Collecting Joy from Around the World

Hi!

We’re Lauren and Rich.

In 2012, we were working at different companies in Seoul, but somehow chasing the American Dream. It was all going according to plan. We were getting promoted at work, while our apartments were filling up with the latest gadgets and clothes. But something was missing.

So, we used all our vacation days and took a two-week trip to Europe (too long for our bosses). We tried new things, got lost, had our first argument, almost got fired, and loved every moment of it.

Four Corners of Joy - Rome, Italy

On the last night of our trip, we watched the sunset on a balcony in Rome. While sipping champagne, eating caviar, and smoking cigars (not at the same time), we dreamed about making this once-in-a-lifetime trip a lifestyle.

When we got back (and after our bosses were done scolding us), we set to work on making our dream a reality. After many sleepless nights and covert meetings through online chats at work, we started a business. Once things were running smoothly, we sold anything we couldn’t fit in 2 backpacks and began slow traveling the world.

It was everything we dreamed of and more. Staying longer in each place revealed layers of culture we’d have missed otherwise.

But, something unexpected impressed us even more. People with little material wealth lived rich lives. They found happiness in simple yet clever ways, often without spending money. We started interviewing people from all walks of life and writing down how they create joy in each moment. These ideas are gifts that keep giving every day.

After 12 years and 60+ countries, we want to help you find fun and exciting activities, even at home. Because the best gifts are the ones you share.

Four Corners of Joy - Myanmar (Burma)

A Travel Blog for Adventure Seekers Who Can’t Travel Often

Most people only have a few weeks a year to travel, so they need to make them count. But what about the other 350 days a year?

Four Corners of Joy is a different kind of blog for busy adventure seekers who….

  • want more out of life for less money
  • seek unique experiences every day
  • want to travel happier
  • love people/dog/cat watching as much as sightseeing

Whether it’s on the other side of the world or in your own backyard, we hope you find your own corner of joy!

Best wishes,

Lauren & Rich


Meet Joy

Our muse from Skopje, North Macedonia.

Four Corners of Joy - Meet Joy