I’ve spent the past 2 months traveling Southeast Asia. I’ve visited Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam so far. It’s been a whirlwind of an experience.
I initially set out to visit Southeast Asia a year ago. I wanted it to be the first stop on my ’round the world trip because everyone raved about it. Thanks to delicious food, budget accommodation, rich culture, and developed tourism infrastructure, Southeast Asia is known as the ultimate backpacker’s destination.
Ya girl was on a budget, so the cheap prices in this region were definitely appealing. Ultimately, I ended up traveling Latin America instead, but I’m happy to finally visit this part of the world.
For the most part, everyone was right about Southeast Asia.
I’ve fallen in love with Pad Thai, spicy Pho, and unidentifiable food served from street stalls.
I’ve stepped foot on what might be the most perfect beach in the world.
I’ve slept in beds that cost less than a cup of coffee.
I’ve explored ancient temples that blew my mind.
I’ve discovered a new love for cozy cafes hidden in busy alleys.
I’ve frolicked alongside elephants in the jungle.
I’ve eaten fruit that I didn’t know existed.
I’ve risked it all on the back of motorbikes.
I’ve stayed in a Cambodian family’s home.
I swam in a bioluminescent beach. It was magical.
The best part? My trip isn’t over just yet.
I bought my first pair of Tevas for a trip to Costa Rica. It was my first solo trip abroad and I wanted to be prepared for ALL OF THE THINGS. You know how it goes. Anyway, I knew Costa Rica was full of waterfalls, river, volcanos, and beaches. I heard that Tevas would be the perfect waterproof shoes to wear while exploring the country. Despite them looking like shoes for an American adventure dad, I bought a pair and I fell in love with them.
Over a year later, I’m proud to collaborate with Teva on this blog post. They sent me their Hurricane XLT 2, Original Universal, and Midform Universal, which have been perfect while traveling Southeast Asia. I’ve worn them while walking on rocky beaches, exploring busy markets, and bathing beautiful elephants. They’re sturdy yet lightweight, and easy to adjust. It’s so difficult to find cute adventure shoes/sandals, but Teva has a wide range of colorful and fun sandals.
I’m grateful for the chance to partner with a company that I use and love. It also helps that they’ve given me complete creative freedom. A year ago, I was so nervous about quitting my job to travel the world. On that first trip to Costa Rica, I was unsure about what my future would hold. I don’t have it all figured out, but it’s such a blessing to be able to inspire others to see the world and live life on their own terms. Partnering with Teva has shown me that everything eventually comes full circle.
“How you choose to live is the ultimate form of personal expression, and around here, we want to seize every second—to live light and loud. If you’re up for anything and love the thrill of spontaneity, then we are your people. This adventurous spirit—the one that pioneered the very first pair of Teva sandals—takes form in everything we create.” – Teva
This is a collaboration with Teva. All opinions are my own.
Hey, I'm Ciara. I’m a global citizen and lover of travel. Want to know more?
Things you need to know before visiting Tulum
25 TIPS TO STAY SAFE AS A SOLO FEMALE
Things you need to know before visiting Tulum
Sign up to stay current on all my latest tips, tricks, photos, and lists.