Jonah Engler

Jonah Engler

Jonah Engler
Jonah Engler

Jonah Engler is a spirited philanthropist with a selfless passion for giving. Most of his travels consist of business ventures, but he does take the chance to get out and about abroad. When he has the opportunity, Jonah brings the family out to experience wonderful destinations throughout the world. As a young man, Jonah was exposed to the world of charities and has continued that passion into adulthood. Building numerous charities from the ground up, Jonah is a busy individual, yet finds time to donate his time and money to other charities he believes in. Jonah takes a unique approach to his charities through his philosophies and experience. His methods frequently allow Jonah to travel to many destinations. Throughout much of his travel, experiencing local humanities is important at heart. Jonah loves to experience different types of local and gourmet foods and drinks. He makes it a point to share his many experiences with the world. Jonah personifies the eclectic, smooth entrepreneur combined with a down to earth family man.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I thoroughly enjoy seeing the world in a different light. I like learning about other cultures, meeting new people, trying new food, especially the ladder. I love food

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Definitely more of a lifestyle, because trying new foods, drinks, and people are my hobbies. In order to accomplish my hobbies, I must have travelling as a lifestyle.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

Yes, my children and I are taking an exciting trip to Italy.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Some general rules I try to stick to are always have an itinerary, try to stay away from high-traffic tourist areas, and always have a back-up plan. Those are some basic guidelines to follow when travelling anywhere.

Where would you like to go?

I have been to almost every major metropolitan city, so now I would like to expand further into more remote locations. I think a nice trip to parts of Indonesia would make an excellent destination next.

Where would you like to revisit?

Paris, I will never get tired of visiting that beautiful place

Do you travel alone? Why?

Not always, it really depends on the situation and the destination. I try my best to involve my family because they are my favorite people and why not include them?

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

Paris, because the obvious (chuckles), New York, because everyone should experience it at least once, and Hong Kong, because it has the best of both worlds, extravagant city scape and breathtaking natural views.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I pack as light as possible, but my wife however… (chuckles) sometimes I have to talk her out of bringing things.

Jacques Poujade

Jacques Poujade, Managing Partner at LendPlus, works hard in the financial industry. When not working, he can be found helping out a local non-profit called Micah’s Way. Even when traveling, he is constantly checking in on the company remotely. Modern technology has made that a lot easier, which is why he is enjoying travel more than ever. He recently answered a few questions about his travels so far in his life, what the future holds, and more.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I love learning things about new cultures. There are just so many different types of people all around the world, and sometimes it is easy to get caught up in your own little area. I’m fortunate to live in a pretty diverse part of California, but getting a chance to see different states and different countries is special.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

I would say it is a little bit of both. Sometimes, people can get caught up in traveling to try to show off to others. I’ve never been about that though. It is much more of a hobby to me. Simply put, I go where I want to go, regardless of if it is a super trendy spot or not.

My first taste of travel came when I was younger. We traveled some as a family, but I’ve been fortunate to do most of my traveling in my adult life.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

Skiing has never been my thing, but I’m planning a trip to Colorado very soon. We’ll see how that goes. It is a short little trip for me since it’s only a couple of states over. I don’t have my next big trip planned, but somewhere in Europe this summer sounds like a good idea.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

This might be the financial side of me, but above all else, stay within your means. There is nothing wrong with traveling on a budget, staying at hostels, eating cheap food and more. I’ve done that before and no one should be above that. Traveling is about the experience of a new part of the country or world, so it can still be enjoyable.

On a related note, shop around for good flight prices. There are so many different websites now that list the best deals. That is a major expense when it comes to traveling, so if you can save there, everything is much better.

Where would you like to go?

I haven’t really seen much in Australia just yet in my life. It takes a long, long time to get there, so I might need to find a way to get enough vacation time to really make that work.

Where would you like to revisit?

I’ve been to Paris a couple times, but there is still a lot to do in that city. It is really just such a huge city that you probably need at least a month do it all. Maybe that will be where I head to this summer now that I think about it.

Do you travel alone? Why?

Sometimes. I think it is important to travel alone at times, because it gives you the opportunity to reflect and find out who you are as a person. Of course, traveling with loved ones is also a great experience. There is a better chance of making memories that last a lifetime as far as that goes.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

I’ll pick one place in the United States first. The cliché answer might be New York City, but I’m going to go with Miami. I just see Miami as such a different, unique city to the rest of the country. It’s a melting pot with so many cultures.

