Kevin & Melina · Uluru, Australia
About Melina & Kevin, Founders of Blueprint Travelers
Melina and Kevin have personally traveled to every destination on this site. First-hand guides for Japan, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand, built for people who travel with intention.
More research than a travel blog. More personality than a guidebook.
We started Blueprint Travelers because we couldn’t find the guide we actually wanted. Not a list of the top ten things to do in a city. Not a spreadsheet of every hotel in a region. Something in between, written by people who had genuinely been there, cared about the food and the culture, and understood that most travelers don’t have unlimited time.
Every destination on this site is somewhere Kevin and Melina have personally spent time. We’ve eaten at those restaurants, hiked those trails, stayed in those places, and spoken to locals to find what doesn’t make it into any guide. We cover Japan, Latin America, Oceania and Australia because those are the regions we know best. We don’t write about places we haven’t been.
We travel comfortably. Not budget backpacking, not ultra-luxury. We spend where it genuinely adds to the experience and save where it doesn’t. If a $600 hotel is just a hotel, we’ll tell you. If a local market breakfast at $4 is the best meal of your trip, we’ll tell you that too.
Meet Melina
Co-Founder, Editor-in-Chief, Traveler
Experience strategist turned travel writer. Melina has personally researched and visited every destination on this site across Japan, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand.
I grew up in an international family, moving between Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Living in Honduras and Italy taught me something that a week-long trip rarely does: the culture of a place lives in the everyday, not the highlights. The morning coffee ritual, the neighborhood that locals actually go to, the restaurant that nobody outside the city has heard of. That’s what I’ve always looked for when I travel, and it’s what I try to build into every guide I write.
My professional background is in experience strategy and interior design. In plain terms, that means I spent years thinking about how people move through spaces and what makes an experience feel right. Applied to travel, it shapes how I structure itineraries, which details I flag, and how I think about the difference between a good trip and a trip that stays with you.
I’ve personally traveled to every destination covered on this site, across Japan, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand. I do most of the writing here at Blueprint Travelers.
Recent posts
Volcan Baru: Hike to the Summit vs 4×4 Tour (Honest Comparison)
Two ways to reach Panama's highest point. One takes you eleven hours on foot. The other gets you to the sunrise in a heated SUV. Here is how to choose.
Panama Food Guide: What to Eat and Where to Find It
From street stalls to seafood markets, here is what to eat and drink in Panama.
Boquete Travel Guide: Hiking, Coffee and Cloud Forest
Panama's highland escape where cloud forest trails lead to volcano summits, world-famous coffee, and three hidden waterfalls.
Portobelo and Isla Grande: Panama’s Caribbean Coast
The Caribbean coast sits two hours east of Panama City, and most visitors never make it here. The ones who do tend to stay longer than they planned.
Hiking in Valle de Anton: Trails, Waterfalls and What to Expect
Three trails, one volcanic crater, and a ridge walk you will not forget.
Valle de Anton, Panama: Things To Do in the Volcano Crater Town
Your complete guide to El Valle de Anton: hot springs, hiking, wildlife, and why this crater town rewards more than a day trip.
Sailing the San Blas Islands: What to Expect on a Multi-Day Trip
What a San Blas sailing trip is actually like: boat conditions, sleeping arrangements, food, seasickness, and how to choose an operator. The honest version.
San Blas Islands: the Complete Guide for Visitors
The San Blas Islands are unlike anywhere else in Panama. They reward the traveler who wants immersion over comfort. Written from first-hand experience.
Things to Do in Panama City: The Complete Activity Guide
From Panama Viejo ruins to the Amador Causeway, here is everything worth doing in Panama City with honest advice on how long to allow and how to get there.
Where to Stay in Panama City: Best Neighborhoods for First-Timers
Panama City is more spread out than most first-timers expect. Where you stay shapes your entire experience.
Day Trips from Panama City: San Blas, Gamboa, and Beyond
Panama City is a base, not just a destination. Here is what to do with a free day.
How to Visit the Panama Canal: Tours, Locks, and What to Expect
Planning a Panama Canal tour? We visited both Miraflores and Agua Clara locks and did a partial transit. Here's exactly what to expect, when to go, and whether it's worth it.
