Kat Smith

Kat, our AWA founder, is an adventurous wanderer who packed up and moved abroad 10 years ago. Since then she's been a teacher, tour guide, yacht stewardess, a volunteer, and now she works full-time online. Her best days are those spent on the beach or in the mountains with her husband, her dog, her cat, and a good book. She never quite knows where in the world the next year will take her.
Already an expat with a helpful tip or story to share?
write for us!
her contributions to a way abroad
Living Abroad
Published on
Apr 24, 2024
in
Vietnam
Neighborhoods in Ho Chi Minh City: Where to Stay
Find out the best area to stay in sprawling Ho Chi Minh City. These are the best neighborhoods (districts) for expats and travelers in Ho Chi Minh City.
Travel Guides
Published on
Apr 19, 2024
in
Italy
Puglia Travel Guide: 3-Day Itinerary
Puglia is bursting at the seams with charm, natural beauty, and great food. Take this Puglia travel guide to plan your perfect 3-day trip to Italy's heel.
Living Abroad
Published on
Apr 13, 2024
in
Italy
Italy's Digital Nomad Visa: How to Work Remotely from Italy
Dream of working remotely from Italy? Now you can with the newly launched digital nomad visa in Italy. Learn the requirements and how to apply.
Travel Guides
Published on
Apr 8, 2024
in
Italy
Matera Travel Guide: 3-Day Itinerary
Planning a vacation to Matera? This Matera travel guide will walk you through a 3-day trip, complete with things to do, best restaurants, and where to stay.
Travel Guides
Published on
Apr 2, 2024
in
Vietnam
8 Best Day Trips from Da Nang (From an Expat)
Looking for the best day trips from Da Nang? Get ready to enjoy natural wonders, historical artifacts, cultural gems, and stunning sea and jungle views.
Living Abroad
Published on
Mar 28, 2024
in
Vietnam
Da Nang Neighborhoods: Best Areas to Stay
Moving or traveling to Da Nang and can't decide where to stay? This Da Nang neighborhood guide will help you find the perfect area for your trip or move.
Living Abroad
Published on
Mar 24, 2024
in
Vietnam
Is Da Nang Safe? Important Info & Tips For 2024
Curious to know is Da Nang safe to visit or to live? After living in Da Nang for 2 years, here are my biggest tips to staying safe in Da Nang.
Living Abroad
Published on
Mar 8, 2024
in
Albania
6 Best Places to Live in Albania
Move to a beautiful country with cool cities and stunning small towns that's off the beaten path. These are the 6 best places to live in Albania.
Travel Guides
Published on
Feb 29, 2024
in
Vietnam
9 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City (From an Expat)
Planning a trip or a move to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam? These are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City coming from someone who lived there for a year.
Travel Guides
Published on
Feb 24, 2024
in
Vietnam
11 Best Things to Do in Da Nang (From an Expat)
Planning a trip or a move to Da Nang, Vietnam? These are the best things to do in Da Nang coming from someone who lived there for 2 years.
Living Abroad
Published on
Feb 21, 2024
in
Croatia
A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Living in Pula, Croatia
Take your work abroad to Pula, Croatia. See what it's like living in Pula as a digital nomad with the cost of living, best areas to live, and things to do.
Travel Guides
Published on
Feb 14, 2024
in
Italy
12 Best Day Trips From Trieste (From an Expat)
Expand your trip to Trieste and add in a day trip or 2. These 12 day trips from Trieste to Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy are well worth your time.
Travel Guides
Published on
Feb 7, 2024
in
Italy
11 Best Things to Do in Trieste (From an Expat)
Visiting Trieste but can't decide how to spend your time? These are the best things to do in Trieste but some FAQs to make your time here incredible.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Jan 30, 2024
in
How to Decide Where to Live: 12 Big Tips
Having trouble deciding where to live? After moving countless times in the past decade, these 12 big tips I know will help.