For Europe, I’ve already mentioned Paris a lot, so I’ll go with that. Just one of the best cities in the world.

For my final city, I’ll say Tokyo. For those who haven’t been, just think of New York City on steroids. You’ll definitely be amazed with how populated it is.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

Always travel as light as possible. This allows for less baggage fees, and more opportunity to buy unique items while visiting a new area.

David-Buck

David Buck

David-Buck

David Buck espouses all the makings of an entrepreneur looking to transform his horticultural domain. The35-year old Oregon native holds a degree in horticulture. He studied at the flagship University of Oregon, which is top rated on programs like Business, Physics, Chemistry and Agriculture. With his education, David Buck, Apple Farmer went on to establish an orchid farm specializing in growing apples. Before making the move, Buck worked at local wineries, vineyards and State Parks. Platoons of farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs regularly visit Buck’s farm to learn about Sustainable Horticultural Research, Urban Horticulture andViticulture and Enology. His lessons in urban horticulture are designed to help entrepreneurs appreciate the investment opportunities that exist in vineyards, orchards, and sustainable farming.

One area that has caught the eye of many young farmers is therapeutic horticulture. The therapeutic brim of horticulture can be harnessed to assist people with mental and physical challenges, learn how to cope and gain crucial life skills. The program is mostly targeted at caregivers working in healthcare facilities and patients recuperating from various illnesses. Buck’s decision to choose farming was largely as a result of the passion to transform lives and encourage modern farming techniques. In spite of his busy schedule, Buck always finds time to associate with other farmers. He is a proud member of the Future Farmers of America among other associations. Away from his busy work schedule, David Buck Apple Farmer enjoys gardening, traveling and volunteering.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

The flexible work schedule gives me the freedom to explore the world beyond and around me. With the experience, I have had the opportunity to learn diverse history and culture and eat out at different places. The other enticements include meeting new faces and documenting my travel adventures.

Do you consider traveling a lifestyle or a hobby? How did it all start?

Because my travels are mostly tied to work, I consider it a lifestyle. I usually travel long distances to get farm inputs or attend farmer association meetings. There is a truck that I usually use for short errands around town. However, during vacation time I prefer taking flights. My favorite vacation hotspots in the US include Miami, Seattle and San Francisco.

Are there any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for you in the future?

During the first half of next year, I hope to visit Alaska and Canada. Canada is home to numerous natural attractions, including the Canadian Rocky Mountains and the iconic famous Niagara Falls on the Canadian border with Michigan. Before going on a trip, I usually create a travel itinerary to help me maximize time and manage expenditure more effectively.

What travel tips you’d give an inexperienced traveler looking to explore the world?

Inexperienced travelers have many things to learn, both on and off the road. My first advice is do not be scared by the unknowns. It’s only through traveling that you get the first-hand experience of what’s out there. Secondly, always remember to carry extra cash to cover any unexpected events.

Where would you like to go?

Some of the places I haven’t been to but look to forward to visit in the near future is Cyprus and possible Japan. The Island nation of Cyprus is located on the East of the Mediterranean Sea. It is famous because of its legendary rocks and cliffs as well as bustling beaches.

Where would you like to revisit?

I am planning to visit Rome for the 2rd time. The first time to visit the Eternal City was two years albeit briefly. This time around I would like to visit and take photos of famous cathedrals, alleyways and monuments. Top of my wish list are; the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Do you travel alone? Why?

Although traveling with family member and friends can be fun, most of the time I normally travel alone. The thrills of traveling alone include financial control and the opportunity to get things done much quicker.

In your estimation, what are the three top places every person should go?

That is a tough question, but my bets are on Alaska, France and Hong Kong. Each of these three destinations has something to offer when it comes to nature, the arts and cultural diversity.

Are you the kind of person who packs the house or travels light?

I mostly travel light. This entails getting the right bag and packing right. For overseas trips, I usually have my passport, traveler’s checks, vaccination card tucked in the money belt. To facilitate my movements once I arrive, I normally have a shoulder bag and transit backpack. The shoulder bag I spacious enough to carry a laptop, Kindle and writing materials like a notebook.

