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a home for travelers who want to understand places, not just visit them

No Maps or Foot Tracks is a travel blog for those willing to leave the itinerary behind, venture off-the-beaten-path, and connect more deeply with the places they visit.

Here, you'll find destination guides, sure, but also historical and cultural context, books to read before you go, and snippets from my own travel journal that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the trips I’m taking—the ones shaping the voice and perspective behind everything I write.

I’m of the belief that travel isn't about visiting as many countries as you can. It's about understanding the people, history, and culture in the places you do get around to visiting. So, whether you've landed on this page because you’re planning your next trip or your interest in a place led you here, my hope is that this blog helps you travel with more context and, in turn, more curiosity—so that when you do eventually come back home, you feel a little closer and connected to the place you just were and the people who call it their home.

Desert landscape with tall saguaro cacti, sparse bushes, a gravel pathway, and a clear blue sky at sunset.

Introducing…

Road Trips & Van Life

My road trip era officially has a home on my blog. Check out the Road Trips & Van Life page under Journeys for travel stories, route ideas, and the real tools I use to make life on the road feel effortless and adventurous.

Find it here.

Latest from the Travelogue

No Maps or Foot Tracks is written by me - Amber Dunlap. I’m a nomadic travel writer & blogger originally from the United States.

My next adventure? Albania! Come along in real time. I’m @nomapsamber on Instagram.

Latest Posts

Travel Guides

  • A historic church with twin bell towers, ornate stone carvings, and a central doorway, set against a blue sky with few clouds, surrounded by desert plants.

    Oaxaca, Mexico

    A crossroads of ancient culture, mouthwatering cuisine, the great outdoors, and deeply rooted spiritual undertones, Oaxaca will enchant you.

  • View of a town square with colorful yellow and white buildings, a statue on a pedestal, and a yellow archway framing the scene.

    Cartagena, Colombia

    A feast for the senses under the sweltering Caribbean sun, Cartagena is an unforgettable destination if you but look past its made-for-tourism facade.

  • View of the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge over the Arno River in Florence, Italy, with colorful buildings lining both sides of the river and a boat floating on the water under the bridge.

    Florence, Italy

    The capital of Tuscany since the days of Julius Caesar and a feast for all five senses, Florence is the Renaissance, not just the birthplace of it. 

  • Two people sitting on a rock ledge overlooking a forested valley with a prominent rocky mountain in the distance, under a partly cloudy sky.

    Sri Lanka

    A land of vibrant contrasts, Sri Lanka is a place that packs an incredible journey into its small frame, from golden beaches to sacred temples, untamed wildlife, and so much more.

  • Lush green tropical forest with red and green plants in the foreground, rolling hills in the background, and a partly cloudy sky.

    Costa Rica

    Known for its nature and pura vida lifestyle, Costa Rica’s people and places will reframe your lens on life and leave you appreciating even the little things.

  • Sunset over a historic town with old buildings, church domes, and a cross on top of a church, in a tropical setting with mountains in the background.

    Nicaragua

    With a tropical disposition and refreshing authenticity, Nicaragua’s the sort of place that makes you feel part of it just because you’re there.

Find me on Instagram

@nomapsamber