How My SEO Consultant Role Fuels My Travel Wanderlust

August 16, 2024

When people ask me what I do for a living, I often tell them I'm an SEO consultant. But what they might not realize is that my career does more than just pay the bills—it enables me to travel the world. My journey as an SEO expert has afforded me the freedom to work from virtually anywhere, and in recent years, I’ve taken full advantage of that flexibility. Whether it’s exploring the glaciers of Iceland, cruising through the Caribbean, or sipping espresso at a café in Paris, my work travels with me.

The Flexibility of SEO: Work from Anywhere

One of the greatest perks of being an SEO consultant is the ability to work remotely. Even though I alternate between Nashville and Sarasota, as long as I have a laptop and an internet connection, I can manage my clients' SEO strategies from anywhere in the world. This flexibility has allowed me to craft a lifestyle that balances hard work with incredible travel experiences.

Over the past year, I’ve taken some unforgettable trips that have not only enriched my life but also enhanced my creativity and focus in work. Whether I’m jet-setting to a new country or sailing the high seas on a cruise, the constant change of scenery keeps me motivated and inspired.

Iceland: Nature’s Playground and a Remote Work Paradise

One of my most memorable trips was to Iceland. My fiancé and I stayed at The Reykjavik EDITION, a luxurious hotel perfectly situated to explore the city. Each morning, we started our day with breakfast at Sandholt Bakery, a charming spot in Reykjavik known for its delicious pastries and strong coffee—essential for a productive workday. After a few hours of catching up on emails and client reports, we would set out to explore the natural wonders that make Iceland so magical.

We rented a Tesla for the trip, which was not only an eco-friendly choice but also incredibly convenient given the island’s decent coverage with charging stations. We made our way through the Golden Circle, visited Thingvellir National Park, and relaxed in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. I even managed to sneak in some work while puffin watching—believe it or not, the island’s serene environment is quite conducive to focusing on SEO strategies.

One of the highlights of the trip was our drive to Stykkishólmur. On the way, we stopped at a random hotdog stand on the side of the road—a quintessential Icelandic experience. With the stunning black sand beaches as our backdrop, it was hard to believe I was technically “at work.”

Cruising in Style: Blazing Fast Internet and Unmatched Luxury

Cruising has become one of my favorite ways to travel, especially with the advent of Starlink internet on Royal Caribbean ships. The ability to stay connected with clients while at sea has transformed the way I approach work and travel. Last year, I embarked on three different cruises, each offering a unique experience.

One of the most unforgettable was sailing in the Ultimate Family Suite. This two-level suite was a dream come true for my then 4-year-old son, Franklin, who joined us on the cruise. The suite came with its own slide, a private balcony, and a game room—it was like a floating paradise. While Franklin enjoyed the suite’s amenities, I was able to maintain my work routine thanks to the reliable internet connection. Whether I was strategizing for a client’s next big SEO push or analyzing keyword data, I never missed a beat.

Another cruise highlight was our Disney Cruise, which Franklin absolutely loved. From character meet-and-greets to themed dining experiences, it was a magical journey for our family. And for me, it was another opportunity to blend work with play. With plenty of coffee shops on board and quiet spots to set up my laptop, I could easily squeeze in some work before joining Franklin and my fiancé for the day’s adventures.

A Three-Week European Odyssey: From Paris to Istanbul

If there’s one trip that truly encapsulates the freedom my career provides, it’s the three-week tour through Europe that my fiancé and I recently embarked on. We began our journey in Paris, the city of lights and endless inspiration. After checking into our hotel, we spent our mornings at local cafés, where I would work on SEO audits while enjoying a perfectly brewed café au lait. The city’s rich history and vibrant culture provided the perfect backdrop for my creative work, and I found myself coming up with new strategies and ideas that I couldn’t wait to implement for my clients.

From Paris, we made our way to Nice and then to Monte Carlo, where we stayed at the infamous Hôtel de Paris, right next to the casino. Monte Carlo’s glamour and luxury were intoxicating, and while it was tempting to spend every moment exploring, I always made time to keep up with my work. The hotel’s business center offered a quiet space to focus, and with my laptop in tow, I could manage my clients’ SEO campaigns without missing a beat.