Kelly Hyman

Kelly Hyman is an Attorney and a resident of Colorado. She grew up with a single mother, who is a native of Australia. Travel became a passion they both shared. As a child growing up, her mother would spontaneously book trips to Mexico or Los Angeles or go where ever the next adventure would take them. Kelly has continued her explorations with her husband. Together, they have journeyed to all seven continents of the world. They are able to learn and experience a variety of different cultures and environments. Many discoveries are in the future for this couple. They will be traveling throughout the U.S., South Africa, and then they will be cruising the Black Sea over the next year.

Tell us about a favorite trip you’ve taken.

Australia would be my favorite place out of all of the places we have traveled. It is my mother’s homeland. It was amazing to see where she was born and where she grew up. We experienced their culture.  After visiting, I found that culture was a part of me all of my life.

What attracted you to Australia?

I am of Australian descent. I wanted to learn about my heritage. I wanted to learn what it was like where my mother grew up. Australia was naturally one of my first choices to explore.

When did you travel there and who did you go with?

My husband and I went to Australia in 2015-2016. We were there for the new year. The people are so warm and welcoming.

Please share your memories from the trip.

We initially started in my mother’s hometown of Armidale. We did the tour of a town. We didn’t have to go very far. It has 2 stop lights in the entire town. We wanted to take in everything during our three-week visit. We wanted to go snorkeling. We made our way to The Great Barrier Reef. The reef is absolutely magnificent.  It is teaming with life. The coral lives in such a state of indescribable vibrant color and grandeur. We were swimming with the sharks. It was incredible.  We also experienced the ruggedness of the outback. We took a camping trip to the outback.  We laid on the ground looking up at the sky at the awe-inspiring stars majestically strewn across the night sky.

When we wanted to experience city life in Australia, we chose Sydney.  We went to the Sydney Opera house. We did the evening bridge walk. That is where you climb to the top of the bridge which overlooks the entire city of Sydney in lights.  It was a remarkable sight to behold.

What other places have you visited?

My husband and I actually spent the night on Antarctica. They call it digging your grave. They give you a shovel, a foam mat, and a sleeping bag. The boat leaves you there to fend for yourself. You start digging. When you are done digging, you put down a foam mat and a sleeping bag to spend the night. There are 22 hours of light in Antarctica. You have to cover your eyes to sleep. You may, however, get up in the middle of the night to discover a penguin staring at you. The penguin might be trying to discover who you are and what you’re doing there.

We also did the polar plunge in Antarctica. This is where they tie a rope to you, and you jump off the boat into the water. It was freezing cold, but amazing. We saw so many whales from the ship. We also went kayaking and saw all of the penguins and birds, it was breath-taking.

Iceland is a Nordic island. My husband and I traveled to Iceland last July. I’d recommend July as the right month to travel to that Island. The temperature is in the 50’s or 60’s. We rented a car and just drove across the island. Some of the towns we passed were so small. The inhabitants were excited to tell us that they had a restaurant in town. When we went into the restaurant, the entire town and neighboring towns were there.

I am of middle eastern descent. I am Lebanese.  Jordan is breathtaking. We went to see Petra and went camping in Wadi Rum. We rode a camel and went snorkeling in the red sea. We saw the amazing city of Petra. It is a 2,000-year-old city carved out of sheer rock face, in the south of Jordan. It is huge and spectacular.  Wadi Rum means Sand Valley. It is a desert region of Jordan. I understand why Matt Damon filmed his moon shots there. It looks so much like what we would imagine the moon to look like. It was wonderful sleeping under the stars. It has a beautiful, natural landscape of sand dunes, narrow canyons and carved rock arches.

We went to Columbia. The people there are so wonderful. They are very welcoming people. We rented a car and drove to a small town. We spent New Year’s in a tiny town. We celebrated the new year in their tradition. Everyone is clothed in white. They walk the streets to celebrate and bring in the new year together. We also went to Cartagena and hung out on the beach. The food is incredible. We loved the culture and the people.

We have also been to Belize, Europe, South America, Africa, Australia, Paris, Rome. Italy, where I love shopping. Our honeymoon was spent on a cruise to the Baltic Sea. We visited all of the Scandinavian countries and Helsinki.

What advice would you give to a first-time traveler?

I would tell any new or first-time traveler to do the research. Research the culture of the country that you will be traveling too. Find out what the best time of year would be best to travel to that particular destination. Research the weather conditions so that you’ll know what kind of clothes to bring. It is critically important to know what the exchange rate is between countries. You may need cash. You should know how to find the cash if you need it. You may be able to use your own credit cards easily enough. If you want to know the culture, Google the top 10 things to do in the country and book it in advance. We have learned the most about an area by taking free walking tours. The escorts know all the best places to eat and to visit in their city. They are amazing. The walks are free, and you just tip the escort at the end of the tour.  The other thing that I do is to ask the hotel staff which restaurants to choose from. Depending on what you’re looking for, they can guide you in the right direction. The last thing I can suggest is to always, remember your sunscreen.

