About me

WELCOME TO BANANA LEAF TRAVEL

Hi, I’m Beata, your go-to expert for adventure-filled, authentic travel that connects you with nature and local cultures.

If you’re someone who seeks the thrill of the unknown, loves to stay active and values meaningful experiences over typical tourist traps, you’ve come to the right place.

I’m focusing on providing useful resources, designed to keep your adventures unique and budget-friendly.

My Travel Philosophy 

For me, travel is all about embracing the spirit of adventure and getting off the beaten path. Whether it’s hiking through remote mountains, exploring hidden beaches, or discovering busy local markets. 

I’m always on the lookout for experiences that bring me closer to the heart of a destination.

My travels aren’t just about seeing new places—they’re about immersing myself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of each location. All while keeping things affordable and accessible.

Why Trust Me?

With countless adventures under my belt, from the rugged trails of the Peruvian mountains to the vibrant streets of Asian metropolises, I’ve learned how to travel smart, sustainably, and on a budget. 

I’m passionate about finding hidden gems that offer an authentic connection to the places I visit, and I’m here to share my insights with you.

My blog is a reflection of my own journey—a mix of thrilling adventures, practical tips, and honest advice that you can trust to make your own travels unforgettable.

My Travel Journey

Over the years, my adventures have taken me across 26 countries, each offering unique experiences that have shaped my approach to travel. 

  • Based in Poland, I’ve explored Europe extensively- from hiking the endless trails of the Polish mountains to enjoying weekend escapes in cities like Milan, Budapest, and Copenhagen.
  • My love for authentic experiences led me to spend a summer living in Vienna, volunteer in a small German town, and later to discover the less-trodden paths of rural Albania and ancient ruins in Turkey.
  • My first major long-distance adventure was a three-week, self-organized backpacking trip through China. I explored some of the most scenic and often remote corners of the country, just before the pandemic.
  • Slowly, I began to combine travel with remote work. I embraced a more conscious and slow travel approach, spending an unforgettable month in Lisbon and exploring the lush hikes of Madeira and the Azores.
  • As the next step, and one of my most challenging and eye-opening adventures, was exploring South America, where I encountered the vibrant cultures of Colombia, Peru, and Chile. 
  • More recently, I’ve immersed myself in Southeast Asia, with highlights including camping in the Indian Himalayas, exploring forgotten Malaysian islands, kayaking through Thailand’s mangroves, and visiting Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes.
  • Each of these journeys has taught me how to travel smart, sustainably, and on a budget, fueling my passion for discovering hidden gems and connecting deeply with the places I visit.
Koh Phi Phi rocky shore, big stones, boats, clear blue sea and limestone cliffs in the distance
  • My favorite holiday destinations in Europe used to be Spain, Italy, Croatia, and Bulgaria.
  • I enjoyed weekend breaks in cities like Milan, Budapest, Wroclaw, Bucharest, Copenhagen, Prague, Valencia, and Wiesbaden.
  • I did countless hikes in the Polish mountains, where the trekking possibilities are endless!
  • I spent an entire summer living in Vienna, Austria.
  • I volunteered in the small, lovely German town of Marburg.
  • I went on my first backpacking trip to Asia and visited China just a few months before the pandemic hit!
  • I worked remotely from Lisbon, Portugal for a month.
  • I flew to South America and visited Colombia, Peru, and Chile.
  • I discovered sunny Albania during the off-season for three months.
  • I spent a month traveling in Turkey in the middle of the hot summer.
  • And most recently, I came back from a long-awaited trip around Southeast Asia, visiting India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.

All the 26 countries I’ve visited so far (spending at least one day there, so a three-hour layover at the airport doesn’t count):

  1. Poland – my home country
  2. Albania
  3. Austria
  4. Bulgaria
  5. Chile
  6. Colombia
  7. Croatia
  8. Czechia
  9. Denmark
  10. England
  11. Germany
  12. Hungary
  13. India
  14. Indonesia
  15. Italy
  16. Lithuania
  17. Malaysia
  18. Peru
  19. Portugal
  20. Romania
  21. Slovakia
  22. Spain
  23. Sweden
  24. Thailand
  25. Turkey
  26. Wales

Why Banana Leaf?

“Banana Leaf Travel” is a name that evokes the natural, tropical beauty of the places I love to explore. 

The banana leaf symbolizes simplicity, sustainability, and a connection to the earth—all values that guide my approach to travel.

Just as a banana leaf is versatile and widely used in the cultures I visit, my travel style is adaptable, resourceful, and always focused on finding the most authentic and budget-friendly ways to experience the world.

What I Offer

On Banana Leaf Travel, you’ll find a gold mine of information to help you plan your next adventure. Whether you’re looking to:

  • Immerse in Nature – Discover the best hikes, remote natural wonders, unique camping spots, and eco-friendly stays. Unplug and connect with the raw beauty of the environment,
  • Travel Authentically – Avoid overrated spots and disappointing tourist traps. Get insider tips on finding true local experiences, like exploring a village untouched by tourism, hiring a local guide, or visiting a neighborhood pub.
  • Travel Actively – Find recommendations for outdoor activities like trekking, cycling, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving in some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.
  • Travel Ethically – Learn how to leave a positive impact by supporting preservation efforts and choosing sustainable experiences. Make responsible travel choices that respect both the environment and the cultures you visit.
  • Travel Slowly – Focus on quality over quantity. Recharge and enjoy your travels by immersing yourself in the local culture, rather than rushing through tourist traps. Make your journeys more meaningful and fulfilling.
  • Keep it Budget-Friendly – Get practical advice on traveling without breaking the bank. Learn how to find affordable accommodations, choose cost-effective transportation, and discover the best places to eat.
  • Work Remotely while Traveling – Effortlessly balance work and travel. Find tips on choosing remote work-friendly destinations, allowing you to stay productive while exploring new places.

Join Me on the Journey

Through Banana Leaf Travel, I’m here to inspire and guide you to set out on your own unique adventure. 

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for authentic experiences on a budget, I hope my stories and tips will help you travel more confidently and deeply.

Let’s discover the world together!