Panama City Travel Guide: What to Do, See and Eat
Your complete guide to Panama City, from Casco Viejo and the Canal to day trips, food, and where to stay.
Animals in Panama: Wildlife to Spot and Where to Find Them
Panama has some of the most diverse wildlife in the Americas. Here's what you can realistically see, where to find it, and why a guide makes all the difference.
Best Time to Visit Panama
The dry season is not the only season worth going. Here is what the calendar actually looks like, region by region.
Is Panama Safe? An Honest Region-by-Region Guide
Panama is one of the safest countries in Central America. But the answer shifts considerably depending on where you are going.
What to Do in Kyoto, Japan (A 3 Day Itinerary)
Wondering what to do in Kyoto? This itinerary breaks down the best things to do over three days in this beautiful and ancient city.
The Ultimate 3 Day Osaka Itinerary Including the Top Things to Do
A 3 day Osaka itinerary that highlights the top things to do to discover this modern city's food and culture, including Universal Studios.
The Ultimate 2+ Day Hiroshima Itinerary Including Top Things to Do
A 2 to 3 day Hiroshima itinerary that highlights the top things to do to dive into important history and discover Miyajima's floating shrine.
How to Maximize a Kobe Day Trip: the Top Things to Do
All the different things to do during a Kobe day trip to best explore the city, visit some Sake distilleries, eat delicious food, and more.
Best Nara Day Trip from Kyoto or Osaka With the Top Things to Do
All the things to do during a Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka to discover the history and temples of Japan's first permanent capital.
The Perfect Day Trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo: All You Need to Know
How to best visit Fujikowaguchiko for the perfect day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo or an overnight trip to this iconic destination.
Kusatsu: the Best Onsen Town in Japan and How to Get There from Tokyo
What to do in Kusatsu, the best onsen town in Japan, and how to get to this mountain village from Tokyo by train and bus.
Taking a Day Trip to Nikko? Here’s What You Need to See
A break down of the various shrines and temples to visit during a day trip to Nikko and some background on how to visit without a tour group.
Everything You Need to Know About the Short Inca Trail
The answers to the frequently asked questions about hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu as an alternative to the classic Inca trail.
The Best Inca Trail Tour Operators for Hiking to and around Machu Picchu
Visit Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains from the one of the best Inca Trail tour operators to provides elevated hiking experiences.
The Best Galapagos Cruise Company to Visit the Islands
Visit the Galapagos Islands from the best Galapagos cruise that operates like a safari to experience the nature and wildlife of the islands.
The Best Amazon Resort to Visit Yasuni National Park
Visit the rainforest from an Amazon resort that integrates nature, ecotourism, hospitality, and comfort in Yasuni National Park, Ecuador.
The Best 5 Day Tokyo Itinerary for An Introduction to the City
A 5 day Tokyo itinerary that highlights the top things to do and neighborhoods to explore throughout the year, even cherry blossom season.
The Best Top End Tour Company to Explore Around Darwin, Australia
Looking to explore Kakadu, Litchfield, and Nitmiluk national parks? Cyaround Australia Tours is the best Top End tour company for your trip.
Suriname Food and Cultural Diversity
An overview of the unique Suriname food and the different cultures that have influenced the culture of this small country.
The Ultimate 2 Week Guianas Itinerary for Your First Visit
A 2 week Guianas itinerary to show the highlights of possibilities to discover Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana for the first time.
Is Argentina a Safe Country to Travel In? (It Is!)
Is Argentina a safe country to visit? Absolutely, but consider these various things regarding the cities, walking, hiking, driving, etc. Read more to find out.
The Best Tour Company to Visit the Guianas (French Guiana, Suriname, and Guyana)
How to plan to visit the Guianas? The best way is with the travel company, Travel the Guianas, to make your trip tailored and smooth.
What to Do in Buenos Aires (A 3 Day Itinerary)
Let's help you with what to do in Buenos Aires. This includes a 3 day itinerary to experience the history, culture, architecture, and food.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Argentina
The top 10 things to do in Argentina for your vacation according to Blueprint Travelers. Let this inspire your next vacation in this country.
A 7 Day Suriname Itinerary to Explore a Unique and Diverse Culture
A Suriname itinerary based from Paramaribo to help you explore this country over 7 days to dive into this unique culture and nature.
