We launched the Fairytrail free plan, so be sure to download ASAP. With the free plan, you’ll be able to view 30 profiles per day and make unlimited connections. Try our new plan today.
Community Giveaway
At Fairytrail, we stand for joy, healthy lifestyle, and supportive community. We want to start giving back to our community of 7.6k members on Facebook and Instagram.
We’re still developing the exciting bucket list feature but did you know you can submit ideas to help shape the future of Fairytrail? Vote for your favorite ideas and submit ideas here. For those who want to get involved or volunteer, we’d love to chat– drop us a note at team@fairytrail.app
Fairytrail is often described as Tinder for travelers. However, after 5 years of experimenting in dating and becoming the number one dating app for remote workers, we found that the current dating app concept doesn’t work well because of market dynamics and business incentives (see original thesis).
In this article, we’ll share our findings and our new approach.
Gender imbalance
Despite our focus on remote dating which evens out gender imbalance compared to intra-city dating, there’s still a lot of overall gender imbalance which makes it difficult to match.
Let’s take a look at Monthly Active User gender split on Fairytrail as of Jan 1, 2024
Gender Split For Fairytrail: Friends & Dating For Travelers
Compare this to when we were a travel matching and booking app in 2019 and 2020. The concept was we’d help you find a romantic partner to go on a fun adventure with, then you’d safely book the activity on our platform. Read a review of how it worked. This was our gender ratio.
Gender Split For Fairytrail: Adventure Matching
Note: We pivoted to a traditional dating app for travelers because we couldn’t earn revenue selling adventures during Covid in 2020.
Losing users too quickly
Some users would find their romantic partner in a week, while others would feel demoralized and leave in a week. Businesses are hard with extreme churn. We’d need crazy incoming traffic to support this.
Revenue is tied to keeping users
We didn’t want to offer 3 month, 6 month, or 1 year plans to keep our users on our platform when our purpose was to help people find love quickly. There is a dating app paradox here.
Unhealthy behaviors
When it comes to love, people become a bit crazy. There’s a lot of emotions, hurt feelings, and burnout. This went against our philosophy to improve health and relationships.
When Fairytrail was a friends and dating app, it was hard for people to make friends because there was a dating feel. People couldn’t just connect because they found each other interesting. Even with clear labels it was confusing as people often didn’t even know themselves if they wanted to date or be friends with the other person.
The trail ahead
Our solution is to avoid dating. Instead, just get people connected and out on adventures. Relationships are built through experiences, and our job is to make it safer and more exciting. We’ll realize our mission to improve health by getting people out in the sun, getting fresh air, walking, and deepening connections.
The new version of Fairytrail is all about discovering fun activities and finding people to do it with. Get inspired with fun activities, build your bucket list, and connect with travelers to make your dreams come true. Read about our redesigned adventure matching app here.
We excited to announce a new feature to help you discover inspiring bucket list activities, create your own bucket list, and connect with fellow travelers who share your dreams.
To promote the launch, we’re doing one of the bucket list activities– sail the Greek Islands. We are giving away 5 free spots (3 already filled with influencers with 100k+ followers). If you’re interested in helping us promote our launch, follow us on Instagram @fairytrailapp and comment “bucket list”. Ideally, you should be in the remote work or travel space and have 10k+ followers.
Why we made a social bucket list app
When we go to work and watch Netflix on repeat, it’s easy to forget how beautiful and magical our world is.
The truth is we’re so lucky to be alive and our time on this planet is short. We have a world of incredible experiences just waiting for us. Unfortunately, many of us don’t know where to start and who to do it with.
Our bucket list helps you discover fun things to do, save it to your own list, and connect with people to do it together.
With our social bucket list, you’ll feel grateful to be alive and inspired. You’ll find people who want to join you on your quests and dreams.
How did we get this idea for this?
We discovered Fairytrail members are already making bucket lists– in their head, spreadsheets, Pinterest, notes app. When I heard about their dream activities it blew my mind and got me excited. I wanted to steal their ideas and join them. These activities brought me a sense of excitement and gratitude.
To give you an idea, here’s what some of their bucket list activities include
Shear a sheep
Sail the Greek Islands in a yacht
Fly a Kite at the Cervia International Kite Festival
Gamble at The Venetian Macao in Macao, China
Eat at an Undersea Restaurant Ithaa (Maldivian for ‘pearl’), on the Maldivian island of Rangalifnolhu
Cage-Dive with Crocodiles in Darwin City, Australia
Attend the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain as a Spectator
Drink Beer at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany
Shark diving off the coast of South Africa
Visit Harbin Ice Festival
Kayak in the Bioluminescent Bay of Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Float in the Dead Sea
Move to Peru and run a hostel
Cycle from San Francisco to Los Angeles
Go to the Peruvian Amazon for 8 days with shamans on an Ayahuasva retreat
Do a week long silent meditation retreat in Thailand
Live on a remote Colombian coffee farm
Go on a psychic retreat to an Italian castle in Tuscany
Attend a Taylor Swift concert
Visit Finland to stay in an igloo
Ride the Trans-Siberian Express across Asia
Skydive 1st time
Walk on the Great Wall of China
What is the Greek sailing trip about?
One of the bucket list activities is sailing the Greek Islands, and we wanted to make it come true. The yacht we’re chartering is the Sun Odyssey 440, a French sailboat that was designed by Philippe Briand and winner of World Boat of the Year: Most Innovative and the Family Cruiser European Yacht of the Year.
We’ll be inviting influencers who want to help us promote Fairytrail and experience the dream of sailing in the Mediterranean Sea. We’ll be departing from and returning to D-Marin Gouvia Marina in Corfu.
In return for helping us with promotion, you’ll get a dream adventure island hopping in Greece. Opportunity to shoot amazing footage for yourself. Hang out and promote with other influencers and the Fairytrail & Nomads Insure team. Possible mentions in press coverage.
We’re targeting this trip to happen mid August, 2024.
Thanks for reading! See you on Fairytrail, the magical travel matching & bucket list app.
I’m Taige, founder of Fairytrail, a freemium travel buddy app for remote workers. We launched our new monetization feature a month ago. Shoutout to Mixpanel for their startup friendly free plan.
Key Question
The question was how much of a free trial should we give to users? If we don’t give enough of a trial, people won’t trust us and won’t see value. If we give too much, people may naturally churn and we won’t be able to monetize.
Since we are a startup, user growth is more important than monetization. However, charging can be great for growth. In Elad Gil’s High Growth Handbook, Marc Andreessen says , “Companies that charge more can better fund both their distribution efforts and their ongoing R&D efforts. Charging more is a key lever to be able to grow. And the companies that charge more therefore tend to grow faster.”
Experiment
When we launched the feature, we setup an A/B test to measure
Conversion to paid
Engagement (i.e. matches, chats)
Retention
Quality (e.g. profiles reported)
We split users into two groups: 50% of users were able to send 3 connect requests before we ask them to pay. 50% of users were able to send 30 free connect requests. Note: There’s still a verify with friends option so technically users never have to pay to use this app. They just need to do the work of inviting a remote worker friend to the app to verify them.
Verify Screen
Test Group A : 3 free connects before being asked to verify
Test Group B : 30 free connects before being asked to verify
My hypothesis was that sending 3 connect requests would be enough to build trust with our users and offering more would not help much.
We’d see higher conversion rate to paid. We’d see less engagement due to users being restricted. We’d see a lower retention rate as some users would delete their accounts because of the friction and they have a lower chance to start a chat. We’d see a higher quality user base as paying users are more intentional.
Expected Results
Metric
3 Free Connects
30 Free Connects
Conversion to Paid
Baseline +5%
Baseline
Engagement
Baseline -5%
Baseline
Retention
Baseline -5%
Baseline
Reported Profiles
Baseline -5%
Baseline
Findings
After running our experiment for 30 days, here’s what we found.
Conversion To Paid
3 Free Connects group had a 10% higher conversion rate. Time to convert was 1.5 days instead of 2.6 days. Asking for payment sooner, led to more payment sooner.
Paid Conversion Rate
Engagement
On the other hand, the 30 Free Connects group had a much higher match rate as measured by users having at least one match, 87% vs. 60%. Higher match rate is better!
Match Rate
30 Free Connects group had 7% more engagement events per day per user than the 3 Free Connects group. Higher engagement is good, so that’s another win for 30 free connects.
Daily Avg Events Per User
Retention
Both test groups had a weekly retention of around 70% at the 4 week mark. The 30 Free Connects group had a 5% higher retention after 4 weeks… which could add up. That said, you can already see the 3 Free Connects group retention rate start to flatten out which is exciting for long term retention.
Weekly Retention
Quality
Users in 3 Free Connect Group surprisingly had a higher % of being blocked/reported at least once but this minor and not stat sig.
Actual Results
Metric
3 Free Connects
30 Free Connects
Conversion to Paid (Signed Up to Paid)
+ 26% (+10%)
22%
Engagement ( Daily Core Events / User )
10.6 (-7%)
11.3
Retention (4 weeks)
67% (- 4%)
71%
Reported Profiles (% of profiles blocked/flagged)
0.5% (+0.3%)
0.2%
Conclusion
When we allowed sending only 3 free connect requests, the conversion to paid increased while retention dropped as expected. Since engagement and retention are more important for us than monetization, it makes sense for us to give 30 free connects instead of 3. The tradeoff is worth it as it seems we don’t need to monetize immediately and we haven’t found a good way to use our revenue to grow. We tried some ads and it was $30+ per install.
Another interesting observation is users in the 30 Free Connects group were more willing to subscribe to a premium plan. 4.6% of the 3 Free Connects group were on a premium plan, while the 5.5% of the 30 Free Connects group were on a premium plan.
Perhaps the extra free connects allowed them to trust us more and better understand the value. Perhaps it’s the reciprocity effect.
Tier Distribution
For clarity, free means the user paid $9.99 for a one-time verification (or verified with friends) and is on the free plan. Gated means the user cannot send more connect requests until they verify. Silver and gold mean the user is paying a monthly subscription for a premium plan.
We’ll be doing more fun experiments in the future. Follow me on LinkedIn or Twitter to read the next one.
Colombia has emerged as a top contender in the digital nomad scene, and for good reason. This captivating South American nation boasts everything a remote worker could dream of: breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, friendly locals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. But with so many incredible destinations, choosing the perfect Colombian base for your remote work adventure can be overwhelming. To make this decision easier for you, let’s explore the best places for digital nomads in Colombia, catering to diverse preferences and workstyles.
Before we delve into specific locations, let’s explore what makes Colombia a top contender for digital nomads:
Cost of Living: Compared to Western countries, Colombia offers a significantly lower cost of living. From modern apartments to delicious local eats, you can stretch your travel budget further, allowing you to live comfortably while working remotely.
Infrastructure Essentials: Major cities and popular tourist destinations boast reliable internet connections, crucial for remote work. Additionally, an increasing number of co-working spaces cater to digital nomads, providing dedicated work environments and networking opportunities. Selina, for example, was born in Panama and has a big footprint across Colombia and various countries in Latin America.
Visa Options: Colombia offers a digital nomad visa (Visa V Nómadas Digitales) which grants remote workers permission to stay for up to 2 years. It also gives you a state ID known as ‘Cedula de Extranjeria’ which you’ll need to rent a property and get a phone contract. The visa costs $177 and you only need to earn at least $684 monthly to qualify, which is significantly cheaper than other digital nomad visas around the world (we’re looking at you, Barbados.)
Cultural Tapestry: Colombia boasts a rich cultural heritage with vibrant festivals, mouthwatering cuisine, and historical landmarks. Immersing yourself in the local culture adds an extra layer of richness to your digital nomad experience.
Natural Beauty: Did you know Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world? From the soaring peaks of the Andes to the pristine beaches of the Caribbean coast, Colombia offers an abundance of natural beauty to explore outside of work hours. Whether you crave adventure or relaxation, Colombia’s diverse landscapes will captivate you.
Medellín: The City of Eternal Spring
Best for: City life with a vibrant cultural scene, excellent co-working spaces, and a moderate cost of living.
Medellín, once notorious for its drug cartel activity, has undergone a remarkable transformation and even beat cities like New York and Tel Aviv for its title as Most Innovative City. Today, it’s a dynamic city brimming with innovative energy, a thriving art scene, and a perpetual spring-like climate. For digital nomads seeking a blend of urban excitement and affordability, Medellín is a solid choice.
The city boasts a well-developed infrastructure, with reliable internet connectivity and numerous co-working spaces catering specifically to remote workers. The Poblado neighborhood is a popular choice, offering trendy cafes, modern apartments, and a strong sense of community.
Beyond work, Medellín captivates with its cultural offerings. Explore the colorful Botero Plaza, marvel at the innovative Medellín Metro Cable system, or immerse yourself in the vibrant salsa scene. Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains, Medellin offers easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery. Nature lovers can escape to nearby Parque Arví for hiking and stunning city views.
Bogotá: Colombia’s Bustling Capital
Best for: History buffs, art enthusiasts, access to international flights, and a diverse range of neighborhoods.
Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, pulsates with energy. History buffs will find themselves captivated by La Candelaria, the historic city center, with its colonial architecture and museums. Art lovers can explore world-class galleries, while foodies will delight in the city’s diverse culinary scene. For digital nomads seeking a cosmopolitan experience with a rich cultural tapestry, Bogotá is a perfect choice.
The city boasts excellent internet infrastructure and a good selection of co-working spaces in various neighborhoods. Zona G is a popular choice for digital nomads, offering modern apartments, trendy restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Beyond work, Bogotá offers something for everyone. Explore the vibrant Usaquén flea market for unique souvenirs, hike to the top of Monserrate for breathtaking city views, or visit the renowned Gold Museum to delve into Colombia’s pre-Columbian history.
Cartagena: A Caribbean Paradise
Best for: Beach lovers, history buffs, a slower pace of life, and stunning coastal scenery.
Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating blend of colonial charm and Caribbean flair. Cobblestone streets lined with colorful balconies lead you to historic fortresses and charming plazas. The city’s beaches are perfect for unwinding after a productive workday.
For digital nomads seeking a relaxed coastal retreat with a touch of history, Cartagena offers a unique experience. While internet connectivity might not be quite as robust as in the larger cities, there are co-working spaces available, and many cafes and hotels offer reliable Wi-Fi. The Getsemaní neighborhood is popular with digital nomads, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of accommodation options.
Beyond work, Cartagena beckons with its historical treasures. Explore the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Castle, stroll through the romantic plazas, or take a boat tour to explore the Rosario Islands, a stunning archipelago. In the evenings, savor delicious seafood dishes and soak in the city’s infectious energy.
Santa Marta: Where mountains meet the sea
Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains and bordering the Caribbean Sea, Santa Marta offers a stunning natural backdrop for your remote work adventure. Work from a beachfront cafe with the sound of waves crashing in the background, and explore the nearby Tayrona National Park with its pristine beaches and lush rainforests on your days off.
Salento: Colombia’s Coffee Region
Nestled in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, Salento is a charming, tiny town known for its colorful architecture and breathtaking scenery. Work from a cozy cafe overlooking the valley, and explore nearby coffee plantations, hike through lush rainforests, or visit Cocora Valley with its wax palms towering over 70 metres (200 feet) tall.
No matter where you choose to go in Colombia, remember to download the Fairytrail app to find other digital nomads, remote workers and travel friends.
The allure of Thailand for digital nomads is undeniable. Imagine this: turquoise waters lapping at pristine beaches, vibrant cities buzzing with energy, and delicious street food tantalizing your taste buds – while you try to get to inbox zero with a stunning view. Thailand truly offers the perfect blend of work, play, and affordability, making it a top destination for remote workers and digital nomads worldwide.
But just how many digital nomads are there in Thailand? The answer, like many things in life, isn’t as straightforward as a quick Google search. While there’s no definitive number, we can explore various estimates, analyze trends, and delve into the data about the digital nomad population in Thailand.
Estimating the Digital Nomad Population in Thailand
Pinpointing the exact number of digital nomads in Thailand is a challenge. Many nomads work remotely on tourist visas, making them technically “tourists” rather than officially registered workers. However, various sources provide valuable insights:
Social Media Buzz: Platforms like Instagram paint a vibrant picture. A study by Resume.io analyzing geotagged Instagram posts with the #digitalnomad hashtag placed Thailand as the third-highest country globally, with over 124,729 posts. Bangkok alone boasted an estimated 20,247 #digitalnomad posts.
Nomad Community Growth: Anecdotal evidence from co-working spaces, online forums, and nomad communities points to a significant and ever-growing digital nomad population in Thailand.
Industry Reports: Reports from organizations like MBO Partners estimate that Southeast Asia is home to over 1.7 million remote workers, with Thailand being a major player.
While these figures don’t provide a definitive number, they paint a clear picture: Thailand is a major digital nomad hub, attracting thousands, if not tens of thousands, of remote workers year-round.
Why do Digital Nomads Choose Thailand?
So, what makes Thailand so appealing to digital nomads? Here are some key factors:
Affordability: Thailand offers a relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries. From delicious meals everywhere you go to comfortable accommodation, your budget can stretch further, allowing you to live comfortably while working remotely.
Infrastructure and Connectivity: Major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Koh Lanta boast excellent internet infrastructure, co-working spaces, and cafes with reliable Wi-Fi. Staying connected and productive is a breeze.
Cultural Tapestry: Thailand’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities offer endless opportunities for exploration. From exploring ancient temples to diving in coral reefs, your free time is guaranteed to be an adventure.
Nomad-Friendly Vibe: Thailand has embraced the digital nomad trend. Many co-working spaces cater specifically to remote workers, and the local population is generally welcoming and open to different lifestyles.
Beyond the Numbers: Exploring the Digital Nomad Ecosystem in Thailand
The number of digital nomads in Thailand isn’t just a statistic – it represents a thriving ecosystem. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect:
Co-working Spaces: Major cities boast a diverse range of co-working spaces catering to digital nomads. These spaces offer dedicated work environments, networking opportunities, and a sense of community.
Online Communities: Facebook groups, online forums, and apps like Fairytrail connect digital nomads in Thailand. These platforms provide valuable resources, support, and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals.
Events and Meetups: Thailand’s digital nomad scene is active, with regular events and meetups focused on networking, workshops, and simply socializing with fellow remote workers.
Pro Tip: Use the Fairytrail app to connect with other digital nomads in Thailand before you even arrive. Find co-working spaces, discover hidden nomad hotspots, and start building your remote work network!
Is Thailand Right for You?
Thailand offers a fantastic opportunity for digital nomads seeking a vibrant, affordable, and beautiful location to work remotely. But is it right for you? The decision depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like your budget, preferred work environment, and desired level of cultural immersion.
While Thailand doesn’t currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, there are options for remote workers to stay for extended periods. This includes tourist visas (with limitations on work), mid-term visas, like the Smart Visa, and residence permits like the Long Term Residence Visa (for extended stays).
Bonus Tip: Learn a few basic Thai phrases before you go! It goes a long way in showing respect for the local culture and can enhance your overall experience. And don’t forget to download the Fairytrail app to find other digital nomads, remote workers and travel friends in Thailand and beyond.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the concept of global citizenship is becoming more well-known. More individuals are identifying as global citizens, transcending geographical boundaries and embracing a global identity. An integral part of this global identity is the acquisition of second residencies and citizenships. This article showcases the importance of second residencies and citizenships for global citizens.
Understanding Global Citizenship
Global citizenship is a concept that refers to the idea of an individual identifying as a part of a global community, rather than being solely tied to a specific nation or region. It is about understanding the interconnectedness of the world and acknowledging the shared responsibilities and challenges that come with it.
The Role of Second Residencies and Citizenships
Second residencies and citizenships play a crucial role in shaping the identity of a global citizen. They offer a host of benefits that enhance the global citizen’s ability to navigate the world with ease and flexibility.
Having a second residency or citizenship can provide global citizens with greater freedom of movement, allowing them to travel, live, and work in multiple countries without the need for visas. This can be particularly advantageous for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and individuals who frequently travel for work or leisure.
At Work, Wealth & Travel, we help our clients obtain additional residencies, citizenships, bank accounts abroad and optimize their business to pay low or no tax. It is possible for you, and this lifestyle isn’t only for the ultra-wealthy.
Access to Global Opportunities
Second residencies and citizenships can open up a world of opportunities. They can provide access to better education and healthcare facilities, more favorable business environments, and increased economic stability. This can significantly enhance the quality of life and provide a safety net in times of political or economic instability in the home country.
Enhanced Personal and Financial Security
Second residencies and citizenships can provide enhanced personal and financial security. They serve as a safety net, offering protection in times of political unrest, economic instability, or personal threats in the home country.
From a financial perspective, they can provide access to more robust banking systems, better investment opportunities, and favorable tax regimes. This can help global citizens to diversify their wealth and protect their financial assets.
Acquiring Second Residencies and Citizenships
There are several ways to acquire second residencies and citizenships. Some countries offer residency or citizenship in exchange for investment in the country’s economy, also known as economic citizenship. This can involve investing in real estate, business ventures, or government bonds.
Other countries offer residency or citizenship based on ancestry or descent, marriage, or naturalization after a certain period of legal residence. The process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring a thorough understanding of the immigration laws and regulations of the host country. If you are interested in obtaining a second residency or citizenship, reach out to us here.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
While acquiring second residencies and citizenships can offer numerous benefits, it is important to consider the legal and ethical implications. It is important to ensure that the process is carried out legally and ethically, respecting the laws and regulations of both the home and host countries.
It is also important to consider the potential implications of your tax obligations, as acquiring a second residency or citizenship can often complicate tax matters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, second residencies and citizenships play a vital role in the life of a global citizen. They offer a host of benefits, from increased freedom of movement and access to global opportunities to enhanced personal and financial security.
However, acquiring a second residency or citizenship is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. It is important to understand the legal and ethical implications and to seek professional advice to navigate the process effectively.
Reach out to us if you need assistance, planning, or support in your global citizen journey.
Craving a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure for your next remote work stint? Look no further than Morocco, the captivating kingdom nestled at the crossroads of Africa and Europe. From bustling medinas to windswept deserts and snow-capped mountains, Morocco offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that will leave you breathless – both literally (those climbs can be steep!) and figuratively.
But is Morocco just a long vacation destination, or can it be your next digital nomad location? In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about working remotely in this enchanting land, from visa options and internet connectivity to the best co-working spaces and hidden nomad gems.
Why Morocco for digital nomads?
Morocco’s allure for digital nomads is undeniable. Here’s a taste of what awaits:
Affordability: Living in Morocco is generally much cheaper than in Western countries. Think delicious street food for a few dollars, charming riads (traditional Moroccan guesthouses) at reasonable rates, and a lower cost of living overall. This frees up your budget to explore more, indulge in local experiences, or simply save for your next adventure.
A Cultural Feast: Morocco boasts a rich history that blends Berber, Arabic, and European influences. Immerse yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of ancient medinas, marvel at stunning mosques, and experience the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. Your lunchtime break could involve sipping mint tea in a bustling market or getting lost in the vibrant colors of a traditional rug shop.
City Buzz or Desert Tranquility? You Choose: Morocco offers a diverse landscape, from the bustling energy of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert. Craving city life? Marrakech or Casablanca will keep you entertained with their museums, cafes, and lively nightlife. Yearning for peace and quiet? Set up your workstation in a charming coastal town like Essaouira or head to the desert for an unforgettable stargazing session.
Foodie Paradise: Moroccan cuisine is a fragrant explosion of spices, fresh ingredients, and heartwarming dishes. Sample savory tagines, indulge in fluffy couscous, and don’t miss the national dish, pastilla – a flaky pastry filled with savory ingredients. Working remotely has never been so delicious!
Working in Morocco: Visas and Legalities
First things first: the nitty-gritty of staying legal. While Morocco doesn’t currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, there are options for remote workers who want to extend their stay:
Tourist Visa: This allows a stay of up to three months, but working remotely is technically not permitted. However, some digital nomads manage short-term stays with this option.
