In this article:
I've been to a pharmacy in just about every country I've traveled to. I suffer from chronic pain, and on top of that, I'm often solo.
Palmtrees & Allergies first caught my eye on Instagram as an account who offers tips for anyone traveling with medical needs, such as, but not limited to:
- Food allergies and intolerances
- Chronic illnesses
- Disabilities
- And more
In this series, we feature travel experts who venture off the beaten path and inspire you to venture into the (seemingly) unknown.
Preparation is everything. Do your research before you go — not just on restaurants, but on how allergies are perceived in your destination.
-- Iris from Palmtrees and Allergies
Not everyone can afford the opportunity to:
- Take a gap year.
- Study abroad.
- Take a family vacation to Rome.
- Cruise the Caribbean.
- Take a sabbatical.
And not everyone wants to:
- Wait until they're retired.
- Volunteer on a church mission.
- Wait for their friends/family/significant other to go with them.
- Get on a plane at all.
But you still have options. A lot of options.
Read on to learn about Iris from Palmtrees & Allergies, the importance of travel equity among travelers with disabilities and medical needs.
Tell us about yourself. What should we know about Palmtrees & Allergies?
Welcome to Palmtrees & Allergies! Traveling has always been a huge passion of mine. Although I don’t have severe food allergies or intolerances myself, I’ve learned a lot from traveling with my partner and best friend, who do. Through them, I’ve seen firsthand how challenging it can be to eat safely on the road — and how, with the right preparation, it’s absolutely possible to travel worry-free.
Preparation is everything. Do your research before you go — not just on restaurants, but on how allergies are perceived in your destination.
On the platform, I share personal adventures, allergy-friendly spots, and honest tips to make travel fun, accessible, and a little more relaxed — no matter your diet. Whether you're looking for trusted restaurants, low-stress itineraries, or just a dose of real talk about travel with restrictions, you’re in the right place.
How did your passion for travel begin?
I’ve always loved discovering new places, but my studies in human geography really sparked something deeper. It made me more curious about how people live, move, and interact with their environments — and how places are more than just pretty backdrops. That curiosity keeps pulling me toward new experiences, both close to home and far away.
What type of traveler are you?
I’m definitely an explorer at heart — I love uncovering hidden gems and switching things up between cities and nature. But I also value comfort, especially when traveling with allergies (or a dog!). I enjoy long walks, discovering local spots, and balancing a sense of adventure with practical planning. I’d say I travel slow, intentionally, and with a bit of a soft spot for cozy cafés and scenic routes.
What advice do you have for first time allergy-aware travelers?
Preparation is everything. Do your research before you go — not just on restaurants, but on how allergies are perceived in your destination. Learn a few key phrases if there’s a language barrier, and don’t hesitate to bring your own snacks or allergy cards. It’s also helpful to connect with others who’ve been there — online communities can be a goldmine for tips.
Most importantly, don’t let fear stop you from exploring. There are safe and enjoyable options out there — it just takes a bit more planning. That’s what Palmtrees & Allergies is all about.
What does travel equity mean to you?
For me, travel equity means making sure everyone feels like they can travel — safely, confidently, and on their own terms. I strongly support solo female travel, especially in a world where it’s not always seen as the norm. It’s about creating space for different stories, needs, and experiences in the travel world — whether that’s traveling with allergies, as a woman, with a dog, or soon, with a baby too.
What's next for Palmtrees & Allergies?
Right now, I’m working on expanding the website with destination guides and interactive maps that highlight allergy-friendly spots around the world. I’m also about to enter a whole new travel phase: traveling with a baby and a dog! Our first trip as a new family will be to the beautiful island of Bonaire — and I’ll definitely be sharing what that’s like on the blog.