Isiah McKimmie is the owner of Passionate Spirit, an online sex therapy and relationship counselling service. She’s based in Queensland but travels inter-state and internationally on a regular basis – for business, study (she’s currently undertaking a Masters in Perth and Brisbane!) and pleasure. TravelLiveLearn.com thought she’d be a perfect candidate for sharing tips on smart travel.
~
She says:
I love to travel – there’s something so exciting about it. I love the idea of going somewhere and getting to meet new people. But it can become wearing – I’ve had to learn a few tricks over the years to make everything a little more comfortable.
Choose your airline wisely.
It can be tempting to go for whoever has the cheapest flights, but I’ve found that a good airline really can make the difference in your travel experience. And it’s completely worth accumulating frequent flyer points – the benefits are great. When flying domestically in Australia, I choose Virgin, the staff are always friendly and very accommodating. They also provide complimentary tea, coffee and water on all flights which makes a big difference.
Stay fresh – keep your toiletries handy.
Brushing your teeth and hair and giving yourself a spritz with your fave perfume ensures you’re fresh at the end of your flight. Moisturising is essential to help your skin recover from the air-conditioning on the plane. Slip a change of underwear in on long haul flights too!
Pack thoughtfully. Pack lightly – it sounds obvious, but it can still be tempting to take everything you might possibly need. Take travel packs of toiletries and choose outfits that you can mix and match with the same shoes and jacket. If you can manage carry-on only, the process will be a little smoother. Make sure you put items like laptops and a jacket somewhere they can be easily accessed too, in case you need to produce them for security reasons.
Plan well and be on time.
There’s nothing worse than being caught in traffic and late for a flight. Plan to arrive early and sit down for a coffee or to read the paper if you find you have spare time. Travelling can be stressful enough without being caught in a security or bag-drop queue as your flight starts boarding.
On long-haul flights take vitamins (especially vitamin C) with you and drink plenty of water.
The long flight means your body is less able to process toxins (the vitamin C will help) and you’re more likely to pick up nasties floating around! Also, eat minimal food – your body will struggle to digest it properly as it adjusts to a new time zone with little moving around.
Got your own tips or have something to say about Isiah’s? Connect with us, Facebook or tweet @sarahblinco
Late last week I got talking to a lovely young lady who is excited to be heading off on a five week European / UK adventure with her partner at the end of the year. The only downside of this plan is the cost. She and her partner freely admit to being ‘newbies’ when it comes to planning a big, international trip like this, so they trustingly took the word of a travel agent and organised most of the trip via an agency − total spend, already at $20,000 which only covers four weeks travel, flights (return from Australia) and some meals.
While I am one of ‘those people’ who books everything online, I do appreciate travel agents often have access to better deals and inside knowledge, and therefore still do provide a very valuable and hassle-free service. But, the more my new friend talked, the more it seemed that in this instance, she and her partner had been taken advantage of for being a bit naive on this front. She agrees wholeheartedly, and had even done a little research herself when her gut was telling her something wasn’t right, only to discover that various prices had been inflated and unnecessary elements of the trip booked.
In this case, they are going to cut their losses and do their best to save while travelling. She’s more confident on the options to save from now on, as we’ve outlined many ways to cut costs on the road in both the UK and Europe. Inspired by this sticky travel issue though, I wanted to share these seven ways to avoid being ripped off, for beginners at the long haul adventure trip:
1. Get a second opinion. There are plenty of travel agencies out there, each with their own affiliations, and while there’s nothing wrong with that, it is imperative you discover the best deal for your circumstances.
2. Trust your gut. Most of the time you’ll be treated well and fairly (I’ve consistently had excellent experiences with helpful travel agents). If you feel something is wrong though, see point one − seek another opinion and further information. Don’t book until you’re 100% content with the itinerary and that the price is reasonable.
3. DO compare and research. There’s really no excuse not to. Read reviews, search flights, accommodation, tours … there’s a lot of great options out there (bookable from within and outside of your home country) and it’s worthwhile investigating whether you’re actually getting a good deal or not.