Brandon-Oda

Brandon Oda

Brandon-Oda

Brandon Oda is a uniquely talented photographer and software developer from San Francisco. He specializes in portrait and landscape photography. Oda is inspired by nature and frequently takes road trips around the state of California to explore its amazing diversity. Through his hiking and mountain biking adventures, Oda finds new ways to express his artistic vision and share it with the world.

It is rare to be a professional artist as well as a software designer, but Brandon Oda has made a name for himself in both areas. Oda writes and tests photo editing software. He uses his own software to edit his work, giving it a completely original look. Oda attended the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence. He studied coding at nearby Brown University. His dual skills make him much sought-after in the photography world.

Oda recently opened a state-of-the-art facility in San Francisco where he works in his studio and creates software. While his studio work is excellent, his body of photographs taken in nature made his name in the industry. Oda will continue to innovate both in the photography sphere and in technology. He is a force to be reckoned with among young photographers in San Francisco.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I enjoy exploring different landscapes and environments. The quality of light changes so much depending on the surroundings. I love taking photos of the sunrise and sunset in each new location. This grounds me and ties my work together. I also love getting to know the people wherever I go. Some travelers go about their business and never talk with the locals, but I feel that getting to know the locals is one of the best parts of travel.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Travel is somewhere between a hobby and a lifestyle. Much of my time is spent in my studio and in the San Francisco area. I travel when I can, but I would like to travel more. Being a travel photographer would be an amazing job. My business keeps me settled most of the time.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I am planning a trip to Japan this winter to visit family. I’m excited about this trip; I’ve been planning it for years. Since I have family in the area, I have a different perspective on Japan than most tourists. My cousins will have great recommendations for restaurants and activities. I also plan to get to the northern island of Hokkaido and take some photos of the majestic wintry landscapes.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Make sure that you take time to reflect on each destination. Don’t zoom around from monument to monument. This will give you a superficial view of the place you visited. Take the time to slow down. Have a cup of coffee at a little cafe and take some photos. Running frantically around town to see all of the sights is one of the worst mistakes an inexperienced traveler can make.

Where would you like to go?

I’m really excited about my trip to Japan. I’m also looking forward to a trip to Turkey someday. I’ve heard that the landscapes are gorgeous and that the historic buildings are wonderful to photograph. I have never been to Africa, and I’d love to take photos there. My wife would love to go on a safari.

Where would you like to revisit?

I recently spent a week hiking and taking photographs in Yosemite National Park, and I’d love to go back there. In California, we are so fortunate that we have such an amazing array of landscapes. I would also travel back to Taiwan, where I haven’t been since I was in high school. Taiwan is a small island but there is a great variety of things to see and do. The food is outstanding.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I usually travel with my wife. I feel like traveling alone would be lonely. Once in a while, I do need to take a solo trip, but I spend the entire time wishing my wife could have come with me. I also travel with my mountain biking club.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

This is a difficult question. There are so many fantastic places around the world that I feel everyone should see. If I have to narrow it down to three places, I would say San Francisco, Tuscany, and Provence. San Francisco makes an excellent base to explore all of the Bay Area. You can get to the wine country easily. Tuscany has a fantastic blend of historical sites and wild landscapes. Provence has incredible food and is a beautiful place.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

Wherever I go, I have to carry a lot of photography equipment. I do pack up the house where equipment is concerned, but I don’t overpack when it comes to my own things.

Ronnie Brown Mansfield

Ronnie Brown Mansfield

Ronnie Brown

Ronnie Brown Mansfield is a middle school vice principal in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He has over 30 years’ experience molding young minds and creating supportive school environments. Brown is also a sports coach who works with young athletes to foster their sense of sportsmanship. He encourages all of his students and athletes to reach higher for their dreams.

Brown attended the Indiana University of Pennsylvania where he majored in Elementary Education. He began his professional career as a fourth- and fifth-grade math and science teacher. While working with young students was rewarding, Brown developed an interest in joining the ranks of administrative staff. He went back to school on evenings and weekends and received advanced degrees. He also received his vice principal’s certification. He took a job as a middle school vice principal in 1996.