Long-Term Visa: This visa type allows for a stay of up to one year and can be renewed. It requires more paperwork but offers greater flexibility for remote work.
Residence Permit: This is the most secure option for extended stays, but it’s also the most involved process. Consult with immigration authorities for specifics.
Pro Tip: Always check the latest visa requirements with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your home country.
Staying Connected: The Wi-Fi Situation
Morocco’s internet infrastructure is constantly evolving. Most cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer Wi-Fi, but the quality can vary. For reliable connectivity, consider:
Co-working spaces: Major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca boast modern co-working spaces with excellent internet speeds and dedicated work environments.
Mobile data: Local SIM cards or E-SIMs are relatively affordable and offer decent mobile data coverage. Opt for a plan with a good data allowance.
Accommodation with dedicated internet: Some apartments and riads offer dedicated internet connections, perfect for uninterrupted work sessions.
Remember, even the best internet connections can be affected by weather or location. Always have a backup plan, like finding a nearby cafe with Wi-Fi, in case of connectivity issues.
The best places to work remotely in Morocco for digital nomads
Morocco offers a diverse range of locations, each catering to different nomad preferences:
Bustling Cities: Marrakech and Casablanca, Morocco’s economic hubs, offer a vibrant mix of cafes, co-working spaces, and cultural experiences. Perfect for those who crave city life with a touch of the exotic.
Beachside Paradises: Essaouira and Taghazout are havens for surfers and beach lovers. Imagine working with the sound of waves crashing in the background – pure bliss!
Mountain Retreats: Imouzzer and Chefchaouen (the “Blue Pearl”) offer breathtaking mountain scenery and a slower pace of life. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and nature immersion.
Smaller towns like Ouarzazate, known as “Hollywood of Morocco,” offer a unique charm and a glimpse into local life, along with surprisingly good internet connectivity.
After hours: Unveiling Morocco’s enchanting culture
Morocco’s magic extends far beyond a reliable internet connection. Here are some experiences that will enrich your remote work adventure:
Explore the Medinas: Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleyways of traditional medinas, brimming with colorful shops, bustling markets, and hidden gems.
Savor the Cuisine: Indulge in the aromatic world of Moroccan cuisine – tagines, couscous, and fresh seafood will tantalize your taste buds.
Embrace the Desert: Embark on a camel trek through the vast Sahara desert, a truly unforgettable experience under a star-studded sky.
Hike the Atlas Mountains: Challenge yourself with breathtaking hikes through the majestic Atlas Mountains and discover hidden waterfalls and Berber villages.
Tip: Learning a few basic Arabic phrases will go a long way in connecting with locals and enriching your experience. Moroccans are known for their hospitality, so don’t be shy to strike up conversations and learn about their culture.
Beyond the basics: Essential tips for exploring Morocco as a digital nomad
Now that we’ve covered the essentials, here are some bonus tips to make your Moroccan adventure smooth sailing:
Embrace the Local Pace: Things tend to move at a slower pace in Morocco. Be patient, learn a few basic phrases in Arabic (Darija is the Moroccan dialect), and embrace the laid-back atmosphere.
Bargaining is an Art: Haggling is a common practice in Moroccan markets. Do your research on typical prices beforehand, have fun with the negotiation process, and be prepared to walk away if you don’t reach a fair price.
Dress Modestly: Morocco is a Muslim country. While you don’t need to cover yourself head-to-toe, dressing modestly will show respect.
Pro Tip: Utilize the Fairytrail app to connect with other digital nomads in Morocco and discover hidden co-working spots and nomad-friendly cafes! At Fairytrail, we’re all about building a supportive community of digital nomads. Download the app to connect with other digital nomads, remote workers and travel buddies in Morocco and discover hidden co-working spots and nomad-friendly cafes!
Sun-kissed beaches, turquoise lagoons, epic hikes and a (free of charge) digital nomad visa (the Premium Travel Visa) – Mauritius sounds like a digital nomad paradise, right? But Mauritius is more than just a postcard-perfect paradise. This culturally rich island boasts a fascinating history, a delicious fusion cuisine, and friendly locals. Whether you crave adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a chance to unwind and recharge, Mauritius has something for every kind of digital nomad.
But between packing your flip flops and booking your flight, a crucial question pops up: What about healthcare? 🩺 Fear not, fellow adventurers. We’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of medical care in Mauritius, so you can focus on catching the rays, climbing the mountains and tasting the local cuisine.
Does Mauritius have free healthcare?
Mauritius does boast a universal healthcare system for its residents. That means free checkups, consultations with GPs, and even medication for certain conditions. Sounds pretty sweet, right? Here’s the catch: this perk is primarily for citizens and permanent residents. As a digital nomad, you won’t qualify as a resident unless you go through the official residency process, which takes time and might not align with your nomadic goals.
What about healthcare for digital nomads in Mauritius?
The public healthcare system in Mauritius is still accessible to you as a digital nomad, just not for free. Costs can vary depending on the situation, but generally, expect to pay for doctor visits, medications, and procedures. The public system is known for being well-equipped and staffed by qualified professionals. However, waiting times can be long, especially for non-emergency situations.
As a digital nomad with the Premium Visa, according to the visa requirements, you are required to have “sufficient travel and health insurance for the initial period of your stay.” With this in mind, there are a couple of options for you to choose from:
Private Medical Insurance: This is the most common route for digital nomads in Mauritius. Plans vary, but most cover doctor visits, medications, and even hospital stays in case of emergencies. Pro tip: Look for plans specifically designed for digital nomads – they often cater to your adventurous lifestyle, hobbies and global travels.
Travel Insurance: This is a great option if you’re planning a shorter stay in Mauritius. Travel insurance typically covers unexpected medical emergencies that might arise during your trip. However, it might not be as comprehensive as private health insurance.
So, how much does healthcare for digital nomads in Mauritius cost?
The cost of private medical insurance depends on factors like your age, health status, and the level of coverage you choose. But generally, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per month. Travel insurance can also vary in price depending on the length of your trip and the level of coverage.
Staying healthy in Mauritius
Here are some extra pointers to keep your island adventure worry-free:
Be Prepared for Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even with travel insurance, there might be deductibles or situations not covered. Plan to have some emergency funds set aside to handle any unexpected medical expenses.
Pack a Basic First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor cuts, scrapes, and upset stomachs.
Bring Your Usual Medications: Stock up on any prescriptions you might need, as some medications might not be readily available in Mauritius.
Research Hospitals and Clinics: Locate reputable private hospitals and clinics near your accommodation before you arrive. Many have websites with English information.
Download a Translation App: This can come in handy if you need to communicate with a doctor who doesn’t speak English.
Stay Active and Eat Healthy: Prevention is always better than cure. Stay active, eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, and keep hydrated.
Remember: A little planning goes a long way. By understanding your healthcare options as a digital nomad and taking some precautions, you can ensure your Mauritian adventure is filled with fun and sun, not medical woes.
Here at Fairytrail, we’re all about building a supportive community of digital nomads. While we can’t diagnose your earache or prescribe medication, we can connect you with fellow digital nomads, remote workers and travel buddies who might have experience with the healthcare system in Mauritius.
Download the app to find other digital nomads, remote workers and travel buddies to enjoy Mauritius with.
Did you know that 60% of gap year travelers find a travel buddy?
Embarking on a gap year is a chance to explore new landscapes, cultures, and work opportunities. Whether you dream of teaching English in Asia, working as an au pair in the USA or Europe, or working on an organic farm in South America, having a partner can enrich your journey.
Imagine celebrating breathtaking sunsets, overcoming language barriers together, and building relationships that will last a lifetime. While solo travel offers its own rewards, having someone by your side can double your fun, boost your safety, and help you navigate unexpected challenges. Sharing your adventure with the right person can make it truly unforgettable.
Tips on Finding a Gap Year Partner
1. Attend Gap Year Fairs and Events: These events are excellent opportunities to meet like-minded individuals who are also planning their gap year adventures. Engage in conversations, exchange contact information, and explore potential partnerships.
2. Join Online Communities: Participate in online forums, social media groups, and gap year platforms where travelers share their experiences, seek advice, and connect with others. You may find compatible partners who share your interests and goals.
For example, Fairytrail is a matching app for location flexible people. You can search for people doing a gap year and chat with them.
3. Reach Out to Your Network: Tap into your personal network, including friends, family, classmates, and colleagues, to inquire if anyone is interested in joining you on your gap year adventure. You may be surprised to find a compatible partner among your existing connections.
Finding the perfect partner for your gap year journey requires careful consideration, open communication, and a spirit of adventure. By networking and communicating effectively, you can find a companion who shares your passion for exploration and growth. Whether you embark on this journey with a close friend, a romantic partner, or a newfound acquaintance, the experiences and memories you create together will last a lifetime. So, embrace the adventure and find your ideal partner to embark on the journey of a lifetime.
Fairytrail is redesigned for finding nomadic friends and adventures worldwide!
For those interested in our journey, please read on. Or skip to the bottom to see what’s new.
How It Began
My name is Taige, a product manager living in San Francisco at the time. Many of my friends complained they don’t travel because they don’t have anyone to travel with, so they’d stay home and Netflix.
I’ve spent most of my career in marketplaces and built a couple apps before, so I thought it’d be fun to build a marketplace where people could match on adventures. Airbnb had recently launched Airbnb Adventures so there was existing inventory. We just had to connect those who were interested in the same activities. In the winter of 2019, we launched Fairytrail to help people match on adventures by Airbnb, GetYourGuide, and Viator.
We launched by posting in a few travel Facebook groups and saw some strong interest.
We had thousands of users and even started to get bookings!
As we were preparing to fundraise, Covid hit and our commission-based travel booking business model fell apart because people couldn’t travel anymore.
Instead of shutting it down completely, we made a pivot to become a friends and dating app because the vast majority of our members were single remote workers. The team disbanded, and I joined Indeed’s Incubator team. In the meantime, Fairytrail continued to grow.
Today, the Fairytrail community counts over 50,000 members and is the world’s largest social app for nomads.
Why We’re Building Again
I had considered other startup ideas during my time away from building Fairytrail. However, what drew me back to Fairytrail importance of the problem and our thousands of users.
Meaningful Work
It’s not easy out there, especially for people who aren’t always in one place. There’s a perspicuous lack of support and community for remote workers, nomads, and travelers. Having moved around a lot growing up and now a remote worker, I deeply understand the challenges and want to address the problem of loneliness.
There’s a Chinese proverb that says “happiness is doubled when shared. Sadness is halved.” Strong, supportive relationships are one of the biggest factors for wellbeing, and there’s nothing more meaningful to me than helping people find happiness through great relationships.
Strong Demand
I receive daily emails about app issues, which I take as a positive sign. It shows users are engaged and care enough to provide feedback. This motivated me to keep going.
Our Research
As I worked on a refresh of the app, it was clear users felt more strongly about making connections rather than discovering/booking adventures.
Members were split on how they used Fairytrail. About 50% were using it for finding travel buddies and 50% were using it for short term and long term relationships.
Knowing the app brings hope in dark times is truly touching.
What’s New
Fairytrail members inspired us to completely redesign the app with a focus on making connections and chatting. Here’s what you can expect.
Nomad specific features
Unique tools to help you meet fellow explorers. Profiles now display your nationality and mobility, whether hybrid or fully remote. To make it easier to plan meetups, you can now search users by their upcoming destinations.
Better user experience
No more adventure matching and other steps that create friction. Now, it only takes 1 minute to sign up and start connecting.
Solo travelers, couples, or families
You can now create an account for yourself, you and a partner, or even your entire family. Choose to match with other solo travelers, couples, or nomad families.
Real profiles
99.99% of Fairytrail users are real people. Our fraud detection, human moderators, and verification system help ensure a high quality environment and safety.
Free plan
Use Fairytrail for free after verification. Power users can opt for a silver or gold plan for a premium experience.
No more bugs
Completely rebuilt app. No more broken push notifications, payment errors, and photos not uploading.
Get The New App
The new Fairytrail app is now available in the App Store and Play Store. Existing users just need to update the app and log in. If you forgot your password or never created one, simply reset your password.
Thanks again for believing in us and your support.
Imagine you’re cozied up with your laptop, taking in the breathtaking views of Venice’s romantic canals or any other stunning Italian spot. Italy has opened its doors to remote workers like you, recognizing the shift in how we work and inviting digital nomads to soak in the country’s beauty while still clocking in online.
But hold your horses before you start packing your bags for the Italian adventure! Getting the digital nomad visa isn’t as simple as snapping your fingers. So, what’s the scoop on Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa? First off, you gotta be a non-EU citizen chilling outside of the European Union.
This visa is tailor-made for skilled remote workers, whether you’re a tech whiz or a savvy entrepreneur, hustling for clients or a company based outside Italy. Now, let’s talk money. You’ll need to show you’re financially stable, flaunting a monthly income of at least €2,335, keeping in line with Italy’s wage standards.
Oh, and don’t forget your health insurance! It’s gotta cover you while you’re living it up in Italy. And of course, no shady business allowed – a squeaky-clean criminal record is a must.
Sure, the idea of working from Italy’s cultural paradise is tempting, but getting that visa? It’s a bit like mastering Grandma’s secret recipe – it takes some serious prep and attention to detail.
Italy Adventure
How much does Italy’s “digital nomad visa” cost?
Right now, we don’t have an exact answer on how much Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa will cost. However, here’s a breakdown based on what we know.
Application fee: You’ll need to pay a standard processing fee when you apply. This fee is usually around $125, similar to other Italian visa fees.
Residence permit fee: If your application is approved, there might be an extra fee for getting your residence permit.
Administrative fee: You might also need to cover costs for translating documents, getting them notarized, and sending your application.
Documents required for Applying for Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa:
To apply for Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need.
Passport-sized photos: You’ll need two recent, color passport-sized photos that meet specific size and quality standards.
Proof of income: Provide bank statements, tax returns, or other documents showing you make at least €28,000 a year.
Health Insurance: You’ll need comprehensive health insurance that’s valid in Italy for your whole stay.
Proof of accommodation: Show a rental agreement, hotel reservation, or other proof that you have a place to stay in Italy.
Criminal background check: You might need to provide a clean criminal record certificate from your home country or where you live.
Social security rules
For digital nomads or remote workers holding visas and subject to the social security laws of a country outside the EU, the rules outlined in the bilateral social security agreements between Italy and that specific country will be followed. If there are no such agreements in place, the social security and insurance regulations outlined in Italian law will be applied, taking into account the duration of the residence permit. Additionally, digital nomads and remote workers will receive a tax identification number directly from the police headquarters. Digital nomads will also need to open a VAT number.
Another Italy’s clever idea to grow
Loved the way Italy is making efforts to grow. Last effort was a success for them when some of its towns were feeling a bit empty because not many people live there anymore.
So, to help these towns grow again, the Italian Government came up with a clever idea! They decided to offer their old, empty homes for just one euro to people from other countries. These homes might need some fixing up, but it’s a great opportunity for folks who want to move to Italy and help make these towns lively again! And you know what? Lots of people from other countries thought it was a fantastic idea and took up the offer to become part of these communities. It’s like giving these towns a big hug and saying, “We’re here to help you grow.
Conclusion
While the allure of working in Italy’s cultural richness is undeniable, navigating the visa process requires thorough preparation and attention to detail. So, if you’re ready to begin on this journey, make sure you meet the criteria and embrace the opportunity to experience Italy’s charm while pursuing your career goals.
ENFJs (Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) are a personality type that comprises about 2-3% of the population. They are known for their charisma, empathy, and desire to help others. When it comes to planning a vacation, ENFJs may prefer destinations and activities that allow them to connect with others and make a positive impact. Let’s explore several vacation ideas that may be particularly suitable for ENFJs.
Group travel: ENFJs are social and outgoing individuals who enjoy interacting with others and participating in group activities. Group travel can be a great way for ENFJs to meet new people and participate in social experiences. Consider booking a group tour or group vacation package that focuses on activities that interest you, such as cultural experiences, adventure sports, or beach vacations.
Cultural and educational experiences: ENFJs are curious and open-minded individuals who enjoy learning about new cultures and ideas. A vacation that involves cultural or educational experiences can be particularly rewarding for ENFJs. Some ideas might include a city break to explore historical sites, museums, and art galleries; a wine tour or culinary holiday to learn about different wines or foods; or a language learning holiday to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn a new language.
Volunteering holidays: ENFJs are known for their desire to help others and make a positive impact, and a volunteering holiday can allow them to do just that. Consider looking for opportunities to work with local organizations or communities in a destination that interests you. This can be a rewarding and enriching experience that allows you to make a difference while also experiencing a new culture.
Wellness retreats: ENFJs may also appreciate a vacation that allows them to focus on self-care and personal growth. Consider booking a wellness retreat, where you can participate in activities such as yoga, meditation, and therapy, and focus on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Beach holidays: ENFJs may also enjoy a beach holiday, where they can relax and recharge by the ocean or pool and participate in water sports and other activities. Look for destinations that offer a variety of social and recreational activities, such as beach bars and restaurants, water sports, and local events and festivals.
No matter which vacation you choose, it is important to remember that the most important thing is to choose a destination and activities that align with your interests and preferences. By considering your unique personality traits, you can plan the perfect vacation that allows you to relax, connect with others, and make a positive impact.
In addition to the above vacation ideas, there are a few general tips that can help ENFJs make the most of their travels:
Plan ahead: ENFJs tend to be organized and detail-oriented, and they may prefer to plan their vacations in advance to ensure that they make the most of their time away. Consider researching destinations and activities ahead of time and creating a detailed plan for your trip.
Be open to new experiences: ENFJs are open-minded and adaptable individuals who enjoy trying new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new activities or destinations that you may not have considered before.
Connect with locals: ENFJs are naturally empathetic and sociable, and they may enjoy interacting with locals and learning about their cultures and traditions. Consider seeking out opportunities to connect with locals, such as through guided tours or volunteer work, or by simply striking up conversations with people you meet along the way.
Take time to relax: While ENFJs may enjoy socializing and participating in activities, it is important to also take time to relax and recharge. Consider building some downtime into your vacation itinerary and make sure to set aside time for self-care and relaxation. This could include activities such as reading, meditating, or practicing yoga.
Be open to last-minute changes: ENFJs are adaptable individuals who can roll with the punches, and they may be open to making last-minute changes to their vacation plans. If an opportunity arises to change your itinerary or try something new, consider being open to it and going with the flow.
Overall, ENFJs are likely to enjoy vacations that allow them to connect with others, participate in social and cultural experiences, and make a positive impact. By considering these preferences and personality traits, ENFJs can plan a vacation that is rewarding, enriching, and enjoyable.
It is worth noting that these vacation ideas and tips are generalizations and may not apply to every ENFJ. It is important to remember that everyone is unique and may have different preferences and needs when it comes to travel. The most important thing is to choose a destination and activities that align with your interests and preferences, and to be open to trying new things and going with the flow.
In addition to the above vacation ideas, there are a few other things that ENFJs may want to consider when planning a trip:
Accommodation: ENFJs may prefer accommodation options that allow them to socialize and connect with others, such as shared vacation rentals or hostels. Alternatively, they may prefer more private and luxurious accommodation options, such as hotels or resorts, where they can relax and recharge in style.
Travel companions: ENFJs may prefer to travel with a group of friends or family, or they may enjoy the independence of solo travel. Consider what type of travel companion (or companions) would best suit your needs and preferences.
Budget: ENFJs may be willing to splurge on a luxurious vacation or may prefer to stick to a more modest budget. Consider what type of vacation aligns with your financial goals and constraints.
Length of trip: ENFJs may prefer longer vacations that allow them to fully immerse themselves in their destination, or they may prefer shorter trips that allow them to experience a variety of different places. Consider what type of trip best suits your needs and preferences.
By considering these factors and your unique personality traits, ENFJs can plan a vacation that is tailored to their needs and preferences and allows them to relax, connect with others, and make a positive impact. Happy travels!
If you’re looking to travel, you can use Fairytrail to find adventures, friends, and even a life partner. Campfire is a community for digital nomads, world citizens, and world explorers. The picture at the top is courtesy of @skipwithgrace.
ENTJs are natural leaders and enjoy new challenges and experiences that allow them to step out of their comfort zone and push themselves. For those with the ENTJ personality type, it can be especially important to find a holiday that aligns with their strong-willed and ambitious nature.
With this in mind, here are a few holiday ideas that may be particularly suitable for ENTJs.
Adventure and Exploration
ENTJs are naturally adventurous and thrive on new challenges and experiences. A holiday that allows for adventure and exploration can be a perfect fit for this personality type. This could be a holiday centered on activities such as hiking, rafting, or skydiving, or simply a holiday spent exploring a new and unfamiliar destination.
Some ideas for adventure and exploration holidays might include:
A backpacking trip through a remote and untamed region
A rafting or kayaking holiday on a wild and scenic river
A skydiving or bungee jumping holiday for those who love to push the limits
Cultural Immersion
ENTJs are also known for their curiosity and desire to learn about new cultures and ways of life. A holiday that allows for cultural immersion, such as a homestay or volunteer vacation, can be a great way for ENTJs to delve into a new culture and gain a deeper understanding of its people and traditions.
Some options for cultural immersion holidays might include:
A homestay in a foreign country, where you can live with a local family and learn about their daily life and customs
A volunteer vacation, where you can give back to a community while also learning about its culture and way of life
A language learning holiday, where you can immerse yourself in a new language and culture while also improving your communication skills
Leadership and Personal Development
ENTJs are natural leaders and are always looking for opportunities to improve and grow. A holiday that allows for leadership and personal development can be a great fit for this personality type. This could be a holiday centered on activities such as leadership training or executive coaching, or simply a holiday spent in a beautiful and inspiring setting where you can reflect and plan for the future.
Some ideas for leadership and personal development holidays might include:
A leadership retreat, where you can work with a coach or mentor to develop your leadership skills and vision
A personal development retreat, where you can focus on your own growth and well-being in a peaceful and inspiring setting
A business retreat, where you can brainstorm and plan for the future with like-minded individuals in a beautiful setting
Luxury and Pampering
ENTJs work hard and deserve to be rewarded for their efforts. A luxury holiday that allows for relaxation and pampering can be a great way for ENTJs to recharge their batteries and indulge their senses. This could be a holiday centered on activities such as spa treatments, fine dining, and luxury accommodations, or simply a holiday spent in a beautiful and luxurious setting where you can relax and unwind.
Some ideas for luxury and pampering holidays might include:
A spa holiday, where you can indulge in a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments
A luxury cruise, where you can enjoy fine dining, entertainment, and luxurious accommodations while exploring exotic destinations
A beach holiday at a luxury resort, where you can relax by the water and enjoy first-class amenities and services
Conclusion
No matter what type of holiday you are looking for, as an ENTJ, it is important to find a holiday that aligns with your interests and personality. Whether you prefer adventure and exploration, cultural immersion, leadership and personal development, or luxury and pampering, there is a holiday that will suit your needs.
It is also important to remember that holidays are a time for relaxation and rejuvenation, so be sure to make time for self-care and rest as well. Whether it’s indulging in a spa treatment, practicing yoga or meditation, or simply taking a break from technology and the daily grind, make sure to carve out time for yourself and your own well-being during your holiday.
So if you’re an ENTJ looking for the perfect holiday, consider one of these options or come up with your own ideas that align with your interests and personality. Happy travels!
If you’re looking to travel, you can use Fairytrail to find adventures, friends, and even a life partner. Campfire is a community for digital nomads, world citizens, and world explorers. The picture at the top is courtesy of @skipwithgrace.
Holidays are a time for relaxation, rejuvenation, and disconnecting from the daily grind. For those with the INTP personality type, it can be especially important to find a holiday that aligns with their introspective and analytical nature. INTPs tend to enjoy solitude and intellectual pursuits, and are always looking for new experiences and ways to stimulate their minds.