Living Abroad
Published on
Jan 22, 2024
in
Italy
Is Trieste Safe? Important Info & Tips For 2024
Heading to Trieste but worried about safety? Find out is Trieste safe for a trip or to live there from a current expat who lives in Trieste.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Jan 14, 2024
in
9 Things to Consider When Moving to Another Country
Want to move abroad but don't know where to start? These are 9 things to consider when moving to another country that will help you decide where to go.
Living Abroad
Published on
Jan 5, 2024
in
Location Independence
10 Best Countries for Digital Nomads (2024)
Can't decide where in the world to go as a digital nomad? These are 10 best countries for digital nomads, from a remote worker herself!
Living Abroad
Published on
Dec 31, 2023
in
Location Independence
6 Best Places to Live in Latin America (2024)
Planning to move to Central or South America but can't decide where? These are the 6 best places to live in Latin America for expats.
Travel Guides
Published on
Dec 12, 2023
in
Panama
The Very Best Time to Visit Panama
Can't decide when to plan your trip? Find out the best time to visit Panama is based on the weather, regions, and annual events in the country.
Living Abroad
Published on
Dec 12, 2023
in
Panama
5 Best Places to Live in Panama
Planning to move to Panama? This country is more vast than just Panama City and stunning nature. Get the scoop on the best places to live in Panama.
Travel Guides
Published on
Nov 27, 2023
in
Italy
The Perfect Weekend in Verona: 3-Day Travel Guide
Planning the perfect weekend getaway to Verona? This 3-day travel guide to Verona has everything you need to see and do plus some helpful travel tips.
Living Abroad
Published on
Nov 14, 2023
in
Ecuador
4 Best Places to Live in Ecuador
Can't decide where to live in Ecuador? After 2.5 years living in Ecuador, let me help by sharing with you my vote for the 4 best places to live in Ecuador.
Travel Guides
Published on
Nov 11, 2023
in
South Korea
The Absolute Best Time to Visit South Korea
With 4 distinct seasons, when you visit South Korea will dictate your entire trip. Decide when is the very best time to visit South Korea from an expat.
Travel Guides
Published on
Nov 10, 2023
in
South Korea
A Mini Travel Guide to Seoul, South Korea
It's always a good idea to plan a trip to Seoul. Use this mini guide to Seoul travel to help you decide where to visit, what to do, and what foods to try.
Working Abroad
Published on
Nov 3, 2023
in
Location Independence
How to Start Working in Digital Marketing
Looking for a fantastic remote career? Learn how to start working in digital marketing to discover the different career paths and opportunities.
Living Abroad
Published on
Oct 30, 2023
in
South Korea
5 Best Places to Live in South Korea
Dream of moving to South Korea but can't decide where? These are the best 5 places to live in South Korea for expats. From Seoul to Jeju, you'll love it here.
Living Abroad
Published on
Oct 28, 2023
in
Italy
An Expat's Guide to Living in Trieste, Italy
Moving to Trieste, Italy? See what it's really like living in Trieste and if this is the best Italian city for you to move to, too.
Living Abroad
Published on
Oct 15, 2023
in
Vietnam
5 Best Places to Live in Vietnam
Excited about moving to Vietnam? These are the 5 best places to live in Vietnam that you should consider as your next home abroad.
Living Abroad
Published on
Sep 27, 2023
in
Vietnam
How to Move to Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide
Thinking about moving to Vietnam? Learn how to move to Vietnam, if it's a good place for you, the different visa options, and best cities to live.
Travel Guides
Published on
Sep 26, 2023
in
Montenegro
The Very Best Time to Visit Montenegro
Planning a trip to stunning Montenegro? Find out when is the best time to visit Montenegro based on what you want to see and do.
Travel Guides
Published on
Sep 16, 2023
in
Serbia
The Very Best Time to Visit Serbia
Discover the best time to visit Serbia and explore its seasonal wonders. From festivals to natural beauty, find your perfect Serbian adventure.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Sep 16, 2023
in
Location Independence
Expat vs. Immigrant: What's the Difference?