During the course of his work as a middle school assistant principal, Ronnie Brown Mansfield worked closely with each teacher to foster staff development. He supported school- and district-wide efforts to revamp the curriculum to better meet the needs of students in a changing world. His focus on school safety led him to become one of the top assistant principals in the Pittsburgh area.

When Brown is not at school, he enjoys photography and travel. His favorite subjects are the majestic landscapes of the National Parks. He is married with four children and often takes them on adventures around the United States and abroad. With his extensive experience and strong skill set, Brown is a valued member of his school community. His unique combination of skills makes him an important resource for the teachers and administration in the Pittsburgh public school system.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I love exploring new landscapes. In the United States, we are blessed with such an amazing variety of natural environments. Seeing the ways that nature has shaped our world is a blessing and a joy. I love to take my wife and children to see new places as well. I feel that travel helps our family bond and become stronger together.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Traveling is a hobby for me. I work as an assistant principal most of the year, but I am fortunate to have summers off. During the summer, we like to take long road trips and to explore as many different environments as we can. We have an RV, and it is great to take our home on the road with us as we travel.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

We are planning a trip to Niagara Falls on our next long weekend. It’s relatively close to us, and two of our children have never been there before. We are planning to do all of the touristy activities as well as exploring nature. It’s a wonderful destination, and I look forward to sharing it with my family.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Make sure that each family member has his or her own space. Especially when you are traveling in close quarters, like in an RV, it’s important that everyone has a space to breathe. Be prepared for your children to get in more arguments if they are stuck in the back seat of the car or van while you are traveling.

Where would you like to go?

I’m hoping to get to Acadia National Park in Maine. I’ve never been there, and I’ve heard that the combination of mountain and seaside views is unique and gorgeous. I’m also planning a trip to Nova Scotia just after we go to Maine. This trip may take a few weeks out of next summer, but I think it will be worthwhile.

Where would you like to revisit?

I love the western National Parks. I would love to go back to Yosemite and Yellowstone. These landscapes are stunning. I also love the Grand Canyon, where we have returned every other year since the kids were little.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I almost never travel alone. I always have my wife with me, and usually one or more of our kids. As the oldest children are in college now, they can stay home when we take trips out of state. I think it would be lonely to travel alone. One of my favorite aspects of travel is family bonding when there are no daily stresses to contend with.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

I would recommend Yosemite, Yellowstone, and Cape Cod National Seashore. All three of these places hold special memories for me. In Yellowstone, we had a close and somewhat uncomfortable encounter with a bear, but I wouldn’t want anyone to be scared away.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

We travel as light as possible. Since we have the RV, we have a fair amount of storage space, but I prefer that my family pack light anyway. When we travel, our focus should be on exploring new places. Traveling light makes it easier to pick up and move when the mood strikes us.

Colby-Lee-Burke

Colby Lee Burke

Colby-Lee-Burke

Colby Lee Burke is a professional travel writer who divides his time between Charleston, South Carolina and Portland, Oregon. His work has been featured in a wide variety of newspapers and magazines as well as online. Burke has a unique talent for capturing the spirit of the places he visits. He has visited dozens of countries, and his favorite is Scotland. When he travels in the United States, his favorite place to visit is Hilton Head.

Burke grew up in Portland and attended the University of Oregon, majoring in English. While he was still in college, he began writing travel pieces for local publications. His work became popular and he was soon receiving assignments from larger publications on the West Coast. His articles about Yosemite National Park appeared in a prominent national magazine, and Burke has had a successful career ever since.

Burke’s pieces center around such diverse topics as art, architecture, nature, and culture. He especially enjoys writing about local music events. His journalism has attracted a following, and he has won several awards for his writing. Colby Lee Burke Hilton Head has also written fiction for several literary magazines. He is working on a novel to be published next year. His unique talents with both fiction and nonfiction make him a force to be reckoned with in the world of writing.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

My favorite thing about traveling is the change in perspective. I love seeing life through someone else’s eyes. I like to put myself in someone else’s shoes and imagine what their life must be like. This gives me a new perspective on writing a travel piece. I try to explore each city in the same way as a local resident.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Travel is definitely my lifestyle. I have apartments in Charleston and Portland so I can experience the best of both cities. I enjoy being at home, but I always have an itchy feeling that makes me want to get out and explore. Being a travel writer is the perfect job for me.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I am planning a trip to Antarctica next year. I can’t wait to see an entirely new part of the world. I plan to write about the life and experiences of the people living at McMurdo Station. I also want to get out in nature and see the local landscapes and wildlife.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Plan your trips in advance, but give yourself room to explore. It’s unfortunate when novice travelers overuse their guidebooks and forget to explore on their own. Whenever a friend travels abroad, I remind them to let their curiosity take them to new places. Also, I recommend that new travelers take advantage of the perks offered by their credit card companies. There are a lot of great deals to be had if you know where to look.

