I’m Ashley, your solo travel expert.
I’ll help you plan the trip of a lifetime—with more “wow!” moments and considerably fewer “whoopsies” and “uh-ohs.”
I’ve been traveling since way before Booking.com, Instagram, travel forums, Google Maps, and the internet made it possible to research every last detail from your couch. Back then, you actually had to figure things out as you went—and believe me, I’ve figured out a lot of things the hard way.
Over the years, I’ve learned what’s worth packing, what’s definitely not worth packing, which travel “must-dos” actually live up to the hype, and how a little advance planning can save you time, money, and the occasional meltdown.
Think of me as your well-traveled friend who has already made the mistakes, tested the gear, gotten lost, overpacked, underplanned, and lived to tell the tale.
Start with my Travel Products and Resources page, where I’ve rounded up the gear, gadgets, products, and little travel helpers that make life on the road oh-so-much easier.
Then, stick around the blog for destination inspiration, travel tips, itineraries, lessons learned, and plenty of stories from my adventures.
Have a question? Ask away. If I don’t know the answer, I probably know someone who does—or I’ll figure it out!
84 Countries
6 Continents
Latest Posts
Bo Sang Umbrella Village
Explore Bo Sang village. See how Thai handicrafts are made and buy a few of your favorites to take home.
Vietnam Border Crossing; Saigon Adventures
Our month in Vietnam began with a Vietnam border crossing from Cambodia.
How to Tour Angkor Wat in Cambodia
You need at least three days to fully enjoy the majesties of Ankgor Wat. Go early or stay late to avoid the tour groups that clog Angkor’s ancient ruins, and be prepared to be mystified and thrilled.
Living Like a Local in Siem Reap, Cambodia
As an English teacher, I now feel like a local in Siem Reap, Cambodia and am well known around the markets and with the locals.
Teaching English in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Teaching English in Cambodia or any Asian county is a rewarding and eye-opening experience. Many schools accept volunteers for short-term, unpaid positions.
Traveling through Phnom Penh: Killing Fields and Tuol Sieng
Phnom Penh offers historical insight to Cambodia’s history. Save room in your schedule to visit Choeung Ek, the Tuol Sleng Museum, and Wat Phnom
Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach
We gave in to the hype and followed the masses to Ko Pha-Ngan, home of the legendary Full Moon Party, and perhaps the world’s largest, rowdiest beach gala.
Pii Mai Lao on the 4000 Islands, Laos
Celebrating Pii Mai Lao with the Laos locals in the 4000 Islands was an incredible experience that makes me appreciate and truly love Laos even more.
Don Det, Laos, Here We Come 4000 Islands!
Our journey to Don Det in Laos’ 4000 Islands was a long overnight haul. From Vientiane to Pakse to Don Det and onward, it was another thrilling adventure.
Vientiane, Wats, and the Laos New Year
Explore Vientiane by bike and easily see the wats and other attractions. Then spend the evening at one of the many restaurants by the MeKong River.













