Welcome to my blogging journal, come meet me!

A quick who-I-am

My younger self would never have believed me if I told her that everything she dreams about would become reality and turn out better than she could ever imagine.

I’m Mariam Megrdichian, 32, and married to a wonderful pilot. Six years ago, I left my home in Yerevan. I packed just two bags, said goodbye to my family, and moved to the United States. I was excited to experience a new country and culture, ready to start a new chapter in my life.

How my creativity began

I started making videos in the early 2000s using my mom’s basic flip phone. I made simple video diaries before YouTube existed, using basic Windows Movie Maker to edit them. I still have that same passion today. Now I use a better camera, but the joy remains the same: capturing moments and sharing stories.

best travel and lifestyle blogger in United States

Work that lights me up

I’m an SEO specialist and website designer—I help websites show up in Google searches. This blog isn’t about technical marketing stuff though. It’s more like we’re friends having coffee together. I’ll share easy blogging tips in simple words, and then we’ll talk about travel experiences and books we love.

Why I started Mar’s Thoughts Abroad

Moving to a new country changed me completely. I experienced jet lag, culture shock, and many new things for the first time – all of which made me reflect on myself. I discovered new hobbies, dealt with my anxieties, and realized that sharing both the good and difficult parts of my journey helps others feel connected. This blog is where I document my ongoing personal growth and discoveries.

What you’ll find here

Travel: Affordable trip plans, special hotels most tourists don’t know about, photo collections, and travel tips I learn from my pilot husband.
Blogging Tips: Simple guides on how to make your blog successful – with easy-to-follow advice on writing, ideas, and making your site look good.
Lifestyle: Books that changed how I think, ways to reduce stress, and small daily habits that help achieve bigger goals.

My guiding belief

Finding your purpose, or ikigai, isn’t about having one specific job, it’s about combining what you love with what helps others. For me, that means teaching, creating, and taking photos of beautiful everyday moments. If something I share inspires you to discover your own passion, then I’ve done what I set out to do.