With this in mind, here are a few holiday ideas that may be particularly suitable for INTPs:
Cultural Immersion
INTPs are naturally curious and love to learn about new cultures and ways of life. A holiday that allows for cultural immersion, such as a homestay or volunteer vacation, can be a perfect way for INTPs to dive into a new culture and gain a deeper understanding of its people and traditions.
Some options for cultural immersion holidays might include:
A homestay in a foreign country, where you can live with a local family and learn about their daily life and customs
A volunteer vacation, where you can give back to a community while also learning about its culture and way of life
A language learning holiday, where you can immerse yourself in a new language and culture while also improving your communication skills
Solo Adventure
INTPs are independent and enjoy time to themselves, so a solo adventure holiday can be a great way to indulge their need for solitude while also satisfying their desire for new experiences.
There are many options for solo adventure holidays, ranging from backpacking trips to cycling tours to solo cruises. Whatever your interests and budget, there is likely a solo adventure holiday that will suit you.
Some things to consider when planning a solo adventure holiday include:
Safety: Make sure to research the safety of the destination and take any necessary precautions, such as purchasing travel insurance and familiarizing yourself with local customs and laws.
Comfort level: Consider your own comfort level with solo travel, as well as any specific needs or concerns you may have. For example, if you are not comfortable with the idea of staying in a hostel, you may want to opt for a more private accommodation option.
Intellectual Pursuits
INTPs love to learn and engage with new ideas, and a holiday that allows for intellectual pursuits can be a perfect fit. This could be a holiday that focuses on a specific topic or subject, such as a writing retreat or a history tour, or a holiday that simply allows for plenty of time to read, write, and think.
Some ideas for holidays centered on intellectual pursuits might include:
A writing retreat, where you can focus on your own writing projects in a peaceful and inspiring setting
A history tour, where you can delve into the rich past of a specific region or country
A book club holiday, where you can discuss literature with like-minded individuals in a beautiful setting
Nature and Outdoor Pursuits
INTPs may appreciate a holiday that allows them to reconnect with nature and engage in outdoor pursuits. This could be a holiday centered on hiking, camping, or birdwatching, or simply a holiday spent in a beautiful natural setting where you can relax and unwind.
Some options for nature and outdoor holidays might include:
A hiking or camping trip, where you can explore the great outdoors and disconnect from technology and the daily grind
A birdwatching holiday, where you can observe and learn about different species of birds in their natural habitats
A beach holiday, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast
Conclusion
No matter what type of holiday you are looking for, as an INTP, it is important to find a holiday that aligns with your interests and personality. Whether you prefer cultural immersion, solo adventures, intellectual pursuits, or nature and outdoor activities, there is a holiday that will suit your needs.
It is also important to remember that holidays are a time for relaxation and rejuvenation, so be sure to make time for self-care and rest as well. Whether it’s taking a long walk in nature, indulging in a spa treatment, or simply curling up with a good book, make sure to carve out time for yourself and your own well-being during your holiday.
So if you’re an INTP looking for the perfect holiday, consider one of these options or come up with your own ideas that align with your interests and personality. Happy travels!
If you’re looking to travel, you can use Fairytrail to find adventures, friends, and even a life partner. Campfire is a community for digital nomads, world citizens, and world explorers. The picture at the top is courtesy of @skipwithgrace.
INTJs (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging) are a rare personality type that comprises only about 2% of the population. They are known for their intelligence, independence, and strategic thinking. When it comes to planning a holiday, INTJs may prefer destinations and activities that stimulate their minds and allow them to engage in meaningful experiences.
If you are an INTJ, you may be interested in the following holiday ideas:
Cultural and educational experiences: INTJs tend to be curious and analytical individuals who enjoy learning about new cultures and ideas. A holiday that involves cultural or educational experiences can be particularly rewarding for INTJs. Some ideas might include a city break to explore historical sites, museums, and art galleries; a wine tour or culinary holiday to learn about different wines or foods; or a language learning holiday to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn a new language.
Adventure and nature: INTJs may also enjoy activities that challenge their minds and bodies and allow them to explore new environments. A holiday that involves adventure and nature can be a great way to satisfy this desire. Some ideas might include a safari or wildlife tour to observe different animals and ecosystems; a mountain or countryside retreat to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or biking; or a scuba diving or snorkeling holiday to explore the underwater world.
Solo travel: INTJs are independent and self-sufficient individuals who may prefer to travel alone. Solo travel can allow INTJs to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings and follow their own interests and schedule. Some ideas for solo travel might include a beach holiday to relax and recharge; a spa holiday to focus on self-care and rejuvenation; or a cruise, where you can have your own private cabin and enjoy solo activities such as reading or watching movies.
Creative pursuits: INTJs are known for their creativity and innovative thinking, and they may enjoy activities that allow them to express their artistic side. A holiday that involves creative pursuits can be a great way for INTJs to relax and recharge while also stimulating their minds. Some ideas might include a painting or photography holiday to create new works of art; a writing retreat to work on a creative project; or a music or dance holiday to learn a new skill or hobby.
No matter which holiday you choose, it is important to remember that the most important thing is to choose a destination and activities that align with your interests and preferences. By considering your unique personality traits, you can plan the perfect holiday that allows you to relax, learn, and enjoy your time away.
If you’re looking to travel, you can use Fairytrail to find adventures, friends, and even a life partner. Campfire is a community for digital nomads, world citizens, and world explorers. The picture at the top is courtesy of @skipwithgrace.
Personality types can have a significant impact on an individual’s preferences and behaviors, including their choice of holiday destination and activities. Understanding these personality differences can help individuals and couples plan the perfect vacation that aligns with their unique characteristics and interests. Let’s explore four major personality types and suggest some holiday ideas that may be most suitable for each.
The Extrovert: Extroverts are social and outgoing individuals who thrive on interactions with others. They are energized by being around people and enjoy activities that involve crowds or group participation. For extroverts, a holiday that involves socializing and meeting new people may be the most enjoyable.
Some holiday ideas for extroverts might include:
A group tour or group vacation package, where you can meet and socialize with other travelers
A beach holiday, where you can participate in water sports and meet other travelers at beach bars and restaurants
A city break or cultural holiday, where you can explore the local sights and sounds and interact with locals and other travelers
A music festival or sporting event, where you can enjoy live entertainment and mingle with other fans
Travel tips for extroverts: If you are an extrovert, you are likely a social and outgoing individual who thrives on interactions with others. When traveling, you may enjoy meeting new people and participating in group activities.
Consider group travel: Group tours or group vacation packages can be a great way to meet new people and participate in social activities. Look for tours or packages that focus on activities that interest you, such as adventure, cultural experiences, or beach vacations.
Seek out social activities: Look for destinations and activities that allow you to socialize and meet new people. This could include beach holidays, where you can participate in water sports and meet other travelers at beach bars and restaurants; city breaks or cultural holidays, where you can explore local sights and sounds and interact with locals and other travelers; or music festivals or sporting events, where you can enjoy live entertainment and mingle with other fans.
Don’t be afraid to make friends: Extroverts are often naturally outgoing and friendly, which can be a great asset when traveling. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals or other travelers and make new friends along the way.
The Introvert: Introverts are more reserved and independent, and they often prefer quieter, more solitary activities. They may feel drained by excessive socializing and may prefer to spend time alone or with a small group of close friends or family. For introverts, a holiday that allows for solitude and relaxation may be the most appealing.
Some holiday ideas for introverts might include:
A mountain or countryside retreat, where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings and outdoor activities such as hiking or biking
A spa holiday, where you can relax and rejuvenate in a peaceful setting
A cruise, where you can have your own private cabin and enjoy solo activities such as reading or watching movies
If you are an introvert, you are likely a more reserved and independent individual who may prefer quieter, more solitary activities. When traveling, you may feel drained by excessive socializing and may prefer to spend time alone or with a small group of close friends or family.
Here are some tips for making the most of your travels as an introvert:
Consider solo travel: Solo travel can allow you to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings and follow your own interests and schedule. Consider destinations and activities that allow you to relax and recharge, such as a beach holiday, where you can relax on the beach or by the pool without the crowds; a mountain or countryside retreat, where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings and outdoor activities such as hiking or biking; or a spa holiday, where you can relax and rejuvenate in a peaceful setting.
Take breaks from socializing: While it can be enjoyable to meet new people and socialize while traveling, it is important to remember that it is okay to take breaks and spend time alone. Consider booking a private room or cabin on a cruise or in a hotel, or plan some solo activities such as reading or watching movies to give yourself some time to recharge.
Travel with a small group of close friends or family: If you prefer not to travel alone, consider traveling with a small group of close friends or family. This can allow you to enjoy the company of others while still having the opportunity to retreat to your own space when needed.
The Thinker: Thinkers are analytical and logical individuals who enjoy activities that challenge their minds and allow them to learn new things. They may be drawn to holidays that involve cultural or educational experiences.
Some holiday ideas for thinkers might include:
A cultural holiday or city break, where you can explore museums, art galleries, and historical sites
A wine tour or culinary holiday, where you can learn about the history and production of different wines or foods
A language learning holiday, where you can immerse yourself in a new culture and learn a new language
A safari or adventure holiday, where you can observe and learn about different wildlife and ecosystems
If you are a thinker, you are likely an analytical and logical individual who enjoys activities that challenge your mind and allow you to learn new things. When traveling, you may be drawn to destinations and activities that involve cultural or educational experiences. Here are some tips for making the most of your travels as a thinker:
Seek out cultural and educational experiences: Look for destinations and activities that allow you to learn about new cultures and ideas.
This could include a city break to explore historical sites, museums, and art galleries; a wine tour or culinary holiday to learn about different wines or foods; or a language learning holiday to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn a new language.
Plan your itinerary in advance: Thinkers tend to be organized and detail-oriented, and they may prefer to plan their itineraries in advance to ensure that they make the most of their time away. Consider researching destinations and activities ahead of time and creating a detailed plan for your trip.
Take advantage of guided tours: Guided tours can be a great way for thinkers to learn about a destination and its history and culture. Look for tours that offer in-depth information and insights, and consider hiring a private guide if you want a more personalized experience.
The Feeler: Feelers are emotional and sensitive individuals who value harmony and personal connections. They may be more inclined to choose holidays that allow for emotional expression and connection with others.
Some holiday ideas for feelers might include:
A family holiday, where you can spend quality time with loved ones and create lasting memories
A romantic getaway or honeymoon, where you can connect with your partner and enjoy intimate experiences together
A volunteering holiday, where you can give back to a community and make a positive impact
A wellness holiday, where you can focus on self-care and personal growth through activities such as yoga, meditation, and therapy
If you are a feeler, you are likely an emotional and sensitive individual who values harmony and personal connections. When traveling, you may be more inclined to choose destinations and activities that allow for emotional expression and connection with others.
Here are some tips for making the most of your travels as a feeler:
Consider a family holiday: A family holiday can be a great way for feelers to spend quality time with loved ones and create lasting memories. Look for destinations and activities that allow you to bond with your family, such as a beach holiday, where you can relax and play together; a mountain or countryside retreat, where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or biking; or a theme park, where you can experience thrills and excitement together.
Plan a romantic getaway or honeymoon: Feelers may also enjoy a romantic getaway or honeymoon, where they can connect with their partner and enjoy intimate experiences together. Consider destinations and activities that allow you to relax and connect with your partner, such as a beach holiday, where you can enjoy each other’s company and participate in romantic activities; a luxury resort, where you can pamper yourselves with spa treatments and fine dining; or a city break, where you can explore local sights and sounds and enjoy romantic dinners and activities.
Consider a volunteering holiday: Feelers may also be drawn to holidays that allow them to give back to a community and make a positive impact. Consider a volunteering holiday, where you can work with a local organization and make a difference while also experiencing a new culture.
No matter your personality type, the most important thing is to choose a holiday that aligns with your interests and preferences. By considering your unique characteristics, you can plan the perfect vacation that allows you to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy your time away.
If you know your personality type, then check out our tips and recommendations for each personality type.
If you’re looking to travel, you can use Fairytrail to find adventures, friends, and even a life partner. Campfire is a community for digital nomads, world citizens, and world explorers.
When we launched Fairytrail, the goal was to help people explore the world with someone they like.
Today, we’d like to announce… friends mode.
Why We Made “Only Friends”
We surveyed our existing users and found that 68% of our users are interested in making friends. The vast majority of those who answered yes were women who wanted to make friends with other women.
How To Enable “Only Friends”
On the Fairytrail app, to set yourself as looking for friends only, go to Settings -> Edit Profile. Tap the text under the heading Intentions. Then select “Only Friends“.
The other option you can choose is Dating & Friends. All new users are defaulted into Dating & Friends. We don’t have a dating only option because the majority of daters are also open to making friends.
How To Search “Only Friends”
Set your explore preferences as you do normally, go to Settings -> Set Preferences. Select the attributes that you’d like to see in your friends.
For example, if you want a male friend, set your preferences to male. If you want female, set to female. If you want both, set to any.
We took out the optimization for sexual preferences, so if you chose male, then so you will see all male profiles no matter if straight, gay, bi, etc.
You can see what the other person’s intentions are when you view their profile. Here’s an example only friends profile.
Here’s an example of a Dating & Friends profile. (Face hidden because it’s a real user).
Let us know what you think at team@fairytrail.app. We’re always looking to improve, so send us your questions and feedback!
Fairytrail helps people find adventures, friends, and even a life partner. Campfire is a community for digital nomads, world citizens, and world explorers. LittleQuest is the company behind the products. The feature picture at the top is courtesy of @skipwithgrace.
People solo travel for two main reasons. Some solo travel because they don’t have anyone to travel with, so they decide to just go alone. Others purposefully choose to solo travel to find themselves or feel freedom.
Often I’ll be having dinner with friends who dream of traveling and complain that they don’t have anyone to travel with them. That was one of the reasons why we made Fairytrail, to help solo travelers find someone they like so they can share the joy of new experiences together.
For solo travelers who want to be alone, to reflect, to feel, to be open to all of the world through solitude, there are still times when they need to travel with others. Some activities just aren’t accessible when traveling alone.
There’s thousands of Airbnb Experiences but few of them are just for one person. Many places are protected and you need to go with a tour group. Other times, there’s very little public transit so sharing a car or boat with people is just a lot more affordable. Finally, it can be really dangerous to travel alone, especially if you want to explore the wilderness of Alaska or go deep into the Amazon jungle.
Let’s say you’ve been dreaming about visiting a particular place for a while, but you can’t find anyone to go with you, you may think you have only two choices: stay at home or go there alone. But there is a third option — joining a group tour such as those offered by our friends at YouTravel.me.
This is not a paid advert. This is an article about why solo travelers should consider group tours.
YouTravel.me is a community of travel enthusiasts who want to make it easier for other travelers to discover new places and gain new experiences. It is a service for those who need a travel companion when their friends and loved ones can’t join them for one reason or another.
The goal of YouTravel.me is to create a platform with as many unique and quality tours organized by real verified travelers and guides as possible. It is important to point out thatYouTravel.me tours are not those boring package holidays you can get at a travel agent’s. These tours are led by real travel experts who know the area well and want to share their insights and best-kept secrets with others, because they just love to travel as much as you do. You get all the stress of planning an exciting experience off of your shoulders and have an opportunity to see the world from someone else’s perspective, get a real insight into a completely different lifestyle and grow as a person.
Destinations and types of such tours are incredibly varied — it can be a zen yoga tour somewhere peaceful, a mind-blowing party experience in Ibiza, an expedition to a remote village in the jungle or a volunteer trip to a community where you can really make a difference.
You can choose whatever, but remember that it still is a group tour; usually there are somewhere between 8 to 15 people in a group, depending on the type of the trip and the destination. So you’ll be constantly surrounded by people who you can make unforgettable memories with. So going on a unique tour is an excellent opportunity to network with like-minded people and make life-long friends who share your passion for traveling and exploring new horizons.
That’s great, but what if I’m an introvert?
It really isn’t about being an introvert or an extravert, but about what excites you and keeps you going. Even if you are the most easy-going person in the world who gets on amazingly well with people, it can be tricky to find the perfect travel partner, because such a thing simply does not exist.
We as adults are already so set in our ways, we have our routines and our quirks, it is hard to find someone who will be one hundred percent compatible with you, especially through all of the ups and downs of traveling. But if you are in a group of, say, 10 people who chose the same unique trekking tour, you are bound to have something in common. You will have your support group, which is crucial during a physically challenging trip, for example, and someone to share the amazing experiences and challenges with.
But it is still important to remember that you are all individual travelers, so you will have a certain level of independence and flexibility. Don’t worry if you get tired of socialization, it is ok to split from the group every now and again, do something separately, enjoy the holiday at your own pace. These tours do not have a rigid itinerary, and it is the travel expert’s job to make the trip comfortable for everybody, so you can talk to them and amend things accordingly.
After all, they are there to make sure you have the best experience ever. Speaking of making the trip as enjoyable as possible, from the very beginning travel experts asses the group, plan some bonding exercises and make everything in their power for the group to get to know each other and become comfortable and at ease — from group dinners to overcoming different physical challenges (depending on the type of the trip, of course) to bring everyone together. So if you are usually timid and quiet and worried about making a connection with someone, travel experts will take care of that.
According to some travel experts, after sharing a unique travel experience people not only become lifelong friends and travel buddies, but in some cases the tour even ends up with a marriage. Talk about great bonding opportunities, huh?
So do I just relax and follow the lead?
Travel experts are not just your tour guides, who are there to entertain and cater for your wants and needs, which they still do, of course. They are also responsible for the group’s safety and well-being, so they have the right to refuse the trip to someone they find not fit for purpose and who can spoil the trip for everyone — who is slowing everyone down, is rude and disrespectful to the rest of the group or doesn’t respect people’s boundaries.
If you’ve seen The Lost City of Z, you know what consequences going on a trip with someone whose heart isn’t in the right place can bring. So it is undoubtedly a tough, but important thing to do, because travel experts want you to have the best experience ever.
Remember, that even if you choose to go on a planned tour for the ease of it all, you still have to remain a responsible adult, who needs to have a clear understanding of what this particular tour demands of you. If you like the idea of being all Indiana Jones like, but aren’t really prepared for the challenges a trip like that brings, maybe you should pick something else — you simply won’t enjoy it.
There is no shame in having a quiet and relaxing holiday, if that’s what you need. They can still be an awesome experience, when done right. Just be honest with yourself.
Travel is a great way to meet new people from different cultural backgrounds. It brings us together. And as much as you can always meet someone along the way, going on a tour is a safe and easy way to discover new horizons, make friends or even find a partner.
July 21, 2024 Update: Fairytrail has been redesigned as an adventure buddy matching app. Fairytrail can be used 100% for free to make connections and chat– simply, use the explore tab to send connect requests and match.
After exceeding certain usage and safety limits, you may be prompted to verify. Entrance fee has been rebranded as verification because verification is more standard across social media (e.g. Twitter, Instagram, Tinder, LinkedIn).
Why a dating app has an entrance fee and the story behind it.
Step into Fairytrail and you’ll soon meet a park ranger …
On Fairytrail, all users are asked to pay a one-time entrance fee after a certain level of usage. Luckily, the entrance fee is only $2.99.
Our app is similar to a virtual national park. You come here to explore and meet awesome people from around the world. We work hard to bring you great people, keep the place running, and provide customer service. Once you buy a ticket to enter, you’re in and can stay as long as you like.
However, we also made the app to be 100% for free for anyone who can’t afford to pay and is sincere. Wholesomeness is at the heart of Fairytrail.
My family was very poor when we first moved to the USA from China. We couldn’t afford much. I wore donated clothes until grade 4 (one of which said Jennifer on it– my name is Taige). My mom worked 3 jobs and the food bank helped make ends meet. I am forever grateful for the kindness in people. One of my favorite childhood memories was attending summer camp– it’s hard to describe how amazing it was to sleep in a cabin, go canoeing, collect the daily ration from the tuck shop, sing by the campfire, and form the purest of friendships. It was all possible because of kind sponsors from the local church.
My life has been enriched by kind people. And as much as possible, I’d like to pass that on. We’re all in this world together. Although sometimes we can only see our own hardships, everyone has hardships. We can intentionally choose to be good to each other and make the world a friendlier place.
If you are not in a position to pay the entrance fee, reply to the welcome email and I will verify you manually to grant you free access. I will do my best to reply to you within 5-7 days.
If you are experiencing technical payment issues, you can pay with credit card here or pay with Paypal here. Also, let us know the email you signed up with. We will manually find you in our system and upgrade you. UPDATE: Quite some people are emailing me about how to pay entrance and support the app after getting verified manually for free and using the app for a while. There isn’t a way, but you can use the Paypal link above to send a donation.
…
If you’re interested in why we have an entrance fee, here’s the story …
Like many world wonders and national parks, Fairytrail started off free. Anyone could come in, explore, and enjoy. However, when we got to over 3,000 users, scammers started flooding into our world.
Even with 3 levels of fraud detection (we’re up to 7 now), it created heavy load for us and almost every day we received emails from people stating they had interacted with scammers. Some had been led on for weeks. Some felt violated. Some completely gave up on dating. They were heartbreaking emails.
Here are some emails with identifying information redacted that marked the arrival of scammers.
After reading many emails like these, we knew we had to fight back.
So we did what most dating apps won’t do– put up a paywall to fight scammers. Scammers would pay $3 and get disabled the next day (it takes some time for our fraud detection mechanisms to work). It was pretty cool to fight back and take money from scammers.
Soon, we saw a massive reduction in scam accounts being created. Emails like the ones above stopped coming in altogether.
We now have over 99.99% real users (based on fake/bad user reported and internal audits).
But it had a big cost for us too.
When we did this, it reduced our growth rate.
Not all real users want to pay. After all, there are free dating apps out there such as Tinder and Bumble. Some people didn’t trust us. Some people weren’t serious about dating. Some couldn’t afford it.
We were considering other verification systems such as phone number verification when we realized the paywall actually created a much better user experience. Perhaps people would want a dating app that has higher quality, more intentional people.
The truth is a dating app’s greatest asset is its users. A party is great because of the people at the party, and a dating app is great because of its users.
Here’s what we noticed:
1. People saved time and had a better experience.
Although we saw fewer users, we saw higher quality users. Since users paid $3, it meant they valued meeting someone (money talks). They completed their profiles. They intended to meet in person.
Users were wasting less time looking at low quality profiles. By cutting out just 10 low quality profiles, we can save a total of 56 hours for our users.
This created a better overall experience— less time spent swiping per match.
One of my philosophies is life is precious so I hate wasting time. (That’s why we do everything we can to get people on life changing adventures as quickly as possible– things like not showing people who already skipped you, who aren’t active, who have incompatible preferences, etc.)
2. It fostered a respectful, caring culture.
When people paid for something, they valued it more. In Yellowstone National Park, tour guides used to give water away for free. Guess what happened? People wasted it and littered. So tour guides tried charging just 50 cents and people stopped leaving half empty bottles all over the place. Suddenly, people cared.
Tour guides were able to help people change their mindset and behavior to care by charging a nominal amount.
To end toxic dating culture, we can’t think of people as free anymore. And we won’t because we paid a price.
3. It provided a premium experience and choice for consumers.
It feels good to spend money on yourself so you can have a premium experience. It feels great to be in the company of quality people.
Almost all dating apps are free, so there’s very little choice for consumers who want quality over quantity.
Now for the first time, there is a premium dating app so you can meet quality people. And the interesting thing is women are just as willing to pay as men.
Conclusion
Fairytrail is a place for people who are sincere in their quest for love and adventure. 99% of our active users pay the entrance fee and about 1% opt for the manual verification. It currently takes me 2.5 minutes to manually verify each user, so it does take several days for me to get to people. Thank you for your patience if you are opting for manual verification. I read each of my hundreds of daily emails, so no need to follow up unless it’s been a couple weeks.
