Top travel blogs: TravelDudes

At TravelLocal, we love connecting with the wider travel community. This month, we had the pleasure of catching up with Melvin, the founder and CEO of TravelDudes.com, a top travel blog that serves as a platform for travelers to share their advice and tips on hidden gems from all around the globe. We chatted with Melvin about his favorite destinations, travel experiences, and his advice for both novice and seasoned travelers alike!

TravelDudes: A top travel blog for authentic insights

What inspired you to start travel writing? Was it a particular destination or experience?

It all started with a passion to share travel experiences and encourage others to explore the world. I found that the best tips often came from locals and fellow travelers, not from guidebooks. Print guidebooks are limited in space, which is why we created TravelDudes.com, one of the first online travel blogs created by a community of passionate travelers. Even if you’ve explored many parts of the world, there’s always someone who has seen something different. It’s incredible to be able to share your memories with others and inspire them to embark on their own journeys.

What’s the most immersive, ‘local’ experience you’ve had while traveling?

I had an unforgettable encounter with an elephant in Tanzania. We rented a 4×4 and set off to explore Tarangire National Park. We found a river, and there was an elephant herd nearby. After an hour of watching, a few of them began crossing the river. We positioned the car where we expected them to emerge, but one elephant wasn’t too happy to see us and charged, stopping only 2-3 steps short of the vehicle! It was an exhilarating reminder of how important it is to respect the locals, both human and animal, while traveling.

What’s your favorite destination and why?

It’s tough to pick just one, so here’s my top 3:

1. Havana: The energy in this city is incredible. The renovated part is vibrant and a must-see, but I found the less polished areas even more fascinating. It’s here that you really get a sense of daily life, kids playing baseball, men playing dominos, and women chatting in the streets. It’s an authentic atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else.

2. Tanzania: This place is a wildlife lover’s dream, especially in the southern part of the country. We had the opportunity to see lions up close without the crowds of jeeps, thanks to the knowledge of the local people. It was an unforgettable experience!

3. Laos: During our 3-month trip through Indochina, Laos was by far my favorite destination. It’s less traveled than neighboring countries like Thailand, Cambodia, or Vietnam, which is exactly what makes it so special. The laid-back vibe and the chance to connect with locals made it an enriching experience.

What advice would you give someone who was thinking about going traveling?

Travel is about the people you meet along the way. That’s why I always recommend connecting with locals and fellow travelers. Start with a smile and a simple question like “Hi, how are you?” Everyone has a story to tell, and listening to them can turn a good trip into a great one. Don’t forget to be open to trying new things, especially local foods. Strange food often isn’t as strange as it seems, so embrace it and go for it!

Make it happen

If you’re ready for an adventure, whether it’s a thrilling safari in Tanzania or an off-the-beaten-path experience in Laos, head to TravelDudes.com, a top travel blog packed with helpful tips and inspiring stories. Check out our destination pages or get in touch with our local experts, they’re always excited to help you plan your next unforgettable trip.