Hey! I’m Shannon. The creator of The Savvy Tourist, a blog dedicated to helping you travel smarter, travel further, and more affordably.

So, what exactly is a savvy tourist? They’re the kind of traveler who does it all. A smart DIY style traveler who knows how to travel in luxury – affordably! They know all the travel hacks and always find the most unique experiences and places! (keep reading ⬇️)

“Being a Savvy Tourist means you can travel more often, because you’re saving money and making the most out of every trip which = MORE TRAVEL.” — Shannon Thomson

I’m a social media/marketing graduate and diploma-qualified photographer with an unstoppable passion for travel (and a deep appreciation for a perfectly planned itinerary). For over 7 years, I’ve worked in the travel industry, and I’ve been lucky enough to explore 35 countries, with Southeast Asia holding the top spot in my heart because of the value for money it offers… Luxury for less! I’ve even been to my favorite places in Asia including Japan, Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines, multiple times, and some more than 10+ times — at this point, I’m basically a local, right?

I currently split my time 50/50 between travelling abroad and at my hometown, on the beautiful Sunshine Coast Australia.

Here on the blog, you’ll find my top travel tips, hacks to save a buck, curated itineraries, destination guides, and practical advice for fellow travel lovers and creatives. Whether you’re chasing luxe vibes on a budget, planning your next big escape, or simply after some clever travel hacks — you’re in the right place.

My Favourite Asian Destinations