I don’t believe the battle with scammers is over. They will constantly think of new ways to infiltrate our world and we will continue to fight them. For now, the entrance fee is working both in terms of keeping scammers out by draining their wallets and attracting sincere, quality people.
I care about everyone on Fairytrail and Campfire (our non-dating, social group). It’s a pleasure and honor to build this community together. Please continue to report bad actors and send me feedback, so we can improve your favorite dating and travel matching app. Our app is great because of its people, so thank you for making Fairytrail such a beautiful and kind place.
Balancing leisure and work is challenging for digital nomads. Burnout and loneliness were cited as top struggles for remote workers even before the pandemic, and now with limited social events and interactions, restricted travel, and shut offices, it has become exacerbated.
The Martec Group surveyed 1,214 individuals to identify how working from home during the pandemic is affecting employees and found a significant decline in mental health across all industries, seniority levels, and demographics. Surprisingly, 84 percent of employees reported working from home as bad for their mental health.
At Fairytrail, most of our users are remote workers and we fully recognized the challenges, so we’ve curated the top 9 must-have mental health apps for digital nomads based on category.
For Meditation
1. Headspace
I’ve been using Headspace since the day it first came out. To be honest, it’s actually tough to imaging my life without it. It offers excellent options for guided meditations that help you stay calm and provide clarity on things you’re trying to figure out.
Additionally, they offer articles, videos and guided exercises that will help you live a happier, healthier life.
You can sign up for a 10-day free trial of all the premium content. After this, you can subscribe for $12.99 (monthly) or $95 (annually).
The bottom line: Use this app if you’re curious and just starting out with mental health apps.
2. Pacifica
This app will help you significantly reduce stress, depression and anxiety through journaling and meditation. You can pick what type of environment relaxes you the most when you begin.
Pacifica will ask you about your goals, preferred meditation time and if you’re working with a mental health professional. If you are, it will tailor your practice using that information.
The calming and lovely design and the interface will compel you to use it every day. Each day, there’s a free unique meditation that focuses on a specific point of stress like relationships, work, school, etc.
What truly sets this app apart from the thousands of meditation apps on the play store is its integrations with your Spotify playlists. It will recommend you a new playlist every week with tracks that will leave you feeling energized, empowered and will help you with your meditation practise as well as your life.
Another highlight of this wonderful app is access to chat rooms and community discussions. You can discuss your struggles, wins and experiences with other users of the app.
You can access the 7 basic modules for free or you can subscribe for $8.99 (monthly), $53.99 (annually) or $199 (lifetime).
The bottom line: This app is perfect for you if you want to hone a particular pain point such as confidence, social anxiety, etc.
For Reflection and Mood Tracking
3. Stigma
It’s journaling and mood tracking app that helps you track your moods and pen down our thoughts. You can also share your thoughts with their community of users.
Its robust analytics feature helps you analyse your thoughts and attitudes over time by creating word clouds that show prominent trends.
Access to most of the features is free but you need to subscribe in order to track your moods in relation to your fitness/location levels.
The bottom line: Sign up for this app of you want to understand your mood cycle and wish to be a part of an affordable support group that’s always available.
4. Happy Not Perfect
The goal of this app is to help you change the way you take care of your mind through straightforward and thoughtful reflections and exercises.
With hundreds of themed sessions to work through activities and stressors, it helps you deal with complicated relationships, depression and work stress.
The app features one-of-a-kind modern, clean aesthetics combined with mindful games that help you gain the clarity you need. You can also listen to a wide array of sound healing experiences and pen down your thoughts in order to keep a track of your moods and feelings.
It gives you space and time you need for reflection by helping you analyse the stressors that make you feel a certain way.
The access to 1 session per day is free and you can upgrade for personalized unlimited sessions for approximately $5 a month.
The bottom line: This is your go-to place for everything you need to look after your mind in a fun new way.
5. Stoic
A free, comprehensive and beautifully designed app that is based on the Greek philosophy of Stoicism. This app helps you manage your negativity by tracking your actions and thoughts through reflective exercises like breathing and mood tracking exercises, meditation with a strong focus on journaling.
The bottom line: Start using this app if you need help dealing with your emotions and daily obstacles. It’ll help you live a happier, tranquil life.
For Therapy and Advice
6. Sanvello
Boasting over 3M+ users, this is the #1 free app if you want to deal with depression, anxiety and stress. It provides clinically validated techniques to help you manage your thoughts and moods and offers expert lessons on health and mood tracking and mindfulness.
You can use the community board to share your stories and progress with others. If you wish to seek professional help, you can browse through the directory of a licensed therapist in your area.
The bottom line: Use this app if you’re suffering from stress, depression or anxiety.
7. Talkspace
It’s an online therapy app that matches you with qualified therapists. If you’re looking for real therapy without leaving the comfort of this app, Talkspace is what you need.
Their plans start at $49 a week that allows you to choose a therapist with experience in your problem area. You can chat with them or video call them according to your convenience.
Therapists will offer actionable advice and steps similar to what you’d get in an actual brick-and-mortar therapy session. You can upgrade your package if you need an unlimited chat and video call access.
The bottom line: This app is perfect if you’re searching for a therapist. It’s great for teens as well. All you need is your parents’ permission to get started.
8. 7 Cups
If you’re looking for free counselling and therapy, install 7 Cups. You’re matched with a “listener” based on what you wish to talk about and how you’re feeling.
Please note that these listeners are not qualified professionals but are volunteers that want to offer you support. The chats are confidential, anonymous and free with listeners available in several different languages.
Additionally, you can access educational material that’ll provide more insight into therapy, videos and activities, calming games and wellness tests.
If you wish to chat with a licensed therapist, you can subscribe for a premium service that starts at $12.99 a month.
The bottom line: Use this app if you need someone to talk to for free counseling or therapy. Return the favour by becoming a listener to do something meaningful with your life.
To Deal Specifically With Anxiety
9. Calmer You
This app was made by Nick Begley, former head of research at Headspace and is dedicated to help you build an anxiety-free future.
It has turned self-development books into app-based actionable courses incorporating CBT and mindfulness techniques. These help you form positive habits that will help you keep your anxiety at bay.
The app provides you with everything from diaphragmatic breathing to mindfulness techniques to help you break down your worries and boost your self-esteem.
The bottom line: This app is perfect for you if you want to learn mindfulness skills that will improve your overall mental and physical health.
Written by Shristi Patni
Shristi is the founder of F and B Recipes. Formerly the Chief Content Officer at Raletta, she is currently working on her second cookbook. Feel free to check out her interviews with other food bloggers or her articles on Shamballa Reiki.
Recently, we received an email with some constructive feedback from a kind user who was LGBT. She expressed concerns about the queer friendliness of our app.
We’re a really different kind of dating app and there are many things we do that are not orthodox. For example, we monetize on travel bookings (suspended due to covid and Apple). We charge a small entrance fee to keep our community safe from bots and scammers. We humanize online dating by limiting your active matches to 12. We encourage you to explore the world by recommending places and adventures for you and your match to discover together. We are also a friendship-making app.
Some have called Fairytrail the most wholesome dating app ever.
But how are we supporting LGBT and gender fluidity?
Non-binary Genders
Non-binary is used to describe people who feel their gender cannot be defined within the margins of gender binary. They understand their gender in a way that goes beyond simply identifying as either a man or woman.
On Fairytrail, you can only choose man or woman at the moment. The reason is all users who use Fairytrail must choose a character. Choosing a character ties to a core Fairytrail mission to make dating less superficial. We want to capture and elevate personality in online dating.
It’s impossible to delineate a person who has needs, values, views, traits, preferences, and temperaments (often which are changing) in just an online profile. Even dating for six weeks can only reveal so much.
That’s why most people are so focused on looks because photos can depict it so well. (We made a video about it.)
That said, we are doing better than most dating apps when it comes to making online dating less superficial. We leverage these characters to give insights into someone’s personality and identity.
All characters are mapped to MBTI and Enneagram types. If you don’t know anything about personality MBTI, these archetypes can still give you cues on people’s personality and identity.
We haven’t quite cracked how to do this with fairytale characters yet, and as a startup, we have limited Product, Design, and Engineering resources to tackle this. If this is an area you feel passionate about, please do reach out to us at team@fairytrail.app.
Any help would greatly be appreciated! For example, which characters should we use? What should be the search mapping? Would you be okay with your sexual preferences displayed on your profile?
Alternatively, it would be super fun to create just a non-binary or LGBT version of Fairytrail. We’ve also gotten many requests for us to make a friends only version and a couples version. There are so many traveling couples! Sadly, we haven’t had the resources to work on those either.
LGBT
LGBT describe people’s sexual orientation or gender identity. LGBT includes lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender.
U.S. adults estimate that nearly one in four Americans (23.6%) are gay or lesbian, and the latest 2021 study find an estimated 5.6% of adults in the United States identify as LGBT.
Historically on most dating apps, they ask you what’s your sexual orientation.
On Fairytrail, LGBT sexual preferences are supported behind the scenes.
No need to tell us your sexual orientation. We can easily infer this based on your search preferences and only show you someone who might like you back. For example, if you’re a homosexual female, you would be seen only by homosexual and bisexual females.
Fairytrail Sexual Preferences Matrix
We try to save people’s time, so try to optimize where we can and don’t like explicitly asking for things we can infer.
So we fully support LGBT and if you have suggestions for improving our LGBT friendliness or want to help, please get in touch with us! We’re always looking to improve.
That said, I do recognize there is a liquidity problem for the LGBT user segment. Some of our few 1-star reviews are regarding not getting enough matches as a queer person. We are working hard to grow awareness for Fairytrail. As we get more awareness and users, the smaller 5% LGBT segment will get more matches.
Want to know what people picked for their first virtual dates?
You’re in luck because we have the data! Perhaps these insights could help you next time you suggest or plan a date.
At Fairytrail, we ask users to choose dates before connecting them for fun and to determine compatibility.
Since the pandemic, we’ve added virtual experiences for people to pick as potential first dates. So what do tens of thousands of date matches and mismatches tell us about what singles are looking for in their first virtual dates?
Cute Couple In Italy – Photo Courtesy of SkipWithGrace
1. Both men and women think Italy is the most romantic place the world.
Out of the many virtual experiences and tours offered by Airbnb and Viator, the top 2 were Venice and Rome. Runner ups were Barcelona, Paris, and London.
Most popular virtual tours & adventures on Fairytrail:
All virtual tour prices were $10-20. American locations didn’t make the top quartile.
2. Museum dates are least exciting.
Virtual dates fall into 3 general categories: travel/tours, cooking, and museum. Men and women both prefer travel first. Cooking classes fell in the middle. Least picked were the museum experiences.
3. Older people like museums more.
As age increased, the museum category increased in popularity. For people older than 30, the museum category was in the medium popular segment. For under 30, it was in the least popular segment.
4. Paris is very romantic for women. Not so much for men.
The most polarizing virtual destination was Paris. 15% of women chose it given the chance but only 7% of men. Over 2 times more women than men wanted to go on the Paris experience as a first date. Men preferred places such as Italy, Portugal, and Spain.
5. Young people are more open to virtual experiences.
People under 30 are 75% more likely to choose a virtual date option than people 30 and older. It seems like kids are faster at adopting technology, digital experiences, and new trends than adults are.
6. Introverts are more interested in virtual experiences.
Since everyone chose a character mapped to their Myers Briggs Personality Type , we noticed that introverts had a 56% higher chance of choosing a virtual date over an offline date. This is a good reminder to be considerate of people’s comfort levels and preferences for a first date.
These data were collected over a span of 6 months during the continued COVID-19 pandemic. We hope these psychological insights can help you choose a great first date experience whether it’s virtual or in person. Leave a comment if you have any questions or want us to delve into anything specific.
Get ideas about how you can live in other countries ranging from study abroad, work exchange, remote work, working holiday, investment, marriage, WWOOF. Here are the top 19 ways.
Do you remember the first time you ever travelled abroad? Do you remember how eye opening it was to realize that where you were born doesn’t have to be where you permanently stay? Once you realize how large the world truly is, the idea of residing in one place your whole life seems lame.
But don’t worry, we have put together a list of 19 ways to live and work abroad.
“Among all respondents to the Pew Research Center survey, 57% say they have not lived in the U.S. outside their current state: 37% have never left their hometown and 20% have left their hometown (or native country) but not lived outside their current state.” -Pew Research Center
Although the survey of 2,260 adults noted that a majority of the reason people choose to stay in one place is due to family ties, they also found that financial and career situations harness one’s ideas of ever migrating elsewhere; “The most popular reason that movers choose a new community, selected by a 44% plurality, is job or business opportunities, according to the Pew survey. About the same share of stayers (40%) cite job or business opportunities as a major reason for staying, but far more stayers choose reasons related to family and friends.”
These are respectable reasons to stay in one location, but the opportunist’s mentality see’s that the world has endless ways to provide food, shelter, and income regardless of your location.
First off.
Visas: Visas are required in many countries for long term travel. Your passport will get you to travel internationally, but a visa is a stamp that is placed in your passport that allows you to get permission to stay in a country for a specified time period. There are 4 different categories that visas can fall under:
Tourist visa (pleasure travel visas)
Immigration and naturalization visas(including by marriage)
Business or work visas (for working, including both non-immigrant and immigrant types)
Student visas (studying abroad)
Further in this article, we will cover a few different types of visas you can obtain to help you live abroad.
Fairytrail has put together 19 ways to live and work abroad
Study abroad or student exchange program:Whether you are still in highschool, enrolled in a university, or just wanting to gain some seasonal credits, it is highly likely that your field of study offers programs abroad! There is more than one way to go about studying abroad. Check out 10 creative ways to study abroad. If you are set out to learn something, why not do it in another country where it is potentially cheaper and you can get more of an experience out of it? You’ll be on a student visa. And usually student visas let you work part time or on campus.
2. Work exchange: People all over the world sometimes just need an extra hand within their organization or household and are willing to provide food and housing in exchange for your skills and work! Most opportunities have work hours as minimal as 20 hours per week, leaving you plenty of time to explore your new culture or even pick up a side hustle for a little extra cash. Note that there are also quite a few work exchanges that do give you a weekly or monthly allowance. Every work exchange is different and can have different accommodations. Some websites you can use for work exchanges are Workaway (what I use), Worldpackers, World traveller.
3. Teach your language abroad:How cool would it be to be eligible to teach children from all over the world without having a masters degree? There are hundreds of opportunities to be a language teacher in several countries. If you speak english, most job opportunities only require that you have a bachelor’s degree in any subject and obtain your TEFL certification. Some other programs only require that you speak fluently in the native tongue that the school is desiring you to teach! Check out 10 Ways to Get Started Teaching Abroad. They’ll normally take care of your visa through the school or help you obtain it yourself. For an example, check out teaching english in Korea.
4. Be an Au Pair / Nanny: Tons of families are eager to share their lifestyle and culture with foreigners in exchange for someone to watch over their children while they are working or traveling! If you are someone who is good with children and want to explore a new destination, check out GreatAuPair, InterExchange, and Transitions Abroad for opportunities!
5. Work online:
The amount of job opportunities to work online is growing by the second. It is one of the most flexible ways to provide and income from anywhere in the world.
Here are some examples of online work:
Blogging: Yes, there is money to be made through personal blogging. Which is a pretty cool concept right? You write content about your lifestyle and things that interest you and get paid for it?! The biggest obstacle is that before you can start making money, you have to have a strong following and subscribers. Once you do, companies and organizations will recognize you as a ‘traffic pool’ and offer you money to display their ads on your site. Aside from the adversity, this is a great way to supplement income remotely, all you need is good wifi connection and profitable content! Refer to Work from home: How to make money online for beginners for advice on how to create a pay-worthy blog. In addition look here for guidance on which ad exchange networks are the most suitable for your website!
Be a freelance writer: This one is my personal favorite considering I am currently doing it! Being a travel writer can be tough. It takes a while to gain a good reputation where websites and magazines feel confident enough in hiring you. But once you start to start to gain traction the jobs are endless! Some jobs require you to have some professional background in journalism or writing, while others simply desire to see a good work history and colorful portfolio. With new online businesses starting up everyday, the demand for writers and content creators will continue to grow. If this interests you but have no idea where to start looking here is a Complete Guide that can help get a better understanding of how to start freelance writing. The best sites to find writing jobs are LinkedIn, Upwork, iWriter, Flexjobs, and Facebook groups!
Be a freelance web designer: There is a massive demand in web designers in the world. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for web developers in the U.S in 2018 was at 160,500 and is expected to increase by 13% by 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. With the high demand, endless opportunities and very remarkable salary outlook, and ability to live and work from anywhere in the world, this career path is a no brainer. Surprisingly, many well-paid web developers didn’t actually go to college for it. Instead, they built on their skills on their own time and found online resources like Codecademy to learn. Read this article to find web-classes, tutorials, programs and communities to help kick off your web-developing journey!
Be an Influencer: Do you have a significant following on your social media platforms? Don’t let it go to waste! Social media stays afloat by nothing more than their users, and their users’ content. ‘Power Influencers’ on youtube who have anywhere for 30k-500k followers can make up to $782 dollars per posted video, that’s insane! For more platform post rates check out this data! For tips on how to become an influencer in 2020 visit Influencer Marketing Hub.
If I was to list all of the online ways to make money and live abroad, that wouldprompt for a whole separate article. For the sake of sharing online and offline abroad work, refer here if you are interested in researching for online work only!
Okay, let’s continue!
6. Work at a Hostel:Best of the best! Hostels are seriously so much fun and you get to meet a tremendous amount of travelers from every corner of the world. Generally, the work exchange tasks are simple; Clean, follow guidelines, and provide guests with the best experiences possible! Emily rose and Kiki are travel bloggers who have great content on how, why, and what to expect when working in a hostel! Also you can check out Hosteljobs.net and any work exchange sites for hostel work opportunities!
7. Ancestry visas:If you are desiring to work abroad and live in the UK and just so happen to be a commonwealth citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a UK visa that allows you to work in any of the commonwealth countries for up to 5 years, after that you can choose to either permanently change your residence or extend your visa. This is a great way to have access to working in multiple countries for a long term stay. Look here for further details on how to obtain a UK ancestry visa!
8. Youth mobility visa: (YMV)/working holiday visa (WHV): If you are 18-30 years old and wish to immerse yourself in a different culture while still being able to work, this is a great visa you should take advantage of. Without needing any other sort of sponsorship, these countries accept U.S. working holiday visas:
Click on any of the countries above to find out how to apply for a WHV. Most allow you to stay from 6-12 months. There are more countries that accept these types of visas but require much more than just the visa itself. Note that each country is different and has different guidelines which must be met prior to applying for the visa. Here are some thingsyou should knowwhen applying for a WHV/ YMV
9. Investment Visas: Many countries, for example, Canada and the USA have opportunities for investors to live in that country by making an investment in the country’s economy. In the USA the investment visa is known as EB-5 visas. It’s a way that the U.S. economy can benefit from immigrants who want to come into the U.S. Immigrants who can afford to invest money into the U.S. in exchange for entry into the country must be able to invest a minimum of $900,000 that is lawfully sourced and creates jobs for 10 U.S. workers. For further details visit uscis.gov
EB-5 Investor visa
10. Get married: Most countries grant you a visa or a citizenship if you are married to a citizen of that country. If you’re dating someone, it might make sense to pull the trigger and hit 2 birds with one stone. If you don’t have prospects, you can look for people who are open to dating people from other countries on sites Interpals and Fairytrail which give you exposure to people outside your country.
11. Join The Military: Although this might not be the most sought after option, it is quite rewarding isn’t it? Joining the military comes with incredible perks; Great income with paid housing, travel, food and opportunity to be an active participant in defending your nation! Opportunities to see different parts of the world are endless! Supposedly, the navy is the military branch that travels abroad the most, but refer here to see what branches you can join and what benefits they come with.
12. Do mission work:Your faith in god just might lead you to wonderful destinations. The simple way to find out about mission work is to ask your local church if there are opportunities for mission trips. It is no different than any other volunteer program other than the fact it is more faith-based and gives you a chance to do humble work while being surrounded by a group of people who practice the same religion as you. Check out The Best Mission Trips.
13. Be a House sitter/ pet sitter:Similarly to being a nanny, sometimes people just needsomeone to safeguard their home and animals while they are not actively there. How simple is that? When doing this, it is important to have a good understanding of your destination and the house owners’ guidelines and expectations. The best and most reputable place to find house/ pet sitting jobs is TrustedHousesitters.com.
14. Be a WWOOFER:WWOOF Stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. These are humbling opportunities to connect with others while simultaneously giving back to the earth we walk on and learning skills that make for a more conscious, sustainable, and eco-friendly lifestyle. If you don’t mind getting dirty and love learning, this is the way to go! A word of warning, it can be isolating depending on the experience.
15. Become a diplomat/ embassy personnel: Being a diplomat can prompt for a very wide range of responsibilities, but all of those responsabilites having to do something with representing on behalf or your country while communicating and collaborating with other countries; “They use personal relationships with officials and citizens of the hosting country to advocate for U.S. interests, to work together on common causes, and to explain U.S. society and values”. – The National Museum of American Diplomacy
The National Museum of American Diplomacy also noted how various a diplomats scope of work can be:
“Our diplomats support Americans living or traveling internationally for positive events (such as registering a birth of a child) and in times of stress (assisting a jailed American citizen or helping to evacuate Americans from danger.) They ensure a level playing field for American businesses overseas. They support joint counter terrorism cooperation and criminal investigations. They decide who has a legitimate reason to travel to the United States and issue visas accordingly. They work to ensure the safety and security of international flights to the United States. They fight pandemics and deliver humanitarian aid to those in need. They assist governments to respond better to their citizens’ needs, making countries more stable and secure. They link emerging leaders in government and civil society to American counterparts to foster relationship building and collaboration. Also importantly, they provoke interest in foreign students in pursuing U.S. higher education. This is far from a conclusive list of diplomatic priorities, but it gives a flavor of the varied work of U.S. diplomats”.
In short, if you are someone who has great communication skills and is willing to negotiate, mediate, network, and enforce policy on your country’s behalf, you might be a great fit for being a diplomat. If this is something that may interest you and you have a bachelors or masters degree in a field of study that is correlated to the tasks of diplomatic work such as international relations, political science, sociology, or foreign policy, check out the requirements and roles of being a diplomat!
16. Work for the National Forest Service/ be a park ranger abroad:Globally, there are 3,044 national parks to explore, and each one of those national parks is subject to having dozens of resorts, campgrounds, wildlife conservations for visitors to explore and for you to work at. Many opportunities for expansion in these settings and it’s a great way to explore the nature-scape of different land. The U.S. alone has 419 national park sites, so if you live in the U.S., you won’t even need to travel outside of your country to work and live in a new setting. But if you desire to do national park work outside of your country, there is plenty of work for that as well. Many opportunities are seasonal and accommodate housing and food, (which may be deducted from your pay). Also, if the National park you are interested in does offer housing, it is more than likely that you will have to dorm with other people, which is a great way to network and meet others!
17. Flight attendant:If frequent flying is something that doesn’t phase you, this is a great way to make money and travel for free! Just like any occupation, being a flight attendant has its ups and it’s downs,(literally), but it is a very easy field to get into and can open up many opportunities to see different parts of the world! Check out How to Become a Flight Attendant to Work and Travel For Work to see how to get involved!
18. Be a cruise ship hand: Although there are many positions you can fill being a cruise ship hand, if you are someone who doesn’t get sea sick, you are automatically a shoe in for all of the work positions! The Cruise Lines International Association, 32 million passengers were set to travel on cruise ships in 2020, which is up 30 million from 2019. More demand means more job availability. The major cruise line corporations are Carnival Cruise Corporation, Holland American Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Check out All cruise jobs to find the latest opportunities!
19. Peace Corps:Not all countries have the best access to food, clean water, and proper medical care. If you have a background in the medical field, agricultural studies, environmental studies, education, youth development or community development and are itching to do humble work, this is a way to use your skills to serve the greater good and see different cultures. Peace Corps is a competitive organization to get into simply because their standards for volunteer participants may be higher. Check to see if you possibly meet the minimal requirements!