Our European adventure continued through Genoa and Portofino, two picturesque Italian towns that offered both relaxation and inspiration. In Genoa, we strolled through the historic streets, stopping at cafés where I could check in with clients and make sure their SEO strategies were on track. In Portofino, the stunning coastal views provided the perfect setting for brainstorming new ideas. With the sound of the waves in the background, I was reminded of how lucky I am to have a career that allows me such freedom.

Our next stop was Milan, a city known for its fashion and design. While there, we visited the large Starbucks Reserve Roastery—a true haven for coffee lovers and remote workers alike. I spent a few hours there catching up on emails and analyzing website traffic before we headed out to explore the city’s famous landmarks.

From Milan, we took a private boat charter to Lake Como, where we spent the weekend visiting all the little towns along the lake. Our captain, Alfredo, was a retired cashmere maker who now spends his days on the water, sharing his love for the lake with travelers like us. The peacefulness of Lake Como, combined with Alfredo’s stories, made for an unforgettable experience. And of course, I had my laptop with me, ready to tackle any urgent SEO tasks that came up.

Our European journey concluded with visits to Santorini, Athens, and Istanbul. Santorini’s breathtaking sunsets and white-washed buildings provided endless photo opportunities, and while I did take time to relax, I also found myself drawn to the island’s quiet corners, where I could work on content strategies for my clients. In Athens, we explored ancient ruins and enjoyed the vibrant culture, while Istanbul’s bustling bazaars and majestic mosques offered a sensory overload that sparked new ideas for my work.

Before flying home, we spent a few hours in the Turkish Airlines lounge at Istanbul Airport, which is easily one of the best lounges I’ve ever experienced. With its luxurious amenities and excellent Wi-Fi, it was the perfect place to get some last-minute work done before boarding our business class flight back home.

Maximizing Travel with Credit Card Points

One of the secrets to funding these incredible travel experiences is maximizing credit card points. As an SEO consultant, I charge many of my business expenses to my Chase Ink Business card, which allows me to accumulate points quickly. These points can then be transferred to my Chase Sapphire Reserve, where I can either redeem them directly for travel or transfer them to partner programs like Marriott or various airlines.

By being strategic with my spending, I’ve been able to stay at some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and fly in business class without breaking the bank. For example, our stay at the Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo and our business class flight home from Istanbul were both booked using points. It’s an incredible feeling to know that my hard work as an SEO consultant not only supports my lifestyle but also funds these unforgettable travel experiences.

Coffee Shops and Workspaces: Staying Productive on the Road

While traveling, I’ve found that working from local coffee shops is one of the best ways to stay productive. Each new city offers a unique atmosphere, and I love discovering new spots where I can set up my laptop and dive into work. Whether it’s a cozy café in Paris, a bustling Starbucks in Milan, or a seaside coffee shop in Santorini, I always find a way to balance work and play.

The key to staying productive while traveling is to maintain a routine. I usually start my day early, getting in a few hours of work before heading out to explore. This routine allows me to stay on top of my clients’ needs while also making the most of my time in each destination.

The Joy of Travel: Fueling Creativity and Inspiration

Traveling as an SEO consultant has not only allowed me to see the world but has also fueled my creativity and inspiration. Each new destination offers a fresh perspective, and I often find that my best ideas come to me when I’m outside of my usual environment. Whether I’m standing on a black sand beach in Iceland, sailing through the Caribbean, or sipping espresso in a Parisian café, the experiences I’ve had while traveling have enriched my work in ways I never could have imagined.

I believe that travel and work don’t have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, for me, they complement each other perfectly. The freedom to work from anywhere allows me to live a life filled with adventure, and the inspiration I gain from my travels helps me to be a better SEO consultant for my clients.

Conclusion: The Best of Both Worlds

Being an SEO consultant has given me the best of both worlds—the ability to build a successful career while also fulfilling my passion for travel. The flexibility of my work allows me to explore new places, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories, all while staying productive and delivering results for my clients.

Whether it’s cruising with my family, exploring the natural wonders of Iceland, or embarking on a three-week tour of Europe, I’ve found a way to integrate my work with my love for travel. And thanks to strategic use of credit card points, I’ve been able to experience these adventures in luxury without compromising on quality.

As I look ahead to future travels, I’m excited to continue this journey—working hard, exploring new destinations, and living life to the fullest. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the world is full of possibilities, and with the right mindset and a little bit of planning, you really can have it all.