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Access our Policy Hub covering privacy, cookies, terms, disclosures, and site transparency so you know exactly how Closer Lives operates. Policy Hub Closer Lives | Travel & Lifestyle Emporium Your Guide to Our Commitments and Practices Welcome to the Closer Lives Emporium Policy Hub. This dedicated section serves as your central resource for all our essential legal and operational policies. We believe in complete transparency and want to ensure you have easy access to information about how we operate, how we handle your data, and what you can expect when interacting with our brand. Here, you'll find detailed information on our commitments to your privacy, the rules governing our website, our approach to accessibility, and the specifics of our shopping experience. To help you find the information you need, please click a link below to access a specific policy page: Accessibility Read about our commitment to ensuring our website is accessible to all individuals, regardless of ability. We outline the features and ongoing efforts we implement to provide an inclusive online experience. Find Out More Affiliate Disclosure Discover our approach to affiliate marketing. This page provides a comprehensive explanation of our use of affiliate links and how we earn commissions, ensuring full transparency. Find Out More Cookie Policy Understand how we use cookies and other tracking technologies on our website. This policy explains what cookies are, their purposes, and how you can manage your preferences and consent. View Policy Privacy Policy Learn how we collect, use, protect, and share your personal information. This page details your rights regarding your data, our security measures, and our approach to international data transfers. View Policy Shop Policies Find all the practical details about shopping with us, including accepted payment methods, processing and shipping times, information on customs and import taxes, and our guidelines for returns, exchanges, and cancellations. View Policy Terms & Conditions Review the rules and guidelines for using our website and services. This document outlines the agreement between you and Closer Lives Emporium regarding intellectual property, acceptable use, and limitations of liability. Find Out More Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide. How to contact us If you have any questions or concerns that are not addressed here, you can get in touch by email at [email protected] . Alternatively, tap the button below to fill out our online form. We will always aim to reply back to you within 24 hours. Get in touch

Our curated hub of travel resources. Real tools and services we trust after 4+ years on the road. Discover deals, banking apps, online income tools, and travel essentials. Travel Resources We Trust on the Road Traveling full-time across 44 countries has taught us a simple truth: the right tools make life on the road easier; the wrong ones can bring everything to a halt. We’ve tried it all, from SIM cards that failed at the worst moments to bank cards swallowed by foreign ATMs. Some services left us stranded, while others became non-negotiable essentials. We built this hub to share what really works. These aren’t random affiliate links. They’re resources we use, rely on, and recommend to friends who ask us how we manage full-time travel. Whether you’re planning a short trip or building a digital nomad lifestyle, this is where you’ll find tools that actually deliver. Featured Picks Two essentials that simplify life on the road Some resources become non-negotiable once you’ve tried them. For us, that’s GigSky for hassle-free global connectivity and Stay22 for turning our travel guides into income through interactive hotel maps. Both save us time, money, and stress — while helping us keep traveling. SAVE 10% on your first order over $4 with code: CLOSERLIVES10 📶 GigSky eSIM Instant global connectivity without the SIM card hassle. Works in 190+ countries worldwide No need to hunt for local SIMs or top-ups Share data across devices with a hotspot Only the fastest networks Find Out More Turn your content into earnings 🏨 Stay22 Affiliate Maps Turn your blog or website into a booking tool. Free to join, no upfront costs Earn commissions on hotel and Airbnb bookings Interactive maps keep readers engaged We use Stay22 across our site to monetize content Join Stay22 here ADVERTISEMENT Categories Everything we rely on, organized for your journey Full-time travel touches every part of life, from booking places to stay to managing money, earning online, and carrying the right gear. We’ve grouped our resources into four categories so you can dive straight into what matters most for your trip or lifestyle. Travel Essentials Find the best ways to book smarter — from hotel stays and house sits to transport and cruises. Trusted platforms we’ve used to save money and enjoy more comfort. Explore Travel Essentials Banking & Money-Saving Tools Cut fees, stay secure, and manage money abroad with ease. From Wise to VPNs and