I hope this article, at the very least, has opened your perception to how many ways there truly is to live abroad. The world is more full of opportunities than it isn’t, you just have to be willing to look beyond your normal environment!
“Women who reported sitting for more than 6 hours during their leisure time had an approximately 40% higher all-cause death rate, and men had an approximately 20% higher death rate.” – American Journal of Epidemiology
“Women who sat more than 7 hours a day and women who did no physical activity were more likely to have depressive symptoms than women who sat less than 4 hours a day and who met physical activity guidelines, respectively.” – American Journal of Preventative Medicine
“According to the World Health Organization, physical inactivity is the fourth leading cause to global mortality. Being a freelancer who primarily earns an income from my laptop, this puts me on the frontline for chronic diseases and that terrifies me.” – Fairytrail member
What’s even more scary, as I am writing this article, I am strengthening these statistics. Chances are that you, as the reader, are too.
Somewhere between the lavish lifestyle blog posts and “how I trained for my first 5k” video tutorials, a critical piece of information is silenced; the gruesome amount of sedentary hours that freelancers face.
Considering that there are over 57 million freelancers in the United States alone, this is a topic that needs consistent attention. To bring consciousness to the potential long term affects of a sedentary lifestyle, we must observe some of the short-term symptoms.
Here are some physical health struggles that freelancers regularly experience:
Joint pain / stiffness
Weight gain or unhealthy weight loss
Bad posture & back pain
Slow metabolism / digestion issues
Easily fatigued from exercise
Most of these issues are simply caused by the excess of sedentary tasks and restrictions of range of movement. Whereas, 9-5 jobs in food service or hospitality require you being active on your feet for long hours. And considering that we are collectively experiencing the restrictions of COVID-19, those who regularly did their due- diligence of attending the gym are hindered as well.
But overcoming adversity is what fabricates the best entrepreneurs, right?
These burdens are not enough to counterbalance the benefits of being a freelancer, they are just conditions to note while entertaining this way of living.
So what are some ways to incorporate health & physical activity into your busy life?
1) Modify your tasks
That zoom call you have in 20 mins?
Maybe no one will mind if you are on a brisk walk during the call, or chime in between sets.That is if you use mute as needed that way no one is a victim to your awkward heavy breathing.
Just starting to brainstorm ideas on a new pitch or project?
Put down the pen, close the computer and brainstorm on the go. Get your blood moving and as ideas come to mind. Open up notepad on your phone and type or voice record them so that the can be marveled on later.
Don’t have time?
You are 100% right! You don’t have time, that’s why you have to make it.
I know that is a broken-record statement, But in all honesty we operate in a trifecta of the Mind, body , and spirit. This trifecta works like turning gears, and when one gear gets neglected, it isn’t a long grace period till the other gears suffer the ache as well. Lucky for you, being a freelancer demands being creative.
And MOVEMENT fuels CREATIVITY.
A study conducted in 2014 by Stanford University suggested that “out of the 48 participants, 81% improved their creative output while walking”.
As far as each individual goes, their creative juices are enhanced by 60% JUST BY WALKING. The experiment further claimed that extending your activity to the outdoors can expose even more benefits.
“Think about it, they are called creative juices for a reason, right? When you exercise, your heart rate increases, which sends more blood flow to the brain. As blood flow increases, your brain inherits more oxygen. Physical activity is not just for your body, it’s the key ingredient to helping your brain be a well-lubricated machine.”
Any movement is better than none. As long as you are getting your heart rate up in some way to increase your blood flow, you will benefit. Use your creativity to innovate ways to weave movement medicine into your everyday life.
If you can find wiggle room, use it to wiggle!
2) Make movement your first priority.
We have all been there; Setting the alarm for 5:45 am in regards to squeeze some morning cardio in before you start your day. You turn to respond to your alarm and one of 2 things happen:
You hit snooze and sleep in past your goals
You find yourself knee-deep in emails and internal pressure to start crafting new content, completely putting AM movement on hold.Staaaahp. Don’t do this.
Remember a great benefit to being a digital nomad is having more time to yourself and not having to be rushed into a workplace everyday that has overhead.
Don’t let your phone or laptop be that overhead.
Your body is the vehicle that drives everything in your life and business. Don’t put it on the back burner.
3) Set the pace for the day.
As soon as your eyes open in the AM, your cortisol levels rise. Why not use that flight response to fuel a good morning workout? (which in return, will REDUCE overall stress). Not to mention, if you give yourself too much time, your entrepreneurial ego will negotiate “more important” things you can be doing with your time than tending to your health. Also, if you get your physical activity out of the way first thing in the morning, you will have the rest of the day to be working more effectively with a clean conscience knowing that you put your health first.
Benefits of A.M. workout include:
You will burn up to 20%, due to being in a fasted state.
No problem! Everyone is different. If A.M. workouts come with too much resistance, then that may not be your peak hour to work-out.
“I have found that my workouts are more effective in the morning, but honestly some people feel they reap the most benefits from their workouts in the evening. A great way to determine whether your workouts are most efficient in the morning or evening is to listen to your body and journal your energy levels throughout the day. Whatever times of the day you’ve documented that you were the most energetic, try and plug in some physical activity during those times and see how you feel.”
Your body digests food a lot better when it knows that it is going to actively need it, but if you are sedentary for most hours, your digestive tract may become sedentary as well.
If you are going to be sitting for a while, is it necessary to eat dense foods such as pizza and steak that digest slower and will sit in your stomach like a log? Fuel your body as necessary to your activity level. That way you dont experience a calorie surplus resulting in weight gain or calorie deficit, resulting in fatigue.
“Energy input should equal energy output – that’s the key! Know that your body is going to be using whatever you are putting into it. If you predict a slower-moving day ahead of you, adjust your food consumption accordingly.”
Chew slowly and thoroughly to ensure that your lax-day compensates your digestive system. Possibly drink tea or just warm liquids to nurture your metabolism throughout the day.
5) You don’t need a gym or equipment to have a killer workout.
Whether you are a freelancer who doesn’t have space for equipment during travels or a gym junkie who is deprived due to COVID-19 , it’s time to get innovative with your exercise.
Here’s a tip, YOUR BODY IS YOUR BEST DUMBELL. And no, i did not just call you dumb.
Your body is with you wherever you go (duh), might as well use it! Here are 50 bodyweight exercises that you can perform literally anywhere. If you want to add a little more heat, resistance bands are flooding the fitness industry. They are perfect for light traveling and can be used anywhere in multiple ways. If you are someone who is is interested in using technology as a fitness tool, check out out article on our recommended best fitness apps.
“ I have a good feeling that because of the coronavirus, people are going to start taking it upon themselves to integrate fitness into their everyday life rather than strictly going to the gym 2x a week. Gyms are amazing, but you don’t need them to get a great workout in. There is TONS of free workout content all over the internet that require very little space and no equipment. Most of them can be done in under 10 minutes! If you are someone that needs a little more guidance I suggest you find a fitness influencer that you truly vibe with and support them. You are helping them as they are helping you.” – Bella Gonzalez
James had a similar response when asked “what effects do you think this pandemic will have of the fitness industry?”
“I think people are going to come out of this quarantine feeling better than they did before. Overall, for some people, this was a very necessary pause to reset their mind, body, and spirit. A pause that has given them the time to consider what they value in their daily routine and to integrate activities to look after their well-being. You really only need a small space to perform a decent workout at any intensity level.” – James Leung
6) Your body can stand almost anything. It’s your mind that you have to convince.
“It’s important to keep your ‘mindful movement-toggle’ turned on in all circumstances. When you are traveling, find ways to marble physical activity into your vacation, that way you are not taking away from your experience nor are you neglecting your body. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy. It could be as simple as walking to your next tourist destination rather than Ubering, squatting with your backpack on, a short jog on the beach, taking the stairs to your hotel room rather than the elevator. Yoga mats and resistance bands are lightweight and you can use them anywhere. Seriously ANYTHING to get your blood pumping and to remind your body that you are always being mindful by finding ways to take care of it.” – Bella Gonzalez
“It’s easy to slip into an unmotivated mindset. But if you look around, you will find inspiration everywhere. If you are conscious of the science-backed reasons of how physical activity greatly improves your overall wellness, it becomes a no-brainer as to why you are going to do it despite any outside factors. Bruce Lee says, ‘think and you shall become’, if you think with a wellness mindset, a wellness lifestyle will start to surround you.” – James Leung
There will always be a way that your mind will try and convince you not exercise, but none of those reasons are valid.
Without your body & it’s optimal health, you wouldn’t be eligible to experience all the greatness life has to offer.
So rather than putting your health last, put it first!
James Leung is a traveller, wellness-teacher, trainer, and content creator for BALM. James is using his past education and inherited skills to apply them to his passion: Living and promoting a wellness lifestyle from anywhere in the world. When not travelling, James predominantly resides in London. Although he enjoys all things wellness related, he highly enjoys martial arts in yoga.
Next destination: Thailand.
If you would like to get to know James better, you can find him on instagram @jamesjleung or @balm.welness
Bella Gonzalez is a free-spirited freelancer/yoga teacher who uses her knowledge as a graphic designer to supply income and connect with the world while fulfilling her dreams of endless exploration. All-in-one package and a true go-getter.
Big news! We’re the first dating app to offer people the ability to match and go on virtual adventures powered by Airbnb, Walk, and Viator (part of TripAdvisor).
Here’s how it started.
The Coronavirus is lockdown is really getting to me and everyone on the Fairytrail team. Many of us are feeling like we’re going crazy– gaining more weight and developing more anxieties from the lack of social support and interaction.
This is unlike normal remote work conditions. As a remote workers, we could go to to the beach. Hang out with friends. Go out on dates. Go to the gym, fitness classes, and church. Travel.
We’re not alone.
With travel restrictions and shelter-in-place, nearly half of Americans report that the coronavirus crisis is affecting their mental health. And an alarming projection from the national public health group Well Being Trust estimates that 75,000 Americans could die from drug or alcohol misuse and suicide related to COVID-19. “You’re having feelings of isolation and loneliness like you’ve never had before,” says psychologist Dr. Kevin Gilliland.
Virtual travel dates.
Viator launched live virtual tours a few weeks ago as a way to keep travel alive in some way.
At first we were hesitant, but reviews from people who have done it reminded us that travel isn’t just about seeing the site and taking photos. It’s also about the stories, history, meeting people, and experiencing cultures.
Here’s one review from a person who went on a virtual tour:
“This was my first ever virtual tour and I had no idea what to expect. It was essentially a super-interactive conference call with a super host. Lula was very energetic and knowledgeable guide. Although you are just sitting in front of your computer for the whole thing, he kept the experience very engaging and informative. Great value for money and a really nice way to spend an hour.”
– Mairt, Magic of Film Themed Virtual Tour of London
Could this be a novel way for people in lockdown to connect, be entertained, and build a relationship in this challenging time?
These virtual adventures allow us to learn new things, meet people from different cultures, and experience something live and fun with people we like. They start at only $6 and are available worldwide.
So we decided to add it to our app. Video call dates are great, but can just talking all the time can get stale, especially for those who have been talking for weeks.
How our app works.
Single people make a free profile on Fairytrail and match with each other (just like on Tinder or Bumble).
Once users match, Fairytrail recommends different virtual tours to them from Viator and Airbnb based on their profiles. Users aren’t able to talk at this stage. They simply choose the tours they like.
If there’s overlap in the tours picked, Fairytrail connects the users to talk and show them the cheapest matched tour. They can message, video call, and even book the matched tour.
Examples.
Pick adventures from this screen.
When you tap an adventure, you see the details.
We’re excited. Looking forward to you guys trying it out! Let me know your thoughts. Download the app here.
By the way, you can still match on destinations for future travel. We haven’t removed that function.
Maintaining physical fitness may be more of a struggle now that gyms are closed due to COVID-19. If this is something that rings true with you, keep on reading!
It’s easy enough to say to ourselves that we are going to make the best of these wild times by getting in shape or trying out those new healthy recipes, but actually doing it is a whole different scenario.
Some people are more “fitness savvy”. Knowing the best workouts, equipment, and fitness apps comes naturally to them.
If you are like me, you are more prone to moving your body aimlessly in hopes of looking like Jennifer Lopez by summertime.
We live in an age where anything we need guidance with is right at our fingertips, including fitness!
Here are the best health and fitness apps for staying well during this pandemic.
What kind of person would I be if I didn’t start off with a biased opinion?
This is the app I use EVERYDAY and in my opinion, surpasses the other apps I am about to mention. It helps me track my calorie input and output, which is vital during this pandemic because boredom snacking is a very real thing.
This app is extremely customizable to your current health state, your goals, and how much activity you are willing to put into to reach your goals.
It has TONS of free workouts based on whatever you are trying to target. Both step by step and video routines are available.
The best part is the massive food database you can use to track your food/calorie intake. It has over 6 million food entries you can add to your food log as well as having the option to customize your food entries yourself.
The only downfall of the large food database is most all of the entries have been made by other users, so you might have to fact check if the calorie numbers seem off.
There is also a barcode scanner in the app for instant access to food item details.
Annnnddd… IT’S FREE.
For 9.99 monthly of 49.99 yearly, you can get premium features and track your macros more accurately. I find enough satisfaction in the standard but if you do desire to upgrade, premium on MyFitnessPal is significantly cheaper than other apps!
What makes this app COVID-19 worthy is that you can virtually compete in workouts with friends! Most of the workouts are short spanned, high-intensity focused, and can be done anywhere with no equipment! Free with in-app purchases!
Don’t let the name fool you, men can definitely break a sweat from these workouts too. This app is flooded with questions but rather simply gives you an option to answer questions for customization, or simply skip to the workouts. This app is easy to navigate and aesthetically pleasing.
The best feature is that the main home page features workouts based on;
Difficulty level
Body targeting
Time of workout
HOW MANY CALORIES ARE BURNED?!
That’s pretty rad. If you eat a cookie that’s 46 calories, you can burn it off in 10 minutes!
Want to try something new that will calm the chaos of the coronavirus? This app is straight to the point for the user; main page featuring what the user might be seeking. Whether it be winding down for bed or toning your bum, it has it all. App made by the same designers as Workout For Women, thus having a similar format of displaying workouts’ traits front & center.
One month ago, we alerted our community about the dangers of COVID and strongly advised against traveling before lockdowns began. Since then the world has changed dramatically.
Although our community has always embraced remote life (93% of our members are fully remote or aspire to be), it seems the whole world is talking about it now.
3.1% of US workforce are fully remote (4.8m US digital nomads 2018 / 155.76m total US workforce 2018)
In 2018, only 3.1% of the US workforce considered themselves digital nomads (aka fully remote). The Coronavirus is accelerating the adoption for remote work.
We are glad more people are learning about remote work. This means massively more opportunities and support for us.
Online Events
Here’s a list of things now available to us as our world becomes remote friendly. Perfect for those looking for jobs, learning, and networking.
Running Remote’s Remote AID 2020 is a free, virtual workshop event on April 20th at 8AM PST. It’s designed for companies and people struggling with emergency work-from-home policies during the coronavirus outbreak. My friend Anna just did a 9-hour rehearsal of her charity event! It’s going to be amazing. Reserve a spot.
My friend Joe Blair’s Remote Startup Expo is on Thursday, April 23rd at 10AM PST. A virtual summit featuring 20 top remote startup CEOs/founders! 100% free, 100% remote. This is not a webinar. There will be ample time for networking via Remo. Reserve a spot.
We got tickets and will be there. GET FREE TICKETS!!
Fairytrail Update
Our virtual dating concept is now being talked about by mainstream media as one of our members explains on NBC.
Entrance fee is coming next week (assuming Apple approves our app update), so invite your friends to join Fairytrail now while it’s free.
Today, Covid-19 was officially designated as a pandemic by WHO.
We strongly advise not to travel for your own safety, to minimize the disaster impact, and to be considerate to those who are most vulnerable.
Here’s some basics:
Coronavirus can stay in the air for 30 minutes
People can infect each other from over 14.7 feet (4.5m) away
Coronaviruses can survive on surfaces for 3 days (the flu only survives for 24 hours)
Incubation period is typically 5-14 days but can be up to 27 days
Why do we care?
At Fairytrail, we have been following COVID-19 daily since it started in China. Companies such as Microsoft, Twitter, Google, Warner Brothers, and many others have asked or required their employees to work from home. The world is adjusting to quarantine, and many people are experiencing remote work for the first time.
Most popular dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and Coffee Meets Bagel are very old school, connecting people for offline dates which isn’t safe nor healthy in the Coronavirus period.
People are now more isolated and in need of meaningful, loving connections than ever before.
As a startup, we don’t have that much money to donate or pathology expertise, but we do have a video dating product and a social community which helps people with their romantic and social needs.
We’re designed for remote workers, people who are isolated. We allow them to connect with other people in the same situation, so they can develop meaningful connections and loving relationships. Dates happen over video chat.
Fairytrail is a video dating app.
Since the Coronavirus started, we’ve seen a significant reduction in travel. Planes are flying nearly empty. Conferences and festivals cancelled.
We’ve even seen a reduction in our app usage.
This is because many users mistakenly believe they need to be traveling or travel to use the app. This is untrue and probably due our our travel-focused marketing.
Travel is not required to create connections.
Our main value comes from video chat. The truth is users will spend most of their time video chatting with people they like. They may go on 5-10 video chat first dates before they feel enough conviction to start thinking about meeting on a trip together. If and when they meet is completely up to them.
The biggest value we add to people’s lives is to connect them to like-minded people they like but would otherwise never meet.
We allow users to conveniently date from anywhere– living rooms, airports, Ubers, hotel rooms, and conference rooms.
Scheduling and logistics are much easier when you don’t need to commute to the date or wait until you’re in town again. It’s like Netflix, not TV– it works around your life. And it’s free. And it’s safe.
The future.
The Coronavirus pandemic is real and serious.
If you feel alone, isolated– don’t despair. There’s people who are like you out there. There’s no reason why you should have to feel emotionally isolated just because you are physically isolated.
Here are the things we believe at Fairytrail and serve as our guiding principles.
1. The world is a beautiful, magical place.
We see what we want to see. There’s beauty in our world and we choose not to let it pass us by. That’s not to say the world isn’t a cruel and dangerous place. That’s why we focus on safety. We just prefer to be surrounded by others who also see beauty and feel grateful to be alive.
2. It’s better to be in the present.
We don’t want users to miss life’s magical moments by focusing on a glowing screen thinking it will solve all their problems. We want to focus on gratitude and improving our lives today– in the moment. Life and time are precious. That’s why we show you amazing people non-invasively and limit daily usage.
3. People are the doors to opportunity.
We believe in putting people first. All else will follow. Unlike other travel companies that focus on destination first, we believe who you travel with is more important than where you go. Who you match with may open a door to a completely new world.
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Fairytrail lets people match and make friends online for dating before meeting on real-world, group adventures. Campfire is a community for digital nomads, world citizens, and world explorers. LittleQuest is the company behind the products.
Fairytrail Campfire is meant to let nomads and world citizens help each other achieve their business and personal goals (aka make dreams come true). Some of us want to have the freedom to be anywhere which means having a job that lets them work remotely.
People often ask us how they can have a remote lifestyle. In fact, 42% of our community aspire to be remote. There isn’t one path to it, but perhaps the best way to begin is to simply to read about people who have done it.
But there are so many digital nomad and travel bloggers out there, where do you start? We spent the last couple of weeks researching and creating this list of our favorite bloggers. We ranked our list based on qualityofwriting, photography, blog content and originality.
From ex-bankers to TV personalities, all of these bloggers have one thing in common: they’re endlessly passionate about seeing the world and are willing to sacrifice their normal routines to make it happen.
Most of these bloggers are also very friendly and kind, so feel free to reach out to them. We’re pretty sure they’d love to hear from their readers.
Fairytrail Campfire’s Top 50 Travel Bloggers List For 2020
Taylor Taverna has conquered the world, having explored over 60 countries on her journey. She’s scrappy, too, building her own business by creating itineraries and sharing her knowledge to get more people out there to see the world for themselves.
Jules’ website is like a perfectly crafted folk fairy tail, with eloquent words and photos that look like the ending scene of a feel-good film. Her site is the perfect place to scroll until you’re lost, fully submerged in travel-envy but also seriously inspired to book a flight and pack your bags.
Erik brings travel writing back to truth. His stories are gritty and real, and his writing allows you to step right into his adventures. He paints pictures in his storytelling (and he actually paints real pictures, too) with incredible, eloquent detail and stunning photography to match.
To sum it up: Glo crushes life. She went from fearing travel to being a full-time digital nomad while managing a six-figure blog. She’s energetic, full of life and channels all the good vibes you can imagine to create a fantastic life for herself. Her writing is majorly motivational—you’ll find yourself trying to manifest destiny by the end of an article.
After living a normal life for 25 years, Melissa decided a conventional lifestyle wasn’t for her. She packed everything she owned into a Nissan and left to travel the country, vanlife. On her blog you’ll find travel guides, travel stories, and inspirational thoughts for those looking to travel in the United States.
Liz is a great writer, plain and simple. She’s relatable, witty and her insane adventures make for great content, too. She loves solo traveling because it allows her to do exactly what she wants when she wants. Her articles are entertaining, but also make you think twice about what you’re after in life.
Matt has been all over the world and created a life for himself on the go—he’s even started a family amidst his adventures. He’s got tips for everything from proper gondola rental tactics to run-ins with the Mexican cartel. His writing is personable, his photos are enchanting and his tips are perfect for all sorts of travelers and nomads.
Brooke has been venturing by herself since 2012 (she was just 20!). She’s since conquered the world and collected an enormous amount of stories along the way. Her site is beautifully done with vintage vibes and endless trips to explore—she even has a whole section on traveling alone and the things she’s encountered along the way.
Five years ago, Dan ditched his restaurant job to travel. He practically fell into blogging, but his passion for seeing the world kept him motivated to sharpen his skills as a photographer and web designer. He’s met tons of friends on his journey, and his humor really shines through his writing.
Despite graduating from university with straight-A’s, Victoria didn’t want to settle into society. She kicked off the nomad life exploring Bali, and has lived around the world since, writing really unique articles from the inspiration she’s gotten by traveling upwards of 70 countries.
Caroline is a full-time travel blogger and a total foodie—her personality basically pops out of the computer. Her website is beautiful and covered in “how did she take that” type-photos. Her articles are charming and easy to read, especially if you’re a woman looking for inspo as a solo traveler.
Matt took a leap for the nomadic life ten years ago and has never looked back. With over 100 countries visited, his knowledge for the world is practically limitless—he even put all those factoids together to write New York Times bestseller How to Travel the World on $50 a Day, which has inspired millions of people looking for a lifestyle change.
Alyssa is slowly but surely checking off her entire bucket list as a solo traveler. She’s already been to all 7 continents, seen all 7 wonders, and visited over 100 countries—oh, and her photography is off the charts. Her articles will give you guaranteed wanderlust envy but very well worth the read.
Alex lived a conventional life for many years with an unrealized passion for travel, but like most of us couldn’t find the financial means to travel the world with a good backup plan. Being the real-life version of Alice in Wonderland however, she threw reality to the wind and started traveling the world. Discovering how beautiful the world is kept fueling her inner fire, working odd jobs for years to keep traveling while building her blog to the success it is today.
Kate’s been traveling solo for close to a decade, cranking through all 7 continents and close to 100 countries. As a young woman in the world, she focuses on safety tips in an educated but very digestible way. She’s a great writer and can really recreate the essence of a place through her words—you’ll be intrigued the whole way through.
On her about page, Kristin leads with her mission: to empower women to be brave and confident in her abilities. This mindset seems to echo in her articles and downloadable courses. She writes with a genuine passion to see people live out their dreams of becoming international travelers.
