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What They Say

by Jon Miksis
Jon Miksis at the Grand Canyon

Look, I’m not usually one to post testimonials…it feels a bit self-promotional. But after eight years of running Global Viewpoint, these messages are honestly what make the work worth it. Especially when I’m knee-deep in edits at 2 AM or completely rewriting an itinerary because I found a better route.

These testimonials really mean the world to me. When someone emails to say they finally booked that trip, or that a random restaurant I mentioned became their favorite meal of the year, it reminds me why I do this. It’s not about the destinations themselves. It’s about giving people the tools and confidence to actually go. They’re proof that sharing honest, experience-driven travel stories can inspire others to see the world with fresh eyes.

Traveler & Reader Testimonials

How Global Viewpoint inspires real journeys.
Here are some quotes from readers who used my guides, booked trips from my tips, or felt motivated to travel somewhere new. Some followed my guides down to a T. Others just used them as a jumping-off point. Either way works for me.

Southwest USA Road Trip

I’d always dreamed of doing a desert road trip, but didn’t know where to start until I found Jon’s Southwest guide. His route from Sedona through Monument Valley and Zion was perfect. It was so scenic, efficient, and full of those quiet moments we’ll never forget. The hotel and hike recs were gold! We even detoured to Horseshoe Bend because of one of his photos. It ended up being one of our favorite memories as a couple.

Danielle & Chris M., Austin, Texas

South America (Argentina, Chile & Colombia)

I’ve followed Jon on Instagram for years, so naturally I had to reach out before planning this big trip. We spent two months backpacking across South America, and honestly, Jon’s South America itinerary became our travel bible. His posts on Patagonia hikes helped us prep properly, and the Colombia coffee region recommendations led us to one of the best stays of our trip. I appreciated how honest and down-to-earth he is. It made the continent feel approachable, not intimidating.

Mateo & Lara G., Madrid, Spain

Iceland Adventure

Jon’s Iceland guide was a game changer for our trip. We followed his Ring Road route almost exactly, covering all the glacier lagoons, fjords, and even soaking in the Sky Lagoon. His tips on timing for waterfalls and northern lights were spot on. It felt like we had a local friend guiding us the whole way. His enthusiasm about Iceland is contagious, and now i see why. I’ve been to 20 countries, and Iceland still stands out thanks to his blog’s advice.

Emma R., Toronto, Canada

Fall Foliage Road Trip (Vermont & New Hampshire)

Your fall foliage itinerary turned our trip into something magical. We went the first week of October and caught peak color, just like you said! The mix of cozy inns, scenic roads, and local cider stops made it feel like a Hallmark movie come to life. It’s rare to find travel advice that feels personal and practical at the same time, but Jon nails it. Love the maps he provided as well, it really made a big difference.

Olivia H., Portland, Oregon

Swiss Alps 2-Week Adventure (by Train)

Jon’s Switzerland itinerary convinced us to see the country by train, and I’m so glad we did!! Every detail, from which rail passes to buy to which small towns to stop in, made the trip quite smooth and easy. His passion for Switzerland jumps off the page. We’d never heard of many towns in the Berner Oberland region before his post, but standing there surrounded by waterfalls was surreal. Easily the best travel experience of our lives.

Lukas & Sabine F., Munich, Germany

West Coast National Parks Road Trip

I found Jon’s West Coast road trip guide while planning a break from work, and it honestly shaped my whole adventure. I then paid him to make a premium guide for my family. We ended up hitting Yosemite, Crater Lake, and Olympic National Park, and every place he recommended was stunning and well laid out. His mix of practical stuff (like drive times and park passes) and personal tips (where to catch sunrise in Yosemite!) made the trip feel effortless. I will definitely reach out to Jon and Global Viewpoint again.

Ryan T., San Diego, California

Central Europe Trip (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)

Jon, My daughter and I had a wonderful time on our trip and we thank you for creating a fantastic itinerary for us.  We appreciated your many helpful hints and recommendations and took advantage of almost all the recommended excursions, tours, etc.  We stayed overnight in a variety of places, some of which were great, some interesting, some absolutely delightful.  Particularly wonderful was the ABNB outside of Oberammergau.  Your help was worth far more than it cost.  Thank you.

Jennifer I., Oklahoma

Philippines Island Hopping Adventure

I’ve been following Jon on TikTok since the pandemic when I was stuck at home and living through his travel videos. He always finds these incredible places I’ve never even heard of and somehow makes me feel like I’m right there with him. Earlier this year I finally planned a trip to the Philippines because of one of his videos, and his advice was spot on, from choosing Siargao to Bohol. Every tip hit. It’s crazy how someone online can actually change the way you travel, but Jon really does.

