I said yes to a trip with a woman I barely knew.We didn’t speak the same language, but I trusted her and the friendship we were creating.The conversations aren’t smooth, but the silence becomes part of the dialogue. A few months before leaving Korea, I met 강미향 or Angela (her…
FOOD AND DRINK
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The Truth About Tourist Trap Restaurants: 21 Tips to Avoid Them
Nobody wants to be overcharged or have a bland meal, especially while traveling. Experiencing local cuisine is one of the best parts of travel, but not all restaurants have your best interests in mind. Can you identify a restaurant that caters to tourists? Today, we’ll discuss how to avoid tourist trap restaurants. We’ll cover location tips, menu warning signs, server tricks, and techniques for finding the most authentic local eateries.
SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD
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Leaving America: When You’re Living a Life You Don’t Want
After years of staying for family, I’ve realized leaving America—at least part-time—offers the space to feel present, free, and fulfilled. Living abroad isn’t about escape. It’s about choosing a slower rhythm, deeper connection, and a version of life that feels more honest than what I’ve settled for here.
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD
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Real Ways I Make Money as a Travel Blogger Today
I didn’t start Duffelbagspouse to make money. I just wanted to tell real stories about travel, family, and constant moves. Over time, I found ways to earn from what I love. This post breaks down what works, what doesn’t, and how storytelling can become part of something sustainable and real.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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Happy Birthday Traditions from Around the World
I turned another year older doing what I love—traveling slow, eating well, and soaking up small joys with Steven. This birthday, we shared wine at a local vineyard, watched a movie downtown, and ended the day with Thai tea. It reminded me how birthday traditions can reflect who we are.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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How to Hike to Wat Pha Lat in Chiang Mai and What You’ll See Along the Way
One warm February morning in Chiang Mai, I set out alone to hike the Monk’s Trail. With each step, the noise faded. In its place—silence, birdsong, and the peaceful hush of Wat Pha Lat. That quiet temple in the forest reminded me what it feels like to arrive, not chase.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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The Truth About Korean Temple Stays: Stillness Hurts When You Sit Crosslegged
A Korean temple stay tests more than patience—it challenges the body. Sleeping on a traditional hanok floor, waking at 3 a.m. and meditating for hours pushed me past discomfort. With no phone, no distractions, and no escape from stillness, I faced every ache, every numb limb, and kept going.
TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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What Would Privatized National Parks Look Like in America?
America’s national parks are under threat from budget cuts, privatization, and weakened environmental protections. Fewer staff means slower emergency response and neglected facilities. Privatization could limit public access and destroy natural habitats. These spaces offer peace, inspiration, and connection to nature. Learn how to protect them before they’re lost forever.