About Melissa
Hello, I’m Mel!
I’m a Canadian travel blogger who has been traveling and living abroad since 2014.
Learn more about my story below.
Life before blogging
I’m originally from Quebec, Canada. Back in the days, I used to be a social worker. I used to travel once a year for about a month and I was always spending my summers in Europe since I was 20 years old.
In June 2014, I started my journey around the world at the age of 25.
Life on the road
I first started my journey in the Canadian Rockies, where I hitch-hiked my way around. Then, I moved to Australia for two years. I started A Broken Backpack in July 2015. Back then, I was working on a farm in Australia and needed something to stay entertained. Quickly, A Broken Backpack became popular.
After Australia, I decided to go on a backpacking trip to Southeast Asia. Later, I moved to the UK for less than a year.
In October 2017, I decided to move to Southeast Asia. Bali became my home for about one and a half years.
In 2019, I was based mostly in Thailand.
In 2020, I moved to Bulgaria.
In 2022, I moved to Thailand, and it became my main base.
Of course, I do plan occasional trips in and out, but since I’m running an online business and a few successful blogs, I prefer slow travel.
This brings me to you
A Broken Backpack offers excellent travel tips to help you stay on the road longer. I left Canada with less than CAD 2,000 in my name (and many student debts).
I’m living proof that you don’t need tons of savings to make your travel dreams come true.
I learned how to travel on the very cheap, volunteered when I needed to, and created an online business to support myself abroad. I share all these tips here on A Broken Backpack.
I’m now in my thirties, and my travel style has evolved. I’m not all about budget travel anymore, and I now travel with my husband (we met in Thailand).
So, A Broken Backpack is not just a budget travel blog anymore. You’ll find all the travel tips needed to plan your dream trip no matter your travel style, budget, or interest.
Pick Your Travel Style
Living Abroad
Backpacking
Camping
Hiking
Digital Nomadism
Volunteering
Read my latest blog posts
Road-Trip South Of France Itinerary
Here's a unique off the beaten path France itinerary for those who want to explore new destinations while in France. Enjoy this South of France itinerary including some cool outdoor activities. I’ve been to France many times. And I’ve been to Paris almost 10...
Buying Guide: Best Travel Sunglasses
As summer creeps up in the northern hemisphere, a pair of brand new SunGod Sierra sunglasses falls into my hands. Fresh from the design studio, they offer the best-on-the-market in style, durability and price. Let me introduce you to the best travel sunglasses for...
Fun Outdoor Activities In Israel
Are you seeking unique experiences in Israel? Here's an Israel outdoors itinerary including a few fun things to do in Israel! Traveling to Israel was a very cool experience! Between the great meals, the nightlife and the laid-back vibes, there’s also a lot of cool...
Complete Guide: Day Trip From Tel Aviv To Dead Sea
Whether you’re using Tel Aviv or Jerusalem as a base, there are a lot of places you should discover in Israel outside of these two cities. When I was in Tel Aviv I went for a day trip with Abraham Tours. I participated in the Masada, Ein Gedi and Dead Sea tour which...
Unique Things To Do In Tel Aviv
There are a lot of fun things to do in Tel Aviv. Here’s what you should do while you explore this stimulating city. You must also go out to experience the nightlife and try some of these restaurants! If you're staying longer in Israel, make sure to check out this epic...
Best Way To Travel Tibet
Travel to Tibet requires you to book your trip through a registered tour operator in order to obtain the permits you need to get into and travel around Tibet. Tour operators also provide the required driver, licensed tourist vehicle, and registered tour guide that you...