Curious what's the difference between expat vs. immigrant and even nomad? Get the inside scoop on the 3 terms and see where your lifestyle fits in.
Travel Guides
Published on
Sep 8, 2023
in
Bosnia & Herzegovina
The Absolute Best Time to Visit Bosnia & Herzegovina
Can't decide when to visit beautiful Bosnia & Herzegovina? Let's see when is the best time to visit Bosnia based on what you want to see and do in the country.
Living Abroad
Published on
Sep 5, 2023
in
Bosnia & Herzegovina
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Bihać, BiH
Looking for a place in the Balkans to settle down in nature and get some work done? See what it's like as a digital nomad living in Bihać, Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Travel Guides
Published on
Sep 4, 2023
in
Croatia
The Very Best Time to Visit Croatia
Discover the best time to visit Croatia: From summer beach bliss to winter wonders, find your perfect season for Croatian adventures!
Travel Guides
Published on
Aug 28, 2023
in
Turks & Caicos
8 Can't Miss Things to Do in Turks and Caicos
Planning a trip to paradise but can't quite decide what to do when you get there? After 3 trips here, here are my 8 favorite things to do in Turks and Caicos.
Travel Guides
Published on
Aug 25, 2023
in
Albania
The Absolute Best Time to Visit Albania
Can't decide when to visit dreamy Albania? Let's see when is the best time to visit Albania based on what you want to see and do in the country.
Travel Guides
Published on
May 29, 2023
in
Serbia
Winter in Zlatibor, Serbia: A Traveler's Guide
Looking for a budget-friendly destination for winter sports in Europe? Winter in Zlatibor, Serbia is the perfect place for skiing and snowboarding for cheap.
Tips Abroad
Published on
May 15, 2023
in
Location Independence
How to Live Abroad for Free (2023)
Want to stay abroad without spending your savings? These are 5 unique ways to live abroad for free that I've personally tried, tested, and loved.
Travel Guides
Published on
Apr 28, 2023
in
Poland
1-Week Itinerary in Poland as a Digital Nomad
Get ready for a week to remember in Poland as a digital nomad. This itinerary will take you to 3 great cities: Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Apr 17, 2023
in
Location Independence
How to Stay Fit While Living Abroad
Moving abroad can be a big change to your life but staying fit while living abroad shouldn't be a big concern with these 7 tips to keep you on track.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Mar 22, 2023
in
Location Independence
Flux Academy Review from a Designer
Need to up your skills as a freelance designer? Flux Academy courses might just be what you're looking for. Get our honest review of the Flux Academy courses.
Travel Guides
Published on
Mar 17, 2023
in
St. Kitts & Nevis
6 Can't Miss Things to Do in St. Kitts & Nevis
Planning a trip to St. Kitts and Nevis. These are the 6 best things to do on these beautiful Caribbean islands that you and your family will love.
Travel Guides
Published on
Mar 11, 2023
in
Ecuador
The Absolute Best Time to Visit Ecuador
Planning a trip to Ecuador? Be smart about when you book your tickets to make sure it's the best time to visit Ecuador, based on the region.
Travel Guides
Published on
Mar 10, 2023
in
Ecuador
22 Best Places to Visit in Ecuador
Welcome to one of the most biodiverse countries! Tiny Ecuador packs a mighty punch that you can experience with these 22 best places to visit in Ecuador.
Travel Guides
Published on
Mar 8, 2023
in
Vietnam
The Absolute Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Planning a visit to beautiful Vietnam? You'll be surprised to learn that the best time to visit depends on the region. Get all the weather insight here.
Travel Guides
Published on
Feb 4, 2023
in
Location Independence
The Best Hikes Throughout the Balkans
Enjoy the immense beauty of the Balkans with these incredible hikes in the region. After a year traveling the region, these are my favorite trails.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Jan 23, 2023
in
USA
Van Life Costs: Keeping a Tight Budget
Van life can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you want it to be. Keep your van life costs low with these big tips with the van build and van life.