4. Ask questions and query costs − don’t just assume somewhere like London, Tokyo or New York, for example, is expensive, just because you’re told it’s so. After a little practice, you’ll discover everywhere is indeed expensive if you’re travelling like a tourist un-armed and unprepared with knowledge; and on the flip side, using a little nouse will take you a long way to travelling really economically without compromising fun.
5. Call out to friends on social media and/or those linked on TripAdvisor. Ask for their tips on what to do, how to get around and any outstanding experiences with accommodation, tour operators, destinations you’re considering and so on.
6. Don’t always feel obliged to eat in a restaurant if you’re on a tour (if it’s not already included in the price you’ve paid). Supermarkets and convenience stores are awesome overseas – cheap, and offering delicious meals and snacks. Stock up where possible; this includes alcohol!
7. Buy clothes for a different climate when you get there. If you’re heading to the UK, Europe or USA from Australia, for example, the climate is totally different, and in Australia you’ll pay a fortune for clothes that might end up sitting in your suitcase because they’re either too warm or not warm enough. Believe me, the last thing you want to be doing is dragging heavy and unnecessary winter clothes around while travelling! And, why would you buy expensive scarves, beanies, hats, jackets at home, when you can buy on your trip (for probably a third of the price)? By buying ‘on the ground’ you’re not only better equipped to find a great deal and buy appropriately for what’s actually happening weather wise, but you get to enjoy the fun of a shopping trip as well! Win-Win. On this note, whatever you do, pack light. Remember, it’s cheap enough to buy toiletries and many basics on the ground, so don’t carry ‘spares’ of everything – it’s inconvenient and you will discover that you won’t use most of it!
Extra info: our top picks for travelling and touring in the UK and Europe
Toiletries and travel essentials: Boots and Superdrug – everywhere in the UK
Warm clothes, essentials and accessories – Primark, UniQlo, H&M (particularly for basics, footwear and warmer thermals), Zara, Accessorize or markets like Camden Markets in London(for scarves, hats, gloves…)
Jackets – if you only need a warm jacket for the duration of your trip, why not score a bargain at thrift stores/pre-loved shops like TRAID or Oxfam in the UK (and you’re helping out charitable organisations as well). You’re sure to find a warm, stylish coat, appropriate for the climate, but at an unbeatable price. If you don’t need the item(s) at home, drop back into a charitable donations box before you leave.
Tours – check out Expat Explore; or consider a cruise – we had a good experience with MSC Cruises
I’ve been practicing meditation for around six months now and openly admit to it changing my life. Not only am I able to better manage stress and outlook on negatives that come my way, but I’m better able to manifest and ponder upon the good things and what I want more of.
You may have noticed too, all of a sudden, meditation, and in particular, ‘mindfulness’, seems to be all around, and for good reason. Many busy and (potentially) stressed executives, business owners and entrepreneurs are (re)discovering meditation in order to achieve balance; and in finding balance they/we can better manage all our endeavours – personal and professional.
But, this post isn’t actually about meditation as such – you can find plenty on the topic all over the internet (and in particular The Huffington Post which is in strong favour of all of this right now). I’ve been utilising a popular APP, Insight Timer, throughout my practice recently. In its primary form it is a ‘timer’ for meditation practice – set the length of time you wish to meditate for and the timer will mark intervals and/or let you know when your time is up. Secondly however, it’s becoming a type of social media where like-minded users can connect. While it’s still quite young (and a little ‘buggy’) and improvements are on the cards no doubt, there are thousands and thousands of people ‘on’ Insight Timer now, and you can see who in the world you’re meditating with simultaneously. Pretty cool, yes? More and more ‘groups’ are being added too, so that either ‘virtual’ or ‘real’ meet-ups are plausible. I’ve just linked in with a UK & Ireland group that I’ll keep an eye on – who knows, I might even be able to link up when I’m over there later in the year.
