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Welcome to Karen From Earth! Welcome! I’m Karen, a travel blogger, photographer, and accountant based near NYC, and I’m here to help 9-to-5ers explore the world with limited PTO.
I still work a full-time job, so I know what it’s like to want to take big international trips without having unlimited time off. Most of my travel is planned around long weekends, holidays, and carefully chosen PTO days.
Here you’ll find practical travel guides, long weekend ideas, 5–9 day itineraries, packing tips, planning advice, and ideas for international trips that actually feel worth it.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend abroad or making the most of a limited number of vacation days, I hope I can help you see more of the world without waiting for “someday.”
Make sure to subscribe to my newsletter to join the community and be the first to see new posts, travel tips, and giveaways. Now let’s start adventuring!
Places I’ve Traveled
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Ready to level up your photography in 2025? Whether you’re a pro or just love snapping pics as a hobby, having the right gear can really make a difference in capturing amazing shots. Here I share what I currently have in my camera bag. From essential lenses to cool gadgets, come along and check out the tools that help me create memorable images and enhance my skills. Let’s jump in and see what’s in my camera bag this year!
Road tripping through Spain, eating pasta in Italy, backpacking in Thailand. All of that sounds amazing, right?! Well, one of the not so fun but most important steps is getting your passport. At least once you get it done, you don’t have to worry about renewing it for a whole 10 years. I am going to outline below how to get your passport if you are a citizen of the United States and how to go through the renewal process if you’re ready for that. Remember, most countries won’t let you enter the country if your passport is expiring in less than 6 months, or if you have too few pages left over!
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature's most spectacular light shows. Caused by solar particles colliding with Earth's atmosphere, these vibrant displays of green, pink, yellow, and violet lights dance across the night sky. For photography fans, travel adventurers, nature lovers, and everyone in between, catching the Northern Lights is often a bucket-list experience.
Imagine a place where you can relax in naturally heated waters while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Welcome to Iceland, a land known for its stunning geothermal hot springs and pools. This blog post is your guide to exploring these natural wonders, perfect for travel enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Discover why Iceland's hot springs are a must-visit and what you can expect from this unique experience.
Iceland is a breathtaking destination with something to offer everyone. From awe-inspiring natural landscapes to rich culture and delectable cuisine, Iceland is brimming with incredible experiences. When I first dreamed of visiting Iceland, the sheer number of must-see sites and must-do activities was overwhelming. I wasn't sure where to begin—what was truly worth seeing, and how could I possibly fit it all in? To simplify the planning, I created a comprehensive list of all the attractions and their locations just to see what was available to see, making the preparation process much more manageable. If you're planning a trip to Iceland, be sure to include these unforgettable spots on your itinerary.
In a world filled with countless marvels, the Seven Wonders of the World stand out as iconic symbols of human ingenuity and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, travel enthusiast, or educational explorer, the tales and sights of these remarkable places promise to inspire and captivate. Let's take an exciting trip through the Original Seven Wonders, their modern counterparts, and the natural wonders of the world.
Whether you're newly married, recently divorced, or have legally changed your name for other reasons, updating your passport is an important step for hassle-free travels. It might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don't worry—I'm here to guide you through every step of the way.
Raleigh, North Carolina is a city with something to offer everyone, and there are many free things to do in the city. From museums and parks to festivals and events, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Raleigh without spending a dime. When traveling it’s always great to balance your itinerary, and your budget, with free activities and excursions. You don’t have to spend money to have a good time!
Here are some of the top FREE things to do near Raleigh!
Bali is a beautiful island with something to offer everyone. From stunning natural scenery to vibrant culture and delicious food, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Bali.
When I started planning my trip, I was overwhelmed with trying to figure out what I needed to see and do, what was even there to see and do, and what was possible to do within the time I had available to me. So I started off by making a giant list of everything I could find and where it was on the island. This made the planning process feel so much easier to handle. If you're planning a trip to Bali, be sure to add these bucket list locations to your itinerary.
