It’s incredible to have you here! I’m Guranad, the guy behind this site.
Welcome to my little corner of the internet, a space born from a desire to see the world not just from a window seat, but with my own two feet on the ground. For as long as I can remember, the idea of a life less ordinary has called to me. I was never one for following the conventional path, and a few years after college, I finally mustered the courage to trade my cubicle for a backpack, a one-way ticket, and a burning curiosity about what lay beyond the horizon. That was six years ago, and I haven’t looked back.
My journey began with a simple idea: that you don’t need a massive bank account to see the world. You just need a bit of courage and a whole lot of resourcefulness. My first solo trip was a whirlwind of excitement and apprehension. I learned to navigate bus systems in a language I barely understood, haggle for a street-side meal that cost less than a cup of coffee at home, and find a bed for the night in a hostel dorm with a dozen new friends. It was in those moments, far from the comfort of my old life, that I truly found my stride.
Over the past six years, that initial leap of faith has taken me to over 20 countries. I’ve trekked through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand and Europe, wandered through ancient ruins in Southeast Asia, and lost myself in the vibrant markets of North Africa. Each stamp in my passport tells a story—of the kindness of strangers, the humbling power of nature, and the exhilarating freedom of having no plan at all.
This website is a direct result of all those adventures. It’s a place where I want to peel back the curtain on solo, budget travel. I want to show you that a journey of a lifetime isn’t a luxury reserved for a select few. It’s an adventure waiting for you to embrace. Every post you read here, every tip I share, is born from a real-life experience. I’ve made mistakes, I’ve gotten lost (more times than I can count!), and I’ve learned some pretty incredible lessons along the way. My goal is to use those lessons to help you prepare for your adventures, avoid the common pitfalls, and discover the joy of the open road.
From detailed packing lists that help you carry less, to budget hacks that stretch your travel fund further, to honest reviews of hostels and transport—you’ll find it all here. This is more than just a travel blog; it’s a guide and a resource designed to empower you. It’s a message that says, “You can do this.” I truly believe that solo backpacking is one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences a person can have. It challenges you, it changes you, and it shows you a level of strength and resilience you never knew you had.
So, whether you’re dreaming of a weekend trip to a neighboring state or a year-long journey across continents, I’m here to help you turn that dream into a plan. I hope that my stories will inspire you to take that first step, to book that ticket, and to see the world on your terms. Your adventure is waiting. Let’s make it happen.