The Story Behind Deadset Travel
Discover the story, passion, and mission behind Deadset Travel, where adventure, expertise, and inspiration come together!
Welcome to Deadset Travel! I’m Lorna, founder and operator, and I’m thrilled you’re here to explore a world of genuine travel inspiration. On this site you will find detailed guides, real stories, insider tips, and direct booking links to handpicked stays around the globe. My goal is to help you plan trips that feel personal, effortless, and memorable, whether you’re chasing sunsets in Bali, safari adventures in Kenya, or urban discoveries in Europe. Dive in, discover new possibilities, and let your next journey begin with confidence.
As someone who has wandered through over 25 countries, I understand the thrill of discovering hidden gems, the challenge of planning every detail and doing it all with kids in tow! I built Deadset Travel to share honest experiences, practical advice, and trusted resources that empower you to travel with ease. Here you will find honest stories, curated itineraries, and the chance to connect directly with our recommend properties for authentic stays. I look forward to guiding you toward adventures that match your style, budget, and curiosity, and to seeing the memories you create.
Lorna Hay
Owner and Operator
WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO
At Deadset Travel, we’re fueled by a love for adventure and the desire to help others experience the world. Our mission is to make travel easy, exciting, and unforgettable for every explorer.
Our Story Begins with Travel
Travel has shaped who we are. Deadset Travel was born from lived experiences, a love of exploration, and a desire to share meaningful journeys.
Inspiring Journeys Through Our Blogs
We write to spark curiosity. Our blog shares real experiences, local insights, and honest travel moments to help you discover your next destination.
Smart Travel Starts with Guides
Our travel guides are built to be practical, clear, and useful. They offer straightforward advice to help you explore new places with confidence.
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Meet Lorna!
OWNER & OPERATOR
Hi, I’m Lorna – founder of Deadset Travel, chief packer, snack-bringer, chaos-coordinator and adventure-seeker.
I was born in Dubai, in the heart of the U.A.E. and raised in a family that moved around the world thanks to my Dad’s work as an Underwater Engineer. Travel was stitched into the fabric of my life from the very beginning. It shaped how I see the world and who I’ve become.
A lot of my life is woven through the stories and tips you'll find on this site. This isn’t just another cookie-cutter travel blog, it’s personal, it’s real and will include the odd swear word! As I share guides, insights and our family adventures, you’ll also get to know me; the woman behind the chaos, courage, and the carry-on bag packed for five.
I'm Mum to three wild-hearted boys, wife to Ben who keeps our other small business running, and the voice behind Deadset Travel. I created this space because I couldn’t find the kind of travel stories I was living. Especially the ones that involve three boys, a boat full of fishing gear, and tips that would save me from sinking into the overwhelm that can coincide with family travel.
We’ve explored cities and coastlines, paddled through gorges, slept under stars, and navigated foreign metros with one kid refusing to walk and another needing to poo - right now!
Through it all, I kept wishing there was a place that didn’t just talk about luxury or couple getaways but showed what it’s really like to travel overseas with young kids (especially boys) and do it without losing your mind or your sense of humour.
So, I built that place.
Deadset Travel is a hub of real talk, honest guides, and adventure-fueled tips for families like ours. It’s also where boating with kids gets a mention …because no one really talks about how to cook dinner, bait a hook, and keep small children from launching themselves off the side of the boat; all before sunset.
There’ll be stories of solo travel, especially from my younger years, and dramatic tales highlighting some of the dangers you may face overseas. I share them all honestly, because that’s what I would’ve wanted starting out.
It’s a dream to be able to create this content, one I’m deeply grateful for. One I hope inspires you to pack that bag, hit the road (or the water), and live your version of a big, messy, beautiful adventure. Whether you’re planning your first trip with toddlers or you’re a couple dreaming up your next escape, I hope this space makes it feel a little less daunting and a whole lot more empowering.
Welcome to Deadset Travel, your go-to for inspiration, connection, and a few laughs when things (inevitably) go sideways. Even when the plan unravels, you’ve got a community here that gets it.
L x
Through My Lens: Global Adventures
Explore a collection of photos from Lorna's travels around the world. Each one tells a story and captures the moments that make every adventure unforgettable!
What our users are saying!
Hear from fellow travelers who found inspiration in our blogs and insider guides, then turned that advice into memorable adventures.
"I’m not a natural travel planner, so having Deadset Travel in my corner has been a game-changer. Their guides strike the perfect balance between curated and flexible. I booked a small coastal stay they recommended and it turned out to be the highlight of our trip. I wouldn’t have known it existed otherwise."
Matt D.
"Deadset Travel helped me feel more confident about booking off-the-beaten-track spots. Their reviews and walkthroughs are detailed but not overwhelming. I love that they link directly to hosts or small operators too—it keeps things simple and supports local people. Can’t wait to see where they cover next."