The other nice thing about this interaction and the types of people using the APP, is the daily dose of inspiration or assistance you can gain from insightful types all over the world. I wanted to share some advice I found useful today – and it wasn’t even in response to any issues I had voiced. In fact, the response was a to a young man who has been through a trauma and is finding it difficult to get back into a positive state of mind. Several of the community jumped in with advice for him, and one person made mention of how often thoughts, or a negative experience, plays over and over in the mind. It’s almost like we’re trying to achieve a different outcome but instead, it’s just torture. Instead of resisting it though, she advised letting it play out, but to make a concious effort to conclude the thought process/pattern with an appreciative or positive thought about the incident – what outcomes are worth being grateful for; what lessons were learned? Evidently this helps with restoring ‘peace of mind’ while letting all sides of the brain have a say, so to speak.
I personally think the tactic is worth trialling; what do you think? If you have any insight, views or opinions on this, please let me know. And if you’re on Insight Timer too, drop me a line on Facebook – I reckon this social network is only in its infancy. Travel Live Learn on Facebook or tweet @sarahblinco
On the weekend we took a day tour / road-trip across the Cairns Highlands in Tropical North Queensland, Australia. One of the highlights was tasting a little selection from Golden Drop Mango Winery (and I mean ‘a little’ as it was only 9am).
You can order online at www.goldendrop.com.au and set yourself up for creating one of these delicious cocktails (more on their website).
Sparkling Mango Cocktail
1.7L mango nectar
1-2 tablespoons Golden Mango Cello
1 1/2 cup frozen mango pulp
750ml Sparkling Mango Wine
In a large jug, combine all ingredients. Add ice and serve immediately before bubbles subside.
Orange Blossom Cocktail
52ml Gin
10ml Mandarin Cello
Dash of Bitters
Tonic Water, Soda or Lemonade (optional, to make a long drink).
Mango Daiquiri
1 small ripe mango
45ml White run, Vodka or Gin (optional)
45ml Golden Mango Cello
Sugar or caster sugar to taste
1/2 cup of ice cubes
15ml lemon or lime juice
Strawberry for garnish
Peel and slice the mango flesh from the stone and place in blender with all ingredients except the strawberry and blend until smooth. Garnish and serve in a chilled glass.
Cairns in Tropical North Queensland is world-famous as being situated on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef, however there are so many amazing things to explore in the region.
In fact, you can experience a ‘snapshot’ of ‘Australia’ all within one easy-to-navigate area of North Queensland: Reef, rainforest and the Outback. Where to start though? My travel and adventure partner, Cooper, and I decided to give a new APP, Taste Paradise a whirl, however we combined a couple of its suggested trails (the Misty Mountain trail and Savannah Tablelands) into one. Hire a car, book a bus or jump on the Skyrail and begin in Kuranda…
You could spend a week cruising through the sublime landscapes of the Cairns Highlands / Atherton Tablelands − rainforest, dusty flat land, coffee plantations, bananas, nuts, citrus fruits, tea, green dairy pastures, mountainous trails, lakes, waterfalls and palm trees − eating and photographing every hour or so. We only had a weekend unfortunately, which was then condensed into a day, however an itinerary of interest which allows a food-loving traveller to not only see, but taste, the best Tropical North Queensland has to offer, could be as follows:
Kuranda Markets – for all your delicious locally grown produce, market-wares, rainforest charm and Golden Drop Mango Wine (also an optional stop available near Mareeba). Open from 9am, 7 days.
Jaques Coffee Plantation – rich history, delicious coffee and an interesting tour. Did you know the family who own this are from Tanzania, and developed the world’s first mechanical coffee harvester! Open 9am to 5pm daily.
Coffee Works, 136 Mason Street, Mareeba, open 9am to 4pm daily, for gourmet coffee, chocolate, liqueur and tea.
Mount Uncle Distillery and Bridges Cafe, on your way out of Mareeba on the way towards Atherton – premium liqueurs and spirits here, as well as a beautiful setting. This is North Queensland’s first and only distillery. Cellar room and tea room open 7 days, 10am to 4:30pm.
If you have time, you might like to take a detour towards Lake Tinaroo, or even stay at this lovely location overnight.
Head into Atherton and visit Gallo Dairyland for delectable product. Their website is really interesting and features great facts about the local dairy industry. Cheese and chocolate on the menu – need I say more?
The famous Nerada Tea plantation is along here too, 10km outside Malanda, open 7 days, 9am to 4pm − ideal for morning or afternoon tea.
