Laurel Robbins is a social media expert and an award-winning travel blogger at Monkeys and Mountains where she blogs about outdoor and adventure travel around the world.
When not travelling, you’re likely to find her hiking in the Alps. Although she is Canadian, she lives in Munich, Germany. You can also find her on Twitter and Facebook. We caught up with Laurel recently to talk travel for a few moments…
What do you always do when you travel – any routine procedures?
I have a checklist of important items so that I don’t forget things like spare contact lessons or underwear. It only takes forgetting these items once to realise the importance of a good list.
What is your travel pet peeve?
Long layovers or delayed flights. I’m not very patient and want to arrive at my destination sooner rather than later.
What is your favourite kind of trip?
Definitely adventure, wildlife and outdoor based. My favourite trips almost always include wildlife, sometimes with a bit of romance when my husband comes along.
Best destination you have ever been to and why?
I have 3 favourite destinations:
1) Galapagos because Wolf and Darwin Island offer the most incredible shark diving I have ever done! On one dive I counted more than 500 sharks!
2) Tembe Elephant Park in South Africa. This hidden gem is tucked away in the south-east corner of S. Africa, but is home to the Tuskers, the largest elephants in Africa. I saw two elephant calves that were three days old and got stalked by a lioness. Talk about an incredible adventure!
3) Rwanda. I recently had a chance to observe Mountain gorillas in the wild and it surpassed my very high expectations. One mother gorilla with a small baby on her back even brushed my leg as if to say “please move”. She was so polite as her baby hammed it up for our group. I think he’s going to be a star and he knows it!
Where in the world offers the best value for money?
I’m a big fan of Guatemala. The people are so friendly ,you can climb active volcanoes, explore Mayan ruins, all at reasonable prices. I like Costa Rica as well, but your money goes a lot farther in Guatemala.
Where would you pay any money to return to?
The three destinations I listed above. I reflect back on these travel experiences almost daily.
What is the best airport you have flown from and why?
I like the Munich Airport (Terminal 2, there’s not much in Terminal 1). Between the two terminals there is even a Christmas market and an ice-skating rink in December. Plus I’m familiar with the airport so that makes it a better experience.
Do you have a tip to make any airport experience great?
I always try and get a short massage at the airport before I board my flight. It’s expensive, but worth every penny, since I feel relaxed and like I’m on vacation before I even get on the plane.
On the plane, is there a tip you can share to make the experience better?
I used to hate flying, but realised that I just needed to change my perspective. Now I look forward to flying as I view it as a time to catch up on a movie I’ve wanted to watch or a great book that I haven’t had time to read. When you see a flight as a chance to disconnect and relax, it’s a much more enjoyable experience.
If there was one travel nightmare trip, where would it be to and what would it involve?
Anywhere to an all-inclusive resort. I did it once for a friend’s wedding, but it’s definitely not my style. I prefer travel that is more independent rather than the canned activities offered at such resorts.