Where would you like to go?

I’ve never been to China. I’m fascinated by the culture and the people. I am hoping to get there in the coming year. I would also love to travel to the South Pacific. I haven’t been able to convince anyone that I should write about a beach resort in Bali, but I hope that I can get there on my own someday.

Where would you like to revisit?

I love going to Scotland. The wild landscapes are gorgeous, and the sense of history is amazing. My favorite city is Edinburgh. I also love exploring the Highlands. Scottish food has a bad reputation thanks to haggis, but it’s actually very good.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I generally do travel alone. Most of my employers wouldn’t pay for me to take a companion with me. When I travel I try to visit friends so I have some social interaction. Mostly, I’m fine being on my own. It’s nice to be able to follow my own curiosity and not have to negotiate where I’m going next. When I do take a companion with me, it’s a nice change of pace.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

Within the United States, I would recommend that everyone travel to Alaska. The wilderness is amazing, and the people are very friendly. You will be amazed by the variety in the natural landscapes. Abroad, I recommend that everyone go to London and Florence. London has the most fascinating blend of historical and modern buildings. I love that you can stand in a castle and see modern skyscrapers across the river. I recommend Florence to anyone who has an interest in art and architecture.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I always travel light. I try to get away without checking a bag. I’ve lost too much luggage over the years. As long as I have my laptop, my camera, and enough clothes, I’m fine. I always bring a few books to read as well.

Stephen Andrew Stepaniuk

Stephen Andrew Stepaniuk

Stephen Andrew Stepaniuk

Travel blogger Stephen Andrew Stepaniuk is based in Boston, Massachusetts. As a professional blogger, he is able to experience the best in world culture, food, and entertainment. His travels have taken him to many locations in the United States and Europe. His natural facility with language makes it easy for him to communicate with people wherever he goes. He has begun a study of Esperanto in hopes of making a better connection with people around the globe.

Stepaniuk grew up in Connecticut. He attended Northeastern University where he majored in English. He has leveraged his strong writing skills into a blog that is popular with chefs and travel industry professionals. After college, Stepaniuk took a job with a high-powered consulting firm. He started a blog as a fun way of sharing travel stories and photos with his friends and family. As the blog became more successful, he began to attract sponsors and advertisers. He realized that he could become a full-time blogger several years ago. Much of his travel is paid for by companies or visitor’s bureaus.

In the next year, Stephen Andrew Stepaniuk is ready to embark on a tour of Far Eastern locations including Dubai, India, China, and Japan. He hopes to come to a more complete understanding of these diverse locations, experiencing their food and culture from the people’s perspective. He will take many insightful photographs for his blog and share recipes from the various places he visits.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

My favorite thing about traveling is that I get to experience life through someone else’s eyes. I like to stay with local residents rather than spending my time in a chain hotel that would be the same wherever I traveled. My local connections are excellent sources for restaurant and cultural recommendations. I can ask them where their favorite places are and why. This gives me a different perspective than many other bloggers out there.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Travel is a lifestyle for me. It was a hobby until I was able to take my blog full-time. I started traveling in high school: I was a foreign exchange student in Germany. Traveling as a foreign exchange student was an eye-opening experience. I loved being able to share the great things about Germany with my host family and friends. I found that after I started consulting I had enough funds to travel lavishly but I preferred to take a different path. I built a network of friends in Europe, starting with my friends from high school. I started “couch surfing” across Europe during my vacations.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I am excited to explore Dubai, India, China, and Japan in the next year. I haven’t spent much time in Asia, and I want to experience all that it has to offer. I have friends in Dubai — they are British, but they work abroad as do many of the people in Dubai. I’m excited to have the chance to stay with them. I’ve always been fascinated with Japanese history and culture.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Don’t be too tied down by a schedule. Build in plenty of time to explore. This might be difficult when you are considering hotel accommodations, but you will find that you can find much better deals and have an easier time getting to know the people at your destination if you stay at hostels or in short-term rentals. When you enter a new city, don’t go immediately for the most touristy place in town. Let yourself wander and you might discover something entirely new.