How to Cross the Border Between French Guiana and Suriname (And Other Travel Advice)
A detailed breakdown of how to cross the border between French Guiana and Suriname and everything you need to know to travel to each country.
Things to Do in Kourou: Guiana Space Center and Iles du Salut
The guide of the best things to do in Kourou, French Guiana to discover the European space station and an island prison.
Top Things to Do in French Guiana (5 Day Itinerary)
A French Guiana itinerary to help you explore this department of France over 5 days to dive into this unique culture and nature.
The Top Things to Do in Cayenne, French Guiana
The guide of the best things to do in Cayenne, French Guiana to discover the unique culture and wildlife of this French department.
Best Argentina Restaurants by Region: Blueprint Recommendations
The Argentina food and drinks that you should try and where to try them while visiting the entire country to dive into local culture.
Best Restaurants in Chile by Region: Blueprint Recommendations
A list of the best restaurants in Chile by region to try local food while visiting parts of the country to dive into local culture.
Chile Food and Drinks
The Chile food and drinks that you should try and where to try them while visiting the entire country to dive into local culture.
Argentina Food and Drinks
The Argentina food and drinks that you should try and where to try them while visiting the different regions of the country to dive into local culture.
Is Australia Safe? Yes, But Consider Some of These Aspects…
Is Australia safe for you to visit? Yes, but consider these various things regarding wildlife, cities, driving, etc. Read more to find out.
Australia Food and Drinks
The Australia food and drinks that you should try and where to try them while visiting the different regions of the country to dive into local culture.
Best Australia Restaurants by Region: Blueprint Recommendations
We researched hundreds of restaurants and had wonderful dining experiences over the months that we visited Australia. This list includes our favorites.
Best New Zealand Restaurants by Region: Blueprint Recommendations
We researched hundreds of restaurants over the months that we visited New Zealand. This list is the best New Zealand restaurants to us.
Is New Zealand Safe? Yes, But Consider Some of These Aspects…
Is New Zealand safe to visit? Absolutely, but consider these various things regarding hiking, driving, camping, etc. Read more to find out.
Meet Kevin
I was the first person in my immediate family to travel overseas, studying abroad in Madrid, Spain. That trip changed how I understood the world in a way that’s been hard to reverse. The food, the culture, the friendships I made outside my midwestern upbringing set a standard I’ve been chasing in every trip since.
Before co-founding Blueprint Travelers, I spent years in the hospitality industry leading corporate strategy at the largest family restaurant group in the United States. That background gives me a practitioner’s eye for what separates genuinely good hospitality from adequate hospitality. When I recommend a hotel, a restaurant, or a tour operator, I’m evaluating it against a professional standard, not just a personal preference.
I’ve personally traveled to every destination covered on this site alongside Melina. Without her vision, this site would never have existed.
Recent posts
Experiencing Small Town Japan in Nikko, Kusatsu, and Fujiyoshida as Tokyo Day Trips
We explored the UNESCO sites of Nikko, relaxed in Kusatsu Onsen town, and biked by Mount Fuji all in towns nearby Tokyo, Japan.
Visiting Hiroshima, Japan, the City of Peace, and Nearby Popular Attractions
We learned about Hiroshima’s message of peace, explored the towering Himeji Castle, and saw Japan’s famous floating Otorii Gate.
Enjoying the Delicious Japanese Culinary Scene in Osaka and Kobe, Japan
We ate our way through Osaka’s famous food districts, explored Universal Studios Japan’s Nintendo World, and learned about sake in Kobe.
Learning About Traditional Japanese Culture in Kyoto and Nara, Japan
We visited the former Japanese capitals of Kyoto and Nara to experience some of the country's most significant historical sites.
Our Introduction to Japan in Tokyo Japan, the Capital City
We explored diverse special wards of the city, tried delicious Japanese food, and had an incredible time visiting Tokyo, Japan
Exploring the Unique Culture of Suriname from its capital, Paramaribo
We visited the multi-cultural city of Paramaribo and the surrounding nature areas to experience the diversity of Suriname.
Visiting French Guiana’s Coastal Towns and Unique Amazonian Nature
We learned about the French penal colony history, visited the European Spaceport, and experienced the unique culture of French Guiana
Exploring Northland on New Zealand’s Twin Coast Highway
We concluded our New Zealand road trip by exploring Northland with a balance of cultural activities and amazing natural attractions.