Iceland has no shortage of waterfalls, and you may think you’d get sick of them after a few, but they seem to get better and better. While popular spots like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss often steal the limelight, there are numerous hidden gems scattered across the island waiting to be discovered by the adventurous explorer. If you’ve already seen the most popular waterfalls in Iceland and are just itching for more, or if you’re all about jumping right onto the less beaten path, then you are in the right place.
In the last few years, the concept of responsible travel has gained a lot of attention as people around the world strive to make a positive impact on the destinations they visit. However, there are still some individuals who exhibit disrespectful behavior while traveling, earning themselves the label of, well, traveling like a ****, (know know what I mean).
Photography is more than just a hobby; it's an art form that lets us capture and preserve moments, emotions, and stories. In today's digital age, its importance has only grown with high-quality cameras and advanced editing tools at our fingertips. Whether you're just starting out or looking to become a travel photographer, getting a grasp on the basics of photography can boost your skills and the quality of your shots immensely.
Here are a bunch of photos from my recent trip to Bali, Indonesia. Use these as a way to gain inspiration for your own upcoming trip, plan your itinerary, or just daydream about a future trip!
Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Ever since one of my best friends moved to the area a couple of years ago, it has become somewhere where I spend a lot of my time. The city has a number of museums, art galleries, theaters, and restaurants. Raleigh is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors by hiking or just laying back and enjoying the scenery (which is honestly more up my alley).
Here are some of the top things to do near Raleigh!
Do you dream of traveling the world?
Seeing the Taj Mahal in India, the Great Wall of China, or the Eiffel Tower in Paris? Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in the Amazon rainforest, or skiing in the Swiss Alps?
Whatever your travel dreams may be, this blog is here to inspire you. I haven’t even been to all of the locations mentioned above! But I have been to quite a few places and I’m here to share my photos of some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places on Earth.
I’m currently sitting here with the post trip blues and I’m just dying to reminisce a little bit… and possibly daydream about some future trips. If you’re in the same boat, or you’re not, and just want to see some pretty photos, scroll down and check these out! Let me know if any of these images inspired you to take a trip or if you have experienced any of these locations yourself.
So whether you're just starting to plan your next vacation or you're a seasoned traveler, be sure to check out this blog for some travel inspiration. I can't wait to help you see the world!
2023 has got to be the year for travel! It has definitely been a rough couple of years and we are all long overdue for some rest, relaxation, and adventure. More countries are starting to open their borders and restrictions are being lifted. Of course, based on your comfort level, it is time to get back out there and explore our beautiful world. Check out my locations below, I think I have something for everyone.
Most people think that backpacking around the world means having to work extra hard or have an unlimited bank account in order to afford it, but both of these statements couldn’t be further from the truth. This guide will tell you how to backpack on a budget, no matter where you choose to go or how long you decide to stay. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your 25th, follow these 6 tips and tricks to save money and see the world on your own terms!
Recently my friend and I went on a quick trip to Colorado to see a concert at the amazing Red Rocks Amphitheater, one of my top bucket list items! Since I was making this trip all the way here for a concert, I of course wanted to make the most of it and see as much as I could. I want to show that even if you don’t have a lot of time, it’s still worth getting out there. Here is how I spent my 24 hours in Colorado.
Iceland’s southern coast is filled with waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and geothermal activity! It’s the most accessible part of the country’s southern region and popular with tourists. Even with its popularity, it is easy to explore and feel like you’re the only person there in the middle of nowhere. Read on to learn more!
Three days in Iceland sounds like not enough time to see this beautiful country, but there is so much you can fit in. This is plenty of time to get a little taste of everything Iceland has to offer. Check out my itinerary below for the perfect 3(ish) days in Iceland! (My “ish” is for if you have the ability to fly in the night before or fly out the morning after your trip.)
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular scenic routes. It is a great short drive that presents an almost introduction to the country. Made up of three beautiful locations representing the wide range of natural wonders the country has to offer. You’ll see waterfalls, geothermal activity, and a UNESCO national park. Read on to learn more!