Media personality and travel junkie Oneika has collaborated with numerous big-name brands around the world while living with the mantra of inspiring people of color to see the globe. She’s articulate, genuine and hits upon topics that we tend to overlook, making for an eye-opening read.
Nadine originally made her mark as a vlogger (and a very well known one, at that), but her website is worth equal praise. She’s been globetrotting for 9 years now, making waves as she goes with her upbeat vibe and thrifty tips to make the most of each adventure.
While his blog gives off a no-frills vibe, Earl’s adventures speak for themselves. He’s been a digital nomad for over 2 decades and has visited 117 countries. He has posts and guides for just about everything including small tour groups—he’s basically a walking knowledge bank for nomads everywhere.
Here’s a secret: Her last name is not actually Teacake. Alice, in general, exudes spunky energy and enthusiasm. She’ll leave you saying “Yeah, I got this” to just about any obstacle in your way. She’s all about women empowerment and covers the bases for traveling in a quick, quirky and digestible way. In fact, she’s launching Anxious to Adventurous, a coaching program for women to combat anxiety and embrace adventure.
Mel blogs all the stuff that everyone tends to forget about—like sleeping in an airport, or the struggle of applying for a visa. She’s also been to pretty much every off-beat place ever, having been on the road since 2014. Her articles are super real and relatable—they break the facade most people try to create about their trips and traveling.
Shubham has been traveling full time for 5 years as a writer and consultant, he has an amazing backstory and now focuses his expeditions on sustainable and responsible tourism. His passion for eco-friendly travel makes for some amazing, off-beat stories, lots of backpacking, hitchhiking and pauses to appreciate a simpler way of life.
Jackson is semi-new to the nomad life, having only been traveling full-time for 2 years, but you’d never know it. His photography is outrageously beautiful, and his thrill for taking risks seems endless. He’s always posting about unique places and uncharted territory—while jumping off every cliff he comes across along the way.
Lili’s posts are basically mini-stories, filled with emotion and great energy. In between the lovely little blurbs are equally stunning photos she takes along the way, weaving the perfect tale every time. She’s so good at recalling her day in such passion-filled detail that it’s hard to not picture her typing away in the middle of a safari or ocean adventure.
Chris is a British bloke who has been bouncing around the world since 2009. He’s down to earth and up for a good time, his articles are about how to be scrappy and travel cheap, while jumping into an array of adventures like snorkeling, surfing and hiking.
Kiki’s perfectly crafted site will keep you engaged for hours, with options to indulge in an article (or six), book a trip from her self-made travel business, or learn about proper tips for packing and dressing for any country. She’s all about female empowerment and her site practically gives women step-by-step guidance on how to get out into the world.
Shivya has been featured on some of the world’s biggest publication companies out there, and for good reason. Well into ten years of full-time travel, she seeks the off-beat, the unique and the local. This is a great site to explore if you’re looking to make a difference through veganism, sustainability and doing your part.
Jen’s a solo traveler and (plot twist) a full-time lawyer. She managed to fit 20 international trips into one year while maintaining her career—and she wants to help people do the same. You’ve got plenty of places to find inspo from her, including her articles, the book she’s written, or even the TEDx Talks she’s done.
Jeremy dipped out during the economic crisis in 2009 and has been a nomad around the world ever since. He started off by picking up random jobs along the way, and has since created a successful online entrepreneur business. TravelFreak now has an international following and has been featured in everything from National Geographic to BuzzFeed.
Clelia ditched her job at Burberry London to see the world—and she’s done just that. She’s got a ton of countries under her belt, and you can tell she spends a lot of time researching and writing about the best things to do, she also looks for the unusual and unique as she goes.
Ashley not only travels solo, but she truly lives and immerses herself into a country, rather than jumping around from place to place. Not only has she visited nearly 50 countries, but she’s lived as an expat in France, Uganda and Argentina, racking up knowledge that only locals can uncover.
At the ripe age of 15, Dave said so long to the UK and headed for Finland with the pennies he had saved along the way—oh, and he hasn’t stopped since. He got into blogging before it was cool (his mom requested a daily update because he was so young) and has since studied and lived all around the world.
Trisha says it herself—if you’re looking for guides and travel inspo, her site isn’t for you. Sure, she has some posts about “the 37 things not to miss in wherever” but, more importantly, she talks about the raw, real struggles that people push far into the corners of their mind as they go through life. Read them, relate to them, take them with you.
Sarah has been traveling for nearly a decade, dabbling in careers as she goes—from writer to dive instructor to English teacher. She has limitless energy and thrives from spontaneous moments. She’s also got some incredible videos on her site (and a very awesome accent) that you can get lost in for hours.
While she was always a fan of traveling, Christine wound up solo by accident, caught the bug, and has been venturing on her own ever since. She’s got a lot of tips about traveling alone, plus, she was a reality TV camera operator back home so her videos and photos are top-notch.
After a decade of investment banking, Keith rebuilt his career from the ground up as a writer and marketer so he could pursue his passion for travel. He’s made huge successes with his Ebook and TEDxTalk while keeping inspiration and motivation high through his travels of the world (he just celebrated ten years as a world traveler!).
Sherry has been wandering around the world on her own since 2006 public speaking, blogging and inspiring people as she goes. She ditched her attachments (like a mortgage and other expenses) to be completely free as she explores the world, which is beautifully brought out through her photography and writing.
Jessie wants you to book the trip. To take the plunge. A decade ago, she dodged the pressure of society (and her family) by saying so long to New York and her 9-5 plans in order to travel. Today, she’s an avid traveler, plus she’s got all types of tools and classes to help you find an action-packed life.
Fran has done it all. No, really, she’s basically tried every career known to man. Her about page aside, you can tell she’s dipped into tons of cultures and communities by the way she writes, the unique lens she looks through life, and the collection of little details she includes as she explains each country.
Claudia grew up in Sardinia and she was brought up exploring cultures around Europe. When she started traveling more seriously in 2013, she began her blog to keep friends and family in the loop as she went. Her writing is a breath of fresh air because she’ll it to you straight as she tackles the world, country at a time.
Self-described as an adventurer that loves the offbeat and slower travel, Dev’s stories are thoughtful, unique, and beautifully written. His eclectic excursions always lead him to new friends and amazing photos—you’ll be inspired to break out of your comfort zone and take on the world.
Sabina has been all over the map, starting at school in Austria at 13! She prioritizes immersing herself in the culture, learning the language, embracing the weather, etc. She also has an awesome section on being a woman who travels, figuring out relationships on the road, and all sorts of deeper questions that come with traveling.
Sanne has been living abroad and traveling the world since she was 17. She’s creating her own happiness along the way by being a digital nomad. Her writing is honest and real, highlighting the good, the bad and the ugly of her experiences abroad.
Kami has tackled the globe, country by country. She started traveling at a young age and has challenged herself to explore cultures that used to intimidate her. You’ll get lost in a sea of fascinating articles, including eye-opening topics about the challenges happening internationally.
Lola is a published travel journalist who has written articles for big brands around the world—she also prioritizes vegan eating, responsible travel, and yoga retreats, which are highlighted in her writing and give audiences a more authentic visual of her travel priorities and passions.
Flora brings back the human aspect of travel. She welcomes and embraces life and all its imperfections through her writing in a very sincere way. Hang on tight as she weaves through the world, sharing her adventures and the awkward, vulnerable and challenging scenarios that follow.
Steph’s adventures haven’t exactly been smooth sailing. This PhD student has been surrounded by mishaps, but it hasn’t kept her away from traveling (plus, they make for a great read). Her articles are personable, super entertaining and perfect for thrill-seekers.
Juno ditched her mechanical engineering gig in 2011 despite her parents disapproval. Her blog has since caught a lot of traction—her writing talks about her personal growth through all the beautiful, breathtaking moments she’s encountered on the road that shaped her into who she is today.
Mollie hit the ground running at a young age. At just 25, she’s already started a tour operation and a shop tailored for all your adventure needs. Mollie strives to live with zero regrets, and it’s gotten her pretty far. Check out her articles for some great photography, amazing stories and helpful tips for a variety of destinations.
Chloe has been a full-time solo traveler since 2014 and her experience has gotten her tons of recognition by big-name brands. Her blog has been majorly successful because she’s always up for the adventure and leaves no stone unturned in her search to find the best things to do in whatever city she’s exploring.
So there you have it! Our 50 favorite solo travelers and digital nomads. We will continue to improve the article add more photos throughout the year.
We highly encourage you to get reading on all the amazing articles and adventures crafted by these inspirational individuals. Trust us, you’ll discover motivation to switch up your routine, plus you’ll have all the tools and tips needed to make it happen.
Written by Rachel Laiosa
Rachel Laiosa has been writing professionally for 5+ years as a creative copywriter—both on the agency and brand side of business. An avid traveler, Rachel writes about travel in her free time for a variety of companies and brands, and keeps herself inspired by adventuring around the world as much as she can in her free time.
On Jan 4th, 2020, Maggie from New York, NY and Jun Xiang from Sunnyvale, CA traveled to Denver, CO on a Fairytrail Adventure supplied by Airbnb. The Glacier Hike and Geothermal Cave Pools experience was led by Tyler, a local tour guide who started his tour company in 2019. The travel group size was 7 people plus Tyler.
A few words from the adventure leader.
“We arrived at the glacier and the weather couldn’t have been better. This was one of my first tours I carried sleds up to the top of the trail and all the guests seemed to love it. The whole group kept engaging in dialogue. It was one of the best groups I have had.”
— Tyler DeVries, Airbnb Experiences & TripAdvisor travel guide and Owner of Adventure Colorado Tours
The story as told by software engineer and world explorer Maggie Chan.
Part I. Connecting
Jun Xiang was my first match on Fairytrail after liking each other based on our dating profiles and then overlapping on a mutual interest in the adventure package to Quebec City. I broke the ice once the chat option opened up to see how this new app works and started a conversation with Jun Xiang.
We followed the encouraged protocol of setting up a video chat and connected on Facebook Messenger. This new way of approaching online dating was interesting to me and I wanted to see where it would go.
On our first virtual date, I went to a cafe in New York City with my laptop and met Jun Xiang streaming from his bedroom in California.
The first thing that stood out to me when he spoke was his accent. Honestly, it was never something that even crossed my mind going into this experience, so it was a wonderful thing to learn about him before meeting him in person.
I immediately felt like my world was broadening and it was an incredible privilege to be able to connect with a real human being on the other end of the stream.
He looked just as cute as his pictures. I immediately felt like my world was broadening and it was an incredible privilege to be able to connect with a real human being on the other end of the stream. I think this type of exposure to one another was critical in the beginning to form trust and a relationship with Jun Xiang. I felt like it was a good match because we were both on this app with the intent to both travel and date as single adults. You definitely need to be of a certain mindset to be open to this kind of unique experience.
As we began researching what it would cost to travel to Quebec City, we became a bit discouraged when the cost of flights during our mutually available travel time was over $1000 USD for each of us for a flight on such short notice. Fortunately, the creator of the app, Taige Zhang, reached out to us to ask if we had any questions or feedback. When I told him about the issue, he explained that we didn’t have to book the adventure we matched on, and that it is only a suggestion to get the conversation started. He encouraged us to choose any destination that would better fit our constraints.
We decided to narrow down a location within the US that we both wanted to explore. We settled on Denver, CO for an Airbnb Experience package that included a glacier hike, a local pizza stop, and a trip to the local hot spring caves. It sounded like an awesome adventure that neither of us had experienced before. Looking forward to this adventure together gave us both something to bond over and keep in touch about before our trip.
Fairytrail added a level of intentionality that required both parties to be actively involved from the beginning, and connect on a visual/audio/human level before ever meeting in person.
Part II. Previous Online Dating Experience
Prior to trying Fairytrail, I had been using Tinder to browse the local singles during my travels to Asia, and Hinge to find dates in my hometown when I returned to New York City. It was exciting and fun for me to connect with people on these apps, but more often than not, conversations would get stale and interest would wane before we ever settled on a meeting date. Fairytrail added a level of intentionality that required both parties to be actively involved from the beginning, and connect on a visual/audio/human level before ever meeting in person.
A change of pace from the half-hearted swipes on every other dating app that doesn’t prioritize actual human interaction over chats and match stats.
The people you come across on Fairytrail are of a certain mindset, probably very similar to yours: Single, spontaneous, travel-bug-bitten adventurers looking for a new experience with a new travel partner. I love that these connections are two-fold: romantic interest and adventure-based. If the sparks don’t fly with your match, at least you have one person to join you for a new adventure, and possibly a new friend for life. Definitely a change of pace from the half-hearted swipes on every other dating app that doesn’t prioritize actual human interaction over chats and match stats!
Jun Xiang and I chose the most interesting adventure we could find in Denver, Colorado: A hike up a glacier mountain, local Colorado pizza (I didn’t know there was a Colorado style!), and a visit to the hot spring caves.
Part III. Booking The Trip
Fairytrail was the intermediate between Jun Xiang and I for the trip booking experience. Each of us added Travel Money to our Fairytrail accounts to cover a majority of the Airbnb Experience package cost ($120). Fairytrail generously covered the remainder ($30), as we were one of the first couples to reserve a trip through the app.
By putting our funds into Travel Money, Jun Xiang and I each made a financial commitment to our meeting and trip experience.
After each of us deposited the money into our Travel Money accounts, Taige and the Fairytrail team took care of booking the reservation for us. By putting our funds into Travel Money, Jun Xiang and I each made a financial commitment to our meeting and trip experience. This gave us both reassurance that we were both interested and invested in this new unique experience. Jun Xiang even had his airfare booked through Fairytrail while I took care of my own.
Part IV. The Adventure
Our experience on the glacier hike adventure was awesome! We met our tour guide, his sister the designated photographer, his friend who assisted as a driver, and other fellow adventurers at a Whole Foods in downtown Denver. Other people on the trip were a solo female traveler and a mother and daughter.
We briefly got to know each other before breaking up into two cars to make the trip to St. Mary’s Glacier for our hike. There was unexpected traffic and we arrived at our starting place an hour and a half behind schedule. Luckily, none of us had obligations after the scheduled end of our day trip, and we proceeded with the original itinerary.
Our tour guide supplied us with crampons (traction chains with spikes for hiking) for our boots, water and a snack and we set off on a slow and steady paced hike up to the glacier area where a lake was frozen solid. We stopped every few minutes so that everyone could get acclimated to the elevation and not get sick.
Our guide purchased new snow sleds to try, and after we made it to the frozen lake and snapped some photos, some of us climbed a ways up the mountain to sled down and skid freely across the frozen lake.
It was exhilarating! It was definitely a unique experience that I’ve never had before, and quite beautiful to take in the sights. Jun Xiang and I took some fun photos in the snow and enjoyed romping around on the frozen lake.
After the hike, we piled back into the cars and backtracked a bit back towards Denver and stopped in Idaho Springs for Colorado-style pizza (thin bottom but thick and fluffy crust!).
This part was not covered by our adventure package, but was a great break in the itinerary to try the local cuisine. The restaurant was nestled among very cute town shops that we were able to browse for souvenirs before and after our meal.
Jun Xiang and I rode in the same car together and our tour guide was aware that we were on a unique trip together through Fairytrail. When we were separated during the hot springs time, both of us were asked about our experiences using the app to book our trip together! Jun Xiang and I also bonded with other people on the tour and shared our favorite music and hobbies with each other over the car trips and lunch. The time we spent together was very fun and tiring. Being together at the end of the day, we grabbed tacos and drinks and kept our weekend long date going.
It was like we were almost an established couple, partnered up and taking on this new city, positive and open to new experiences and discoveries.
The next day of our trip, we wandered around Downtown Denver on foot to explore the shops, restaurants, and street art on our own. It was like we were almost an established couple, partnered up and taking on this new city, positive and open to new experiences and discoveries. I felt quite close to Jun Xiang and we mutually agreed that we got along very well as travel buddies. My Fairytrail Adventure was definitely worth it!
Part V. The Fairytrail Experience
Prior to going on my Fairytrail Adventure, I shared my plans with some friends who were incredulous but supportive! I’m definitely the more outgoing and adventurous one of some of my friends, so it was exciting to be able to try something new and continue to recommend to my friends!
I feel incredibly lucky to have matched someone like Jun Xiang that I felt very comfortable with and was easily able to build trust with, as we are both honest and straightforward people who also happened to work in different aspects of the same industry. I definitely would not have randomly met him outside of the app, as my typical dating location range is still within my own city, and Jun Xiang lives across the country.
Our hobbies are different but our personalities complement each other. I would encourage any adventurer friends of mine to give Fairytrail a try if they are looking for their next spontaneous trip and are open to meeting a new partner!
These are the magical words of Maggie Chan. If you would like to share your story, contact us.
When it comes to dating and relationships, personality is immensely important. Perhaps you have a certain “type” that you find irresistible. Or maybe you’ve had bad luck with one type and want to try something different. Here’s why we have Fairytale characters on Fairytrail.
1. Myers Briggs Personality Tests
Personality assessments like the widely-accepted Myers Briggs test determine your personality type by measuring how you see the world and make decisions.
Knowing which type you are and which types you have the most chemistry with is a shortcut on the road of dating. Why swipe through 100 random people on Tinder when you already know you just want to meet ENTJs? Just show me the money honey. (You can do this on Fairytrail.)
The problem is not everyone knows what those codes mean. In fact, it’s often hard to remember even after you’ve just taken the test.
What if there was a fun and visual way to represent your personality through something intrinsically human?
2. Enchantment Of Fairy Tales
Once upon a time, there were two brothers, Jakob and Wilhelm, from a small town in Germany. Longing to preserve a disappearing German heritage during the turbulent Napoleonic Wars, they traveled throughout the land to collect fairy tales, part of a rich oral tradition − passed down from generation to generation, often told around the fire to pass the time during cold, dark European winters.
As the story goes, they collected tales from printed sources and verbally through friends, relatives, peasants, soldiers, and travelers.
Gathering whatever tales they could, the Grimm brothers published a collection of 86 unique fairy tales called the Children’s and Household Tales in 1812.
As captivating as they are to children, folk stories were not intended to be for children at all. Fairy tales are cultural artifacts expressed as cautionary fables, moral parables, stories of resilience, allegories of hope, and celebrations of wits and courage.
They were meant to warn, teach, and inspire us in a world fraught with hardship, deception, and brutality. Folk stories are not unique to Germany but, like the human smile, can be seen across all nations.
3. Stories Make Us Human
Native American folklore, Chinese myths, Icelandic legends, African fables, and German fairy tales. Stories are how cultures, languages, and values are passed down. It is what unites society. It’s how we communicate.
Yuval Noah Harari in Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind writes:
“Large numbers of strangers can cooperate successfully by believing in common myths.”
There is nothing that builds understanding, empathy, and relationships faster than stories.
And there is nothing more enthralling than a movie with a good story. So it’s no wonder, so many of these fairy tale stories have become movies.
4. Disney Effect
The most prolific and successful adaptations of fairy tales are by Disney through their popular films for children and adults. Those immensely successful films solidified characters from fairy tales in the hearts and minds of people across nations and generations.
The female fairytale characters, now simply referred to as Disney princesses, capture a variety of personalities. These princesses like us are strong, kind, open-minded, resilient, loyal, and smart.
5. Personality As Fairytale Archetypes
At Fairytrail we want to bring personality to the foreground because we believe character as important as physical beauty. That’s why we let users represent their personalities through fairytale archetypes in our remote dating and travel inspiration app.
In this era when cynicism seems to have driven out all the wonder and magic out of our lives, we still see the world as a beautiful place full of wonder and magic. And there’s no way, we’re going to let a bit of fun get past us.
Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing. — Camille Pissarro
Look through the fairytale characters to see which one best describes you or if you know your MBTI type, find your corresponding character.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
Tribe Theory is a new category in hospitality. Their mission is to connect, inspire, and empower the world’s entrepreneurs and enable the creation of ONE MILLION businesses worldwide by 2030. Through their global hostel chain, they are aggregating talent and ideas from every corner of the world and building a full-fledged ecosystem for business services to become a global entrepreneurial platform on which we can fulfill our dreams.
“Tribe Theory empowers startup enthusiasts to build their dream startup while working remotely from their hostels. It enables collaboration and brainstorming!”, says Taige, the Founder of Fairytrail.
Fairytrail is proud to partner with Tribe Theory. Use code “Fairytrail” at checkout to get 10% OFF on booking your favorite startup hostel on Tribe Theory.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
Stressing about holiday gifts and looking for alternatives to expensive toys for your children? We have exciting news for you. Gifting your children experiences coupled with bonding time might be better for their soul and mind rather than breakable toys!
In 2017, The Journal of Social and Personal Relationships surveyed close to 500 women between 18 and 93 years old and published a study. The women were asked to answer the question, “Most people feel loved when … ” — and guess what? The most popular answers had nothing to do with receiving tangible items.
“Our research found that micro-moments of positivity, like a kind word, cuddling with a child or receiving compassion make people feel most loved,” — Dr. Zita Oravecz, Human Development and Family Studies Professor at Pennsylvania State University, one of the study’s authors — told NPR.
Britain’s best-selling psychological author, Oliver James, in a conversation with The Telegraph asks “Do you have any idea what an extraordinary proportion of presents we give children aren’t actually wanted or valued?”
“Give a 2-year-old a present and she’ll get absorbed in the box instead. It’s similar with children and travel. We should let them explore their own ways of finding wonder in their surroundings,” James advised.
A British child psychologist, Dr. Margot Sunderland, wrote a piece for The Telegraph in 2017. “Aside from a potential boost to long-term happiness, vacations can make children smarter. What is less widely known is that vacations can also advance brain development in children. This is because, on a family vacation, you are exercising two genetically ingrained systems deep in the brain’s limbic area, which can all too easily be ‘unexercised’ in the home.”, writes Dr. Margot.
“These are the PLAY system and the SEEKING system (Panksepp 2016),” Sunderland adds, explaining that the brain’s PLAY system “is exercised every time you bury your child’s feet in the sand, tickle them on the pool lounger, or take them for a ride on your back. The SEEKING system is exercised each time you go exploring together: the forest, the beach, a hidden gem of a village.”
“So when you take your child on a vacation, you are supporting their explorative urge (SEEKING system) a vital resource for living life well, and their capacity to play (PLAY system). In adulthood, this translates into the ability to play with ideas — essential, for example, to the successful entrepreneur,” she added.
According to James, it’s worth noting that vacations “remove us, physically, from our highly pressured everyday lives where everyone’s focused on meeting targets. They are times when everyone can relax and be playful together.”
“This collaborative playtime — devoid of solo-focused toys and technology — is a crucial human experience, for children especially, but for adults too. Without it, life is very empty and lacking in joy,” he added.
About the pros of traveling with younger ones, James added – “Children see the world differently. Through consumption, for example, The way that French cafés have Orangina instead of Fanta is fascinating to kids, and details like that will stick with them for long after the vacation ends.”
When you travel, you gain richer experiences, create deeper relationships, and make memories that will be a source of happiness and stay with you forever. Read more about how traveling helps build relationships here.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
We believe the world is a beautiful, magical place. And it’s no surprise, we are attracting those who think like us.
Through this app, I’ve connected with CEOs of tech companies, professional athletes, TED speakers, Google employees, Harvard grads, airline employees, journalists, doctors, college students, and even people who have lived in a small town their whole lives. What unites us is our passion to explore the world’s people, cultures, and places.
We made Campfire for positive, curious, and adventurous people like us. This Facebook Group is an opportunity to network and share anything related to your business, passions, and goals.
Life is full of magic. We’ll help you discover it. Contact us if you feel you could be a good moderator and help us shape the community.
Shoutout to Iceland and Australia for the most user growth last week!
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
We gave you the rundown of the Female Fairytrail characters; now we would like to invite you to get to know the Male Fairytrail characters. Interested in knowing which one you are? To read about why Fairytrail uses Fairytale characters to help people get to know their matches, read this article.
