Why I Started My Travel Business (And How It Can Help Families Like Yours)

In 2018, we made a life-changing decision: we left behind the predictable rhythm of everyday life to travel the world full-time as a family of five.

It wasn’t a decision we made lightly, but deep down, we knew we were craving something more, more connection, more learning, more life.

We packed what mattered, let go of what didn’t, and flew to Bali. It was our first step into a lifestyle that would challenge us, change us, and ultimately shape who we are today.

At the time, we had no intention of making this a business. We just wanted to experience the world together. But as we continued to travel across continents, cultures, and seasons of life, something beautiful started to unfold.

The World Became Our Classroom

One of the most beautiful shifts that came with full-time travel was in the way our kids learned. We didn’t just take them out of school, we took them into the world. We didn’t have a set curriculum or perfect plan, but somehow, everything became a lesson.

They learned history while walking through ancient ruins in Italy, Turkey, Egypt, and other locations. Geography came alive through train rides in Mongolia, hiking in New Zealand, and many other places around the world. Biology was explored while snorkeling in Bali or spotting orangutans in Borneo. They met people who spoke different languages, ate food they’d never tried before, and slowly, their worldview expanded, and so did ours.

This approach, often referred to as worldschooling, isn’t about recreating school on the road. It’s about embracing curiosity, following interests, and letting life itself become the classroom. It’s messy and magical all at once. And it’s one of the things I cherish most about this journey.

“How Do You Do It?”

As we traveled, we began sharing our story online through our blog, The 5 World Explorers, and our YouTube Vlog. We weren’t trying to become anything; we just wanted to document the adventure so our kids would always have it as a memory and stay connected to friends and family. But over time, our inbox began filling with messages:

“How do you plan all of this?”
“What do you do about education?”
“Is this doable with kids?”
“Can you help me plan a trip like this?”

These weren’t people looking for luxury resorts. They were parents like us, curious, maybe a little overwhelmed, but deeply craving something different for their families.

Initially, I answered questions sporadically. Then came video calls. Then came helping others plan their first big trips.

That’s when I realized something: this wasn’t just our story anymore. I could help others write theirs.

A Business Rooted in Experience

That’s how Limitless Travel Life came to be, not as a business plan, but as a natural extension of what we were already doing.

I didn’t set out to become a travel advisor. I just knew what it felt like to want more out of life, and to wonder if it was possible with kids in tow. I had learned a great deal about logistics, planning, slow travel, packing light, and making a new place feel like home, and I wanted to share this knowledge with others in a meaningful way.

This isn’t a big agency. I don’t do flashy group tours or high-end vacation packages. What I offer is real-world insight from someone who has lived this life and continues to live it.

Why I Help Families Travel Differently

Because travel can be more than just a break, it can be a reset, a reconnection, a new way of seeing everything.

It doesn’t have to mean selling everything and leaving for years.

Sometimes, it’s two weeks somewhere unexpected. Sometimes, it’s adding more intention to your next family vacation. Sometimes, it’s simply believing that your family deserves adventure, too.

What I’ve learned and what I try to share is that there isn’t one way to travel. But there is your way. And it’s worth exploring!

💛 Why It Matters

I didn’t start this business to sell trips. I started it because I know how transformative travel can be, especially when shared as a family.

Whether you're curious about worldschooling, overwhelmed by the planning process, or just dreaming of something different, I want to help you take that next step. You don’t need to figure it out alone.

Some families want to explore deeper. Others want to travel smarter. I’m here for both, because there’s no one right way to do this, only your way.

📬 Let’s Connect

If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. I offer a complimentary 20-minute discovery call (which you can book by emailing me at limitlesstravellife@gmail.com) to determine if we’re a good fit, or you can reply with a question.

Your dream family adventure doesn’t need to wait for someday. Let’s start exploring what’s possible together.

With gratitude,
Sarah

Everything You Need to Know About Travel Visas (Before You Book That Flight!)

If you're anything like us, a family that has been hopping around the globe since 2018, you've learned that you should never book a trip without checking visa requirements first. It's not the most exciting part of travel planning, but it might be the most crucial.