travel cards, these are the tools that keep our finances running smoothly worldwide. Discover Banking Tools Shopping The products we actually carry on the road. From eSIMs and travel insurance to our own Travel & Lifestyle Emporium, these essentials keep life simple while exploring. Shop Now Earn Online While Traveling Turn your travels into income streams. From affiliate platforms like Stay22 to Monetag and print-on-demand, here’s how we monetize Closer Lives and other online projects. Monetize Your Travels Need Connectivity? Compare the Best eSIMs Find the right eSIM for your travels We’ve tested multiple providers on the road — GigSky, Saily, Holafly, and more. To help you choose, we built a full comparison page covering features, pricing, and our personal picks. See Our eSIM Comparison Find Hotels for Your Next Trip Book smarter with our interactive hotel maps We’ve partnered with Stay22 to bring you hotel and apartment options close to the places you actually want to be. Our maps compare prices across platforms so you can find the right stay at the right price — without endless searching. Browse Hotels Here Free Country Guides Plan smarter with our growing library of guides Every destination has its quirks, from SIM cards and transport to customs and currency. Our free country guides bring all the essentials together, plus our stories and tips from the road. Explore Country Guides Helpful Reads From Our Blog Learn how we use these tools in real life We don’t just list resources — we share how they fit into full-time travel. These posts go deeper into our experience, from monetizing a blog to making passive income and the apps we use every day. Full-Time Travel With Print on Demand See how we use Printify to create and sell products while traveling — an accessible way to earn online without holding stock or handling logistics. Find Out More 15 Top Apps & Websites for Full-Time Travel From money-saving apps to booking tools, here’s our curated list of resources we’ve tested and loved across 40+ countries around the world. Find Out More How to Monetize a Travel Blog Discover step-by-step ways we turned Closer Lives into income, from affiliate links to partnerships that support our full-time travel lifestyle. Find Out More Stay Connected Get travel tips, deals, and behind-the-scenes stories Our fortnightly newsletter is where we share new blogs, resources, and offers — plus a peek into our life on the road. No spam, just genuine inspiration and tools we trust. Email* SUBSCRIBE Please add me to the mailing list. Work With Us Partner with Closer Lives and reach a global audience We love working with brands, platforms, and services that help travelers live better. From affiliate partnerships to sponsored features, let’s create something that inspires our readers and supports your goals. Get in Touch Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend resources we’ve personally used or genuinely believe will add value to your travels. These partnerships help us keep Closer Lives running, so thank you for supporting our journey. ℹ️ Read our Affiliate Disclosure Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide.

Compare the top travel and expat insurance plans for digital nomads in 2026. Discover flexible, visa-ready coverage from Feather, SafetyWing & more. Stay Covered Wherever You Travel in 2026 Reliable protection for nomads, long-term travelers, expats, freelancers, and remote workers. A growing number of travelers now live abroad full-time—and choosing the right insurance is essential. Whether you need visa-compliant health coverage, flexible monthly protection, or short-term travel insurance, this guide compares the top plans trusted by digital nomads in 2026. Compare Insurance Plans Why Insurance Matters — Our Real Experience in Bali One of the biggest turning points in our travel life came when we had a serious motorcycle accident in Bali. What was meant to be a short ride turned into a high-impact crash that resulted in injuries, hospital bills, and a frightening reminder that accidents abroad can happen without warning. We Survived a Motorcycle Accident in Bali (New Law Could Ban Foreigners Driving Vehicles) What was meant to be a short ride turned into a high-impact crash that resulted in injuries, hospital bills, and a frightening reminder that accidents abroad can happen without warning. Read the Full Story Here Two major lessons stuck with us: 1. Even careful riders can’t avoid unpredictable roads Traffic rules, road quality, and driving behavior change drastically in Southeast Asia. It doesn’t matter how experienced you are—someone else’s mistake can become your problem instantly. 