Toronto, Canada
When I announced I was going to the Galapagos I had a strange feeling of guilt. Maybe because it was such a big trip it was like bragging in advance of something I knew would be amazing. Sometimes I feel that way when I eat an incredible meal, but then I think I can at least share where I had it so people will know in the future this is the place they need to visit.
But everyone knows about the Galapagos.
As brands write to say they want to work with me I have been asking them what I can do for the people that read my site. Everyone is so supportive that I want to share more than just news -which by the way I still have not figured out, but I am committed to decide by the end of the week in my newsletter.
Until then I wanted to share two things:
1) Exodus has given me a 10% discount code for readers. It may not seem like a lot but if you look a trip like the Galapagos it is a nearly $500 discount. Just quote `BLOG` when you book a trip and voila.
2) If $500 is not enough there is a way to get a trip for free. They have a contest running that not many people know about called Feel More Alive. Moments from travel are often some of the most exciting in our lives and Exodus is trying to assemble the biggest collection of these moments by asking people to submit videos and photos that share a moment that made them feel more alive.
This lead photo is from the top of Waynapicchu, yes I know I hate to hike but this was only an hour long and when I reached the top to see the view it really was satisfying.
Feel More Alive is a monthly contest, which means you have more than one chance to win. You can check out the contest details here.
As you know I do not have a bucket list but if I did Galapagos would have been on it. Do you have one? What is on yours?
Terms and conditions of the Discount
1. Each blog reader who books any Exodus trip between 1 March – 31 May 2013 will receive a 10% discount.
2. The offer is open to first time travellers only.
3. Only one discount per booking.
4. This offer is only valid for people booking directly with Exodus
5. There is no cash alternative and no correspondence will be entered into.
6. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other Exodus offers or loyalty discounts.
7. Exodus has the right to withdraw or change this introductory offer at anytime The discount will be applied to the final balance, not the deposit payment.
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I'm Ayngelina and in my mid-thirties. I left an amazing job, boyfriend, apartment and friends to find inspiration in Latin America. I'm creating a new life choosing what I want instead of what other people think I should do.
Don’t feel guilty about it. You’ve worked really hard to get to a position where you can travel like this. I love your photo. I sat on that exact same rock just a few months ago!
Arianwen recently posted..The wildlife of Puerto Madryn
It’s a popular place and was hard to get to for a lazy traveler!
Oh, hun, don’t feel guilty. It’s your blog – you’re free to write as much about your excitement as you want.
Plus, I don’t know a thing about the Galapagos so anything you do write is going to be a lesson for me.
Ceri recently posted..A Night of Lucha Libre
I get to travel to some amazing places but I have to say Galapagos is a completely different level.
What a stunning view. Makes the hike all worth it!
Martine @ Chompchomp recently posted..A Chinese Wedding Banquet at Szechuan Court, Fairmont Hotel, Singapore
Indeed it made it totally worth it. Although I am happy the Galapagos doesn’t require any hiking up mountains like Machu Picchu.
Don’t apologize! And from someone who has been to the Galapagos — ENJOY! It’s spectacular — so go and be excited!!!
Any tips? I am trying to pack right now and I’m not entirely sure I’m bringing everything I need.
These would be my must haves for the Galapagos aside from the obvious – hiking shoes and good socks. Add a hat, suntan lotion and something for seasickness. I have a good stomach and I was happy I had something with me. Otherwise, you and I are on the same page with packing so I am sure you’ll be fine!
I’m so excited for you – the Galapagos are so amazing!
Katie (@wandertooth) recently posted..Crossing the Bolivian Salt Flats
I haven’t heard a single person say anything less so I’m pretty excited.
There’s no need to feel guilty at all! You’re going to LOVE the Galapagos. It’s one of the most magical places we’ve ever been.
Tawny of Captain and Clark recently posted..A London apartment fit for a king.
The closer I get to the date the more excited I get. I just bought a Go Pro and hopefully I don’t screw up the video.
That’s a pretty sweet discount for people! And I agree with the others — no need to feel guilty. You’ve put in years of work to get to this point and readers get something out of it, too.
I don’t have an official bucket list, but I definitely wouldn’t turn down a trip to the Galapagos. I’d say that Turkey and Jordan should be the only “dream” trips left for me by the end of our 2013 travels.
The Time-Crunched Traveler (Ellen) recently posted..Our favorite images from our visit to Myanmar
Jordan is truly amazing, you will love it – the food, people, archeology. I would love to go back.
I haven’t been to Turkey…yet?
Free trip? Brag away! As for your readers, all you need to do is take some nice photos! Have fun Ayng.
Nate recently posted..Millennium Cross – Biggest Cross on Earth – Amazing Skopje, Macedonia
Thanks Nate, I’m going to try my hand at video this time too, it just seems like photos won’t be enough to share the experience.
I hear you about wanting to provide value to readers. My intention for my site from when I started was to inspire people to realize their travel dreams are possible. It may take a bit of sacrifice but better to have adventures instead of “things”. Who knows. I may be using these codes myself. Thanks!
Jonathan Look, Jr. recently posted..Asia, Home for the First Time
I try to share things that have some meaning but sometimes places are just incredible and there’s nothing to say but “you should go.” I remember feeling that at Iguazu Falls and I wonder if I will feel this way at Galapagos.
I’m told in times of stress and guilt like these it’s best to take along a friend, or a reader, for support. Perhaps a fellow Canadian? Just a thought…
Raymond @ Man On The Lam recently posted..Camel Gazing at the Royal Camel Farm Bahrain
I have a bucket list… in my head
Need to put it down on paper one of these days… and the Galapagos will totally be on it!
Alex recently posted..Two Days in The Thai Jungle: Rafting from Pai to Mae Hong Son
I want to go to Galapagos too! I’ll check Exodus’ website. Hopefully, a Philippine citizen like me is qualified to join the contest T_T
Micamyx|Senyorita recently posted..Camp Bandilaan: Conquering Siquijor’s Highest Peak
I might have to check out this contest – I’d love to go to the Galapagos eventually!
Emily in Chile recently posted..A taste of Boston history
It’s truly an amazing place, hands down one of the most remembered adventures when we did SA a few years ago. Disfruta!
Pete recently posted..She Saw, He Saw