You could drop by Malanda Falls for some photos before continuing to Millaa Millaa. The landscapes become markedly hilly and green throughout this region, as you’ve entered the beautiful misty mountains trail and waterfall circuit. Millaa Millaa Falls and lookout are also worthwhile, picturesque stops.
Finally, take a drive down a narrow road towards Mungalli Creek Biodynamic Diary. You could be forgiven for confusing this countryside with the rolling green lands of Ireland, but the Aussie accents and hospitality at this quaint tea-house will have you back in Oz in no time. Enjoy a Devonshire Tea or cheesecake, and don’t leave without purchasing some famous Mungalli Creek gourmet Greek-style yoghurt, soft or hard cheeses. If Gallo Dairyland is about cheese and chocolate, then this spot is about cheese and tea. All good by me!
Then complete your circuit by heading back towards Cairns (about an hour / hour and a half drive back to the city from Mungalli Creek).
Hong Kong is a busy, crazy, colourful, cool city. It’s one of those places where you could discover something brand new every day of a long lifetime spent there. We only had a few days to explore but still managed to squeeze in memorable, highly recommended experiences:
[More travel videos featured on YouTube’s TheSarahBlinco channel]
1. It’s easy and inexpensive to ride a ferry from Hong Kong (Kowloon, in our case) to Macau. This city has become known as ‘Vegas of the East’, and admittedly a vast majority of tourists visit to spend their money at one of the many large and lavish casinos here. I was more interested to venture to the ‘old town’ though, as it’s brimming with beautiful buildings reminiscent of Portuguese rule. It’s also more ‘Chinese’ in this area, with little English spoken, and traditional food and market stalls dotted throughout the narrow, crowded, and often cobbled side-streets.
2. There are plenty of gorgeous rooftop bars in Hong Kong and Kowloon, and although many are expensive, it’s worth finding your way to at least one during the evening to take advantage of what must be one of the most beautiful skylines in the world. Our picks are The Sky Bar, Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers (20 Nathan Road), and the simply stunning Aqua Spirit Bar (acqu.com.hk) across the 29th & 30th floors, (1 Pecking Road, off Canton Road) which is lit only by the Hong Kong city lights outside the venue! More than just a restaurant/bar, this destination is an ‘experience’; may I suggest you also try the Porn Star Martini. Don’t ask, just do it.
3. At 8pm each night of the week, Hong Kong’s extraordinary Symphony of Lights is showcased across the harbour. Whether you’re watching from a rooftop bar, down below on the waterfront or from any number of vantage points around Hong Kong and Kowloon, this show is awesome. A laser light spectacular bouncing through the sky, across the water and between key sky-scrapers of the city. Not to be missed.
4. Shopping, shopping shopping. Sure, there are designer boutiques here by the hundreds, but once you’re done spending large on brand names, bag a bargain at a cool Hong Kong market, like those in Temple Street, Kowloon. You’ll find all manner of useless yet fun items like handbags, laser lights, wigs, clothes, pens, magnets … anything really. It’s like a ‘live’ version of Ebay. Enjoy!
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
TLL SHOP!
Grab our guides for 2025:
Master House Sitting with Our Must-Have 101 Essentials eGuide! Buy It Here
And, 7 Essential Strategies for Maximising Your Use of ChatGPT eBookBuy it here
Also, Visit Our Amazon Storefront! Shop Here!
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Isiah McKimmie is the owner of Passionate Spirit, an online sex therapy and relationship counselling service. She’s based in Queensland but travels inter-state and internationally on a regular basis – for business, study (she’s currently undertaking a Masters in Perth and Brisbane!) and pleasure. TravelLiveLearn.com thought she’d be a perfect candidate for sharing tips on smart travel.
In fact, you can experience a ‘snapshot’ of ‘Australia’ all within one easy-to-navigate area of North Queensland: Reef, rainforest and the Outback. Where to start though? My travel and adventure partner, Cooper, and I decided to give a new APP, 
way towards Atherton – premium liqueurs and spirits here, as well as a beautiful setting. This is North Queensland’s first and only distillery. Cellar room and tea room open 7 days, 10am to 4:30pm.
Finally, take a drive down a narrow road towards 
