Slow Travel: The Hidden Cost of Convenience
When I was an engineering student, I worked an internship in nowhere Northern Alberta with a schedule of 8 days on and 6 days off.
Bored, isolated and restless, I decided to take advantage of my situation to go travel every other week.
Couchsurfing: People Are More Memorable Than Places
Perhaps the most shocking number from traveling 13 months around the world for less than $15,500 is how much I paid for accommodations.
Everyone knows that hotels eat up a sizable chunk of your travel expenses, but $2679 spent on accommodations for 13 months only averages out to $6.73/day or slightly over $200/month. Girl math says I’m saving big money by traveling full-time instead of living in Canada.
How I Traveled 13 Months Around the World for Less Than $15,500
In July 2023 I quit my job and embarked on my longest journey yet: 18 countries in 13 months as a solo female traveler.
This time I destroyed my old record by completing 13 months with only $15,473 USD! That’s under $39/day!
Molar Pass Loop: Crush Every Bush
September 4 - 6, 2021
Very few hikers have attempted the Molar Pass Loop compared to its popular neighbor Skoki Loop to the south. Due to the numerous river crossings, bushwhacking, a grueling length and elevation gain, we didn’t feel comfortable bringing any friends this time. Topping it off by starting at Mosquito Creek which circles around Noseeum Mountain… yeah it’s a pretty hard sell.
Tonquin Valley: The Surprise Caribou Encounter
September 15 - 18, 2021
Tonquin Valley is the second-most popular backcountry destination in Jasper National Park. The signature Ramparts tracing the continental divide towers over the pristine Amethyst Lakes marshland, home to the largest caribou herd of the last two remaining herds in Jasper.
The Skyline Trail: Backpacking with Trail Runners
September 12 - 14, 2021
The Skyline is the most famous backpacking trail in Jasper and notoriously difficult to book. Either I was very lucky or very prepared, because I managed to snag all 7 of my planned trips down to the exact dates and campsites with extra spots for friends.