The Myers-Briggs and Enneagram Tests are widely adopted personality tests that helps people to understand more about themselves. It is also helpful for others to get to know your traits and why you do things the way you do. If you are new to MBTI or Enneagram, take a free test here to find out what personality type you are!
Compatibility is crucial for any relationship, but it can be difficult to know exactly the type of person you are most compatible with. Fairytrail requires each user to assign themselves a character that best aligns with their personality type. This not only allows people to get a better idea of how they might get along, but it also helps in figuring out which characters they seem to get along best with, and therefore which characters to look for in order to increase chances of success.
Aladdin
ESTP (Extroverted. Sensing. Feeling. Perceiving)
Enneagram Type 3 (Success-Oriented, Pragmatic Type: Adaptive, Excelling, Driven, and Image-Conscious)
Highly adaptable, fun and charming; they possess boundless energy. Adventurous and enthusiastic, with an appreciation for material comforts.
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller
People of ESTP type are generally the first you’ll notice or become aware of in a crowd. They love to be at the center of attention and always have an impact on their immediate surroundings. They enjoy and are comfortable living under the spotlight.
They possess boundless energy and prioritizes fun, living on the edge with little concern for their personal safety at times. They push themselves and others to the max, taking risks with very little hesitation to get what they want. They are natural group leaders that bring an air of life and excitement everywhere they go.
Their enthusiasm and adventurousness make them really fun people to be around. There’s always something to do or somewhere to explore.
Here are some famous people that have the ESTP personality type: Jack Nickelson, Eddie Murphy, Madonna, Ernest Hemingway
John Smith
ENFP (Extroverted. Intuitive. Feeling. Perceiving)
Enneagram Type 7 (Busy, Fun-Loving Type: Spontaneous, Versatile, Distractible, and Scattered)
Calm, cool, and open-minded. Quick to recognize another person’s strengths and weaknesses.
“It doesn’t interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool – for love – for your dreams – for the adventure of being alive.” – Oriah Mountain Dreamer.
Intuitively honest and effortlessly genuine, the ENFP type value true spirit, independence, creativity, and freedom. Their self-esteem is built on their ability to innovate and create solutions.
Thanks to their imagination and passion, they will not be beaten down by the stress in life. They know how to relax and wind-down from the little stresses of everyday life, transitioning from serious work mode during the day to free-spirited on the dance floor at night.
Adaptable and accepting, their intuition leads them to be in tune with their own emotions and allows them to connect emotionally with others; they really get to know and understand what inspires people around them, while also recognizing their strengths and weaknesses.
A relationship with an ENFP type is an enjoyable journey of mutual exploration and imagination. They seek to connect with a soulmate and are not afraid to fully commit.
Famous people you may know that are ENFP type personalities: Robert Downey Jr., Robin Williams, Quentin Tarantino, RM (Kim Nam-joon)
General Shang
ISTJ (Introverted. Sensing. Thinking. Judging)
Enneagram Type 1 (Rational, Idealistic Type: Principled, Purposeful, Self-Controlled, and Perfectionistic)
Loyal, faithful, dependable, with a strong sense of duty. Operate in relation to internal beliefs and values.
“Associate yourself with men with good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for ‘tis better to be alone than in bad company.” – George Washington
The sensibility and perfection of the ISTJ type mean that they like to get things done, and to do them well. They place great value on and pride themselves in their sense of duty and extreme loyalty.
Very much a team leader, they strategize to ensure minimal mistakes, but take full responsibility when things don’t go as planned; they hold themselves accountable for their actions.
The ISTJ type comes across as quiet and secretive; they really value their privacy and are slow to open up to and admit their feelings to others.
What famous people might you know that have this ISTJ personality type? Sting, Denzel Washington, Angela Merkel, Natalie Portman
Prince Charming
ESFJ (Extroverted. Sensing. Feeling. Judging)
Enneagram Type 2 (Caring, Interpersonal Type: Demonstrative, Generous, People-Pleasing, and Possessive)
Warm, caring, and compassionate; valuing cooperation, they are unpretentious, valiant and selfless.
“Encourage, lift and strengthen one another. For the positive energy spread to one will be felt by us all.” – Deborah Day.
Extraordinarily caring and always ready to help, the ESFJ type is highly sociable and popular individuals. They care deeply about their loved ones, be their family or friends. When it comes to romantic relationships, the ESFJ doesn’t mess around; they take things very seriously, rarely participating in anything that could be considered a casual fling.
Charming in the least pretentious way, they are widely popular and sought after and while they are good with and seem to enjoy the attention, they handle their popularity with a grace that keeps intact and holds true to their valiance and dignity.
Famous people that are an ESFJ personality type: Taylor Swift, Bill Clinton, Jennifer Garner, Steve Harvey
Peter Pan
ESFP (Extroverted. Sensing. Feeling. Perceiving)
Enneagram Type 7 (Busy, Fun-Loving Type: Spontaneous, Versatile, Distractible, and Scattered)
Outgoing, friendly and spontaneous; always up for an adventure.
“I’m selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can’t handle me at my worst, then you surely don’t deserve me at my best.”– Marilyn Monroe.
ESPF types are spontaneous, energetic and fun-loving. Playful and with a great sense of humor, they like to draw people out of their shells and encourage them to have a good time. Easily pleased, there’s nothing they like more than good times with good friends.
They are born entertainers, sometimes seen as performers because they are energetic and have a contagious enthusiasm for life. Outgoing and spontaneous, they wish to live their life to the fullest. They enjoy being under the spotlight and are able to make their own stage anywhere.
Chatty and lovable people, they care deeply about others. While they may go too far and can be stubborn at times, their intentions are never malicious.
What famous entertainers do you have the same personality type as? Elton John, Marilyn Monroe, Jamie Oliver, Adele
Robin Hood
ENTP (Extroverted. Intuitive. Thinking. Perceiving)
Enneagram Type 5 (Intense, Cerebral Type: Perceptive, Innovative, Secretive, and Isolated)
Witty, creative and caring, they see the big picture and want the best for everyone.
“Follow the path of the unsafe, independent thinker. Expose your ideas to the dangers of controversy.” – Thomas J. Watson.
ENTP’s are generally smart and enjoy an intellectual challenge. If you want to argue with an ENTP type, prepare yourself for defeat against this natural-born debater – they are in their element when challenged. They are thinkers, more than do-ers.
Their knowledge and confidence to speak out make them endearingly charming. They use pre-existing knowledge in novel and creative ways. Energetic and enthusiastic, they take every opportunity presented to them to learn something new. Being a partner of a true thinker, life is never boring because they will have plenty of new ideas to surprise, entertain and even challenge you with.
Their cunning wit and desire for challenges and intellectual debate can come across at times as precocious and argumentative, but beneath the surface, they are generous and have good hearts; they really do just want what’s best for everyone.
Famous people that are ENTP’s: Adam Savage, Mark Twain, Sarah Silverman, Alfred “Weird Al” Yankovic
King Arthur
ENFJ (Extroverted. Intuitive. Feeling. Judging)
Enneagram Type 8 (Powerful, Dominating Type: Self-Confident, Decisive, Willful, and Confrontational)
A born leader; kind, reliable, inspiring, adventurous.
“Everything you do right now ripples outward and affects everyone. Your every act can open hearts and minds.”– David Deida.
ENFJ types are inspiring and natural-born leaders. A typical and passionate altruist, they stand up for what they believe in. They often focus on values and vision, caring about what is best for humanity. They value self-development and also the development of others, with high hopes of contributing to a brighter future for themselves as well as, if not more importantly, for those around them.
As a leader, the ENFJ type is reliable and tolerant. A good leader has to be a good listener, listening and accepting other peoples’ opinions, be they positive or negative. Their selflessness makes them much loved and admired by those that know them.
They prioritize others’ happiness over their own. They take relationships seriously, dedicating time and effort to show commitment in a relationship, making them reliable and trustworthy partners.
Do you see yourself as somewhat similar in personality to these famous people that are ENFJ’s? Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, John Cusack, Ben Affleck
Beast
ISTP (Introverted. Sensing. Thinking. Perceiving)
Enneagram Type 4 (Sensitive, Withdrawn Type: Expressive, Dramatic, Self-Absorbed, and Temperamental)
Fiery, passionate, and adventurous. Always analytical and fair in their endeavors.
“Without feelings of respect, what is there to distinguish men from beasts?” – Confucius
ISTP’s are fiercely independent, curious, loyal, and learn from their mistakes rather than playing by the rules.
Explosive passion can sometimes be perceived as hot-headed or stubborn. These people feel strongly about the things that matter to them, including their partner. Although they are sometimes quick to react, give them time, they will always return with the best solution possible.
The adventurous child inside them loves activities like sky diving, surfing, and riding motorcycles. They are fearless in their quest for adrenaline and always have to be doing something. Beasts get bored rather quickly, so they enjoy a partner who always keeps them on their toes.
Taking time for themselves is crucial for their mental health. Activities like reading inspiring books or fixing things around the house gives them a moment to process their sense of self and current dilemmas. Depriving them of this time will make them feel stubborn and detached from their core values.
Being in a relationship with someone who is an ISTP type is intriguing and exciting. Their love will feel intense & wild, just like your life together.
Famous people you may know that have ISTP type personalities: Tom Cruise, Clint Eastwood, James Dean, Michael Jordan
Conclusion
Now that you’ve discovered which Fairytale character you are, there is only one more thing you need to do to find your princess: join Fairytrail!
Get to know amazing people from all around the world, discover incredible places just waiting for you to explore them, and plan once in a lifetime trips with people that you like and have already connected with. Are you ready for an adventure?
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
Tired of underwhelming coffee dates and telling people about how many siblings you have? If you’re frustrated by the limited dating pool in your city, it’s time to shake up your routine by adding adventure and excitement.
Try replacing your usual date script with the unknown— find someone you get along with, and go travel together. Read on to find out what experts have to say about why traveling together can help you find the chemistry you’re looking for.
You Can Uncover Each Other’s Lifestyles, Values, and World Views
Just by choosing an adventure together, you’re already setting yourselves up for success. According to personal development consultant and New York Times bestselling author Mark Manson, it’s important to distinguish between compatibility and chemistry. He says, “Compatibility is about the long-term potential of two people. High compatibility between people comes from similarities in their lifestyles and values.” If you two are traveling together, you already share something hugely important—an interest in seeing the world, in expanding your horizons.
If you two are interested in the same kinds of adventures, all the better. Even by wanting to go on the adventure together, you and your partner have already established some major compatibility.
You Can Feel More Natural And Comfortable Around Each Other Modern Love Editor, Daniel Jones, said in an interview: “My best suggestion for a dating app? Go on a trip abroad, or on a backcountry excursion, with 10 people you don’t know. I bet you’ll fall in love with one of them.” You can avoid the usual awkward pitfalls of dating—lulls in conversation, overly-scripted questions, and the weirdness of not knowing what to do next—by doing something truly exciting together. As dating coach Eric Resnick told Bustle, “Good dates are interactive. Do something where you are both on your feet and moving around together… The point is that you have something to focus on other than the date. This gives you both a chance to breathe and be yourselves. It also provides you with built-in things to talk about if the conversation hits a dead spot.” Traveling together hits all the marks: getting you on your feet, giving you opportunities to be yourself, and offering something exciting to talk about.
Your Excitement Will Spark Chemistry
When you go on adventures together, you’re getting out of your comfort zones and, no innuendo intended, arousing your bodies. Why does that basic, physiological response matter when it comes to building chemistry? According to psychologists, when your blood pressure is up and you’re feeling short of breath, your brain doesn’t always know why. So, if you’re with a partner, and you’re both feeling excited, you and your partner might attribute that excitement to each other. Basically, your brain takes the excitement from whatever you’re doing and turns it into chemistry with the other person.
Photo Courtesy: Grace Chen
So, if you want to feel the sparks flying, do something exciting together. See a new place with gorgeous scenery. Try unfamiliar foods or exotic gourmet. Visit museums and art galleries. If you really want to use psychology to your advantage, get your heart racing. Go climbing or dancing, surfing, or horse riding.
Basically, if you’re looking to really feel a connection with another person, travel is an amazing way to start.
If you don’t want to sift through hundreds of profiles to find someone who is as passionate about travel as you, give the recently launched Fairytrail app a try. It’s a wholesome dating app that lets you match with a traveling partner on a fun, safe adventure.
—
Written by Clara Olshansky
Writer at Travel + Leisure, world traveler, and frequent online dater. After graduating from Yale, Clara taught abroad in two different countries, lived with five different host families, and traveled to 32 towns/cities: 4 in Japan, 17 in Israel, 2 in England, 1 in Germany, 7 in Greece, and 1 in Turkey.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
Starting today, Fairytrail travel agents will be able to help you plan and book your next adventure.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a solo traveler or already in a relationship. This service is available to anyone through the Fairytrail app.
Wait, why would I pay someone to book my travel?
You’re already paying a commission when you book your flights from an online booking agent such as Kayak, SkyScanner, Travelocity, Hipmunk, Expedia, and Google Flights. These sites make money on commission, and often airlines pay an extra commission when these sites “nudge” you to buy a more expensive flight or pay more.
With Fairytrail, you pay the same commission (to us instead of them), but you save a lot more time and get a price guarantee.
How are you able to do all this extra work and still not charge more?
We have a distributed travel agent team based in developing economies who are very knowledgeable about finding great deals. If you work as a software engineer, one hour of your time might be worth $70 so it makes much more sense to outsource the work to any of the Fairytrail travel agents who make $1.50 per hour. And you’ll be supporting a developing economy.
We have special agreements that allow us to buy the ticket for the same price as you would by yourself, but we get a commission on it which is what pays our bills.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
So what do people love the most about Fairytrail? Here’s a short summary of why travelers love Fairytrail.
1. Biggest EVER Olympic-sized dating pool.
We have one dating market instead of tiny fragmented markets. This means more efficiency and choice. Instead of only being seen in your city, you can be seen in hundreds of other cities in your country, and even other countries! That’s a 30X dating pool increase.
2. Most time savings.
Commuting sucks. Fairytrail lets you video chat from the convenience of where you are. Value your time by vetting your dates before investing in a date. No commute. Plus it’s safer.
3. Save money big time.
Traveling to a first date can be very pricey. Uber can cost $10 each way and drinks around $10. That’s $30 just to see if you like someone.
4. Date while on the road.
Most dating apps are location-based which means you can’t actually go on dates if you’re traveling or always moving. Luckily on Fairytrail, people are open to dating with video chat, so you can date from the hotel, airport, office– anywhere.
5. Find like-minded people.
If you are passionate about travel, curious about other cultures, and want to explore the world, there is no better dating app than Fairytrail. Couchsurfing, Airbnb, and Instagram are pretty cool, but they’re not dating apps.
6. Explore the world without leaving home.
On Fairytrail, you can meet people from other cultures and places without leaving home. It’s like getting that magical human part of travel even when you don’t have time to travel.
7. Dates are more fun.
Have adventures with someone you like. What could be better than that? Make the most of your time and have memorable life experiences instead of forgettable coffee dates.
8. Higher chance for love.
Going on an adventure together lets you spend quality time with the person to determine chemistry and compatibility. Furthermore, going on a journey is a bonding experience, so you’ll have a higher chance of developing a relationship.
9. Be pickier about who you want to meet.
Fairytrail allows you to filter for age, personality, nationality, and more, so you can date who you want, not just who’s down the street. More filters to come! That’s why travelers love Fairytrail.
All our adventures are in groups and lead by professional guides (expect the cruises). It’s safer than being an Uber with just the driver. Plus we’ll verify the identity of you and your match during the booking (just like Airbnb does) and won’t purchase tickets until both parties have paid, so no one is on the hook.
11. Teamwork makes the dream work.
Fairytrail is all about the alignment of user interests with business interests. You want to have amazing adventures/dates. And we’ll do everything we can to help you with that. One dream. No tricks, no fakes because you can’t go on a date with a fake profile. We’ll even help you pick our your best photos. One dream.
12. Gateway to your next adventure.
If you don’t know where to travel or where to live next, this is the perfect app to help you find your next adventure. People are the doors to opportunity. Fairytrail brings the world’s people to your fingertips. Another reason why travelers love Fairytrail.
What matters when it comes to relationships and compatibility is your partner’s identity and personality. We allow people to filter for the Myers Briggs types they’d most like to meet using our fairytale character representations. And nationality because that is highly correlated with a person’s identity.
Conclusion
We hope one of these reasons applies to you.
Our mission is to help people explore the world with someone they like. Our focus is on safety and fun. We value our community which means you .
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
My parents met in the university through a mutual friend. My dad had just graduated from the Navy Academy and had started working as a merchant marine. My mom was becoming a medical doctor and doing her residency at the hospital. Both were living in Dalian, China at the time.
After a mutual friend introduced them, they dated for 2 years mostly on the weekends because they were very busy. After meeting each other’s parents and they decided to get married.
My mom had many men chasing after her but chose my dad because he didn’t have any bad habits like smoking, gambling, and drinking. He was well-educated with a master’s degree (which was rare in China at the time and why Chinese people obsess over education now because they saw how education could lift people out of poverty). And lastly, he wasn’t wasteful with his money, which was a value that appealed to my mom.
Their relationship was mostly long-distance even after they got married and had me. He was on the ocean for 6 months at a time and my mom would be busy working and teaching at the hospital. When I was three, my mom left to study in Manchester and Cambridge which made seeing each other even harder. Every few months, she would call home by spending a fistful of her hard-earned golden coins (8x£1) to make a one-minute long-distance phone from the UK to China just to hear our voices. This separation lasted for 3 years.
We were united around the time the Berlin Wall fell.
It was only then when we all truly started living together and seeing each other on a regular basis. Growing up with them, I came to understand how vastly different two people can view travel.
My mom views travel as a positive. To her, it’s exciting. It makes her feel alive. It is what makes living beautiful– to see the world, to explore new places, people, and cultures.
Just take a look at her. I think this picture says it all.
A Photo Of My Mom
My dad, on the other hand, has absolutely no desire to travel. He would always say “pay money to endure hardships.” To him, happiness is to sleep. It’s to lie in bed all day.
There is no right and wrong, just two different perspectives. They both worked really, really hard. My mom had 3 jobs at one time: scientist (9-5), hotel maid (weekends), and overnight caregiver (nights). My dad would collect coals that fell off trains along the railroad tracks after work. So I don’t think it’s a matter of being too tired to travel.
Courtesy: Sarah Anderson
I was thinking about this recently because sometimes people would tell me Fairytrail is stupid. Why should I date someone farther away when there’s people to date near me? To me, that sounds like my dad. Why should I leave this bed of mine when I can be so comfortable AND save money?
Then there’s people like my mom. She sees the world as a gift and something to be experienced and appreciated. I am largely in this camp. When I meet incredible people and have amazing experiences, it makes me feel alive and in love with life. Sure, it’s more effort and cost more money, but isn’t that what makes life beautiful?
We are only on this planet for a while, so for me, I’m going to be kind to people around me and enjoy myself while I’m here. I’m going to appreciate those who love me and cherish all the fragile, beautiful moments that life brings me.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
Read about the personalities below or look up your MBTI or Enneagram to find the character that most closely represents you. If you don’t know your MBTI or Enneagram, you can take a free test here.
We have 8 female Fairytrail characters.
Little Mermaid (aka Ariel)
The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen // Denmark
ENFP (Extroverted. Intuitive. Feeling. Perceiving)
Enneagram Type 7 (Busy, Fun-Loving Type: Spontaneous, Versatile, Distractible, and Scattered)
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
People with the ENFP personality type value independence and freedom above all else. When presented with a life of routine, stability, security, they are quick to move past it. More than security, they value adventure and freedom. They also place great value in their social relationships.
Free-spirited and inquisitive, she cannot help but question her upbringing; the plans and traditions which her family has set out for her. She has a boundless curiosity for the unknown world. Her collection of ‘thingamabobs’ is a perfect showcase of this.
She yearns to explore; to see the world unseen. At every step of her story, she follows her heart, even in the face of risk and adversity. She throws caution to the wind and pushes past doubting voices; always moving forward in pursuit of her dreams.
Famous people that are ENFP’s: Jennifer Aniston, Cher, Amy Schumer, Ellen Degeneres
Belle
Beauty and the Beast by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont // France
INFP (Introverted. Intuitive. Feeling. Perceiving) Enneagram Type 4 (Sensitive, Withdrawn Type: Expressive, Dramatic, Self-Absorbed, and Temperamental)
“And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: it is only with the heart that one can see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye.” – Antoine de Saint-Exupery
INFPs are both blessed and cursed with an extraordinary imagination. Their imagination allows them to see the world in creative and unique ways, but can also alienate them from those who don’t share the same perspective as they misunderstand.
They are able to effortlessly see the true potential in people and situations. They can see the best in others and help them realize their potential. At their core, they believe that people are good, or at least have the ability to be.
Belle embodies these traits naturally. She’s constantly reading books, expanding her mind and point of view. Her creative thinking and big ideas do lead to her isolation from the surrounding villagers, but she is not dissuaded by being different. In addition to being intelligent and creative, she is very open-minded.
While many would run away from the Beast in fear and disgust, she is able to see deeper. She sees past appearances, past judgments, and assumptions. Looking straight into his soul, she sees his potential for good. INFPs, more than anyone else, know how to bring the best out of people.
Famous people that are INFP’s: Sarah MacLachlan, Emily Blunt, Jude Law, Mia Farrow
“When you love someone, when you care for someone, you have to do it through the good and the bad. Not just when you’re happy and it’s easy.” – Lauren Olivier
Have you ever known someone who was admirably humble and kind? Perhaps to a fault? It’s possible they could be ISFJ or INTP. These folks are often responsible, reliable, and dependable. What’s more, is that they are extremely humble in regards to their knack for dependability.
They see it as their duty to keep their promises and maintain their responsibilities. They fulfil their promises with the utmost kindness towards those in their lives. ISFJs and INTPs are intrinsically motivated to care for and help others. Anyone who is friends with an ISFJ or INTP will recognize this sense of selflessness that these people exude, and should count themselves lucky to have someone like that in their lives. ISFJs and INTPs are also full of enthusiasm and loyalty but seldom talk of these traits.
Cinderella had every reason to look at her situation with negativity; to relinquish any sense of hope, and to give in to the defeating feeling of despair. Despite how terribly she is treated by those in her family, she is always able to act in compassion and kindness. No matter what misfortune happens, she is ready to bounce back with positivity and joy.
Famous people that are ISFJ’s: Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Middleton, Beyoncé
Famous people that are INTP’s: Tina Fey, Ellen Page, Kate Moss, Harper Lee
“We were made to enjoy music, to enjoy beautiful sunsets, to enjoy looking at the billows of the sea and be thrilled with a rose that is bedecked with dew…Human beings are actually created for the transcendent, for the sublime, for the beautiful, for the truthful…and all of us are given the task of trying to make this world a little more hospitable to these beautiful things.” – Desmond Tutu
ESFPs and ESTPs are easy to spot. They like to make their presence known. And once you do notice them, you’ll often find yourself drawn in by their magnetic personality. They love to be the life of the party, the center of attention and want to share that energy with everyone around them. You’ll always find them speaking directly and bluntly; they have no time or energy to be passive-aggressive.
They have a strong appreciation for aesthetics and beauty. This leads to an impeccable fashion sense. They love to experiment with different styles and designs in their quest to express themselves fully.
ESTPs and ESFPs love a challenge and will meet that challenge head-on. Jasmine is a strong ESFP/ESTP, both by nature and circumstance. Her lifestyle as a princess led to plenty of extravagant parties. She exudes glamour in everything she does; her clothes, friends-she even has a pet tiger!
Jasmine has a strong desire to be herself. She’ll always speak her mind, even if it means disagreement and conflict. Jasmine longs for adventure, fun, and to be herself. With her quick wit and bravery, she’s able to pursue her goals with ease.
