Today we’d like to introduce you to Declan Chapin
Hi Declan, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hey! I’m Decca.
If you ever spot someone snapping photos along Ladybird Lake, a perfectly plated meal at an Austin restaurant, or doing a headstand in public, there’s a good chance it’s me. I’m a traveler, foodie, recipe developer, content creator, and health and wellness enthusiast—and I’ve somehow figured out how to turn all of these passions into my full-time career.
I was born and raised on Mercer Island, a small island in Washington State, where my love for exploration and storytelling began. At 18, I packed my bags and moved over 2,000 miles away to Austin to attend the University of Texas. It was a bold move—I didn’t know a single person in the state of Texas—but it turned out to be the best decision of my life.
Since then, I’ve fallen in love with Austin, where my two younger siblings also attend UT. Our parents visit us once a month, turning this city into a home base filled with family, adventure, and incredible food. My first mission here was to make the city feel like home; my second was to find the best restaurants, parks, hotels, and hidden gems.
While I studied Management Information Systems and Entrepreneurship at UT, I started a social media business at age 16 and my creative spirit pushed me to grow this business while I studied. This passion eventually blossomed into a career that allows me to work from anywhere in the world. I specialize in travel tips and guides (available on my website), photography, recipe development, and digital storytelling, using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to inspire others to embrace adventure and live intentionally.
In the past six years, I’ve traveled to 45 countries, each one deepening my love for authentic experiences and inspiring me to curate detailed Travel Guides on my blog. Each guide is packed with must-try restaurants, cozy hotels, safety tips, and cultural insights to help others travel with confidence.
Through photography and videography, I capture the world as I see it—the colors, light, and intricate details that make every destination unique and beautiful. Whether it’s a bustling market in Marrakech or a serene beach in Greece, I aim to share not just the visuals but the stories and emotions behind each place.
When I’m not traveling or creating content, you’ll find me buried in a book. I’ve been a bookworm for as long as I can remember and aim to read 100 books a year. If you’re ever looking for a great recommendation—or want to geek out over your favorite reads—I’m your person.
Austin is where my journey to independence began, but the world is where I’ve found my truest sense of self. Whether I’m sharing my favorite local restaurants or crafting a social media strategy in another country, I’m grateful every day for the chance to live, create, and connect in this beautiful, adventure-filled world.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has been full of twists, turns, and learning experiences.
When I first moved to Texas for college, I felt overwhelmed by the sheer size of the University of Texas and how far away it was from my comfort zone back home. Loneliness and imposter syndrome hit me hard as I tried to navigate life in a new state, make friends, and find my footing in such a big environment. There were moments when I felt lost and questioned whether I belonged, but over time, I grew into someone who could embrace the unknown. Moving to Texas gave me the confidence and independence I needed at a young age and taught me how to create a home wherever I am.
Interestingly, those same feelings of homesickness and loneliness have followed me into my solo travels. Traveling alone, especially to far-off continents like South America, Asia, and Africa, can feel isolating. There are moments when I’m surrounded by incredible beauty but wish I had someone to share it with—or times when the unfamiliar feels daunting rather than exciting.
Working while traveling brings its own set of challenges, too. From spotty internet connections in remote locations to safety concerns, language barriers, and the occasional disappointment of places not being what I expected, the logistical hurdles can feel endless. Finding a balance between work and exploration isn’t always easy, especially when you’re navigating these obstacles on your own.
Despite these struggles, every challenge has shaped me. Those early years in Texas taught me resilience and adaptability, and traveling has deepened those lessons. Each moment of uncertainty—whether it’s figuring out how to communicate in a foreign language or navigating a new city alone—has made me stronger and more resourceful.
The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s those bumps along the way that have taught me the most about who I am and what I’m capable of. And for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At the heart of what I do is storytelling—through words, photos, and videos, I aim to capture the unique beauty, energy, and spirit of the places I visit.
I specialize in discovering hidden gems, whether it’s a tucked-away café, a family-run boutique hotel, or a scenic trail that’s off the beaten path. For me, traveling is like a treasure hunt, uncovering the secrets that make each destination special, and sharing those discoveries with others in a way that’s practical, inspiring, and approachable.
My work comes to life through detailed Travel Guides and tips that I share on my blog and social media platforms. What sets my guides apart is how digestible and user-friendly they are—curated itineraries, insider tips, and local insights that take the guesswork out of planning. I want people to feel empowered to travel authentically, whether that means trying street food in Mexico City, navigating bustling markets in Marrakech, or embracing the peaceful solitude of a small village in East Africa.
I’m most proud of the connections I’ve built through my work. Hearing from someone who’s followed one of my guides and had a life-changing experience or discovered their new favorite restaurant because of a tip I shared is incredibly rewarding.
What sets me apart is my focus on authenticity and detail. My content isn’t just about showing picture-perfect moments; it’s about telling the full story of a place—its culture, its people, its food, and even its challenges. I aim to paint an honest picture while making travel feel accessible to everyone. I approach every destination with curiosity and care.
Through my work, I hope to inspire others to embrace the adventure of traveling with an open heart and mind while making it a little easier for them to explore the world on their own terms.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Summers as a kid on Mercer Island (my hometown) felt like pure magic. The days stretched long and golden, filled with a sense of freedom that only comes from growing up on a small, tight-knit island. We’d spend our mornings running around barefoot, the soft grass and warm pavement familiar beneath our feet, as we ran between neighborhood yards and lakeside parks.
Afternoons were always by the water and swimming in Lake Washington was a daily ritual. (I actually did a streak of 180 days in the lake from June to Christmas at age 12 haha!) We’d dive off docks, compete in cannonball contests, and let the hours slip by on paddleboards or kayaks.
There was a strong sense of community everywhere. Parents looked out for all the kids, and it felt like the entire island was one big extended family. We had the freedom to roam, to explore, to discover hidden trails or quiet coves where we could make up stories and share secrets. There was something so special about growing up surrounded by people who knew you by name and cared about you like their own.
Those summers instilled in me a sense of adventure and belonging that I carry with me to this day. They were a beautiful balance of independence and connection—a time when the world felt boundless, and the simplest moments became unforgettable memories.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.deccadotcom.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deccadotcom/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/declan-chapin-a2487a141/
