Trip Design: Listing priorities

A Smart Escape to St. Martin: How I Travel on Budget and on Purpose

I just got back from a spontaneous trip to St. Martin, and it was everything I needed—sun, warmth, ocean breeze, and just enough comfort to feel a little spoiled. The best part? I booked it all on a budget, and I want to share how.

I started the way I always do: a flexible date search. I didn’t go in looking for a specific destination—I let the deals guide me. I checked which cities had affordable flights that week, and when St. Martin popped up, I knew it was the one. Next up, I filtered for all-inclusive resorts and found a gem that was totally within budget. No overthinking. Just smart, intentional choices.

People often say travel is hard, expensive, or out of reach. But the truth is, it’s about working with what you’ve got. It’s about knowing your priorities. For this trip, mine were simple: sunshine, saltwater, and a bit of comfort. I wasn’t chasing five-star luxury—I wanted warmth on my skin, turquoise waves, and a peaceful reset.

Other trips? I go for the food. The culture. The chaos and energy of a new city. The quiet of a mountaintop. The stories that unfold when you say yes to new places.

When you live in a place that lacks diversity—of people, experiences, perspectives—travel becomes more than a luxury. It becomes a tool for growth. A way to step outside your daily bubble and get a broader sense of the world. Of yourself in it.

So here’s my advice:
Be open. Be flexible. Let your curiosity—not just your budget—guide you. And remember, you don’t have to travel far or spend a lot to feel refreshed, inspired, or connected.

This trip to St. Martin reminded me that the world is wide, and with a little strategy, it’s more accessible than we think.

—
GRL On the Go
Always looking, always learning, always growing.