School
UPG College of Management
Expertise
Sustainable travel, Family trips, Solo travel
- Kirtana has lived in Mumbai — one of the world's busiest cities — for years and has extensively explored its famous nightlife and food scene.
- She's used to traveling by plane, train, bus, and — on one occasion — even an old, broken-down Jeep, so she knows how to stay comfortable in rough situations.
- Whenever she has the time, she loves to explore new places, try local cuisine, and seek out pet-friendly spots to take her dog.
Experience
Frequently visiting South India to see her large extended family, Kirtana spent years going on long vacations with them, so she knows how to plan and pack for extended stays. She's also ventured into solo travel and has amassed a library of tips on how to stay safe as a woman traveling alone. Her favorite trips include stargazing at a remote forest lodge in Gujarat, a relaxing vacation in a quiet river town in Kerala to decompress, and an adventure- and shopping-filled trip with friends to the Himalayas. In her free time, she enjoys exploring pet-friendly restaurants and activities with her rescued stray dog, Loki.
Education
Kirtana graduated with a bachelor's degree in Journalism in 2019 and currently works in SEO and travel writing.
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Travel Gear
By Kirtana Menon
Even seasoned travelers can lose sight of the importance of a well-built, durable, and light suitcase. Upgrade in style with this inexpensive one from Costco.
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Seasoned campers have discovered a clever sleeping bag trick that keeps them warmer on chilly nights without having to buy or carry extra gear.
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Missouri
By Kirtana Menon
Explore a quaint, Ozark Mountain town in Missouri for nature lovers and adventure seekers, featuring scenic trails, charming festivals, and breathtaking views.
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Nestled deep within this beautiful Vermont valley is a college town with rail-trails to explore and a rich history to take in during your visit.
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Need an adventure? Escape to this unique Kentucky city with scenic forests, pristine lakes, and easy access to the famous Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.
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Louisiana
By Kirtana Menon
Louisiana may be known for festivals, parades, and music, but it is also home to miles of quiet, empty coastline. One such beach is a boondocker's dream.
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Missouri
By Kirtana Menon
The Ozarks is one of the most unique and stunning regions of the United States, and you can explore it in all its splendor through this quaint town.
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Travel Gear
By Kirtana Menon
Whether you're worried about losing your luggage or finding the perfect hanging toiletry bag, these Amazon finds are a pure gold for travel.
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Tips and Hacks
By Kirtana Menon
Wired earphones can be useful during flights, but they tend to get tangled easily. Try this easy tip for keeping wired headphones tidy using one everyday item.
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This lakeside town just outside Portland sits along the southern side of Maine's second largest lake, offering outdoor water activities throughout the seasons.
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Arizona is well-known as a paradise for retirees. If you're looking for warm weather and cities to stretch your Social Security dollars, try these spots.
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Travel Guides
By Kirtana Menon
For a trip that's about the journey and not just the destination, try this scenic train ride between New York and Pennsylvania for tranquil countryside views.
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Amtrak's San Joaquins train service is seeing a significant change starting, but the popular California route will continue to operate as usual.
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Don't let a lost passport or wallet ruin your trip to Paris. Rick Steves says these two spots at the Eiffel Tower are a hotbed for pickpockets, so watch out.
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This inexpensive shelving option from Ikea can provide much needed counter space in cramped RVs, and it can be installed in minutes with very little hassle.
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Michigan
By Kirtana Menon
Dive into adventure at this historic Michigan park where kids can splash in the creek and adults can revel in biking, snowshoeing, and more.
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California
By Kirtana Menon
This rural and quiet community provides a good base if you're looking for spending a night in the woods or casting a line in a quiet backcountry lake.
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Outdoor Adventure
By Kirtana Menon
Rockhounding is a popular activity, but digging through the rules of where you can go and what you can keep isn't much fun. Here's a guide to get you started.
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Vacations should be about relaxing, but racking up medical debt will spike your stress. Before setting off, cruise ship passengers should get one vital thing.
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Outdoor Adventure
By Kirtana Menon
This pocket-sized travel gadget can help ensure you're drinking clean water from your reusable water bottle no matter where you decide to go.
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The whole family can enjoy a day out at this great and ethically responsible Texas zoo that has just welcomed a few new fluffy newborn animals.
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Air Travel
By Kirtana Menon
The pinnacle in luxury on a commercial flight is this cozy and opulent airline suite that feels like flying in a palace with a private shower and bed.
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United States
By Kirtana Menon
The 2015 film features two men thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail and opened to very mixed reviews. Hikers especially didn't like it for its inaccuracies.
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Europe differs from the US in many ingredients that are allowed in their beauty products, so you might want to check this list before you pack.
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Arkansas
By Kirtana Menon
Arkansas is a destination for outdoor adventure, but this nature-filled state is also home to many snakes from a variety of species.
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This scenic river is well known for its fishing and recreational activities, including boating, jet skiing, paddling, and swimming on its lakes and tributaries.
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This Sedona resort with a divine spa and rooftop bar is located right in the city center but feels like it's completely immersed in red-rock wilderness.
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