I know a weekend in Iceland sounds pretty funny, but it is definitely doable! Don’t let being short on time stop you from getting out and exploring. Whether you are going for a weekend getaway or one of their famous stopovers, 3 days is plenty of time to get a little taste of everything Iceland has to offer. Check out my itinerary below for the perfect Iceland weekend getaway!
Storytime! I've made plenty of mistakes throughout my travels. It's okay to make mistakes, but here are a few you can learn from and try to avoid.
Who doesn’t enjoy a good, inspiring quote? Especially when paired with a pretty picture! I compiled a list of quotes below. Some that speak to me, and some that are just fun. Feel free to take these and share the inspiration with those around you!
Hocus Pocus is one of those iconic Halloween movies I have to watch every year. It gets me in the spirit every time! Since the movie has been around for almost as long as I’ve been alive, the tradition has been happening for a pretty long time now. Because of this, visiting the locations I’ve seen on a screen so many times before makes it so much fun.
What is the first location you think of when you hear October, Halloween, Fall, history, and Hocus Pocus? Salem, Massachusetts of course! If you are fond of all these things and the famous Halloween movie, Hocus Pocus, then you will love this small New England town, which was also the main filming location. Read below for my itinerary and tips on how to visit during the most popular time of year, and when to start planning your trip. It’s much earlier than you think.
Travel Necessities
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Vivamus pellentesque vitae neque at vestibulum. Donec efficitur mollis dui vel pharetra.
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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vestibulum id ligula porta felis euismod semper.
Sed purus sem, scelerisque ac rhoncus eget, porttitor nec odio. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet.
Vivamus pellentesque vitae neque at vestibulum. Donec efficitur mollis dui vel pharetra.
Praesent id libero id metus varius consectetur ac eget diam. Nulla felis nunc, consequat laoreet lacus id.
Donec id justo non metus auctor commodo ut quis enim. Mauris fringilla dolor vel condimentum imperdiet.
Commodo cursus magna, vel scelerisque nisl consectetur et. Donec id elit non mi porta gravida at eget metus.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vestibulum id ligula porta felis euismod semper.
Sed purus sem, scelerisque ac rhoncus eget, porttitor nec odio. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet.
Vivamus pellentesque vitae neque at vestibulum. Donec efficitur mollis dui vel pharetra.
Travel Tips
Iceland is a dream destination for so many travelers! With its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and endless adventures, it’s easy to see why everyone is eager to explore this Nordic gem. From geysers and volcanoes to waterfalls and the Northern Lights, Iceland guarantees an unforgettable experience. But what will a trip to Iceland cost you in 2025? This guide breaks down the expenses and shares some handy tips to help you budget wisely.
At the end of this blog check out my real budget from my most recent long weekend trip to Iceland!
Ready to level up your photography in 2025? Whether you’re a pro or just love snapping pics as a hobby, having the right gear can really make a difference in capturing amazing shots. Here I share what I currently have in my camera bag. From essential lenses to cool gadgets, come along and check out the tools that help me create memorable images and enhance my skills. Let’s jump in and see what’s in my camera bag this year!
Road tripping through Spain, eating pasta in Italy, backpacking in Thailand. All of that sounds amazing, right?! Well, one of the not so fun but most important steps is getting your passport. At least once you get it done, you don’t have to worry about renewing it for a whole 10 years. I am going to outline below how to get your passport if you are a citizen of the United States and how to go through the renewal process if you’re ready for that. Remember, most countries won’t let you enter the country if your passport is expiring in less than 6 months, or if you have too few pages left over!
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature's most spectacular light shows. Caused by solar particles colliding with Earth's atmosphere, these vibrant displays of green, pink, yellow, and violet lights dance across the night sky. For photography fans, travel adventurers, nature lovers, and everyone in between, catching the Northern Lights is often a bucket-list experience.
