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.
Are you planning to travel soon? Traveling solo can be exciting and empowering, and it doesn’t have to be risky. Whether you’re going on a city break or safari, a few precautions can keep you safe and comfortable. Discover them below and learn why, for example,...
There are many beautiful beaches on Madeira, each with its own unique appeal. Some - with tranquil waters and soft, silky sands - are ideal for family swimming and sunbathing. Others have a more stark, natural beauty, or are popular spots for surfing. In this guide,...
Traveling opens you up to so many new things: new people, new places, new experiences, and… new dangers. Whether you’re a tourist or business traveler, you’re never fully safe when you’re in a foreign country. From hackers to pickpockets to scammers, there are no...
The next best thing to traveling is reading good outdoor books about those who have seen and experienced the places that fascinate us. This list contains the best books about the outdoors that will both entertain and inspire you. It includes stories of those...
By now, you have probably heard of the latest travel trend, slow traveling. Many backpackers and budget travelers enjoy slow traveling - spending a month or two in each place before moving on. In the past few years, many travelers are now opting to travel to...
Mexico is fast becoming one of the most popular countries for a backpacking trip, and it’s clear to see why. From ancient Mayan ruins to intriguing cenotes to lush jungle, Mexico offers a diverse and exciting array of scenery to explore. What’s more, with cheap food...
In a time when there seems to be so much negativity in the world, seeking out ways to make a positive impact is more critical now than ever before. As travel lovers, we can make a difference in communities all over the USA and worldwide. One way to do this is by...
From walking to watersports and cycling to caving, the Peak District has something for everyone. One of the most popular National Parks in the UK, it covers around 555 square miles and is breathtakingly beautiful, with rolling dales, scenic cycleways, and abundant...
As an avid traveler, I'm sure you've used or at least heard of world scratch-off maps that allow you to scratch off and record the countries you've visited. However, did you know you can also get a scratch-off map of the USA and its national parks? A national...
One of the best things to do in Cologne in winter is to visit the city's many Christmas markets. Not only does a festive market get you into the Christmas spirit in a way that nothing else can, but it's also the ideal place to shop for unique or handmade gifts for...