School
Texas A&M University, University of Utah
Expertise
Off-the-beaten-path destinations, Travel safety and security, Impactful travel
- Dave has worked, volunteered, and studied in six countries on four continents.
- He was first bitten by the travel bug while studying abroad in Australia, an experience that opened up his world and ignited his passion for travel.
- A lover of languages, Dave self-published his first book, "Secrets of a Polyglot: How to Transform Your Life through Learning Foreign Languages," to help people worldwide improve their interpersonal relationships and learn any foreign language.
Experience
Dave professionally taught English abroad for eight years, exploring the world during his school vacations by leveraging both complex travel itineraries and points and miles. During that period, he served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Indonesia, where he lived like a local for two years in rural West Java. After earning his master's degree, he founded GuideMie LLC to enable sustainable development through tourism by crafting foreign language courses, guidebooks, and life-changing travel itineraries to help foreign travelers thrive in a new environment. He has written for Static Media since 2024, crafting pieces on underrated destinations, travel safety and security, and Asia.
Education
Dave holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Utah with an emphasis on Japan and Japanese, as well as a Master of International Affairs from the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University.
PlanetWare content is created by an experienced team of writers and editors from diverse backgrounds. Occasionally, outside field experts contribute exclusive commentary to enrich our work. Our aim is to provide readers with well-rounded, thoughtful travel resources that are both inspiring and practical.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they provide current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process available here.
-
It's hard to find a more remotely beautiful area than the Sawtooth Mountains, and this popular national recreation area is a great place to take in the view.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
United States
By Dave Bowling
While you might be more familiar with Charleston, South Carolina, Charleston, West Virginia is also well worth a visit -- here's what you need to see.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
This often overlooked airline offers flexible rules, larger-than-average seat pitches, and flights all across the U.S., though some changes are on the way.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
United States
By Dave Bowling
With stunning alpine scenery, epic hikes, wildlife sightings, and plenty more to enjoy, this Colorado national park is a must-visit gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Home to one of the most dangerous hikes in the U.S., this national park is brimming with stunning scenery and untouched wilderness just waiting to be explored.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
United States
By Dave Bowling
One of the most remote cosmopolitan cities in the world, this Hawaiian hot spot blends deep history with modern energy, all set against a stunning backdrop.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
This low-cost airline's all-you-can-fly subscription is perfect for adventurous travelers who don't mind last-minute bookings and a little flexibility.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
This gourmet travel hack lets you skip the overpriced airport food and enjoy luxury dining at cruising altitude without breaking any TSA rules.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
United States
By Dave Bowling
Surrounded by wilderness and accessible only by air or sea, this stunning capital city is brimming with epic hiking and wildlife watching opportunities.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
Those full-body scanners at the airport are safe and easy to use, but they can reveal some surprising information to security officers looking for threats.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Dave Bowling
Discover the red flags that can help you avoid this dangerous scam that's targeting tourists worldwide, causing them to lose their money and travel documents.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
These three strategic locations serve as America's most well-connected flight hubs, serving hundreds of destinations across multiple continents.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Dave Bowling
This important travel document should always be kept in a safe place, even if it's expired, and could still come in handy during your travels.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Home to active volcanoes, ancient lava tubes, and hiking trails through breathtaking volcanic landscapes, this other-worldly national park is a must.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
This airport, the busiest air hub in the world, is located in the American South and sees a whopping 286,000 flyers heading to 247 destinations daily.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
United States
By Dave Bowling
Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this scenic city is on the upswing, celebrated for its festival culture, artistic flair, and restaurants.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Dave Bowling
TSA officers are trained to be on the lookout for certain behaviors in passengers. Unfortunately, even some involuntary reflexes can get you flagged.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Dave Bowling
This simple strategy can help protect you from losing all your cash and valuables to pickpockets in theft-prone tourist areas around the world.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
When you receive your boarding pass, check the four-digit sequence number for this special code. If you have it, it may take longer to reach your gate.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
For the best odds of avoiding flight delays in the U.S., schedule your flight from this underrated airport, which has been majorly renovated in recent years.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
If you travel to Europe, you should know that a few Delta flights will be disappearing soon. Here are the ones on the chopping board and the best alternatives.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
Popularity doesn't mean punctual. One of the largest and busiest airports in the country is also known for having the longest and most frequent flight delays.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Dave Bowling
Before packing up your skincare products, hair styling tools, and liquid medicines for a flight, get familiar with TSA's 2025 rules on toiletries.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
One popular and seemingly harmless water activity is against the rules on most cruise ships. Here's what could happen if you try it during your sea voyage.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Dave Bowling
If you are booking a hotel for an international trip, Rick Steves recommends this strategy to help you get the best stay possible and keep your options open.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Dave Bowling
Having problems with cards and payment methods while traveling is never fun, but you can help avoid that stressful situation by taking this step before leaving.
By Dave Bowling
Read More
-
United States
By Dave Bowling
With a long and scenic coastline, Oregon is a great place for a trip, and this overlooked city is a perfect coastal haven for a quiet escape and fun trails.
By Dave Bowling
Read More