned the corner to see a crowd in front of a painting I could only see the corner of. That corner was enough, and it quickly became a highlight of my trip. A stranger took my picture in front of the painting (should’ve known back then I’d grow up to love solo travel), and now it’s one of my top things I recommend you do when you visit NYC for the first time.

Little Italy, NYC

The Strand Bookstore

The Strand is another super unique thing I experienced on that trip a few years ago. I was a writing major in college, so a lot of city excursions for me throughout those younger years included trips to cool bookstores. The Strand was actually a surprise element my grandma came up with when planning that trip back east. It’s the largest bookstore in the city, and its size is honestly impressive, even if you’re not a big reader.

Inside The Strand Bookstore, NYC

The Friends Fountain

Friends is one of the most popular TV shows across generations. During the time of that huge trip after high school, I was big into Friends, so in addition to those museums, I needed to go find the Friends Fountain in Central Park (you know, the one from the theme song). It’s not too hard to find and I’m 90% sure it’s on Google Maps, but you will definitely get a good tour of Central Park while you look.

The Empire State Building

I had to throw some touristy stuff in here. You simply can’t go to NYC without seeing the Empire State Building. And yes, it’s worth the hype. It was on my bucket list for a while to go to the top, so when the opportunity arose, I jumped on it. Sometimes you have to just say yes to things—who knows when you’ll get the chance again? So, I rode the elevator to the top, which was terrifying, but the views are worth it.

Me at age 18, in front of the Friends Fountain in Central Park, NYC (2016)

Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty

You thought I’d get through this list without mentioning a National Park. Ellis Island is an incredibly important historical stop. I always make a point to learn about the place I’m visiting when I travel, and since I actually had ancestors come to the states through Ellis Island, this was one of our excursions during one of those early trips to New York. Seeing the Statue of Liberty is a cool experience for travelers of any age, and the ferry ride over will make this a day trip to remember.

The American Museum of Natural History

So, we’ve all seen Night at the Museum, yeah? An absolute classic, according to mine and my brother’s generations. Well, in New York, you can experience the museum for real. The Museum of Natural History is one of my favorite spots in NYC. You can truly spend an entire day here, and it’s budget-traveler friendly because they do have a “pay what you want” option for admission. You can explore all of the regions of the world, and journey into the prehistoric past with the dinosaurs. It’s truly one of the most interesting spots in the city for adults and children, and something no one should miss.

A beautiful NYC sunset

Honorable Mentions:

Chinatown: great food, and a different side of the NYC culture you won’t get anywhere else.

Little Italy: stop here for gelato, food, or just to walk around and appreciate some street art.

Vegan Restaurants:

By Chloe- one of the more famous plant-based spots. Make sure you get their take on the classic Hostess Cupcake before you leave!

Peacefood Café- a great little vegan spot with wifi, fresh food, and good service. They also carry plenty of delicious baked goods, so don’t leave empty-handed!

What you can skip…

There’s really only one thing on this list: Times Square. I absolutely hate Times Square. Maybe it’s because I’ve been so many times I feel like a local, but I personally find it overrated, crowded, and dirty. It’s just a tourist trap full of shops you can find elsewhere in the city. While there are some fun things for kids here (like M&M’s world), it’s definitely not a spot you have to visit to say you’ve experienced New York. But if you’re insistent on seeing it, go for it! Everyone’s opinions are different, and maybe you’ll find a hidden gem there I haven’t discovered yet.

Getting around:

New York is a cool experience for any type of traveler, but I highly recommend not renting a car, or if you’re a vanlifer, driving in at all. Rely on public transport as much as possible, and walk when you have no other option. The Subway is really easy to navigate, and taxis, while more expensive, are everywhere. Plus, it’s not a real trip to the Big Apple if you don’t hail a taxi at least once, right?

A healthy dinner from Peacefood Café in NYC

New York City is a bucket list destination for so many people. It’s a unique spot that kind of defines the word “city” for a lot of travelers, and is full of plenty of amazing and incomparable experiences. From history to art to the quirkiness of the city itself, there is so much more to do there than is even on this list—these are just my personal tips. The Big Apple is a must if you’re a city lover, so make sure you don’t miss these spots, and of course, try to find your own hidden gems along the way.