We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Stephen Decatur a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Stephen thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The goal of my project is to uncover unique stays in unconventional destinations that offer incredible experiences beyond the resort. I strive to introduce my community to jaw-dropping locations they might not even know exist, along with amazing excursions that could be right under their noses.

This mission is incredibly meaningful to me as a travel creator. Showcasing these hidden gems has become my true passion, allowing me to share the joy of discovery and inspire others to explore the world in a more authentic way. I believe that travel should be about more than just checking off popular tourist spots; it’s about immersing yourself in local cultures, forging genuine connections, and creating unforgettable memories.

By highlighting these extraordinary places and experiences, I hope to empower others to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the adventure that awaits them. Whether it’s a cozy cabin in the mountains, a charming guesthouse in a small town, or a thrilling outdoor activity that gets your adrenaline pumping, I’m committed to helping fellow travelers find those special moments that make each journey unique.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Stephen Decatur, and I’m a passionate travel content creator dedicated to showcasing the hidden gems of the world. Through my engaging YouTube episodes, I take viewers on thrilling journeys to off-the-beaten-path destinations, unveiling the extraordinary experiences that await beyond the confines of typical resorts. Join me as I explore unique cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures, all while inspiring others to venture out and discover the beauty of traveling differently!

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

“If I waited for the right time to travel, I would never have left my hometown.”

There’s never truly a perfect moment to begin your travel journey. Life can be hectic, and it’s up to you to decide if you want to explore the world—often requiring some creativity and sacrifice. Whether it’s swapping shifts to work seven days straight for three days off or cooking at home to save up for flights, every little effort counts when starting your adventure.

I discovered my wanderlust during a time when my friends were satisfied with their routines, revisiting the same familiar places. This isn’t a criticism; I simply craved something different. I knew there was a vast world waiting for me, and I was eager to dive in.

While growing up, my family vacations took me to destinations like Disney World and Aruba, but I always felt there was more to explore beyond the resorts. One of my first solo trips was to Thailand, which opened my eyes to a whole new world that I could experience on a budget and on my own terms.

Traveling alone is a unique experience that reveals a side of yourself you might not usually show. It demands complete independence, encourages you to be social, and allows you to live by your own rules. These elements of solo travel create a wonderfully liberating feeling.

After my first solo trip to Thailand, I was motivated to budget and work hard to save for my next adventure. Now, having visited over 75 countries, I’m passionate about inspiring others to take the plunge into solo travel, explore unconventional destinations, or simply step outside the resort.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a travel creative is hearing from people who watch my YouTube episodes or follow my journey on Instagram and find inspiration for their own adventures. There are countless incredible off-the-grid destinations that are budget-friendly but often fly under the radar. While places like Tulum and Cartagena are popular tourist traps, there are so many more authentic, wallet-friendly spots just waiting for my community to discover through my videos.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://leavetheresort.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/leavetheresort
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/leavetheresort