Visiting Auckland, New Zealand, the Country’s International City
We experienced urban life in Auckland, New Zealand by visiting many of its top attractions, beautiful beaches, and culinary destinations.
Driving around the Coromandel Peninsula from Tauranga to Auckland
We did a road trip around New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula to enjoy its beaches, hike the Pinnacles Track, and relax at the Lost Spring.
Experiencing Maori Culture in Rotorua, New Zealand and Visiting Nearby Top Attractions
We learned about Maori culture, visited geothermal wonders, made it to Hobbiton, and saw a rugby match all from Rotorua, New Zealand.
Getting to know Hawke’s Bay and Taupō Before the Tongariro Crossing
We visited Napier, Hawke’s Bay Wine Region, and Taupo in New Zealand prior to completing the incredible Tongariro Crossing.
Learning More About Local Culture in the New Zealand’s Capital City, Wellington
We took a break from our New Zealand road trip to spend time in Wellington and experience the rich culture of New Zealand's capital.
Enjoying Abel Tasman National Park’s Coasts and the Marlborough Wine Region
We hiked and kayaked through the Abel Tasman National Park coastlines then celebrated the end of our South Island road trip in Marlborough.
Exploring the Peaks of New Zealand’s Southern Alps by Foot and Flight
We hiked Roy’s Peak and flew over 3 glaciers in the Southern Alps during our New Zealand West Coast road trip from Wanaka to Nelson.
Visiting Queenstown, the Adrenaline Capital of the World
We went on a jet boat, hiked part of a Great Walk, sampled top pinot noir wine, and ate delicious food all while visiting Queenstown and the area around.
Hiking in Fiordland National Park and Cruising Through Milford Sound
We drove through the Catlins before hiking on some of New Zealand’s Great Walks and visiting Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park from Te Anau.
Taking the Scenic Route from Christchurch to Dunedin in New Zealand
We started our New Zealand road trip with a balance of culture in the South Island cities, from Christchurch to Dunedin, and natural beauty of the Southern Alps.
Driving from Brisbane to Sydney On the Legendary Pacific Coast Highway
We road-tripped the Legendary Pacific Coast Highway, to relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy a detour to the famous Hunter Valley wine region.
Relaxing in Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane, Australia and the surrounding beaches
We visited the incredible Queensland beaches in the Sunshine and Gold Coasts and enjoyed fun activities around the city of Brisbane, Australia.
Visiting Cairns, Australia to see the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest
We snorkeled at the Great Barrier Reef and explored the world’s oldest rainforest while in Cairns, Australia in Far North Queensland.
Exploring Australia’s Tropical Top End from Darwin, the Northern Territory’s Capital
We visited Australia’s furthest north capital city Darwin to explore the incredible Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks within the Top End.
Hiking through the Outback from Uluru in Central Australia
We did our first Australian camping trip, hiking around Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and Watarrka to experience the outback.
Our Tasmania, Australia Road Trip to National Parks, Historical Sites, and Towns
We drove from Hobart to Launceston to get an introduction to the wonderful nature, animals, history, and towns of Tasmania, Australia.
Exploring the Food, Art, Nature, and More of Melbourne, Australia
We experienced the rich culture of Melbourne, Australia by visiting many of its neighborhoods, culinary destinations, and cultural institutions.
Visiting Kangaroo Island to See South Australia Wildlife
We drove around Kangaroo Island to experience its unique culture, see amazing landscapes, and encounter incredible Australian animals.
Driving the Great Ocean Road, Australia’s Famous Road Trip from Melbourne
We did our first Australian road trip, driving the Great Ocean Road, to admire the natural beauty of the south-eastern Australian coast and Grampians National Park in Victoria.
Learning About Australia by Visiting Canberra, the Capital City
We spent time visiting Canberra in the Australia Capital Territory to become more informed on Australian government, culture, and history.
Enjoying Beautiful Views In and Around Sydney, Australia
We explored Sydney, Australia and the surrounding area taking in the beautiful scenery and receiving a warm welcome to Australia.
Update 42: Exploring Some of the Neighborhoods of Ciudad de México
We visited different parts of Ciudad de Mexico to try its famous tacos, experience diverse activities, and learn about the city’s historical significance.
