Girl We Love: Denise Olondriz
Fun fact about you:
I’m absolutely afraid of heights. Sometimes I forget about it and book activities that other travelers enjoyed only to end up being scared to death. But those memories make for a fun story after though!
What do you like most about traveling?
I think traveling is a good way to expand your perspective. The world is just so vast and when we live in the same place and do the same thing all the time we get stuck in our own bubbles. Traveling lets you get to know about other peoples' cultures, how they live, how they think, what matters for them. I think if you really take it in that way, you’ll have a very different outlook in life.
What do you do when you're not traveling?
I have a full time job as an analyst for a startup company based abroad which means I work from home, giving me a lot of flexibility. I’m also actually starting an online business soon! That’s something that really excites me aside from thinking where to go next. So, work keeps me busy but I do try to dedicate some time for other activities, like working out or going out with friends and family.
Travel must-haves?
I would have to say sunscreen. For me, traveling entails a lot of walking. I love getting myself a bit of a tan but skin damage is a serious thing! And also, I always get data/a pocket WiFi. I like traveling alone so I feel more confident that I won’t get lost if I have access to the internet. I try not to use it as much, though, because I’m there to explore the place and not use the internet.
First thing you do once you reach your travel destination?
I always get travel paraphernalia at the airport. (Not too much though so it’s not a waste of paper!) I’m not much of a planner so sometimes I forget to do my research beforehand. I find them really helpful — where the tourist destinations are, local guidelines and tips, and some even provide discounts.
Favorite travel memory:
When I was working in another country before and I decided to travel alone for the first time, I hired this driver to tour me around the place. I was a bit of a workaholic then. While in the car, I remember him asking me about working in the capital city and he shared that his brother also worked in the city and was inviting him to go and work there. He wouldn’t because it didn’t fit his lifestyle. I remember him telling me, “I wouldn’t live the life I don’t want even if I got paid 3x more.” That statement made me think and examine the current life I lived. Looking back, that trip has lead me to travel more bringing me to where I am today. I guess it’s an example of the unexpected wisdom you gain from going outside your bubble and meeting other people. Oh and not to mention the place was beautiful!
Something to check off your bucket list:
App you use most when you travel and what do you use it for?
I rely on Google Maps when I travel. You’ll be amazed how far the reach of Google Maps is! Citymapper is also a very handy transportation app in select cities. I love using these two if I’m going to a city with a very complex transport system like Singapore, Seoul, etc. Other than that I try to keep my phone away and take a break from technology to fully be in the moment.
What's your go-to traveling hack or tip?
A friend once told me that if you’re traveling to a developed city, you can get good deals if you book online but when you’re traveling to more remote areas it would be best to not book online but look for deals when you get there. I’ve definitely saved a lot because of this!
Also, if you book online, leave reviews. Other travellers will find it really helpful and you might even get credits or perks (depending on the booking website policy).
What do you like most about Wink?
I absolutely love Wink! I like how fast, painless, and effective the services are! I can just easily fit it into my schedule and I don’t have to make much adjustments for it. And also the service is great and don’t even get me started on the ambience of the Wink studios!