Founder
Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015. She is been living abroad since 2014. Originally Canadian, she has been living and working online in many destinations around the world. She is passionate about traveling, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit.
She has traveled extensively in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. She is now living in Thailand.
To learn more, head to our About page.
I’m a free spirit. My life fits in my backpack (unless I go on a short holiday, then I steal my boyfriend’s suitcase). My life also fits in 2 or 3 draws and a box that is waiting for me with all my winter clothes and some fancy underwear. Moving...
There you are. Traveling solo has never been more accessible (and yes, I also refer to female solo travelers). You're delighted. You’re ready for what could be the greatest adventure of your life. Bonus; You have succeeded. You managed to compact your life into...
When I think about Turkey I think of Istanbul, hot air balloons in Cappadocia, Turkish coffee, and tea. I imagine a big terrace where I can play Backgammon at night while drinking tea or even smoking shisha. When they invited me to join the World Tourism Forum in...
Wondering if Istanbul is safe? In 2022, Istanbul is considered to be a safe (ish) destination. That said, it hasn't always been. I visited Istanbul twice (in 2013 and in 2017) and the first time didn't go well at all. In fact, I had to leave the country because my...
Thinking of traveling to Malta soon? Good for you! Here’s a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Malta. I also have a post about how to travel to Malta on a budget. So, get ready to book a flight! Valletta Valletta, the capital of Malta, will impress you with...
If you’re after the best driving roads in the UK, I’d recommend you head to Wales. I can’t believe how little people are visiting Wales and let me say it out loud; what a shame! Wales was instantly beautiful. As soon as we crossed the border, we...
What should you do when you’re trapped under a grey sky? Perhaps, you should seek some colors. What about a rainbow-ish treasure hunt? It’s not because the English weather is cheeky (not to say boring) that there’s not a golden pot under all this...
I’m a travel lover. And most of the time, I’m on the road.... which means I don’t have a true base and my belongings still fit in my backpack. I’m not an avid owner. The truth is… For me, selling all my stuff a few years ago was one of the best...
Colorful and crazy houses. Canals and heaps of bicycles. Open minds and unusual realities. Open your eyes. You’re in Amsterdam. Lots of people (and many backpackers) stop in Amsterdam during their European travels. What is well known for its vivacity especially at...
Oh, winter. I thought I had managed to escape winter for good. Sigh. Well. It didn’t happen, did it? Now, since I left the Southern hemisphere, I’m dealing with England, AKA Infinite Grey Sky. Fair enough, it’s not as cold as it...