Meet Mindi, one half of the award-winning duo behind 2foodtrippers. With an MBA and a background as an insurance executive, Mindi developed sharp business, writing, and project management skills before trading corporate life for full-time food travel. Since 2016, she’s been on a global quest to uncover the best culinary experiences, from street food stalls to fine dining. Now based in Lisbon, Mindi focuses on slow travel, creating detailed Food Travel Guides that help others discover the world’s best bites. We sat down with Mindi to learn how her approach to travel has evolved, why slow travel resonates with her, and how being an UnFluencer aligns with her values.
What is your personal concept of the kind of Slow Travel that makes a positive contribution to the world?
As I learned while traveling as a digital nomad for three years with my partner Daryl, slow travel is the best travel. During that time, we typically lived in a city for a month or two which allowed us to dig into the city’s food and culture. Now, after living in Lisbon for five years, we continue to slowly travel within Portugal and beyond. This approach minimizes our carbon footprint and allows us to immerse ourselves in new and classic destinations. During our travels, we often meet locals who introduce us to their wonderful cultures. But it’s not just one-sided – we share our life experiences too. These interactions make the world feel smaller yet more rich.
How do you see UnFluencer content (written, images, videos) differing from what you see from most travel content creators?
I love the way that the UnFluencers delve into each local community by interacting with local business people and eating food that’s unique to the location. Their colorful content makes me feel a connection to the locals they showcase. And, of course, I want to taste all of the food.
How can UnFluencers be a part of destination management that preserves nature and culture?
UnFluencers are like gold for destination management organizations that promote less-traveled destinations. Not only do UnFluencers create engaging content that communicates stories both anecdotally and visually, but they also share their content with thousands of engaged followers. Some of those followers will book similar trips in lieu of making reservations with chain hotels and ginormous cruise ships. As a result, they funnel their travel funds directly to locals and minimize destructive overtourism.
Where can UnTourists find you?
https://2foodtrippers.substack.com/