Visas are one of those things you don't think about until they become a problem.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the different types of visas, where to find the most accurate info, and how to make the application process as smooth as possible. Whether you're a solo backpacker, a traveling family, or a digital nomad, understanding visas is key to keeping your adventure stress-free. Why Checking Visa Requirements Should Be Step #1

Imagine booking flights, accommodations, and activities for your dream destination only to find out at the airport that you can't board because you don't have the proper visa. It happens. More often than you'd think!

Here's why you should always check visa requirements before booking anything:

• Avoid unexpected expenses: Emergency visa processing (if even possible) can be costly.

• Different rules for different passports: Two travelers going to the same country might need completely different documentation.

• Denied entry or boarding: Airlines can and will stop you from boarding without proper entry clearance.

We've seen families in tears at the airport. And we've also had close calls ourselves. Now, it's the very first thing we check when considering a destination.

The Main Types of Travel Visas

Visas are a country's permission to enter, stay, or pass through its territory. But not all visas are the same. Here are the most common ones you might encounter:

1. Tourist Visa

This is the most popular visa type for leisure travel. It allows short stays between 15 and 90 days for sightseeing, visiting friends/family, or relaxing. Some countries require you to apply in advance, while others offer Visa on Arrival or e-Visas.

2. Business Visa

This type is for work-related visits like attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations. It doesn't allow you to work in the country per se, but it covers professional activities that don't involve direct employment.

3. Transit Visa

A transit visa may be required if you're passing through a country en route to another destination and your layover exceeds a specific duration. For example, China and Russia often require transit visas, even if you're not leaving the airport.

4. Student Visa

Planning to enroll in a school or university abroad? You'll need a student visa. These often involve more documentation, like an acceptance letter, proof of financial support, and medical clearance.

5. Work Visa

A work visa is essential if you've secured employment in another country. These vary wildly in duration and requirements, usually involving employer sponsorship.

6. Digital Nomad Visa

This is a relatively new category gaining popularity. Countries like Portugal, Estonia, and Indonesia now offer long-stay visas for remote workers. They usually require proof of income, health insurance, and sometimes tax commitments.

7. Visa on Arrival & e-Visas

Some countries allow travelers to apply and pay for a visa after arrival at the airport. Others offer e-visas, which are completed online before you travel. Both are easier than traditional visas but are not "automatic," so you must check the requirements beforehand.

Where to Find Visa Information

You don't want to risk getting outdated or incorrect information regarding visas. Here's where to look:

✅ Official Government Websites

Always start with the official immigration or consulate page of the country you're visiting. These sites list entry requirements by nationality and often provide step-by-step instructions.

✅ Embassies & Consulates

If you're unsure or dealing with a complicated case (extended stay, unusual passport, etc.), contact the embassy or consulate directly. They are the best authority for up-to-date information.

✅ IATA Travel Centre / Timatic Database

Airlines use the Timatic database to determine whether travelers can board based on their documents. You can access a version of this database through IATA's free TravelCentre.

⚠️ Avoid Relying Solely on Blogs or Forums

Travel blogs (even ours!) can be helpful for personal experiences but never rely on them as your only source. Rules change, and what worked for someone last year may no longer apply.

How to Apply for a Visa: Step-by-Step

Visa applications can range from simple (5-minute online form) to highly complex (interviews, fingerprints, bank statements). Here's a basic roadmap:

1. Determine the visa type you need

2. Visit the official website of the country's immigration or consular office

3. Gather required documents such as:

   • Passport (with at least 6 months validity)

   • Passport-sized photos

   • Flight and hotel bookings or invitation letters

   • Proof of funds

   • Travel Insurance

4. Fill out the application

5. Pay the fee

6. Schedule an appointment (if required)

7. Wait for processing

Tip: Make a folder (both digital and physical) to store your visa-related documents for easy access.

What Happens If You Overstay Your Visa?

Overstaying a visa by a day or a month can lead to serious consequences, varying wildly by country. Some travelers assume it's "no big deal," especially if they're only over by a short time. But that's a risky assumption.

