Welcome! My name is Caitlyn and I’m a mid twenties traveler based out of the Smoky Mountains. Being born and raised in East Tennessee, I’ve always had a passion for the outdoors. Seeking out your hidden gem food locations, hikes, and places to explore is what I would love to do full time. My hope is to help others travel well by giving a unique perspective on how, and where, to begin your journey.
Primarily, I’ve traveled through Middle Tennessee, East Tennessee, and Western North Carolina. Although, I have traveled various spots throughout the country and can’t wait to share my experiences with you. In my free time I enjoy being outdoors, reading, being with my dog, and looking for my next destination. Finding the hidden gems or the path less traveled has been a passion that has been easily explored, being as my hometown its self is one not very well known. As I’ve gotten older I’ve realized what a treasure it has been growing up surrounded by mountains and nature.
For as long as I can remember, I have had the itch for being outdoors and exploring. It wasn’t until a few years ago I really dove into this more seriously. As someone who had struggled with finding interests in what, it seemed, everyone else did, traveling is where I really started to shine and felt most comfortable. Growing up in East Tennessee has given me the ability to be surrounded by nature in a stones throw. Located not far from Sevierville Tennessee where you can get your fast pace fix, but also within an hours drive to a multitude of waterfalls and hiking trails. Being centrally located has afforded me the luxury of being able to choose what I surround myself with.
Although I’m based out of Tennessee, my destinations range from all over the country, but one of my favorites as pictured above, is Disney. It may be cliche but there’s not many places that give you the same excitement as walking up to Disney’s entrance. My first trip to Disney was in 2019 and it was by far one of my most memorable trips to date. So far, one of my other favorite times has been during Mickeys Not So Spooky Halloween party. I will have some blog posts relating to Disney such as tips and tricks, and even my “What I Ate” for the Mickeys Halloween Party back in 2024. I’ll be covering theme parks as well as my favorite snacks that I would recommend.
My page can also provide you with trip ideas to the Rocky Mountains. I’ve only been out west a few times but the opportunities are endless and I plan on going back in 2026. Hiking in Colorado was truly something unforgettable and I’ll absolutely go back for the incredible view of the Rocky Mountains. Some of my other favorite hikes so far have been in Tennessee which isn’t surprising because there are so many beautiful options. Middle Tennessee has definitely had some of the best hikes in my opinion and they’re all incredibly close together, we went in the dead of summer and there was almost no foot traffic, it was incredible to have some of these serene spots all to ourselves.
Hiking is definitely one of my prioritized categories for my post content for this website. If you head over to my Resources page, I have a host of different recommendations for anyone traveling. The page will cover things like boots I recommend while hiking and apps that can make traveling easier. Hiking is a huge part of what I enjoy traveling for. I’ve been on countless hikes and each one has always left me with incredible views and the desire to get out in the world and see more. Coming from a very rural town in East Tennessee, it’s always so refreshing to explore what other places have to offer. It’s not only a healthy hobby for physical purposes, but as someone who has always struggled with their mental health, it’s done wonders for my mind and soul as well.
Explorers Connection isn’t only for the people who prefer Mountain views. It can indulge your tastes for a beach setting or city setting as well. I explore and seek out the best scenic views, things to do, and the best food from larger cities like Colorado Springs, down to the coast in places like Historic St Augustine. If you’re looking for diversity you’re in the right spot.
I really enjoy traveling to different places and reviewing different kinds of foods. This page will feature many different blog posts that will highlight hidden gem spots in different areas of the country with honest reviews of where to go and where to skip. As pictured above, this is River City Cafe, a hidden gem cafe that specializes in burgers and was hands down one of the best I’ve ever had. I’ll find the delicious places that may not have been your 1st option but absolutely deserve a visit when looking for places to eat.
Culinary options is a huge part of travel since no matter where you go you’ll always need to have a few food options to choose from when you’re on vacation or traveling. While it’s easy to rely on the most popular or highly reviewed restaurants, that often means missing out on truly amazing hole-in-the-wall eateries. I’m here to help you find those underrated spots that make a trip unforgettable.
Overall, I want to use this platform to turn my passion for travel into a useful tool for others wanting to get started on their adventures. My hope is to find a community of like minded people who love to hike, eat, and try new things. I make blog posts weekly as well as sending out a newsletter to keep everyone informed on the latest activity. If you’re interested in reaching out you can use my contact form on the home page that will directly send me a business email. I’m glad you’re here and I hope you can find something the will help you be inspired to travel, and travel well!