Our Story

Travelling with Allergies and Asthma

Welcome to Breathe Easy Adventures, your trusted companion for navigating the world with asthma and severe allergies.  My journey began at the tender age of 3 when I was diagnosed with asthma, but it didn't stop there. I discovered I had extreme allergies, particularly to furry animals like cats and dogs. Sleepovers as a kid were nearly impossible because it seemed like everyone had pets. Seasonal changes and blooms triggered my asthma as well, along with mold, mildew, and dust (I grew up in a curtain-free home to try to avoid it).  These conditions have shaped my life and travels in ways I never could have imagined. Today, I'm turning my experiences into a resource for fellow travelers who refuse to let respiratory and allergy challenges hold them back.

From the moment I was diagnosed with asthma, it became an unwelcome travel companion. As I got older, my severe animal allergies added another layer of complexity to my travels. Family vacations, school trips, and later, my own adventures around the globe were all colored by the constant need to be vigilant about my surroundings.

 

Perfumes wafting through hotel lobbies, the lingering smell of smoke in "non-smoking" rooms, and overpowering scents in lobbies and rooms were just the beginning. The real challenge came with the realization that many accommodations, especially those in the sharing economy like Airbnb and VRBO, couldn't guarantee an environment free from pet dander – a critical requirement for my health and comfort.

 

But here's the thing: I love to travel. The thrill of exploring new cultures, tasting exotic cuisines, and witnessing breathtaking landscapes has always called to me. I refused to let asthma and allergies confine me to the safety of my home. Instead, I made it my mission to find ways to see the world while managing my conditions.

Why This Website Exists

 

Over the years, I've learned a lot about traveling with asthma and severe allergies, especially to animals. I've discovered that hotels and cruise ships often provide more controlled environments, crucial for those of us with respiratory issues and animal allergies. I've found hidden gems – hotels that go above and beyond to create allergy-friendly environments, cruise lines that take air quality seriously, and destinations that are naturally easier on the respiratory system.

 

I've also had my share of close calls and disappointing experiences, particularly with vacation rentals where pet policies are often loosely enforced or previous animal presence isn't disclosed. These experiences have shaped my travel preferences and strategies.

 

I created Breathe Easy Adventures because I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to explore the world, regardless of their health challenges. My goal is to share the knowledge I've gained, provide practical advice, and offer honest reviews of accommodations and travel options from the perspective of someone who truly understands the daily realities of living with asthma and severe allergies.

My Promise to You

 

I understand the anxiety that comes with planning a trip when you have asthma or severe allergies, especially to animals. The fear of an attack in an unfamiliar place or being stuck in a room where pets have stayed can be paralyzing. That's why I promise to always provide honest, thorough, and up-to-date information.

 

I personally visit or thoroughly research every place I recommend, and I'm not afraid to call out businesses that fall short in accommodating travelers with respiratory issues and animal allergies. My reviews and recommendations always prioritize clear information about pet policies, cleaning protocols, and air quality management.

 

Remember, having asthma and severe allergies doesn't mean you can't see the world – it just means you need to be more prepared and choosy about where you stay and how you get there. So take a deep breath (pun intended) and let's embark on this journey together. The world is waiting, and with the right information and precautions, it's yours to explore – pet dander and all other triggers be gone!

 

Happy and healthy travels!