Living Abroad
Published on
Dec 29, 2023
in
Location Independence
10 Best Places to Live in Asia as an Expat (2024)
Dreaming of Asia but can't decide where to move? Take it from current expats! These are the top 10 places to live in Asia in the eyes of female expats.
Living Abroad
Published on
Nov 14, 2022
in
Serbia
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Novi Sad, Serbia
Looking for your next digital nomad base in Europe? See what it’s like working remotely while living in Novi Sad, Serbia as a digital nomad.
Travel Guides
Published on
Nov 6, 2022
in
Montenegro
Unmissable Things to Do on the Bay of Kotor
After spending 3 months on the Bay of Kotor, these are the best places to visit and things to do in Kotor and the surrounding towns.
Living Abroad
Published on
Jan 17, 2024
in
Location Independence
16 Digital Nomad Visas in Europe (2024)
Take your online work with you to Europe with these 16 digital nomad visas in Europe. Each of these visas is open for applicants now!
Living Abroad
Published on
Oct 5, 2022
in
Montenegro
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living on the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
Take your work remotely to the incredible Bay of Kotor, Montenegro. See what it’s really like living on the Bay of Kotor as a digital nomad.
Travel Guides
Published on
Sep 28, 2022
in
Costa Rica
The 9 Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica
Planning a vacation to Croatia? Don't miss out on these 9 best places to visit in Croatia. Based on when you go and what you like to do, you'll find your spot.
Living Abroad
Published on
Dec 26, 2023
in
Location Independence
15 Best Places to Live in Europe as an Expat (2024)
Deciding where to move to in Europe? These are the 15 best places to live in Europe as an expat. See what current expats have to say to pick your new home.
Travel Guides
Published on
Sep 7, 2022
in
Croatia
The 10 Best Places to Visit in Croatia
Take a vacation to Croatia, the coastal Balkans gem. Here are the 10 best places to visit in Croatia that I'm sure you're going to love as much as I did!
Living Abroad
Published on
Sep 5, 2022
in
Albania
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Saranda, Albania
Planning a move to Albania? See what it’s really like living in Saranda as a digital nomad. This coastal town has plenty to offer but is it right for you?
Travel Guides
Published on
Aug 28, 2022
in
Colombia
The 14 Best Places to Visit in Colombia
Enjoy a vacation to one of the best countries in South America: Colombia. These are the best 14 places to visit in Colombia from an expat and a local.
Travel Guides
Published on
Aug 21, 2022
in
Location Independence
The 26 Best Places You Need to Visit in South America
South America is full of superlatives: high peaks, lush jungles, hot deserts. With so much to see and do, here are the 26 best places to visit in South America.
Travel Guides
Published on
Aug 7, 2022
in
Tanzania
The Absolute Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
Looking for the best time to visit Zanzibar? Paradise on earth has a few different seasons so see when is the best time for you to plan your trip.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Jul 18, 2022
in
Location Independence
12 Doses of Reality: The Digital Nomad Lifestyle
If you're dreaming of living the digital nomad lifestyle before you buy your first ticket abroad, here are 12 doses of reality you need to take in.
Travel Guides
Published on
Jul 7, 2022
in
Costa Rica
The Very Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
Dream of visiting Costa Rica? Before you book your flight, be sure to decide when is the best time to visit Costa Rica, based on the things you want to do.
Travel Guides
Published on
Jul 4, 2022
in
Albania
10 Amazing Places to Visit in Albania
With incredible natural beauty, friendly locals, fresh food, and plenty to see and do, these are the top 10 places to visit in Albania.
Travel Guides
Published on
Jun 29, 2022
in
Mauritius
The Very Best Time to Visit Mauritius
Dream of visiting Mauritius? Before you book your flight, be sure to decide when is the best time to visit Mauritius, based on the things you want to do.
