Welcome to The Indie Tripper

I’m Karyn and I’m a published travel writer, photographer and blogger. Travel has always been the great passion of my life and The Indie Tripper is my love letter to the joys of independent travel. On this platform you'll find immersive destination features and reflective personal stories about the places I've visited across Ireland, the UK and Europe. I'm particularly interested in off-the-tourist-trail locations, and in uncovering experiences and activities that are not widely covered in mainstream travel guides. Even the most famous cities in the world have secret spots to be uncovered.

I have a particular interest in the arts and culture of places, and how that shapes society. And like Stanley Tucci, I also believe that there is no better way to truly understand a new place than through its food.

Inside you'll find features on city breaks, walking trails, rural retreats, places of natural beauty and historical interest, cool bars, food & wine and live music, as well as practical info on getting around. You'll also find recommendations on unique, independent & boutique accommodation, and the galleries & museums that don't feature prominently on the main tourist trails.

More about me

Waterford & the Copper Coast highlights: a 3-day travel guide

The secret is out: Waterford is fast becoming one of the hottest places to visit in Ireland. And don't just take my word for it. It's been named the top destination in Ireland by Condé Nast Traveller, and has topped their list of the 7 Wonders of Ireland for the second year in a row. Not only that, it's often mentioned as one of the country's best places to live. I've come armed with some local insider knowledge, courtesy of a friend who migrated from the capital and has neve

New Adventures in London: King's Cross & beyond

King's Cross is my new favourite London neighbourhood. Lively and cosmopolitan, thanks to a large-scale regeneration project, there are countless great cafés, restaurants & bars, and the central location is ideal for sightseeing. There's a peaceful, chilled-out vibe to this area, and unusually for London, great value for money to be had too.

View of Mount Vesuvius and Bay of Naples from Castel Sant'Elmo

A taste of Naples: your three-day travel guide

Bay of Naples from Castel Sant' Elmo We're standing on the terrace of Castel Sant Elmo, high above the metropolis. All the noise of the city has melted away. A hazy blue light descends across the bay, and the tentative heat of the spring sun warms our faces. Down below, we trace the paths of streets walked over the previous few days. Through the labyrinth of alleyways in the Centro Storico, we spot the dome of the Galleria Umberto I. To the east, the iconic curved form of Pia

Things to do in Monaghan & many reasons to visit

While Monaghan may not feature on the obvious tourist trails, it has a quieter alluring charm that will appeal to nature & history lovers alike. There are plenty of great things to see and do, including scenic lake & forest walks, museums & historic buildings, picturesque towns and villages, and one of Ireland's most beautiful castle stays.

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