Natalie W., Seattle, Washington

Transylvania & Romania’s Castles

You’re wonderful to work with, Jon! I bought his Global Viewpoint guide for my trip to Transylvania and it honestly made the whole experience so much better. I ended up visiting a bunch of towns I’d never even heard of but ended up being the highlights of my trip. His restaurant recommendations in Sibiu were next level too. I had one of the best meals I’ve ever had in Europe there (yes, it rivals Italy). You can tell Jon actually spends time exploring, he inspires me.

Alex P., London, UK

Guatemala & Costa Rica

Found Jon’s blog while planning Central America and it became my go-to. His tips for Lake Atitlán and Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula were outstanding. Loved every minute. Jon is an expert trip planner and I’d absolutely hire him to help me again.

Marissa D., Denver, CO

Upstate New York

Your Upstate New York recs were perfect, so cozy, local, and totally my vibe. The small towns around the Finger Lakes blew me away. Now I’m planning a fall trip just to do it all over again.

Jake L., Brooklyn, NY

Greece Honeymoon

We used your Greece guide for our honeymoon and it was unreal. The mix of well-known islands and hidden spots made it feel so special. Your tip about staying in Naousa instead of Oia was clutch. Thanks for everything, Jon!

Sarah & Ben K., Chicago, IL

Jon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

Read more | Editorial Policy | Press Page

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Hey, I'm Jon! Founder of Global Viewpoint

I’m an award-winning travel blogger, and I’m here to help you discover your inner explorer.

For 8 years, I’ve been a travel writer, content creator, and adventure junkie who’s visited 73 countries and 30 national parks (and counting). I travel for 3–6 months per year and my home base is Boston, MA!

I specialize in curated travel itineraries, epic bucket-list experiences, and off-the-beaten-path adventures...from chasing waterfalls in Iceland to hiking the Alps, trekking Patagonia, and road-tripping across New England. I’ve been featured in major publications including Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, The Boston Globe, and more.

Together with my team, we provide expert reviews and curated guides on hotels, restaurants, airlines, retreats, and more.

Over the past 8+ years, I’ve helped over 10 million readers plan smarter, more meaningful trips through my site. I focus on places that spark awe...whether it’s a remote alpine lake, a hidden glamping dome, or a culturally immersive retreat.

Want to travel like a local, not a tourist? You’re in the right place. Sign up below for expert travel tips, itineraries, and bucket list ideas that will inspire your next adventure.

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    Transformational Travel ✈️
    Adventure 🗺️ • Growth 🌱 • Wellness 🧘‍♂️
    Helping you plan your next life-changing trip ⬇️

    So nice to be back in Rothenburg ob der Tauber aft So nice to be back in Rothenburg ob der Tauber after 6 years! And it’s just as magical as I remember. Same view, same fairytale charm. Rothenburg, you never get old 🏰✨ (apologies for the audio…that wind was wild!!)
    There’s something ancient about the bond between There’s something ancient about the bond between man and horse 🐎🔥

For three days, Kara-Boz carried me across the mountains of Kyrgyzstan 🇰🇬…through valleys, rivers, and high passes on the way to Song Kul Lake. It felt primal, raw, and deeply human…like tapping into a connection our ancestors relied on for survival.

This was easily one of the highlights of my Central Asia trip. Nothing compares to feeling that rhythm of hooves beneath you, hour after hour, surrounded by endless sky. Hours in the saddle blur into something deeper. You stop thinking, and start feeling…the breath of the animal, the mountain air, the pulse of the earth beneath you. And of course, a sore butt and legs 🤣

Kyrgyzstan is an absolute gem, and I can’t wait to go back someday! 🇰🇬
    Dreaming back to Georgia, where I kicked off my Eu Dreaming back to Georgia, where I kicked off my Eurasia trip a few weeks back 🇬🇪

From wandering the streets of Tbilisi to soaking in the fresh mountain air of Kazbegi, this country blew my mind! Visiting a food festival in Borjomi and a local winery were the icing on the cake. 🍷🍲 

Georgia is the birthplace of wine (8,000 years of winemaking), and I was super impressed with the amber wines…they’re unlike anything I’ve tried before. And I must say…Georgian cuisine is incredibly underrated, blending influences from Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Khachapuri, khinkali, churchkhela…I could live off these. 🤤

What made my trip to Georgia even more special were the people. 🤝 Georgian hospitality is a thing! The Supra (feast) culture is such a great tradition that brings Georgian people together around food and wine. I’ve never seen such devotion to family and friendship anywhere else in Europe. Huge thanks to my college roommate Zura for hosting me and introducing me to such an amazing circle of friends. Hospitality runs deep here, and it’s something I’ll never forget. 🙏 

