From Africa to Bora Bora: a retired Fort Myers teacher’s thrifty travel tale

Yvonne Schmitz embarked on an extraordinary adventure last year after renting out her home in Fort Myers.

"So what do you do when you're homeless for five months, and you have some rent money? You go exploring. So I took off, pulled out a map, and said, these are some places I want to go," Schmitz said.

With only a carry-on and a backpack, the retired elementary school teacher began her journey off the coast of Africa.

Her journey took her snorkeling alongside sea turtles in the Philippines, standing next to a spewing volcano in Vanuatu, and island-hopping through remote corners of the world.

She visited 17 islands and ended her travels in Bora Bora, funding her entire trip with rental income.

"I did local things. I took shared vans, I rode the bus, I rode a bike, I walked a lot of places. I immersed myself in local culture. So part of the thrill of doing this was doing it on a budget," she said.

Schmitz emphasized the importance of experiencing the islands authentically, saying, "I think you get a true glimpse of the islands and the people when you do that, versus just the touristy things."

She documented her journey and turned her journals into a book shortly after returning home. Her book, "Island Buffet: Creative Travel on a Limited Budget," is filled with practical travel tips for anyone looking to embark on their own journey.

Her message to others dreaming of similar adventures is, "Be brave. Say yes. Think outside of the box — and just go do it."