In a nutshell…

My name is Amanda. I’m a Tennessee native and the creator of Just a Flyaway. For over seven years, I’ve been traveling the world as a solo female traveler. I have crazy curly hair, and I can never tame all the frizz and flyaways. 

How it Happened

The first time I traveled solo, I had no idea what I was doing. I was inspired by travel blogs online, and I read everything I could find about women traveling solo. Although I was naïve, I was brave enough to go out and do exactly what I wanted. Now, I seek to inspire other women to find that same courage within themselves.

Studying abroad in college sparked my passion for travel, and I’ve been on the road ever since. My travels have been full of teaching English abroad, road trips around the USA, and exploring beaches around Mexico. While I travel, I teach English online on various platforms and I find freelance jobs where I can. 

Doing volunteer work for free accommodation is my favorite way to experience a culture. Read about my Workaway experiences here!

Travel to Learn

Learning Spanish and French have been fulfilling experiences while living in foreign countries. I love the satisfying feeling of successfully communicating in another language or the shared laughter when you can’t understand someone. Although I studied French in school, I have found the best way to really learn a language is to immerse yourself in it. I taught English in a school in France where not even the teachers spoke English. 

In the last year, I have made Mexico my home. It’s the perfect place to enjoy unique cities and healing nature. I am learning Spanish and getting better every day!

My Inspiration

Throughout these years, I have either been traveling or saving for travel. The invaluable and unforgettable experiences have been worth every penny. Traveling on a budget is a true art form, and for me, is the best way to travel. And travel is the best way to spend money!

You’ve probably heard it said before, but it’s true: traveling has taught me more about myself and the world than I ever could have imagined. People I have met while on the road have inspired me, and I have found wonderful friendships while traveling solo.

My vision is to inspire you, whoever you are, to travel. I write with the intention to give you the courage to pursue your goals and have the adventure of a lifetime!