2. Medical costs abroad escalate fast Between hospital transfers, X-rays, pain medication, and wound care, the costs can quickly reach hundreds of dollars—or far more. This experience changed the way we look at insurance and is one of the main reasons we built this 2026 comparison guide. Choosing the Right Travel Insurance for Nomads: Lessons From Life on the Road Bali showed us how exposed we were without proper travel insurance. This guide explains what nomads really need, how to compare plans, and how to avoid the mistakes we made. Travel Insurance Lessons It’s not about selling policies — it’s about making sure no traveler is left vulnerable. ADVERTISEMENT Travel Insurance vs Expat Health Insurance — Which Do You Need? Full-time travel requires a different kind of insurance. Before comparing providers, here’s what nomads actually need: Travel Insurance (Short-Term) Best for emergency medical, trip issues, lost luggage, and country-hopping. Expat / International Insurance (Long-Term) Best for visa requirements, residency, long-term living abroad, and full medical care. This guide compares both — so you can choose based on how you travel. If You Ride a Scooter Abroad, Read This First Scooters and motorbikes are the most common way to get around Southeast Asia — and the leading cause of tourist injuries. Most people assume they’re covered. Most people are wrong. Here’s what your insurance MUST include: ✔ Medical coverage specifically for motorbike/scooter accidents Some policies exclude motorbike accidents completely unless you have the “correct” license. ✔ Hospital transport & medical evacuation Many Southeast Asian hospitals transfer patients to bigger cities — or even out of the country. ✔ License requirements This varies by insurer but may include: A motorcycle license from your home country An international driving permit Helmet compliance Age rules ✔ No alcohol-related exclusions If alcohol is involved, claims are almost always rejected. Which insurers cover scooters? World Nomads: yes (with valid license) Heymondo: often yes (depending on destination and license) SafetyWing: emergency medical only Feather: Covers medical care but not vehicle accident liability If you plan to ride, choose your provider carefully. 2026 Travel Insurance Comparison Table Provider Starting Price (USD/mo) Coverage Type Best For Key Features ~$128/month Expat Health Expats, long-term nomads, visa needs Visa-compliant; full medical; cancel anytime; global coverage ~$69/month International Health Long-term nomads Hospital + routine care; mental health; preventative care ~ $139/month Emergency Rescue & Evacuation Remote-area/high-risk travellers Worldwide emergency rescue, medical evacuation, crisis response ~$49/month Travel Insurance App-based travelers Digital claims; telemedicine; multi-trip insurance ~$56 (per 4 weeks) Nomad Travel Flexible nomads, short stays Auto-renew; emergency medical; travel cover ~$60/month Adventure Travel Backpackers & adventure trips Covers 200+ activities; emergency medical; gear protection The Best Travel & Expat Insurance Providers for Nomads in 2026 Based on real experience, real emergencies, and what actually works when you’re living abroad. Best for: Expats, visa applicants, long-term digital nomads Price: From ~$128 USD/month Feather’s International Health Insurance offers fast, flexible, and affordable worldwide coverage for expats, digital nomads, and students. Get visa-compliant health insurance, digital claims, and comprehensive care — from everyday doctor visits to maternity — all starting at approximately ~$128 USD/month with the flexibility to cancel anytime. Key Benefits: Global coverage — no need to switch plans when you move Unlimited policy duration Affordable & flexible — from ~$128 USD/month, cancel anytime, adjust coverage as needed Meets visa and residence permit requirements Fast online signup and claims—fully digital and in English Covers outpatient, inpatient, dental, psychiatric, and maternity care Includes travel coverage and repatriation Additional benefits: physical therapy, alternative medicine & preventative care Get Feather Insurance What to Look for in Nomad Insurance in 2026 Understand the essential features every digital nomad should consider when choosing reliable insurance in 2026. 1. Visa Requirements If you plan to stay in one country longer than 60–90 days, you’ll likely need international health insurance. 2. Full Medical Coverage Emergency care isn’t enough when living abroad. Look for: Outpatient Mental health Maternity Dental Chronic care 3. Digital Claims + Easy Communication Important if you're moving often. 4. Cancel Anytime Flexibility Nomad life can change quickly. Good to Know Before You Buy Nomad Insurance in 2026 Practical lessons from real incidents, hospital visits overseas, scooter accidents, and long-term life on the road. 1. Insurance Isn’t Accepted Everywhere Not all hospitals abroad accept international insurance directly. Some require you to pay first and claim later—especially in Southeast Asia and parts of Europe. 💡 Good to know: Always carry a digital and printed copy of your policy and your insurer’s emergency contact number. 2. Your Home Country Matters Some providers only accept customers from certain nationalities or require a home-country address. 💡 Good to know: Check eligibility rules before comparing prices—not every plan is available in every region. 