Some other highlights:
⚽️ Catching a Georgia football match
🍷 Wine tasting at Kiketi Farm
🏔️ Overnight in Juta, a mountain village near Kazbegi
⛪ Exploring ancient Orthodox churches (some dating back to the 14th century)
🗿 Standing at the Chronicles of Georgia Monument, with massive statues telling the country’s Christian history

Now the adventure continues. After Georgia I dipped into Kazakhstan 🇰🇿, then Kyrgyzstan 🇰🇬, and now Uzbekistan 🇺🇿. Central Asia is proving to be wild and full of surprises. More highlights and blog posts coming soon! 🇬🇪
    So inspired walking through Samarkand, a city that So inspired walking through Samarkand, a city that once rivaled Rome and Babylon in the ancient world 🌍✨ This was a key stop on the legendary Silk Road, where East met West and ideas, culture, and goods flowed for centuries.

Standing here, it’s wild to think Alexander the Great once conquered this land, Genghis Khan swept through centuries later, and then Timur rebuilt it into the crown jewel of his empire. He brought in the best artisans from Persia and beyond, leaving behind the turquoise domes and mosaics that still define Samarkand’s skyline.

What makes Registan Square so special is the Islamic architecture…massive turquoise domes, intricate mosaics, and endless geometric patterns that symbolize infinity and divine order. They’re designed to pull your gaze upward and remind you of something greater.

Uzbekistan only really opened up for tourism around 2019, which makes it feel fresh and undiscovered. And September is the perfect time to visit…the summer heat is fading, and evenings are ideal for wandering the plazas.

Today, Samarkand is more well-known than most places in Central Asia, but it’s still underrated and overlooked, especially among travelers from the US.

If you’re chasing history and wonder, this city definitely deserves a spot on your list. 🇺🇿

#Samarkand #AncientWorld #Registan #Madrasa #IslamicArchitecture #SilkRoad #Uzbekistan #CentralAsia #BeautifulDestinations #uzbekistantravel
    Did you know the yurt is so important in Kyrgyz cu Did you know the yurt is so important in Kyrgyz culture that it’s literally on the country’s flag? 🇰🇬

I just spent 3 days on horseback riding to Song Kol Lake 🐎⛰️ Each night, I stayed in a traditional yurt, and honestly, it was one of the highlights of the trip. Quite different than the glamping we have back in the States!

From the outside they look simple, but yurts are brilliantly practical. Nomadic families can take them down and reassemble them in just a few hours, moving with their herds across the mountains. Inside, they’re well-insulated and full of colorful patterns that make them feel alive. 🎨✨ 

It reminded me a bit of the tipis used by Native American tribes - both designs born from necessity & built to withstand the elements while staying portable. But here in Central Asia, yurts are still very much part of everyday nomadic life, not just a cultural symbol.

After long days of riding through valleys and high passes, falling asleep in one of these under a sky filled with stars felt timeless 🌌

What’s the most unique place you’ve ever spent the night? 🛖
    Just wrapped up a 3-day horseback adventure in Kyr Just wrapped up a 3-day horseback adventure in Kyrgyzstan 🐎⛰️ with @songkol_travel, starting from the tiny village of Kyzart, about 4 hours from the capital, Bishkek. 🇰🇬

Kyrgyzstan is 90% mountains, and riding through its valleys and high passes honestly feels like stepping into another world. We rode 4–5 hours each day, crossing sweeping alpine meadows and mountain ridges that seemed to stretch forever. Each night, we stayed with nomadic families in yurts, warmed by endless cups of tea and stories (and singing) by the fire. Sleeping under skies so bright with stars they looked painted on the heavens was unreal. ✨ 

Fun fact: horses are so central to Kyrgyz culture that there are more horses here than cars in some regions. They’re part of daily life, woven into the culture and traditions. Song Kol Lake, our destination, sits over 3,000 meters high, making it one of the most breathtaking alpine lakes in Central Asia. 🌍

Kyrgyzstan is such a hidden gem. Few places let you disconnect this deeply while immersing yourself in raw landscapes and timeless nomadic traditions. For me, this was one of the most unique travel experiences I’ve ever had. Check out my stories for more highlights from the adventure 🤠🐎 

#kyrgyzstan #kyrgyz #songkul #kyrgyzstan🇰🇬
    Gamarjoba from Georgia! 🇬🇪 One of the last t Gamarjoba from Georgia! 🇬🇪 One of the last true hidden gems of adventure travel. Five days in, and this country keeps hitting me with new reasons to love it.

Up in the Caucasus Mountains, just a few hours north of Tbilisi, sits Kazbegi - one of the most pristine nature areas of the country. 

