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
Fun Cancun Boat Trips
Are you heading to Cancun? Make the most of your trip by exploring Mexico on a boat with Nautal! Here are a few boat trip ideas and tips for Cancun boat rentals. Mexico is always a great idea! It’s the perfect destination to be soaking in the sun, working on your tan...
Tips For Planning A Trip To Israel
If you’re planning a trip to Israel you might be worried about your safety (is Israel safe to travel to?), airport security and the passport stamping situation. Here’s a quick guide where I’ll be sharing my story on getting into Israel as well as getting out....
Complete Guide: Moving And Living In Bali As An Expat
Are you thinking of moving to Bali, Indonesia? Here’s a complete guide with everything you need to know on how to move to Bali, how much you can expect to spend and how to make yourself comfortable out here (finding the right accommodation, coworking space, visas,...
Why Travel To Canada | 12 Reasons
There is no denying that Canada boasts of some of the most beautiful locations and natural marvels in the whole world. There is everything here whether it is crystal clear lakes, thriving emerald rainforests, or snow-capped mountains. Canada remains beautiful...
Best Romantic Things To Do In Sydney
Let’s enjoy the romance in Sydney! Here’s a list of romantic weekend ideas in Sydney including day and night plans as well as romantic dinner ideas and recommended places to stay. Let’s take a look at the top romantic things to do in Sydney! Sydney is such a lovely...
Perfect One Day In Hampi Itinerary
Here’s my quick Hampi travel guide to help you plan your time in one of the most fabulous cities in India. From which places to visit in Hampi in one day (or more) to where to stay, you’ll also find general information on how to get there and what to expect followed...