The Salty Seagull

Destination: San Juan, Puerto Rico Duration: 4 Days (Mid February) Airfare: $205 Housing: $49 Food: $3 - $20 per meal Adventure/Transportation: $150 Old San Juan There are a few main spots to stay when you arrive in San Juan, Puerto Rico. You'll find the high rise hotels and resorts in Condado and the rest of the bunch in Old San Juan. I stayed in the BASE Hostel in the heart of Old San Juan and absolutely loved the location. I met a group of travelers there and spent the rest of the week with them. This part of the city is filled with rich history, great food, and many things to see and do within walking distance. You'll never tire from walking up and down the cobblestone streets and admiring the differently colored shops, buildings, and restaurants. I visited Castillo San Cristobal for a few hours and then walked straight to Playa Peña beach to enjoy the sand and surf. Check the links for more things to do in Old San Juan. Typical Street in Old San Juan ...

Destination: Iceland Duration: 7 Days (Late August) Airfare: $700 USD Housing: $250 Food: $5-$18 per meal Adventure/Transportation: $300 As I landed from an eight-hour flight into a lush, tree-less, and baron landscape, I couldn't tell whether it was 1850 or 2050. Time seemed to stand still and the earth seemed to be calling for adventure. I could barely contain my excitement for the next seven days as I endured the 40-minute bus ride from Keflavik Int'l Airport into Reykjavík, Iceland. Reykjavík Reykjavík is the capital city of Iceland and is home to nearly 2/3 of the country. This was home base for me and where I stayed all six nights in Iceland. It's a beautiful city and there is plenty to see and experience. I stayed at the B14 Hostel just about a mile or so outside of the city center. Expect to pay at least $35-$50 a night depending on the season. Within hours of arriving, I met some other travelers that I spent the rest of the week with. Some of the hallm...

In the last two years, I've come to appreciate and enjoy traveling on my own. Some may prefer traveling with friends, or family, but I've discovered a much richer experience traveling solo. I've met new people, seen extraordinary places, and experienced life-changing moments. It's daunting and sometimes scary to be in a new place all alone, but I've found the human family is more than willing to help a fellow traveler. I'm learning to go farther with less, leave more than I take, and love all that I meet. It's a life-long pursuit that will take a new shape as life's events take place. However, the things I learn now will hopefully help me to give back as a global citizen and be a more loving and kind person. I hope to share my insights on traveling on a budget, ways to get around, and things to see in various cities across the globe! "As I watched the seagulls, I thought, That's the road to take; find the absolute rhythm and follow it wit...