Travel Guides
Adventures in Autofocus
Welcome to my travel corner, "Adventures in Autofocus". In September 2023 we decided to take a year off from our work as teachers and embark on a once in a lifetime adventure travelling the globe for ten months. We had both backpacked before but we struggled to find useful, in depth, information about the various countries we planned to visit as well as tips on how to plan a long-term itinerary.
Having successfully completed our adventure I wanted to create a space where you can find specific, yet comprehensive, travel guides for destinations we have personally explored. Every guide is born from a passport stamp and a personal story. I believe that the best travel advice comes from those who have walked the streets, tasted the local cuisine and waited for that perfect golden hour light. That is why every destination guide you find here is written exclusively by me, following my own firsthand journeys across the globe.
These aren't just lists of popular landmarks; they are comprehensive resources designed to give you everything you need to know before you depart. From logistical "need-to-knows" to hidden gems off the beaten path, each guide is paired with my professional photography to give you a true visual sense of your next adventure. Whether you are planning your first international trip, setting off for a weekend escape or planning a long-term itinerary, I’m here to help you see the world with clarity and curiosity - and to get that Adventure in Autofocus.
South America
South America was a continent that far exceeded our expectations. In Patagonia we found majestic glaciers and rugged mountains. Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, offers surreal, mirror-like views whereas in Santiago, Chile's bustling capital, we experienced the combination of modern skyscrapers alongside historic colonial buildings. South America offers travellers a journey unlike any other; free from mass tourism you will find yourself engaging with locals, navigating the surprisingly efficient inter-country bus network and viewing some of the worlds greatest natural wonders up close - whilst also testing your Duolingo skills to the max!
Central America & The Carribean
In Costa Rica, we found lush rainforests, active volcanoes and effortless wildlife spotting. The Caribbean's turquoise waters and white-sand beaches provided a paradise for relaxation. The Dominican Republic boasts beautiful beaches alongside a rich colonial history while St. Maarten offers a unique blend of Dutch and French cultures amongst the mega yachts that visit. This region, whilst popular with package holidays, is widely undervalued as a backpacker route but we had a memorable adventure utilising the inter-island ferries and earned some much needed relaxation on the picturesque beaches.