Today I hiked past the famous Gergeti Trinity Church and up toward the glacier overlook, where horses wandered freely and wild dogs followed along like loyal guides. The air was crisp, the peaks dramatic, and it felt like the mountains themselves were alive. 🏔️

Early September is the sweet spot here: crisp alpine air, decent weather, and trails that you don’t have to share with the crowds. It’s just you, the mountains, and silence broken only by the wind.

I’ve barely scratched the surface, and I’m hooked. From wandering the old streets of Tbilisi to drinking the world’s oldest wine and hitting a food festival in Borjomi, there’s so much more I’ll be sharing soon. I’m a few days behind, but trust me, it’ll be worth the wait. Stay tuned! 🇬🇪

#georgiatravel #kazbegi #hiddengems
    History has always been my greatest inspiration. F History has always been my greatest inspiration. From the pyramids of Giza to the ruins of Tikal, the streets of Ancient Rome and Greece, and the old city walls of China, I’ve never stopped chasing the wisdom of the ancients. 🏛️⛩️

Their castles, temples, and traditions remind me how much we can learn from those who came before us…and it’s one of the reasons I started Global Viewpoint over 8 years ago. 🏰🌍 

I’ve got a new journey coming up soon…one that will take me deep into the crossroads of civilizations, where so much ancient knowledge and culture still lives on. Not many travelers make it there today, but it’s been calling me for years. Any guesses where I’m headed next? 👀
    Finding freedom in the Faroe Islands 🇫🇴✨ Finding freedom in the Faroe Islands 🇫🇴✨

Two years ago, I explored the Faroe Islands - surrounded by foggy cliffs, crashing waves, and crisp air.

Not exactly what summer looks like in most places… but this wild, moody place lit something up in me.

No crowds. No noise. Just cliffs, wind, and freedom.

It reminded me: it’s not just about chasing epic moments…it’s about the quiet ones.
Laying barefoot on the damp earth. Breathing in the cold. Watching puffins fly through misty cliffs. Feeling alive.

Send this to someone who’d pick this over city lights ⛰️🌊 

#FaroeIslands #Wanderlust #ChasingViews #NatureTherapy #RemotePlaces #MinimalTravel #bucketlist #SimpleFreedom #OffTheGrid #ChaseStillness #VisitFaroeIslands #FaroeIslandsNature #FaroeIslandsTravel #HikingAdventures  #MindfulTravel #SlowTravel #FindYourCalm #GroundedInNature
    Summer in Europe looks like this… Aperol Spritz Summer in Europe looks like this…

Aperol Spritz and pizza in a sunny piazza. 
Salt in your hair after a boat day off the Croatian coast. 
Linen shirts, scooters, and stone alleyways.
Espresso on a quiet balcony as the city wakes up.
Gelato for lunch…because why not?
Golden hour wine in Paris.
Twilight that never ends in the fjords.
Wildflowers in bloom above the Alps.

Late dinners, slow mornings, and sunsets that last forever. 🌅

This is what it feels like to chase summer across Europe 🏍️✨

👉 Send this to that group chat who always says “we should go.” 🌍

#EuropeTravel #SummerInEurope #Wanderlust #TravelInspo #MediterraneanVibes #EuropeanSummer #BucketListAdventures #TravelGoals #CoastalViews #OldTownCharm #SunsetLovers #AperolSpritzSeason #ScenicViews #DreamTrip #HiddenGems #SlowTravel #PostcardPlaces #jetsetlife #TravelMore #ExploreEurope
    May is prime time for Yosemite 🌄 Towering gran May is prime time for Yosemite 🌄

Towering granite cliffs. Roaring waterfalls. Lush green meadows. Giant sequoias. Its nature turned up to 11…and it’s one of my favorite national parks for a reason 🇺🇸

Right now, everything’s alive. The waterfalls are insane from all the snowmelt (Yosemite Falls is next level), and wildflowers are starting to pop. Mornings are crisp, afternoons are sunny, and best of all…no summer crowds yet 🙌 

May is that sweet spot: perfect weather, peak waterfall season, and fewer people. If you’ve never been, this is the time of year to go. You’ll feel small in the best way.

Swipe to see the wildlife I saw on the trail!! 🐻🦌 

#YosemiteNationalPark #YosemiteInMay #WaterfallSeason #NationalParksUSA #NatureLovers #HikingAdventures #SpringTravel #GetOutside #WanderlustCalifornia #ExploreMore #FindYourPark #BucketListTravel #yosemite #yosemitevalley
    D O M I N I C A 🏝️🇩🇲 Just wrapped up D O M I N I C A 🏝️🇩🇲 

Just wrapped up 6 days in Dominica - and wow, this island is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. Wild hikes, hidden waterfalls, volcanic hot springs… if you’re craving raw, untouched nature, this is the place. No resorts, just rainforest. 🙌
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