Hi there! I’m Suzanne
My passion is for adventure, exploration, and to discover the unique landscapes, cultures, and peoples of the earth.
I encourage you to explore our world, and I’m glad to help you to do that, regardless of your age, circumstances, or budget.
Here’s some of my story…
Between travels, you’ll find me usually in Albuquerque, New Mexico…and I’m always there the first half of October, for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, as part of a crew for the hot air balloon “Seeking Nirvana,” and other volunteer duties.
2024 will be the 52nd year for AIBF
Personal Stuff:
My ancestors homesteaded in New Mexico in the 1800’s, and I love the way the high desert feels – it’s great to return after my travels.
After 23 years as a stay-at-home mom to my two daughters, I went back to work in 2007, as a Research Scientist in Molecular Biology at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. (You can check out my science blog if interested.) Tough to find a job in Medical Research after that long out of the field…but, I’m a pretty determined person. I’d found a job which was a perfect fit for me.
Sadly, my husband died in 2014, after a year-long illness. Mike was only 56 years old!
When he died, we were in debt (but handling it), with 2 mortgages and a car payment.
After he died, my paycheck was enough to cover only one mortgage payment, with not much left over. About a month after his death, I discovered that Mike’s medical bills after insurance – for which I was responsible – were over $25,000!
I was in trouble.
Again – I am an extremely determined person. From October 2014 to when I retired in May 2018, I worked at becoming completely debt-free! No mortgages, no car payments, no medical bills. I definitely had made a plan, and worked it. I spent the summer of 2018 giving away or selling all of my possessions – an epic tale in itself! I leased out my house near the University on August 1, 2018, and took off to travel the world.
Where Have I Traveled?
Here are the places in the world that I’ve been lucky enough to able to explore (wait… lucky, or good planning? 😉):
In 2019 alone, I visited 14 countries and had a blast. I was overseas until March, 2020 (and we know what happened then!). I used points and perqs from my credit cards to get reduced or free travel, and so many friends asked me how I eliminated my debt and was able to travel full time; it seemed to me that others needed to learn some inside info as well. Thus began Travels With Suz in the spring of 2020.
(Pssst...I managed to get to Puerto Rico, Chile, Germany, and Egypt in 2020, before the pandemic hit – my flight home to the US from Egypt was on March 14! 😲)
My philosophy / world view / personal style: to experience all life has to offer, and do my best to not allow anything to hold me back.
I’m looking for my people, my posse – Check out the articles, subscribe to the blog, let me know your thoughts; looking forward to getting to know you!
I’m searching the world for my perfect beach. Where’s your favorite one? I’m always on the lookout for new ideas!
Find me on Facebook or contact me at TravelsWithSuz@gmail.com
Let’s start creating your travel destiny!
Join these free Facebook groups!
For travel enthusiasts: International Solo Travelers and Pairs
For women solo travelers: Over 50 Women’s Travel Club
Dang, I need to update this! 🤯
Amazing story of courage and grit. And, now you’re in the Caribbean – Living the dream – good for you. Thank you for being here.
This is amazing!
Thanks! And, on my birthday, too! 🥰
Looking forward to following you.
Thanks, Karen! Welcome!
Nice! Can’t wait to follow your blog. I am really looking forward to traveling again. Hope our paths cross.
I found you. Your daughters are beautiful!
Aww…thanks!