Imagine a place where you can relax in naturally heated waters while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Welcome to Iceland, a land known for its stunning geothermal hot springs and pools. This blog post is your guide to exploring these natural wonders, perfect for travel enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Discover why Iceland's hot springs are a must-visit and what you can expect from this unique experience.
Iceland is a breathtaking destination with something to offer everyone. From awe-inspiring natural landscapes to rich culture and delectable cuisine, Iceland is brimming with incredible experiences. When I first dreamed of visiting Iceland, the sheer number of must-see sites and must-do activities was overwhelming. I wasn't sure where to begin—what was truly worth seeing, and how could I possibly fit it all in? To simplify the planning, I created a comprehensive list of all the attractions and their locations just to see what was available to see, making the preparation process much more manageable. If you're planning a trip to Iceland, be sure to include these unforgettable spots on your itinerary.
In a world filled with countless marvels, the Seven Wonders of the World stand out as iconic symbols of human ingenuity and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, travel enthusiast, or educational explorer, the tales and sights of these remarkable places promise to inspire and captivate. Let's take an exciting trip through the Original Seven Wonders, their modern counterparts, and the natural wonders of the world.
Whether you're newly married, recently divorced, or have legally changed your name for other reasons, updating your passport is an important step for hassle-free travels. It might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don't worry—I'm here to guide you through every step of the way.
Raleigh, North Carolina is a city with something to offer everyone, and there are many free things to do in the city. From museums and parks to festivals and events, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Raleigh without spending a dime. When traveling it’s always great to balance your itinerary, and your budget, with free activities and excursions. You don’t have to spend money to have a good time!
Here are some of the top FREE things to do near Raleigh!
Bali is a beautiful island with something to offer everyone. From stunning natural scenery to vibrant culture and delicious food, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Bali.
When I started planning my trip, I was overwhelmed with trying to figure out what I needed to see and do, what was even there to see and do, and what was possible to do within the time I had available to me. So I started off by making a giant list of everything I could find and where it was on the island. This made the planning process feel so much easier to handle. If you're planning a trip to Bali, be sure to add these bucket list locations to your itinerary.
Iceland has no shortage of waterfalls, and you may think you’d get sick of them after a few, but they seem to get better and better. While popular spots like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss often steal the limelight, there are numerous hidden gems scattered across the island waiting to be discovered by the adventurous explorer. If you’ve already seen the most popular waterfalls in Iceland and are just itching for more, or if you’re all about jumping right onto the less beaten path, then you are in the right place.
In the last few years, the concept of responsible travel has gained a lot of attention as people around the world strive to make a positive impact on the destinations they visit. However, there are still some individuals who exhibit disrespectful behavior while traveling, earning themselves the label of, well, traveling like a ****, (know know what I mean).
Photography is more than just a hobby; it's an art form that lets us capture and preserve moments, emotions, and stories. In today's digital age, its importance has only grown with high-quality cameras and advanced editing tools at our fingertips. Whether you're just starting out or looking to become a travel photographer, getting a grasp on the basics of photography can boost your skills and the quality of your shots immensely.
Here are a bunch of photos from my recent trip to Bali, Indonesia. Use these as a way to gain inspiration for your own upcoming trip, plan your itinerary, or just daydream about a future trip!
Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Ever since one of my best friends moved to the area a couple of years ago, it has become somewhere where I spend a lot of my time. The city has a number of museums, art galleries, theaters, and restaurants. Raleigh is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors by hiking or just laying back and enjoying the scenery (which is honestly more up my alley).
Here are some of the top things to do near Raleigh!
Do you dream of traveling the world?
Seeing the Taj Mahal in India, the Great Wall of China, or the Eiffel Tower in Paris? Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in the Amazon rainforest, or skiing in the Swiss Alps?
Whatever your travel dreams may be, this blog is here to inspire you. I haven’t even been to all of the locations mentioned above! But I have been to quite a few places and I’m here to share my photos of some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places on Earth.