Where would you like to go?

I’m thrilled to be going to China next year. I am looking forward to seeing the amazing historical sites and to meeting the local people. I don’t speak Mandarin, but I plan to travel with a local friend who does. I want to try all the different regional specialties.

Where would you like to revisit?

I often do travel alone. I have an easier time being spontaneous when I travel alone. I don’t have to adapt my trip according to anyone else’s expectations or demands. I do enjoy traveling with friends, however. It is nice to have someone to talk to on trains and planes.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I hope to get back to Germany sometime soon. It’s the European country where I have spent the most time, and I’m fluent in the language so it’s like coming home. German food has a reputation for being heavy, but you can get truly excellent fresh food there. The beer is great too.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

I hated having to narrow down this list to three places. I would recommend that everyone see the Grand Canyon, New York City, and Paris.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I always travel light, but I have been known to ship souvenirs home. I have found many unique cooking items and textiles on my foreign trips. The deals are hard to pass up, especially in the big marketplaces where you can haggle the price down.

Arshad Madhani

 

Arshad Madhani is an up-and-coming digital marketing expert with an awareness for building strong marketing strategies. The campaigns he works on with his clients are all unique in their own regard. Each one is specifically and carefully designed to promote the best possible outcome, and he has proven that his methods are successful every time.

With a Master’s Degree from Texas A&M International University, Madhani has put his business skills to the test. Through patience and passion, Arshad Madhani is slowly crafting a unique career that is backed by a global perspective. This has given him a helping hand, providing an even wider scope for him to look at as he predicts where the industry will head over the next few years.

His belief in being a lifelong learner and willingness to keep pushing through every hurdle that comes his way makes Madhani a wise entrepreneur beyond his years. When Arshad has free time, he enjoys catching up with podcasts to get the best tips and tricks that will benefit him as a marketer. He also enjoys cooking and trying out new dishes when he travels to replicate them at home later.

 

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

The food! The food is what I look forward to and it’s funny to me that I never became a chef. I watch a lot of Iron Chef too since I missed that opportunity!

When I was in South Korea I was introduced to different authentic cuisines and couldn’t wrap my head around how they were able to make everything taste so amazing.

But that’s what is exciting to me. Trying new foods and meals that are cooked with a lot of passion. You can tell right away when something is cooked with love and dedication. It’s one of the greatest art forms around, at least in my opinion.

 

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

It’s a bit of both. I’m fortunate that I’m able to travel around the world quite often throughout the year. But sometimes it’s more of a hobby. As my client list continues to grow I find myself in Atlanta more and more. I do try to make room for travel when I can though because you can learn a lot from it.

When I was younger. my family and I would take trips to London, Canada and New York quite frequently. We had family members living in all these locations and we would see them almost every year. After those trips I just knew I wanted to see more of the world.

 

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I’m planning on going to London later this year. I haven’t been back in awhile, and I’m excited to see family and friends when I arrive. The best part is that this time I’ll be able to stay for a little longer than normal.I’ll actually be able to sightsee outside of the city. I’ve always wanted to but time hasn’t permitted me as of yet.

 

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

One important thing to remember is that if you’re going somewhere where you may not speak the language, it’s a good idea to at least learn basic phrases to get around. That way, if someone wants to experience an unstructured trip, they can feel a little more confident about finding a hotel or asking for directions.

And sometimes it’s nice to do your research and find a tour guide or a company that can steer you through a city. That’s definitely helpful if you haven’t done much traveling yet but want to get the full experience.

 

Where would you like to go?

I’m hoping to one day visit Japan and Iceland. Total opposites, but both seem to be filled with a lot of adventures are waiting there. I, of course, want to try out the food and I’m interested in celebrating the Cherry Blossom festivals in Japan.

I’ve also seen some amazing pictures friends have taken while on nature hikes in Iceland. Iceland looks like it can’t possibly be a place on Earth and that’s why it’s so intriguing.

 

Where would you like to revisit?

One of my favorite places to go to is San Francisco. The seafood restaurants are brilliant and there is always something to do or museums exhibits to see. I don’t think I’ve ever been bored while visiting!

 

Do you travel alone? Why?

I tend to travel alone frequently for work. But when I have the chance I’ll travel with a few friends or family members to catch up and enjoy their company.

