A couple who met in Cambodia is now traveling the world together. Chantell Collins is from Australia and Darrell Whaley is from the United States of America. They share their stories in their blog at www.adoration4adventure.com.
“Adoration 4 Adventure features ‘destination’ posts of locations we visited with our itinerary including accommodation, activities, transport, and daily expenditures,” Collins said. “Readers can go onto the site and choose a location they are interested in then use as a complete itinerary, travel inspiration, or just enjoy the entertainment value of reading about our adventures.”
Collins said she loves hearing feedback from their readers and being able to serve as an inspiration to others.
“(The best part about being a travel blogger) is hearing feedback from readers saying that we inspired them,” she said. “Most people think traveling is too expensive or maybe they are scared to on a trip by themselves. We aim to show people that traveling on a budget is doable and that travel is for everyone.”
The best travel advice Collins wanted to share is to be content with just a carry on bag when traveling.
“Never check a bag if you can get away with it,” she said. “By taking carry on, you can save time at the airport, avoid baggage fees, and it is easier to lug around with you. I have travelled five weeks in Europe with one carry on bag.”
For the full interview with Chantell Collins and Darrell Whaley from Adoration 4 Adventure, continue reading below.
1. Tell us something about yourself not many people know about you?
I just recently found out that I have a gluten intolerance. I got really sick for a few months while traveling but since I have eliminated gluten from my diet I have been so much better. It has taken a few adjustments however it really is still possible to travel with a food allergy!
2. What is your blog called and what sets it apart from other travel blogs?
Adoration 4 adventure
We are an American and an Australian who met in Cambodia, fell in love, travelled together and then moved to Vancouver, Canada! Adoration 4 adventure features “destination” posts of locations we visited with our itinerary including accommodation, activities, transport and average daily spend. Readers can go onto the site and choose a location they are interested in then use as a complete itinerary, travel inspiration or just enjoy the entertainment value of reading about our adventures!
3. Why should people check out your travel blog?
For travel inspiration and information! For travel tip and tricks! To follow our adventures!
4. How long have you been blogging?
Started in August 2015. Our website is still a baby but its growing fast!
5. Why did you decide you want to be a travel blogger?
My friends had been bugging me to do it for a while. I was reluctant to start because I knew how much work it involved however once I started I became really passionate about inspiring others to travel.
6. What is the hardest part about being a travel blogger?
It really does take a lot of work and time! You have to be careful to separate your personal life and blogging life – it’s too easy to be working 24/7.
7. And what is the best part about being a travel blogger?
Hearing feedback from readers saying that we inspired them! Most people think traveling is too expensive or maybe they are scared to go on a trip by themselves. We aim to show people that traveling on a budget is doable and that travel is for everyone!
8. What are the top three things you always bring with you in your travels?
My travel wallet which is the size of my palm and attaches to my bag with a chain. I never have to worry about leaving my wallet behind or it being pickpocketed. A casual hand bag that can be worn across the body and is big enough to be used during the day (e.g. beach towel, water bottle, sunscreen, etc.) but easy to carry and not too cumbersome. My travel laundry bags which were a gift from my old boss. They are so cute and fold up small. Before that I just used to use plastic bags for my dirty clothes.
9. What is the craziest thing you’ve done while traveling?
So many to choose from! One of the most recent that comes to mind was that I booked a last minute trip to Nicaragua and Costa Rica because I was trying to visit 30 countries before I turned 30. I crossed the border into Costa Rica only four days before my 30th birthday. It was a lot of fun and an amazing week!
10. Do you have another travel blogger you get inspiration from? Who is it and what is the name of their blog? (include link) How does this person inspire you?
Allie from Blonde on the Road is an Italian who has lived in the United States, Germany and is now traveling around South America. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious and will bring a smile to your face!
11. Share to us your best travel advice?
Never check a bag if you can get away with it! By taking carryon you can save time at the airport, avoid baggage fees and its easier to lug around with you. I have traveled five weeks in Europe with one carry on bag. Recently when we flew to Alaska, I took the same bag and still had plenty of room left.
12. Where was your last travel destination? Tell us all about it!
We traveled to Alaska!!! It was my first time and my 40th US state. Such a magical place.
We flew from Vancouver to Fairbanks then down to Anchorage and rented a car so we could explore the surrounding areas.
13. Where are you going next? What are you most looking forward to on this trip?
Skiing in Whistler! I have only skied twice before so I am looking forward to improving my skill level. Keep an eye on our site for the upcoming post on Whistler, including how to visit on a budget.
You can find Adoration 4 Adventure on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
All photos (except for the first one) in this post are provided by Collins.
Thanks for sharing your story and your travels. Such as inspiration!