Here are the potential consequences of overstaying your visa:

🛑 Fines

Most countries charge a daily or flat fine if you overstay. For example:

• Thailand: 500 baht per day (up to 20,000 baht max)

• Indonesia: 1 million rupiah per day

• Schengen Area: Country-dependent, often combined with penalties or warnings. It varies widely by country. Here's a general idea:

France: Fines can range from €200–€300 ($215–USD 325)

Germany: Often a warning for a short overstay, but fines can go

up to €1,000 (USD 1,080) in more serious cases

Italy/Spain: Similar range, typically €200–€500 ($215–$540

USD)

🧳 Deportation

You may be detained and deported if authorities catch you during a routine check, airport exit, or hotel registration. Deportation records are serious and can impact future travel.

❌ Travel Bans or Blacklisting

Some countries impose entry bans (from 6 months to 10 years) if you overstay:

• The United Arab Emirates and India are known for enforcing bans.

• Schengen Zone: A flag on your record can prevent re-entry into any of the 27 Schengen countries.

📉 Impact on Future Visa Applications

When you apply for a visa in the future, many countries ask if you've ever overstayed a visa. If your passport is flagged in their immigration database, it could result in:

• Denied applications

• Longer processing times

• Stricter documentation requirements

⚖️ Legal Proceedings

In rare but severe cases, overstaying can lead to legal charges, especially if combined with working illegally, false documentation, or repeated offenses.

What to Do If You Accidentally Overstay

Life happens. Maybe you miscounted days, got sick, or had a flight canceled. If you realize you've overstayed (or are about to):

1. Contact immigration: Visit a local immigration office and explain your situation. Voluntary disclosure often leads to leniency.

2. Be honest: Never lie to authorities about your stay or intentions.

3. Pay any fines: Settle your dues immediately and ask for official proof that you've done so.

4. Get permission to leave: In some countries, you'll need an exit visa or clearance to depart without further penalties.

The bottom line is to respect visa limits as strictly as flight times. It's not just about the current trip; it's about protecting your ability to travel freely in the future.

Tips to Make the Process Smoother

Here's our go-to checklist to avoid stress:

• ✅ Start early. Some visas take weeks to process.

• ✅ Check return ticket requirements. Some countries won't let you in without proof of onward travel.

• ✅ Verify passport expiration. Must often be valid for 6+ months beyond your stay.

• ✅ Print documents. Many immigration officers still want paper copies.

• ✅ Stay updated. Rules change frequently.

• ❌ Avoid scams. Stick to official websites or trusted third-party services.

Special Notes for Families and Frequent Travelers

✈️ Traveling with Kids

• Bring birth certificates or notarized consent letters when one parent travels solo.

• Make sure accommodation and tickets include all names.

🔁 Multiple-Entry or Long-Term Visas

• It's ideal if you're bouncing between countries or staying in a region for a while.

💼 Visa Services

• Agencies help simplify the process but always verify they are legit.

Final Thoughts: Stay Flexible, Stay Informed

Visa rules are one of the most dynamic aspects of travel. They change based on politics, global health events, and international relations.

You might have visited a country visa-free country last year and suddenly found new rules in place this year. Always double-check, even for familiar destinations.

Here are some tools we use to stay in the loop:

• Embassy alert subscriptions

• Reddit and Facebook expat groups

• Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for U.S. citizens

• Mobile apps like Sherpa, Atlys, or Passport Index

Bonus: Countries with Easiest Entry for Most Passports (As of 2025)

Looking for stress-free destinations? These countries generally offer visa-free or e-visa access to many nationalities:

• Thailand

• Indonesia

• Mexico

• Georgia

• Turkey

• Colombia

• Portugal

• Kenya

Always confirm based on your specific nationality.

Visas might not be glamorous, but they're essential. With some prep, you can avoid unnecessary stress, fines, or missing out on your travel adventure altogether. A few clicks today can save you a world of trouble tomorrow.

Do you have a visa story or resource to share? Comment below or message us; we're all learning together.