Wanderlust

—————

‘Melanie Weggerlaar born on March 9, 2000, in Amsterdam, growing up in a loving family that fostered a passion for travel. Frequent trips to Turkey and camping adventures in France filled her childhood with joy and exploration. Inspired by her parents and the allure of social media, Melanie now embarks on her own journey around the world. With a boyfriend who shares her love for travel, she seeks to blend cityscapes with nature, creating unforgettable memories and embracing the beauty of diverse cultures.’

Background
—————

I was born on the 9th of March in 2000 in Amsterdam. I was born in to a loving home and 3 years later my little brother, Martijn was born too. I grew up in a little family, so we saw each other regularly. I now have only 1 grandma, 1 aunt, 1 uncle and 4 nieces and nephews left. They are all younger than me (7, 11, 13, 15).

I went on vacations since I was a little baby, mostly 2 times a year. 1 time in turkey and 1 time on a camping in France, we drove here by car. My dad was stressed most of the drive there haha. So, we set quietly with or little tv screens and headphones on.

I was so blessed to see already a lot of the world at such a young age cause of my parents. Been to turkey at least 20 times haha. I will live with my parents and little brother. I have a lovely boyfriend, and we are looking for homes together! He loves travelling just as much as me.

What inspired you to start your journey around the world, and do you have a specific mission or goal for your travels?

—————

My parents really inspired me at first and then social media came and made me more obsessed. My parents went to the USA a lot when we weren't there. My uncle lives there, so it was easy. My dad has pretty much a book for every county, and he showed me all of them when I was younger… and so, it became the dream to see it all myself. I travelled alone from the age of 18 and that was the beginning of my own journey around the world. I do have lots of country's I still wanna see, but not a specific goal. Just wanna see as much as I can!

How do you choose your travel destinations? Is there a particular theme or type of experience you seek?

—————

I love the city really as much as the nature. So, I switch it up over the year. So far, I pretty much seek for the sun, and I travelled to the USA this year and that was really my only big dream since I was little. We road tripped in the west coast; it was amazing. I love destinations that have nature as much as city! We are now going to Thailand, Road Trip in France and Japan!

Can you share a memorable adventure or unique experience you've had during your travels that really stands out?

—————

Not a big one. My first time in Asia was a real culture shock. I was only in western country's, Europe, NYC. That's about it. But I love it there, the people were so nice! A lot of people probably won't understand, but NYC is really my favorite place to visit. If the economy in USA was as good as the Netherlands, I could for sure live there, no doubt!

As a female traveller, have you encountered any challenges or safety concerns, and how do you navigate them?

—————

Not really. But I make sure to not get in one. We don't walk outside in dark places were no other people are. We prevent those encounters as much as we can. Most of Europe is pretty save, as long as you stay in the touristy areas. I went there alone too and it felt so save!

What is the most delicious dish you've tried so far, and where did you have it?

—————

Yea this is gonna sound crazy, especially because I went to Asia, but shake shack has my whole heart. And the Krispy cream donuts omg.

Have you met any interesting people along your travels? Can you tell us about one of your favourite encounters?

—————

Mostly travelled with my friends or boyfriend, so really not that many people other than hotel staff, people working in the restaurants and taxi drivers. But I would say the taxi drivers in Bali were the nicest people I have ever met! They did everything for us, learned our names and talked the whole way.

How do you document your travels? Do you keep a journal, take photographs, or use social media to share your experiences?

—————

I always make a photobook of my travels myself. And I make a scrapbook of all the tickets, receipts and all kinds of other stuff of my travels. I take an insane amount of photos and post them all on my stories and profile. Also, on my second account @globalfootsteps

What lessons have you learned from your travels, and how have they changed your perspective on life?

—————

Gotta be grateful for everything you have, cause some would wish for even the littlest things that we might hate.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering travelling solo as a female, what would it be?

—————

Do your research well! The first time I went to Budapest, everyone I loved knew were I was at all times, the hotel, flight times and even the taxi I was in. Better be save then sorry right. It was safe, cause it is a touristy city, but backpacking in Asia, in hostels and stuff, that's amazing! Just know if you are able to be alone for a longer time. I personally enjoyed it, but heard some hated it and went home early.

What’s next on your travel agenda? Are there any specific places you’re excited to visit in the future?

—————

I am going to Thailand in 3 weeks, gonna be road tripping France in April, travelling in Japan for 3 weeks and Dubai right after. Maybe Lapland in January 2026. But that's about it for now. Probably gonna visit some little cities here in Europe too in between, but we will see. Can't wait for explore more!