3. Travel Insurance Doesn’t Replace Health Insurance Travel insurance is for emergencies. It does not cover routine medical appointments, chronic illness, mental health therapy, or dental work. 💡 Good to know: If you're staying somewhere longer than 60–90 days, expat health insurance is almost always the better fit. 4. Motorbike Rules Are Strict Everywhere If you plan to ride scooters in Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, or Malaysia, insurers have very rigid expectations. 💡 Good to know: Claims may be rejected if you don’t have the correct motorbike license from your home country and an international permit. 5. “Unlimited Coverage” Often Has Hidden Conditions Even plans that advertise “unlimited cover” may have restrictions for maternity, mental health, or high-risk activities. 💡 Good to know: Read the sub-limits—maternity and dental coverage almost always have caps. 6. Some Countries Require Insurance for Entry Destinations are increasingly requiring insurance: Thailand, Bali (proposed), UAE, Schengen areas, parts of South America, and many digital nomad visas. 💡 Good to know: Visa officers don’t accept generic travel insurance—they require visa-compliant health coverage. 7. Claims Move Faster When You Document Everything Receipts, hospital bills, diagnostic reports, photos of injury, police reports for road incidents—the more documentation you provide, the faster claims are approved. 💡 Good to know: Create a dedicated “Insurance” album on your phone so you can upload things quickly when needed. Our Evaluation Criteria How we compared each provider based on real travel experience, medical incidents abroad, and what digital nomads actually need in 2026. Choosing the right insurance isn’t just about comparing prices. After years of full-time travel, medical emergencies, and navigating hospital systems across Asia, Europe, and North America, we’ve learned that certain criteria matter far more than others. Here’s exactly how we evaluated the best travel and expat insurance providers for digital nomads in 2026: 1. Coverage Depth & Transparency We analyzed what each plan actually covers, not just what the marketing promises. This includes outpatient care, inpatient care, emergency medical, maternity, dental, and mental health—plus any exclusions or sub-limits hidden in the fine print. 2. Worldwide Flexibility Nomads move often. We only included providers that offer coverage across multiple regions with minimal restrictions, especially for Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas. 3. Visa & Residency Requirements With more digital nomad visas appearing each year, visa-compliant insurance is becoming essential. We reviewed which plans meet long-stay visa criteria and which ones are rejected by immigration officers. 4. Claims Process & Digital Support Fast and easy claims matter—especially if you’re abroad. We compared whether each provider supports digital claims, telemedicine, 24/7 hotlines, and English-language assistance. 5. Price vs. Coverage Balance Lowest prices aren’t always good value. We assessed whether each plan offers strong protection for its cost, including co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket caps. 6. Nomad-Specific Reputation We studied community feedback from nomad groups, forums, long-stay travellers, and personal experiences, including our own accidents and medical emergencies overseas. 7. Fine-Print Rules (Motorbike, Alcohol, Adventure Sports) Many policies have exclusions that invalidate claims. We ensured each provider’s rules around scooters, helmets, high-risk activities, and alcohol-related incidents were clearly checked. Frequently Asked Questions Clear, practical answers to the biggest insurance questions digital nomads and long-term travelers ask us every year. What’s the best insurance for digital nomads in 2026? It depends on how you travel. • Feather is best for long-term expats who need full medical coverage, outpatient care, maternity, mental health, and official visa documentation. • SafetyWing is ideal for flexible nomads who mostly need emergency coverage and travel protection. • World Nomads is built for adventure-heavy or sports-focused trips. • Genki is strong for comprehensive medical coverage without the bureaucracy of traditional insurers. Do I need travel insurance AND health insurance? Usually, no—but it depends on your situation. Travel insurance covers emergencies and trip issues, while expat health insurance covers regular healthcare. If you’re living abroad for more than 60–90 days, travel insurance usually isn’t enough. Does insurance cover motorbike or scooter accidents? Not always! Most insurers require: • a valid motorbike license from your home country • an International Driving Permit (IDP) • helmet use If these conditions aren’t met, claims may be rejected—even if the accident wasn’t your fault. This is especially important if you ride in Bali,(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-and-lifestyle-blog/tags/bali) Thailand,(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/asia/thailand-country-guide) Vietnam,(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/asia/vietnam-country-guide) or Malaysia.