I read article after article on “how to become location independent” or “how to gain an additional $3k a month doing xyz,” but then I just go down a rabbit hole of information and never actually take action. I follow all the Twitter and Instagram accounts, read all the travel and entrepreneur blogs, listen to inspiring podcasts, yet I remain stagnant.

So screw it. I’m just going to put myself out there and see what happens. All I know is I’m inspired by traveling, and I want to share that passion with others. I have been so extremely fortunate over the past two years to travel and meet some incredible people, each of which has inspired me to become a better version of myself.

So the concept for my newly formed “company” is simple — t-shirts designed for those who inspire and those who want to be inspired. Ideas are still flowing, but most of the designs are focused on experiencing travel and the digital nomad experience. I’m using my own photos as inspiration, but I hope it evolves into much more.

But even if I never sell a single shirt, I have finally moved from passively reading and hoping for a change to proactive movement. I am in no way an expert at anything — part of the barrier to action — but I truly believe everyone starts somewhere. So I’ll continue to read the blogs and listen to the podcasts, but I will also make my own moves. I will learn. I will try. I will be inspired.

Like I said, I have no idea what I’m doing, so my only ask? Provide feedback. Who knows, maybe it’s your t-shirt idea that becomes my first sale. ☺️

xo,

Paige

Check out my very basic store here!

Before I decided to take a spontaneous three-week trip to Scandinavia, I had never really given much thought to Norwegian. To be quite truthful, I’m not sure I had ever even heard of them down in Georgia where Delta is all-consuming. But since my trip was last minute, I took to every flight savings website I could possibly think of and found that Norwegian is a pretty affordable option.

And I love them!! So why you may ask?

Why I Love Norwegian

Affordable International Flights — My round trip flight from NYC was around $550. Yes, there are probably cheaper flights to Europe on other airlines, but this included a checked bag, seat reservation, and meal. It would have been even less without those add-ons. A lot of international “budget” airlines advertise their prices without baggage fees and/or seat reservations, so it’s something to take into consideration when comparing cheaper flights.

Affordable Last Minute Flights — Now when I say last minute, I don’t mean same-day or or the day before, but I’d say you are likely to get a pretty good deal two to three weeks out. And generally, I would think most people know they are traveling way farther in advance than that.

Free Wifi — Yes, free wifi!! For the price, this is a pretty great perk. I don’t really use Wifi on long hauls so I can’t speak to the connectivity there, but it was nice to be able to listen to SoundClound and Spotify on the shorter flights.

Comfy Seats — This is so important to me, especially on international flights. And Norwegian did not disappoint! The seats were roomy with plenty of room for my bag underneath my feet. And I actually got some sleep, which is rare. Keep in mind though, I am short, so I’m speaking only for those 5’3 and below. :) But I think it’s still pretty roomy.

Norwegian Reward — I’m no expert at loyalty programs, airline points, etc., but one thing I really like about Norwegian Reward is that you can use the CashPoints as a partial payment towards your next flight. This means you get the benefits when you need them rather than waiting for a certain number of points to use for an entire flight. Granted, I know there is a downside to the cash program vs. the points system (maybe not as good of a deal long term), but for someone who doesn’t use the airline that often, it’s a nice option.

Expanding Routes — From what I read on Norwegian’s in-flight magazine, it looks like they have plans to expand significantly in the future. Which only bodes well for us non-European travelers! According to their web site, “Norwegian is the third largest low-cost carrier in Europe with about 5,500 employees. We operate over 400 routes to more than 130 destinations in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Thailand, the Caribbean and the US.” With their prices though, I can’t wait to see where they plan to expand to next.

And last, but not least…

The Rainbow Lights — Pretty sure this is not the correct name for these lights, but they just make me happy.

So is there a downside?

The only downside for US-based travelers (that I can think of!) is that Norwegian only operates out of a few select cities in the States. Since I was flying from Georgia, I had to buy a separate ticket to NYC and then connect. Even so, it was still a couple hundred bucks to my advantage.

So if you are looking for an affordable, comfortable option to travel to Europe, check out Norwegian’s website before booking your flight! It might surprise you.

Related

Originally published at mypassportpaige.com on February 21, 2016.

For those of you unfamiliar with this company, think 28 sailboats with 8–10 people per boat from all around the world thrown together for a week of sailing, sun, and parties in one of the most beautiful places on earth. It is unexplainable really, but here are a ten lessons I learned from my first experience.

It is acceptable to dance at any time, in any place, and with anyone.
I’m talking tables, boats, rocks, 7 a.m., 2 p.m., 4 a.m., friends, strangers. It’s all good. And it’s possible because of amazing DJs. Shout out to Jens! Check out his SoundCloud mix. Actually, you should probably just listen to it while you read this post.

Minimialist living is the way to go.
A couple bathing suits, pairs of shorts, tank tops, and I’m good to go. And a flamingo cup holder obviously. But truth be told, I did miss my straightener just a tad. Damn you, frizz.

It is not necessary to always use a shot glass.
More often than not, someone has a handle, and they are probably willing to share. Case in point below (look closely at the left side). And no, I’m not ashamed, because this is an amazing picture all around, and I had a great night.

The world’s beauty is incredible and beyond belief.
This doesn’t even really need any explanation. This is Hydra Island, only a teeny piece of the world. Imagine what else is out there. P.S. Check out Young Adventuress for a more detailed guide of the island.

Sleeping is overrated.
Okay, I know humans need sleep, blah, blah, but it can be forgone for 7 nights to experience weeks like this.

A good, one-flush toilet is NOT overrated.
If you’ve never been sailing, this may mean nothing to you, but just take a look at how the toilets work here. Also, as everything has a chance of going into the water, a strict “shit on shore” policy is necessary. I’ll spare you a photo here.

Dramamine is a girl’s best friend.
When you combine alcohol, waves, and a propensity for motion sickness, you get Paige holding a bucket for two hours on the back of the boat. I popped those Dramamine like my life depended on it for the rest of the trip. Plus, wouldn’t you rather be spending your days like this?

Processed food really is disgusting.
The Yacht Week offers the option to hire a hostess, and it is absolutely worth the cost. Not only did our hostess clean, cook, and provide for us, but she was just generally awesome to hang out with (thanks, Risa!). I mean homemade tzatziki and grilled eggplant. Come on!

Strangers can quickly become dear friends.
I started off the trip not knowing a single person, but I walked away in tears the last day knowing I wouldn’t see these people again the next morning. The Yacht Week gave me the opportunity to meet incredible people from all around the world, and they all welcomed me with open arms. But none more than my #busyliving crew. I love you guys!

Life is better with adventure.
Until the next one, TYW. See you in Turkey.

Has anyone been on The Yacht Week? What life lesson did you learn?

I would love to hear it!

Related

Originally published at mypassportpaige.com on September 3, 2015.