Travel Guides
Published on
Jun 24, 2022
in
Mexico
The Absolute Best Time to Visit Mexico
Curious about the best time to visit Mexico? Get a breakdown of the best things to do each season and what the weather is like so you can plan you trip.
Working Abroad
Published on
Apr 18, 2022
in
Location Independence
6 Steps on How to Become a Pinterest Manager
Do you dream of working online as a freelancer? Find out how to become a Pinterest Manager in 6 steps by getting trained and finding your first client.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Jan 3, 2022
in
Location Independence
10 Tips to Traveling With Your Dog as a Serial Expat
After years of living abroad and moving to new countries with our dog, here are our biggest tips to making the transition smooth (and fun) for you both.
Travel Guides
Published on
Nov 22, 2021
in
USA
The Ultimate Western US Road Trip
Ready for an adventure? Pack your bags, get your vehicle ready to go, and let’s hit the road to explore all of the U.S. western states.
Working Abroad
Published on
Oct 11, 2021
in
Location Independence
Rover Dog Walking Review: Is It The Best Side Gig?
If you love dogs, you should become a dog walker with Rover as your next side gig. Here are 5 reasons all dog lovers should sign up for Rover!
Travel Guides
Published on
Sep 20, 2021
in
Vietnam
10 Popular Vietnamese Dishes You Need to Try
Be sure to eat like a local when you travel to Vietnam with these 10 incredible Vietnamese dishes you need to try!
Tips Abroad
Published on
Aug 18, 2021
in
Tips
40 Wanderlust Quotes to Spark Your Next Adventure
Whether you’re gearing up for your first big trip, solo or with your partner, or are years into a nomadic journey like me, let these travel quotes inspire you.
Living Abroad
Published on
Aug 30, 2023
in
Vietnam
The Ultimate Guide to Living in Da Nang, Vietnam
After living in Da Nang, I'm confident that Da Nang is a great place to live abroad. With a mix of city and incredible nature, you'll be eager to move abroad.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Mar 29, 2021
in
Tips
8 Tips to Make Friends Abroad
With these 8 tips you'll feel more comfortable moving to a new country, meeting new friends, and putting yourself out there, even as an introvert.
Travel Guides
Published on
Mar 22, 2021
in
Vietnam
15 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
From the people, the food, and the landscape, you'll love Vietnam. Here are the best 15 places you need to visit in Vietnam.
Working Abroad
Published on
Jan 25, 2021
in
Location Independence
6 Best Online Jobs for Beginners
These 6 remote jobs are specifically for those of you new to the online world or those who are looking for a career change.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Dec 19, 2023
in
Location Independence
10 Best Places for Expats to Live Abroad (2024)
These are the 10 best places for expats to live abroad in 2024, taking into account cost of living, visa options, quality of life, and fun things to do nearby.
Working Abroad
Published on
Mar 14, 2024
in
Location Independence
10 Best Countries to Teach English Abroad (2024)
Teaching abroad is a great way to move abroad. Learn some of the best countries to teach English abroad and their requirements to get hired in each.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Apr 21, 2024
in
Location Independence
11 Best Jobs Abroad to Easily Work Overseas
Itching to move abroad but need a job first? Browse 9 of the best jobs to work abroad, regardless of where you're from and what experience you already have.
Living Abroad
Published on
Jan 16, 2024
in
Location Independence
Ultimate List of Freelance & Digital Nomad Visas (2024)
Now you can work remotely from one of these 43 countries from around the world. Learn about the requirements and how to apply to these digital nomad visas.
Tips Abroad
Published on
May 7, 2023
in
Tips
How to Move to Another Country ASAP in 10 Steps
Regardless of why you want to move abroad, these 10 steps will get you off on the right foot and help you move abroad with confidence and quickly.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Oct 14, 2020
in
Tips
10 Reasons People Don’t Move Abroad & How to Overcome Them
Plagued by doubts and reasons you "can't" move abroad? Here are 10 tips to help you shake those doubts and go after what you really want!
