A New Way To Travel With Pets   

• Traveling with pets was once a major challenge for many pet owners. Finding destinations that welcomed animals, securing pet-friendly accommodations, and navigating transportation hurdles often turned trips into stressful ordeals. But a new wave of pet-friendly travel options is changing that, giving pet owners the freedom to explore new places with their furry companions. One standout service is Banlife, founded by Lee Hye-mi, a passionate traveler who faced these difficulties firsthand. After adopting her two Welsh Corgis, Lee discovered how limited the options were for traveling with pets. With no dedicated apps or platforms to locate pet-friendly spots, she took matters into her own hands. In 2018, she launched Banlife ? a platform that offers reservations for pet-friendly accommodations, cafes, restaurants, and even tourist attractions. Her goal was simple: to make traveling with pets not just possible but enjoyable. Banlife’s popularity rapidly grew, fueled by a broader cultural shift toward viewing pets as family members. As attitudes evolved, more destinations began embracing pet-friendly tourism, and local governments started investing in supporting infrastructure. One of Banlife’s most notable achievements was chartering a flight exclusively for pet owners, allowing them to travel comfortably with their pets ? particularly larger breeds often restricted by commercial airlines. Beyond accommodations and transport, Banlife also curates unique experiences, such as Templestay, where travelers can bring their pets along for a peaceful retreat at Buddhist temples. These opportunities allow pet owners to connect with nature and enjoy meaningful adventures with their animals by their side. As pet-friendly destinations grow, traveling with a furry friend has never been easier ? opening the door to unforgettable experiences and shared memories for pet lovers everywhere. Abi Raymaker For The Teen Times teen/1744680851/1613367750