About

Hi, I’m Ashish Zilpe.

From Code to Compass: A Story of Discovery I traded a secure IT career for a one-way ticket to adventure. After seven years in the corporate world, I stepped away in January 2025 to answer a simple, persistent question: what happens when you put curiosity in the driver’s seat?

Based in Nagpur, India, I am now a full-time traveller and storyteller, dedicated to proving that profound experiences don’t require a limitless budget—just a resourceful mind and an open heart.

My 2025 Odyssey: Depth Over Distance
In a single, transformative year, I immersed myself in the vibrant tapestry of Southeast Asia and the dazzling contrasts of the Middle East. From the futuristic skyline of Singapore to the ancient temples of Cambodia, the bustling markets of Vietnam, to the vast deserts of the UAE, I’ve learned that true travel isn’t about ticking countries off a list.

It’s about the texture of life in each place: the sizzle of a street-food wok in Bangkok, the intricate etiquette of a tea ceremony in Hong Kong, the silent awe of sunrise at Angkor Wat, and the unexpected kindness of a stranger in a Shenzhen alleyway.

My Travel Philosophy: The Art of Rich, Intentional Travel
I believe the magic happens in the doing, not just the seeing. A place becomes a part of you when you roll up your sleeves and participate.

• Connect Through Culture: I seek hands-on experiences—a cooking class in a local home, a traditional craft workshop, or a homestay in a remote village. These are the moments that build bridges and create lasting memories.
• Feast on Understanding: Food is the universal language. I journey through a country via its cuisine, from humble street stalls to family-run eateries, understanding that every dish has a story of history, geography, and community.
• Journey is the Destination: For me, the “how” of travel is as important as the “where.” I find adventure in the logistics—mastering a city’s metro, navigating a rural bus network, or planning a scenic road trip. It’s where spontaneity and stories are born.
• Smart Spending, Rich Living: My IT background fuels my passion for optimization. I excel at finding clever hacks, loyalty programs, and strategic splurges that keep costs low without compromising the quality of the experience. Luxury isn’t in a 5-star hotel; it’s in having the freedom to stay longer and delve deeper.