MERELEXPLORES

About

Hi! I’m Merel — a mid-20s travel enthusiast balancing a 9-to-5 job as an industrial pharmacist with a love for exploring the world.

In my free time, I combine photography, videography, sports, and travel to capture and share meaningful experiences. Whether it’s hiking a volcano, discovering hidden beaches, or wandering through vibrant cities — I’m always drawn to places that feel a little different and adventurous.

I’m happiest when I’m surrounded by incredible views — especially the kind you have to work for. The moments that stay with me the most are those reached after a challenge, like hiking up a volcano and watching the sunrise above the clouds.

My love for travel started at a young age, thanks to my parents, who took me on diverse trips across Europe — from road trips to islands and cities. But it was during a spontaneous 3-week backpacking trip through Indonesia (Java, Bali, Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands, and Lombok) that I truly discovered the freedom of this way of travelling.

Since then, I’ve explored different styles of travel — from backpacking to road trips — and realized how much I enjoy both the adventure of the unknown and the flexibility of the road.

Through this blog, I share my travel stories with a focus on adventurous trips — from backpacking routes to scenic road trips — often in tropical, nature-filled, and visually inspiring destinations.

I’d love for you to follow along as I continue exploring the world — and hopefully inspire you to plan your own adventures along the way.

“When I’m not travelling, I’m already planning my next trip.”