Famous ESFP’s: Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Cameron Diaz, Judy Garland
Famous ESTP’s: Meryl Streep, Amy Winehouse, Milla Jovovich, Judi Dench
Mulan
Traditional Chinese story of Hua Mulan // China
ISTP (Introverted. Sensing. Thinking. Perceiving)
ISTJ (Introverted. Sensing. Thinking. Judgement) Enneagram Type 1 (Rational, Idealistic Type: Principled, Purposeful, Self-Controlled, and Perfectionistic)
Enneagram Type 5 (The Intense, Cerebral Type: Perceptive, Innovative, Secretive, and Isolated)
“I wanted to live life, a different life. I didn’t want to go to the same place every day and see the same people and do the same job. I wanted interesting challenges.” – Harrison Ford
A call to action and exploration is natural for the ISTP and ISTJ types. They would rather dive into a task immediately and learn through trial and error than spend time pondering and analyzing. Action in the physical world is more meaningful to them than thoughts and feelings.
The sentiment that it’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission is likely to resonate with ISTPs and ISTJs. This can get them in trouble as it might mean breaking some rules, but the rules they break are often for worthy causes.
Mulan’s story of leaving her home to learn to be a soldier is also the story about her growth into her ISTP/ISTJ nature. She truly values her family and country, she would do basically anything for them — including dress up like a guy and joined the army in her father’s role.
She does struggle initially in training, but over time she learns quickly and turns out to be a competent soldier. Even before leaving for the war, she had a fear that she would live out her life as a housewife. For Mulan, the traditional gender roles of caregiver and nurturer didn’t fit her inborn ISTP/ISTJ nature of physical action and exploration.
Famous ISTP’s: Scarlett Johansson, Demi Moore, Venus Williams, Amelia Earhart, Kristen Stewart
Famous ISTJ’s: Julia Roberts, Condoleeza Rice, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Danica McKellar
Pocahontas
Pocahontas by John Smith // America
INFJ (Introverted. Intuitive. Feeling. Judging) Enneagram Type 4 (Sensitive, Withdrawn Type: Expressive, Dramatic, Self-Absorbed, and Temperamental)
“Some failure in life is inevitable. It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all — in which case, you fail by default.” – J.K. Rowling
The INFJ type is the least common out of all MBTI personalities. When they do show up, they have the potential to cause great change. Their gift is that they not only have big dreams, they also have the fire and drive to realize those dreams. Often they find themselves pulled to help those who have fallen on misfortune or are otherwise suffering. They are happiest when they can see the positive change they are affecting in the world.
Pocahontas lived through an extremely challenging time for herself and her tribe. Europeans had arrived on their land, and the war was imminent. As the chief’s daughter, Pocahontas assumed a great moral responsibility of preventing the conflict. She had a dream and vision that everyone could be peaceful, and that war was not needed. She knew that the only solution was love and compassion, and worked tirelessly to make her vision of peace a reality.
Famous people with INFJ type personalities: Taylor Swift, Cate Blanchett, Jane Goodall, Simone de Beauvoir
Rapunzel
Rapunzel by the Brothers Grimm // Germany
ESFJ (Extroverted. Sensing. Feeling. Judging)
Enneagram Type 2 (Caring, Interpersonal Type: Demonstrative, Generous, People-Pleasing, and Possessive)
“I think love is the through-line and it’s universal and it doesn’t matter what period of time, time or place, or people, that’s something we all connect to. That’s the thin thread that I think keeps it all together.” – Rachel McAdams
Remember the lead cheerleader in high school? The star quarterback? The chances are, they were probably an ESFJ. People from this type are extremely sociable and outgoing. They love to organize social events and are often happiest when laughing and gossiping with their friends. They are naturally skilled at connecting with others, even strangers. Always ready with a warm smile, ESFJs will brighten your day whether you like it or not.
We can see her people skills in action when she is able to befriend a group of aggressive thugs by encouraging them to follow their dreams. We also see her pain as an ESFJ who doesn’t have people to talk with. She gets around this by having conversations with herself in the mirror. It may seem eccentric, but for an ESFJ, not having anyone to engage with is a true struggle.
Famous ESFJ’s: Jessica Biel, Sarah Jessica Parker, Nancy Kerrigan, Whitney Houston
Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)
Sleeping Beauty by Charles Perrault // France
ISFP (Introverted. Sensing. Feeling. Perceiving)
Enneagram Type 9 (Easygoing, Self-Effacing Type: Receptive, Reassuring, Agreeable, and Complacent)
“You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment. Fools stand on their island of opportunities and look toward another land. There is no other land; there is no other life but this.” – Henry David Thoreau
Adventure and exploration are important for ISFPs. They are naturally curious and able to view parts of the world which most others might deem ordinary as novel. They are able to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. ISFPs revel in aspects of life that many take for granted by uncovering the novelties hidden underneath.
Sensitive and kind, Aurora is used to spending time alone, and read books, but she actually doesn’t mind being alone. Aurora has this same love of life and taste for adventure. Unfortunately, her parents are quite protective and aren’t keen on her doing too much exploration. Even so, she makes the most of what he has. She loves to take walks out in nature and pick flowers. Though some might consider this boring, her ISFP tendencies allow her to see the beauty in seemingly simple things.
Famous people that have ISFP personality types: Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Rihanna, Jessica Alba
Conclusion
So who did you get for your character?
By the way, now that you’ve determined your character, you’re officially allowed to enter Fairytrail, a matchmaking app for travelers and remote workers where you can discover new people, cultures, and places.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
When you are feeling a little down, there’s nothing like the instant hit of buying something on Amazon or going on a little shopping spree. Spending money can bring you happiness, but only temporarily. Traveling makes us happier than any material wealth.
Making new purchases may give you a quick rush but it isn’t able to help you maintain happiness.
The problem is we get used to new clothes, phones, cars, and shoes fairly quickly. As soon as we get used to our new purchase, our level of satisfaction decreases. Once the novelty and thrill are gone, we feel compelled to buy something again.
So what’s a better option?
According to research from Cornell University, doing makes us happier than owning. Dr. Gilovich found that people experience the same amount of happiness when making a purchase they want and when they travel.
However, while the happiness we get from a purchase quickly decreases over time, the memories of travel experiences produce happiness for a much longer time.
But why?
Experiences Create A Sense Of Identity
Dr. Gilovich explains our experience is a bigger part of ourselves than our material things. We may feel and like to think that we are a reflection of the stuff we buy; however, they are mostly separate from our identities. On the other hand, our life and travel experiences are strongly a part of who we are.
If you think about it, your most cherished memories probably aren’t from the material things you’ve bought. Rather, they’re experiences you’ve had.
Happiness Comes From Relationships
An 80-year old research study from Harvard University found individuals who were most connected to their family, friends, community, and other people were the healthiest and happiest.
Interestingly, Dr. Waldinger explains that experiences connect you to others in a way that material things can’t. Some of the most important moments in his life are travel which has brought him closer to his family and loved ones.
Traveling brings us in touch with new people, cultures, and places.
In novel environments, our awareness, focus, and experiences are richer. When we experience normal environments that we’ve already adapted to, our experiences blur into one and things are often missed. Why should we bother remembering if we’ve had the 8 or 9th Starbucks from down the street?
When we travel, we experience wonder, joy, and lasting memories that are hard to forget.
Conclusion
A new car gets old as soon as you drive it off the lot, but a travel story just gets better over time. When you travel, you gain richer experiences, create deeper relationships, and make memories that will be a source of happiness and stay with you forever. Traveling makes us happier than any material wealth.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
Why do we have characters from folklore on Fairytrail?
Fairytrail uses widely-recognized characters mapped to Myers Briggs and Enneagram types to help people get a sense of personality before meeting in person. This can help you find compatible travel partners, friends, and even romantic relationships.
1. To elevate personality.
It’s very hard to know what someone is like as a person from their online profile. Who someone chooses as their character on Fairytrail says a lot about their personality and identity. Each character is mapped to MBTI and Enneagram types.
2. To help you understand who you have chemistry with.
Characters also help you understand which personality types you have chemistry with. Had a great interaction with someone? Check their character. Hmm… Robin Hood. Maybe you get along better with people who prioritize doing good.
3. To help you search more effectively.
Many apps let you search for people based on age, ethnicity, etc. but what about the thing that really matters in a relationship, your partner’s essence (identity + personality)? On Fairytrail, you get to search for that.
Who should you choose? Read about our the archetypes we use in our app.
Lastly, we love culture and fairy tale stories are rich in culture.
They are seen across nations and cultures: Native American folklore, Chinese myths, Icelandic legends, African fables, and German fairy tales. At Fairytrail, we are intensely curious about people, places, and cultures. Fairytales, folklore, fables, parables, and stories are what make us human.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
We destroyed the iPod business with the iPhone. At Fairytrail, it’s no different. We believe we can only be successful when we put our users’ interests ahead of ours. Here’s how we are reinventing the online dating business.
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Dear Brave, Early Explorers of Fairytrail,
We are at 200+ strong monthly active users just a couple weeks after our soft launch. Not bad. We purposely haven’t issued a press release yet because we are still perfecting Fairytrail with your help.
Talking About A Revolution
We sincerely appreciate your input as we build towards a revolutionary online dating app with a business model that is closely aligned with user interests.
Most online dating apps want you to be addicted to their screens so that they can keep earning billions of dollars from subscriptions, power-ups, and ads. Even if you aren’t paying, they want you addicted to their platform for their paying members. There is a serious conflict of interest.
We are different. We understand users want to find someone, so they get on with their lives– to have amazing life experiences with someone they like. We give our users exactly that and our main revenue stream is tied to that. Just like Uber and Lyft sell rides because customers want rides — we sell adventure dates because our users want breathtaking dating experiences.
We also have a travel product planned for couples that we successfully bring into a relationship, so we won’t lose 100% of our users. Unlike other dating apps, we aren’t afraid of being too successful. Our incentives are morally and financially aligned with our users’.
When I worked at Apple,Steve Jobs preached cannibalizing our own business. We destroyed the iPod business with the iPhone. At Fairytrail, it’s no different. We believe we can only be successful when we put our users’ interests ahead of our own.
Here are three of the many changes we implemented last week because of you.
Thank You, Dana
Dana didn’t like how we limited her to only seeing about ten new people per day. On Bumble or Tinder, you can easily swipe through hundreds of people per day.
We have a limit to prevent people from getting burned out on dating (just like Coffee Meets Bagel does). People should enjoy their lives and not be addicted to online dating apps.
We want to be in the background, so people can focus on living in the moment. And every day, we’ll sprinkle their lives with like-minded, kind people and travel opportunities.
We want to break screen addiction. We don’t think it’s healthy to be glued to apps. In fact, I use an app that locks up my screen when I spend too much time on it. We believe in being present with what’s around us, improving our real lives, and not missing the magic of the moment by focusing on what’s to come.
With that philosophy in mind, we designed our app to be non-invasive in terms of bringing you new people and opportunities.
After we explained this, she was excited and in agreement, but pointed out our app doesn’t explain any of that. It just leaves users in the dark.
So we’ve improved our messaging.
That said, we recognize that people want to start connecting with others as quickly as possible. This means we will increase the number of people per search once we have more users in the coming weeks.
Thank You, Steve
Steve felt our online dating app wasn’t lively enough. There wasn’t enough buzz. He wanted to connect with other digital nomads and loves the community that we are building. He’s curious about other people’s exciting lives and wants to engage with them non-romantically.
So we introduced Fairytrail Campfire…
Fairytrail Campfire is a place where like-minded world explorers can connect in a social, non-romantic setting. Where they can share stories, what they’re up to, opportunities, and connect outside of dating.
Thank You, Mark
Mark said that Fairytrail was his travel inspiration app. He loves the feeling that he could be off on an adventure at a moment’s notice. They say dreaming, planning, and talking about travel can be as exhilarating as the travel experience itself.
The effects of travel aren’t felt only during and after your trip – in fact, even just the anticipation of going on vacation can boost your mood. People are at their happiest when they have a vacation planned, a study by the University of Surrey found, and are also more positive about their health, economic situation and general quality of life.
A study by Cornell University also found that we get more happiness from anticipating a travel experience in comparison to anticipating buying a new possession. It turns out that money can buy you happiness, but just not in the way we expected!
So we’ve added a little travel fund to help you anticipate your next trip. Every time you search, there’s a chance that Oly, your little dating sidekick, can find travel credit on his path. Just add the travel credit to your profile, and you can use it when booking your adventure.
We hope over time, you’ll contribute your own funds to this, so that you budget for amazing life experiences with people who’ve done things like, “Hiking through the hills in Myanmar” (F34), “Camping on the Great Wall of China”(F26), “Gorilla trekking in the DR of Congo” (F40), “Taking a dive into the Amazon” (F30), “Flying to India on a whim with two friends to sit in silence for 10 days to learn Vipassana meditation” (M25), “Bribing my way into a Bolivian prison” (M36), and “Escaping a charging rhino by climbing a tree in Nepal” (F29).
On a side note, I’d like to include screenshots of the users mentioned above, but I haven’t asked for their written approval. If you’d like to volunteer yours, just let me know!
One Last Note About Who You Are Recommended
My friend Mike recently asked, “Why don’t I see more users?”
I told him, did you know we reject about 30% of people who sign up? You’ll never see those people because they’re hidden from search. Disapproved people are those who we don’t think are suitable for our platform due to bad photos, poor culture fit, safety or risk factors, and lack of sincerity in their profile.
We also don’t show you all the users.
We only show you people who are looking for the same type of relationship. If you are looking for a casual fling, we’re 100% not showing you someone who’s looking for a serious relationship.
We don’t show you users who’ve already passed on you. What’s the point of impressing you with the profile of a beautiful person if there’s no chance you’ll match?
We do put people who liked you in your search results first, so we don’t keep them waiting.
Everything we do is designed to create the most value for our users. That means we optimize for matches, interactions, and magical travel experiences.
If you have any feedback for us so we can serve you better, please contact us or leave a comment below.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
We sent this email to all our users today announcing our product update. Here’s the story of the magical corridor and why it was created.
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Dear Peter,
We’re constantly working to improve your experience and instigate your next adventure with someone you like.
Here’s what we changed about your app and why.
A Magical Corridor?
Last week, we had 4 adventure matches. We learned that people value each other way more than the adventure itself. It’s who you’re with, not where you go.
With that insight, over the weekend we added a chat room which we call a magical corridor. It allows a total of 6 messages to be exchanged. This allows the matched couple to figure out if they like each other before they exchange contact information and video chat.
Many dating apps do free intros. Our concern is that we don’t value free. A tour guide in Yellowstone once told me he gave water away on his tours and people wasted it. He started to charge $1 for 4 bottles (basically free) and people started treating it with respect and value. It could be the same in our case.
We want to create sincere interactions amongst users. A 100% refundable trip deposit was a way for us to determine who was sincere, so we could protect them from those who aren’t.
Unfortunately, this caused too much friction for our users and for us, so we took it out. We still want people to value and treat each other with respect, so we decided to limit active matches to only 6. We hope this creates a kinder experience where we can be intentional with our conversations. We hope it prevents ghosting which is when one person stops responding for no reason. Since users can only see 6 matches at once, they are incentivized to unmatch which sends a clear signal to the other person that there’s no chemistry and no desire to continue.
Thank you for joining us on this journey to build the world’s safest remote dating app. We’re still trying to figure out who our early adopters are but many of you seem to have heard about us through the Remote Year community. We appreciate you spreading the word.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
Maybe it’s best if I start with my principles first, then I will talk about why I made a dating app for remote workers and travelers. After all, why anyone does anything in life starts off with their beliefs and world views.
I don’t believe the goal of life is to be happy.
It doesn’t really make sense to optimize for happiness, money, fun, etc. No matter how high you get, you can always get higher. No matter how rich you get, there’s someone richer. The only thing that truly matters at the end of the day is, are you doing what you find meaningful?
Happiness is just a shadow that follows us when we are grateful and have great relationships – I don’t really think about it. Instead, I focus on my values and what gives my life meaning. Because that is what gives me consistent satisfaction and self-fulfillment– there’s nothing better than when your life is consistent with your beliefs.
Chasing meaningfulness is something that may be hard or even painful. But to me, it is much more important than pursuing money or happiness. Fairytrail is meaningful to me.
Here’s why I decided to make it.
1. Our world is beautiful and magical.
Having lived in five countries and countless cities from Winnipeg to London to Shanghai to Berlin to Palo Alto, I am in awe of the world and its people.
Seemingly casual moments like longboarding next to an abandoned church past a crowd of Turkish people and several prostitutes in West Berlin to meet my Chinese-German friends for late-night Turkish tripe soup was truly extraordinary upon reflection.
The world is such a wondrous place. To live in one place all my life feels illogical. Like having a big house but only using one room.
Having walked the streets of Marrakech and lived in Agadir with a Moroccan college student with nothing but two mattresses and a chair in a room next to a goat pen, I learned so much about Muslim people and how their lives can be so vastly different from mine in a beautiful way.
A German girlfriend showed me that in her world, people don’t rinse the detergent off dishes. That also completely blew my mind…
My mission is to help people experience more of the world because it’s the most beautiful thing to me– to see all its wonders, to appreciate all its cultures, and to cherish its fragile moments.
I must say the first time I saw a flying fish from a boat in Greece, I thought it was the most remarkable thing in the world.
Under the desert stars. Photo courtesy of @skipwithgrace
Or maybe it was the night stars in the Sahara Desert and how they seemed to shine brighter than any club I’ve been to in London.
Or the fireflies dancing outside the window of our cottage on the Amalfi coast. Life felt magical. That feeling of awe and wonder is a feeling that I constantly chase.
To explore the world and its people brings me so much joy. For a period of my life, I would only date people who spoke a language I didn’t speak. Maybe I’m greedy to want to experience all that life has to offer. To live life to the fullest. To appreciate our awe-inspiring world.
But chasing happiness, it’s a losing game. What is more meaningful is helping people discover the beauty of our world. To help them feel truly alive and connected.
At the end of the day, I don’t want to just suck out all life has to offer and take all the experiences I can get. I want to give back and contribute to it.
The first movie I saw, Lion King, said that “there’s more to see than can ever be seen” and since that day, I have been lucky to see and experience so much. I want to share that feeling of wonder with the world.
Family Vacation To The Great Wall Of China
Building towards a family and Fairytrail are what gives my life meaning. Exploring the world makes me who I am.
So why build a dating app for remote workers and travelers? Why not just build a travel buddy app, VR travel solution, write a book, or create some travel documentaries?
2. Online dating is a disliked solution to a real human need.
I’ve worked in consumer electronics, social gaming, FinTech, B2B SasS, ride-hailing, marketplaces, on-demand delivery, and health tech. So why something as dirty as dating?
Dating has had a bad reputation. Maybe because like gambling it’s too easy to prey on the needy. So you have all those horrible fake dating apps. Maybe because there’s still this idea you can’t find someone in real life, so you need to turn to the online world.
But that’s fading fast as we turn to online for everything from food to bus schedules to Thai massages, all at a tap or a click.
Online dating is now mainstream. In fact, online is the number one way couples in the USA meet as of 2017. Currently, 39% of new couples first meet online and experts predict that to increase to 70% by 2040.
But dating is still difficult. Ask anyone. Even people who get a bunch of matches need to sift through and find the right person. And the actual dating experience can be emotionally draining, often feeling like a chore.
A loving relationship is a huge human need. Finding the right person isn’t easy. Maybe we’re too picky now in a world with movies from Hollywood, furniture from Scandinavia, songs from Korea, and tomatoes from Spain. Whatever music, food, and goods that we want are available to us. So how can we suddenly be less picky about our partners when we can be so selective about everything else in our lives?
And it’s not a bad thing we have a choice and are pickier.
Because finding a partner is truly an important decision. That person will have more of an impact on your life than any other relationship going forward.
What dating apps do now is great because they expose you to people you otherwise would almost never meet in your city.
But it’s flawed in four painful ways.
1. Diversity: Every city has its own type of people. Do you expect to find the same types of people in Atlanta as Shanghai? They have different world views, beliefs, and values. For example, there are many ethnic groups in New York, yet the vibe of the people tend to be the same. Where can you meet your most compatible partner? Which city would you thrive in? Be the happiest? What if you’re living in the wrong city?
2. Numbers: Did you know that the median population size of the top 300 largest cities in America is only 165,000? The biggest city in Maine only has 66,882 people, which translates to 31 eligible singles (calculation). And only 55% of the world’s population lives in cities. What’s someone who doesn’t even live in a city to do?
3. Experience: Dating apps currently don’t care about your dating experience. They care about getting you matched, not what happens after. They don’t care that guys get stressed about planning dates. Or girls feel like they don’t have a say in what those dates are. And both are frustrated with the laborious coffee date to vet attractiveness, creepiness, and chemistry.
4. Conflict of Interest: Dating apps don’t have your interest in mind. When you want to reply to your potential partner’s messages, you’re shown more matches. An endless queue of beautiful people is waiting to meet you. They want to keep you dating. They want to keep you swiping. Their $6 billion dollars is tied to you being single and using their app. Their interest is keeping you glued to their screens when your interest is to find someone so you can get on with your life and have amazing adventures together.
I want to build a product that addresses these points. Wouldn’t it be better if the dates were more fun and safe? What if you could be exposed to more and different types of people who could show you the world in ways you never knew? What if the dating app’s interest was aligned with yours?
3. People are becoming hyper mobile.
I’ve had long-distance relationships before and many of my friends are currently in healthy long-distance relationships. It always struck me as strange that people do it even though it sucks.
It even seems more common than before. Why is that?
I. Remote and freelance work are on the rise.
“More than one-third (36 percent) of U.S. workers are in the gig economy.”
Think about your Lyft or Uber driver. The designer you hired on Upwork. How easy is it for them to move somewhere else?
Then there’s aspirations to be truly remote. MBO Partners found 38% of Americans with traditional jobs have an interest in becoming a digital nomad in the next 3 years. Already more than 4.8 million American workers describe themselves as digital nomads.
68% of millennials are more interested in a job that can be worked remotely. Google Trends tells a similar story of growing interest in the digital nomad (DN) movement.
III. Political mobility. Immigration is at record levels. In 2017, the USA has an immigration rate 3 times that of the 1970s. Germany more than doubled its immigration rate since the 1990s.
IV. Peace! The world is actually more interconnected and peaceful than ever. See the nice steep decline? That’s where we are!
Source: Our World in Data
There’s a strong need for a dating app for remote workers.
4. People are choosing to date online more. And just more.
Booming Global Travel And Tourism Is Driving Economies And Job Growth – The travel and tourism sector grew more in 2018 than all other economic sectors but one, adding a record $8.8 trillion to the world’s combined Gross Domestic Product – up from $8.3 trillion in 2017 – as well as 319 million new jobs.
That’s why the world needs a dating app for travelers and remote workers.
Conclusion
What does that mean for dating?
We will have more choice in who we date. Just like in almost every industry, we’ve got more choices over the years. Dating won’t be limited to local anymore.
We will have more fun dating. We’ll actually get to explore the world, try new foods, and see new places and cultures– with people who intrigue us.
We will be more interconnected. The world is vastly different but as we meet and date more types of people, people from other cultures, we’ll build bridges to form a more empathetic and unified world.
So that’s why we’re building Fairytrail. We are building an app to help single people meet their partners. We are building an app for people who want to embrace what the world has to offer. We also have a product for couples coming out soon.
Fairytrail Castle. Photo courtesy of @skipwithgrace on Instagram
Our simple mission is to help people explore the world with someone they like.
Life is short, so we don’t think it should be wasted doing the ordinary. Nothing is better than being on a journey with someone you love. Make life and dating special and memorable.
Choose experiences that make you feel alive.
Life holds amazing possibilities. We’re here to help you discover those through new people and world exploration.
Fairytrail is the future of dating. And if we can unite the world along the way by creating caring relationships across countries, creeds, cultures, races, and classes that is something to truly be excited about.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
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