Tips Abroad
Published on
Sep 16, 2020
in
Tips
10 Funny Travel Stories From Abroad
Dive into 10 hilarious moments that can only happen when you're in a foreign country, navigating a new language and getting a hang of cultural differences.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Aug 19, 2020
in
Tips
15 Secrets About Living Abroad Expats Don't Usually Tell You
Here's the truth about living abroad, away from an Instagram filter. See what it's really like living abroad and learn truths that most expats don't talk about.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Apr 29, 2021
in
Location Independence
How to Become a Digital Nomad in 6 Steps
Follow these 6 steps on how to become a digital nomad. Regardless of where in the world you want to work and travel from, this is for you.
Working Abroad
Published on
Mar 16, 2020
in
Location Independence
11 Legit Platforms to Teach English Online
Are you eager to teach English online but are not sure where to begin? Check out this list of 11 legitimate companies that you can teach English online with.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Nov 4, 2019
in
Tips
The Pros & Cons of Teaching English Online vs. Teaching In-Person
Let's take a look into the pros and cons of teaching online and teaching in-person to decide which is best for you. Based on your priorities, one will win!
Tips Abroad
Published on
Sep 16, 2019
in
Tips
5 Questions to Decide If Moving Abroad Is Right For You
Moving abroad isn't right for everyone but is it for you? It's time get ask yourself some big questions to answer the question, "Is moving abroad right for me?"
Tips Abroad
Published on
Jun 6, 2019
in
Tips
Why You Shouldn't Use Instagram to Plan Your Next Trip
Instagram is not reality when building your travel bucket list. See why it can't always be trusted & how to perfect your searches to plan your next trip.
Tips Abroad
Published on
May 1, 2019
in
Tips
What If Your Partner Doesn't Want to Travel? But You Do!
Do you want to travel more but your partner doesn't want to? Here are 8 tips to get your partner excited to travel the world with you!
Tips Abroad
Published on
Apr 3, 2019
in
Tips
7 Important Safety Tips for Female Expats & Travelers
Staying safe while traveling abroad should be your top priority. Take these solo female safety tips so you can make the most of your new adventure abroad!
Tips Abroad
Published on
Mar 14, 2019
in
Location Independence
The Creatives Platform Course Review
Thanks to the Creatives Platform, A Way Abroad exists today. Here's my honest review about this course and if it's worth the investment.
Living Abroad
Published on
Mar 6, 2019
in
Location Independence
The Lifestyle of a VIPKID Teacher
For new hires at VIPKID, read on for some tips to get bookings quickly, how to teach while you travel, and how to file taxes as a teacher.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Mar 7, 2019
in
Tips
7 Reasons Why Girls Hate on Each Other
In this age of feminism, women should support one another. But, is this happening? Let's see what we can do to build community and make women even stronger.
Tips Abroad
Published on
Feb 28, 2019
in
Tips
9 Long Haul Economy Flight Essentials
This list of 9 long haul flight essentials will make your flight comfy, even from economy. These carry on essentials are exactly what you need.
Living Abroad
Published on
Feb 26, 2024
in
Vietnam
A Guide to Live Abroad in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Find out what it's like to live in chaotic Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam as an expat. Get to know the districts, how to rent an apartment, and what to do for fun.
Working Abroad
Published on
Dec 9, 2023
in
Location Independence
How to get Hired as an Online English Teacher with VIPKID
Get ready to teach English online with VIPKID! Know the requirements, tips to getting hired and how to prepare yourself against low bookings.
Working Abroad
Published on
Dec 9, 2023
in
Vietnam
4 Steps to Teach English in Vietnam
Learn all you need to know to teach English abroad in Vietnam. With so many opportunities, see how you can find a great school and move abroad to Vietnam.
And just like her, more than 150 other women have shared their stories!
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