
THE WORLD SEEN UP CLOSE
Real destinations. Honest stories. Written by someone
who’s actually been there, and keeps going back.
MY PERSONAL JOURNEY
+10
YEARS OF STORIES WORTH TELLING
Some people travel to relax. I travel to feel something. On this blog, I write about the places, people, and moments that stayed with me long after I came home.

TRAVEL STORIES
Every destination has a version that doesn’t make it onto the highlights reel. These are the real stories, the detours, the discoveries, and the moments that made me understand why I keep going back out there.
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SURF TRIPS
From Atlantic swells to Indo barrels, I chase waves the same way I chase good stories: with no fixed plan and a lot of curiosity. Here’s where I document what I find. Water, culture, and everything in between.
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TIPS & TRICKS
More than ten years of trial and error, packed into practical advice you can actually use. From what to put in your bag to how to find the places worth finding. The stuff I wish someone had told me earlier.
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Hello, welcome!
I’m Marlene, a Portuguese journalist and travel writer, author of marleneonthemove.com, and co-founder of the Portuguese Travel Bloggers Association.
When I’m not writing or pursuing my other passion, surfing, I’m leading fellow travel enthusiasts and curious souls through some of the world’s most captivating destinations.


Courses & workshops
Over a decade of traveling, writing, going on surf trips and leading groups has taught me what no algorithm or AI can replicate: the difference between information and experience. In these courses and workshops, I share exactly that: what I’ve learned in the field, the mistakes you won’t have to make, and the tools I use every day to create content, plan trips, and turn every destination into a story worth telling and living.

“People ask me what my favorite destination is. Honestly? It’s always the next one! Because curiosity is what keeps this whole thing alive.”
Marlene Marques
Author of Marlene On The Move

KEEP ON THE LOOP
Surf spots, hidden destinations, packing fails, and the occasional life update from wherever I’ve landed. Join the newsletter and travel along… no ticket required.
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WRITE FOR THE BLOG
Inspire other travelers with your stories, tips, and unique destinations. See how to submit your idea.
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BEHIND THE CONTENT
This blog is the result of years of travel, journalism, and storytelling. These are the principles I follow.
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Recent Posts

FIFA World Cup 2026: A travel guide to the host cities (and how to make the most of it)
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The biggest World Cup in history kicks off on June 11, 2026. Three countries, 16 cities, 104 games, and a travel opportunity that won’t come around again anytime soon. Here’s your guide to making the most of it.

7 reasons to use Holafly when travelling (and why I stopped using local SIMs)
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From Bangkok to Cairo, from Colombo to Marrakech, four completely different destinations, one consistent internet solution. I stopped wasting time at carrier shops and started arriving already connected.

BTL 2026 draws 85,000 visitors and records largest edition to date
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BTL 2026 ended in Lisbon with around 85,000 visitors, 1,700 exhibitors and 125 international destinations, according to organisers.