 

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

Well I live in Atlanta, so I would say people have to visit because the city provides a lot of great things for first time visitors. Two other places I recommend is either Prague or Cairo. Both cities hold centuries of tradition and cultures and are beautiful in their own right.

Prague’s architecture is astounding and there is nothing like visiting the pyramids near Cairo. It is the strangest and most thrilling thing to see these colossal monuments rising out of the sand. It’s really breathtaking!

 

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

Since I’m traveling all the time I pack incredibly light. And it’s usually because I now have a habit of purchasing whatever I didn’t bring with me when I arrive at my destination. It doesn’t always work out, but for the most part it’s fine for me. The only thing heavy about my bags is my laptop that weighs 3 pounds. I think that sums it up pretty well!

 

Mark Campbell

For many entrepreneurs, becoming the “next big thing” can sometimes be a challenge. There are many hurdles to get over when building a business, one of them being how you gain enough funding.

But how does one procure these funds easily and within a time frame that isn’t wildly outrageous? One way that has proven to redefine the game is crowdfunding, something Mark Campbell is extremely familiar with. As the current VP of Marketing at InventureX, Campbell has a deep understanding of the steps to successfully launch a product while promoting a further audience reach.

InventureX is located in Santa Monica, CA and since 2012 they have worked their way to becoming the leading crowdfund program for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. And it’s easy to see why. With Campbell at the helm of all things marketing, he’s able to steer his clients to victory through well-crafted marketing efforts. Watching clients succeed only motivates him further every time he sees their products launch. And it’s what makes his job that much more satisfying.

An entrepreneur by nature, Campbell’s keen awareness for business has given him the ability to spot opportunities easily. His laser-focused and passionate mindset allows him to reach new heights with the help of his team.

 

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I like being a part of a new culture. Before I even venture off onto an adventure I’ll research spots that aren’t as tourist driven as others. For me, I want to get to know the area like a local does. It’s exciting to get immersed in the traditions and history of a place while also enjoying quieter locations with less crowds.

 

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

I suppose it’s a hobby since I’m not able to wander off for months at a time! I tend to work a lot, and sometimes I’ll find myself working outside of normal business hours too. But since I get to travel a few times a year I’m ok with not jetsetting somewhere all summer long.

 

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

This year was a little different for me as I didn’t travel as much as I usually do. But in November my wife and I will be going to Hawaii to surf and explore some fun hiking trails along a volcano or two! We’ve only been once before so we’re excited to try the food again and see some of the islands we didn’t have a chance to go to last time.

 

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Stay hydrated! No, really. It’s something I was not the greatest at but have found it to be so helpful, especially if you’re going to traveling for more than 4 hours. I would say pack an empty water bottle with you to be safe.

Try to also pack appropriate clothing for weather. If you’re going somewhere where the weather changes frequently, or you’re going to be in the city one day and then out in the mountains, you’re going to need different attire for each setting. Don’t underestimate how hot or cold a place can get!

 

Where would you like to go?

I haven’t made my way to Thailand yet. That’s one place I think I would really enjoy. I’ve heard how great the food is and want to try it out. In Santa Monica we have good Thai spots, but I know it’s nothing compared to the original place it comes from. I want to experience it in a vastly different setting.

 

Where would you like to revisit?

I’ve been to Peru a few times now and I think I’d really enjoy going back. I always have a great time there but I haven’t been able to see the whole country yet. I’ve only stayed in the capital which is off the coast and I want to see more of the inland region.

 

Do you travel alone? Why?

I usually travel with my wife or in a small group of friends. It just depends on timing and who is able to take a small break from work. It’s nice to experience new places with others so you can reminisce later about it.

 

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

I’d have to say it comes down to London, Toronto, and Lima, Peru. Each place offers great experiences when you visit. I’m a city kid so I enjoy being in the “hub” of a state or country. London has so much history and there’s always a lot to do. The museums are incredible and walking down old cobblestone streets kind of sends you back in time.

Toronto is just beautiful in general. The people are always willing to help guide you around if you’re new and it’s also where I’ve had some of the best sushi hands down! And Peru has its own amazing culture and history that will give you countless of awesome photographic moments.

 

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

It usually depends on where I’m going. I somehow end up packing just enough so I guess I’m somewhere in between. If I travel with my wife I try to leave enough room in my suitcase so she can fit souvenirs and other trinkets she finds for our family.