I’m currently sitting here with the post trip blues and I’m just dying to reminisce a little bit… and possibly daydream about some future trips. If you’re in the same boat, or you’re not, and just want to see some pretty photos, scroll down and check these out! Let me know if any of these images inspired you to take a trip or if you have experienced any of these locations yourself.
So whether you're just starting to plan your next vacation or you're a seasoned traveler, be sure to check out this blog for some travel inspiration. I can't wait to help you see the world!
2023 has got to be the year for travel! It has definitely been a rough couple of years and we are all long overdue for some rest, relaxation, and adventure. More countries are starting to open their borders and restrictions are being lifted. Of course, based on your comfort level, it is time to get back out there and explore our beautiful world. Check out my locations below, I think I have something for everyone.
Most people think that backpacking around the world means having to work extra hard or have an unlimited bank account in order to afford it, but both of these statements couldn’t be further from the truth. This guide will tell you how to backpack on a budget, no matter where you choose to go or how long you decide to stay. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your 25th, follow these 6 tips and tricks to save money and see the world on your own terms!
Recently my friend and I went on a quick trip to Colorado to see a concert at the amazing Red Rocks Amphitheater, one of my top bucket list items! Since I was making this trip all the way here for a concert, I of course wanted to make the most of it and see as much as I could. I want to show that even if you don’t have a lot of time, it’s still worth getting out there. Here is how I spent my 24 hours in Colorado.
Iceland’s southern coast is filled with waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and geothermal activity! It’s the most accessible part of the country’s southern region and popular with tourists. Even with its popularity, it is easy to explore and feel like you’re the only person there in the middle of nowhere. Read on to learn more!
Three days in Iceland sounds like not enough time to see this beautiful country, but there is so much you can fit in. This is plenty of time to get a little taste of everything Iceland has to offer. Check out my itinerary below for the perfect 3(ish) days in Iceland! (My “ish” is for if you have the ability to fly in the night before or fly out the morning after your trip.)
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular scenic routes. It is a great short drive that presents an almost introduction to the country. Made up of three beautiful locations representing the wide range of natural wonders the country has to offer. You’ll see waterfalls, geothermal activity, and a UNESCO national park. Read on to learn more!
I know a weekend in Iceland sounds pretty funny, but it is definitely doable! Don’t let being short on time stop you from getting out and exploring. Whether you are going for a weekend getaway or one of their famous stopovers, 3 days is plenty of time to get a little taste of everything Iceland has to offer. Check out my itinerary below for the perfect Iceland weekend getaway!
Storytime! I've made plenty of mistakes throughout my travels. It's okay to make mistakes, but here are a few you can learn from and try to avoid.
Who doesn’t enjoy a good, inspiring quote? Especially when paired with a pretty picture! I compiled a list of quotes below. Some that speak to me, and some that are just fun. Feel free to take these and share the inspiration with those around you!
Hocus Pocus is one of those iconic Halloween movies I have to watch every year. It gets me in the spirit every time! Since the movie has been around for almost as long as I’ve been alive, the tradition has been happening for a pretty long time now. Because of this, visiting the locations I’ve seen on a screen so many times before makes it so much fun.
What is the first location you think of when you hear October, Halloween, Fall, history, and Hocus Pocus? Salem, Massachusetts of course! If you are fond of all these things and the famous Halloween movie, Hocus Pocus, then you will love this small New England town, which was also the main filming location. Read below for my itinerary and tips on how to visit during the most popular time of year, and when to start planning your trip. It’s much earlier than you think.


Iceland is a dream destination for so many travelers! With its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and endless adventures, it’s easy to see why everyone is eager to explore this Nordic gem. From geysers and volcanoes to waterfalls and the Northern Lights, Iceland guarantees an unforgettable experience. But what will a trip to Iceland cost you in 2025? This guide breaks down the expenses and shares some handy tips to help you budget wisely.
At the end of this blog check out my real budget from my most recent long weekend trip to Iceland!