Hi, I’m Julia Cipriano!
I grew up just outside of one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, New York City, but that didn’t stop me from wanting to get away! For my 16th birthday, my parents gave me a choice: a big party or a European cruise. To me, it seemed like a no-brainer! That trip ignited a passion for exploration that has kept me constantly on the move ever since!
By the age of 25, I had already visited 25 countries and territories, living in three of them along the way. Despite the responsibilities of student life and later, motherhood, my love for travel has only deepened.
This blog is for travelers like you and me. Whether you’re seasoned or just starting your journey, you’ll find practical advice, insider recommendations, and occasional indulgences to elevate your experiences.
Whether your plane is taking off from the runway or you’re driving down a byway, I will be your guide through it all!
If you want to learn more about me, check out the Runways and Byways podcast!
About Our Guest Writers/Podcasters
Hi, I’m Katie McPhillips!
I am a 3rd-grade teacher in Queens, New York. I love to read, run, and host the Runways and Byways travel podcast. I have been to many places, such as Ireland, England, Austria, Galapagos Islands, The Bahamas, Mexico, and more! I hope to share my experiences as well as advice/tips with other fellow budget travelers. I also hope to see more of the world, and you can bet I will be sharing it with my best friend and co-host Julia and the amazing Runways and Byways podcast listeners.
To learn more about me and my travels, tune in to the Runways and Byways podcast!
Hi, I’m Michael Babakhanov!
I’m a pharmacist in Brooklyn, New York. In my free time, I love to read, hike, and play video games. My family is of Bukharan descent, so I have been on the Birthright trip to Israel. In addition, one of the most amazing places I have visited is Iceland (as a solo traveler!). I hope to experience more travel in my lifetime and continue to listen to the Runways and Byways travel podcast.
You can learn more about me and my travels in episodes 14 and 15 of the Runways and Byways podcast!
Hi, I’m Donato Cipriano!
I currently live in Orlando, Florida. In the past, I have lived in multiple U.S. states, as well as in Ontario, Canada, for my ice hockey career. I grew up on Long Island, New York.
Growing up, I traveled to multiple U.S. states for ice hockey. On each trip, my family would attempt to explore as much as possible, but we were limited due to time constraints.
After my hockey career finished, I realized I had seen the “quick” things in so many areas, but I never truly got lost in the culture. My goal now is to travel to unique places that are awe-inspiring in their own ways. I want to mountain bike the world and create an experience that I truly enjoy.
My current job has shown me a side of humanity that is raw and real, further justifying my need to explore and speak to new people. It also aids me in providing a safe experience for myself and my travel party.
A quote I made up and have chose to live by is “Nature is the escape from the prison of our own minds.”
You can read about my travels here!
Hi, I’m Allie Fiederlein!
I’m an assistant clinical coordinator at an OB/GYN private practice. My passions include travel, exercise, and women’s healthcare.
Traveling is one of my favorite hobbies because I love to see and experience different cultures. I have traveled to Cuba on a service trip, and I have completed a cross-country road trip to California. My favorite destination is Switzerland due to its cultural diversity in activities. Besides Switzerland, I’ve explored Spain, France, and Italy in Europe. I also enjoy traveling within the USA; some of my favorites include California, Nevada, and Arizona.
You can learn more about me and my travels in episode 10 of the Runways and Byways podcast!