Update 41: Rich Culture, Food, Mezcal and More in Oaxaca
We ate delicious Oaxacan cuisine, sampled locally produced mezcal, and learned about the region's history while in Oaxaca de Juarez.
Update 40: Exploring the Yucatan Peninsula from Cancun
We spent time visiting the amazing Mayan Ruins of the Yucatan Peninsula while also relaxing in Cancun and on Isla Mujeres.
Update 39: Visiting Medellin and Guatape in Antioquia, Colombia
Our experience in Medellin learning about the city’s history and visiting incredible landscapes in the Antioquia region of Colombia.
Update 38: Hiking Along The Caribbean Coast To Discover The Santa Marta Area Of Colombia
Our week exploring the beautiful nature of Tayrona National Park and Minca from the city of Santa Marta, Colombia.
Update 37: Touring Colombia’s Caribbean Coast from Cartagena de Indias
Our week enjoying the coastal city of Cartagena de Indias and its Caribbean islands while learning more about the region's culture.
Update 36: Discovering Eje Cafetero, Colombia’s Coffee Region
We spent time relaxing in the small towns of Salento and Filandia, located in Eje Cafetero, while also enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
Update 35: An Introduction to Colombia by Visiting Bogota
Our experience visiting Bogota, the largest city in the Andes, and learning more about the history of the Colombian capital city.
Update 34: Visiting Cuenca and the South Ecuadorian Highlands
Our week exploring Cuenca and the surrounding Andes region. We learned more about the history and traditions of Ecuador.
Update 33: Exploring Quito, Ecuador and the North Ecuadorian Highlands
We spent time enjoying the diverse activities in Quito, Ecuador, the capital city, and visiting natural attractions in the nearby Andes.
Update 32: Visiting the Amazon Rainforest in Yasuni National Park
We stayed at the Napo Wildlife Center in Yasuni National Park to explore the Amazon Rainforest with the Kichwa Añangu community.
Update 31: Sailing through the Galapagos Islands
We sailed through the Galapagos Archipelago to see whales, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, sharks, rare birds, tortoises, and so much more.
Update 30: Exploring the Diverse Landscapes of Ica, Peru
We saw Nazca lines, tasted Pisco, explored the Huacachina dunes, and traveled around Paracas Bay all while in Ica.
Update 29: World Class Dining and Much More in Lima, Peru
We spent our time in Lima visiting its amazing restaurants and bars while also getting to know more about Peru’s history.
Update 28: Trekking in Lares Valley and to Machu Picchu
We hiked through the Lares Valley and on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu through incredible landscapes while learning about the culture.
Update 27: Learning the Rich History in and around Cusco, Peru
Our week exploring the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, in order to learn more about the history and culture.
Update 26: Getting to Know Arequipa and the Colca Canyon
My experience in the beautiful city of Arequipa, a jewel in Peru, and the magnificent Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Update 25: Boating Around Lake Titicaca in Bolivia and Peru
We spent the week boating around Lake Titicaca to Isla del Sol, Amantani, and Taquile to learn more about the Pre-Inca and present-day cultures.
Update 24: Experiencing the High Elevations in La Paz, Bolivia
Our week in La Paz and El Alto in Bolivia, visiting the highest elevation metropolitan area in the world and learning about its history and culture.
Update 23: Traveling by Jeep to Reach the Salar de Uyuni
Our experience touring within the Bolivian Altiplano from San Pedro de Atacama through incredible Bolivian landscapes to the Salar de Uyuni.
Touring in the Atacama Desert from San Pedro
We spent the week in the driest place on Earth, the Atacama Desert, exploring the diverse landscapes of Northern Chile.
A few things about us:
Languages we speak
English, Spanish, French
Countries Visited (Collectively)
46 and counting. More important to us than the number is making sure we leave each one having actually understood it.
First country we each visited
Kevin: Spain. Melina: France.
Favorite food experience on the road
Kevin: chasing hot sauce through every market in Latin America. Melina: finding the best sandwich in an unexpected city.
How we prefer to get around
Trains or buses, whenever possible
Pieces of luggage we each travel full-time with
One carry-on and one personal item. Everything else is excess.
Days spent traveling for Blueprint Travelers
Over
Days