(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-hub/destinations/asia/malaysia-country-guide) Is expat health insurance required for long-stay visas? Yes. Many countries—including Thailand, Indonesia (proposed), the UAE, most of Europe, and parts of South America—require visa applicants to show proof of full health coverage, not travel insurance. Can I cancel my nomad insurance anytime? Some providers allow full flexibility (like Feather and SafetyWing), but traditional policies often require 6–12 month contracts. Always confirm cancellation rules before committing. How can I ensure my travel insurance will pay out? To ensure your travel insurance will pay out, look for insurers with digital claims systems, 24/7 English-language support, clear policy documents, good traveler reviews, and simple explanations of exclusions. Insurers with strong digital infrastructure typically approve claims the fastest. Is the cheapest plan always enough? No. Cheaper plans often exclude routine care, mental health support, maternity, dental, or motorbike incidents—all of which are some of the most common expenses for nomads. Do I need insurance even if I'm healthy? Absolutely. Our own scooter accident in Bali taught us that even careful travelers can face unpredictable situations. Medical bills abroad can escalate quickly, especially without the right insurance. Have a question we haven’t covered? Get in touch with us here . Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide. Explore More Travel Resources Find the tools, guides, and practical information you need to plan safer, smarter, and more connected long-term travel. eSIM Comparison Bali Accident Blog Travel Hub Travel Resources

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Meet the Closer Lives members: a community of digital nomads, travelers, and creators sharing stories, experiences, and alternative living inspiration. Closer Lives Community Members Discover our Closer Lives members — a global mix of digital nomads, remote workers, and travel bloggers. Explore their stories and learn how they connect through travel and alternative living. Not a Member Yet? Join Our Community Email* Subscribe I want to subscribe to your mailing list.

Learn how Closer Lives collects, uses, and protects your personal data. Understand your privacy rights under GDPR & CCPA/CPRA. Your data security is our priority. Privacy Policy Closer Lives | Travel & Lifestyle Emporium UPDATED: 12/11/2025 This Privacy Policy describes how and when we, Jennifer David & Leon Gregori, operating as Closer Lives Inc and Closer Lives Emporium ("we," "us," or "our"), collect, use, and share information when you purchase an item from us, contact us, or otherwise use our services through www.closerlives.com or its related sites and services. We are based in Canada and sell mainly to buyers in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, but also offer our items for sale worldwide. This Privacy Policy does not apply to the practices of third parties that we do not own or control, including Etsy, Facebook, Instagram, or any third-party services you may otherwise access. For information on their privacy practices, please refer to their respective privacy policies. For information regarding our terms of service, please visit: For information regarding our use of cookies, please visit our Cookie Policy For information regarding our use of affiliate links, please visit our Affiliate Disclosure 1. Personal Information We Collect To fulfil your order, you must provide us with certain information (which you will have authorized to provide to us), such as your name, email address, postal address, payment information, and the details of the product that you’re ordering. The provision of this information is necessary for us to process and complete your purchase. If you choose not to provide this essential information, we may not be able to fulfill your order. You may also choose to provide us with additional personal information (for a custom order, for example), if you contact us directly. This additional information is provided voluntarily. 2. The Legal Bases We Rely On to Collect, Use, and Share Personal Information We rely on several legal bases to collect, use, and share your personal information, as needed: To provide our services: Such as when we use your information to fulfil your order, to settle disputes, or to provide customer support. This processing is necessary for the performance of a contract with you. With your affirmative consent: Which you may revoke at any time, such as by signing up for our mailing list. To comply with a legal obligation or court order: Or in connection with a legal claim, such as retaining information about your purchases if required by tax law. For the purpose of our legitimate interests: If those legitimate interests are not overridden by your rights or interests, such as providing and improving our services, preventing fraud, or ensuring the security of our systems. We use your information to provide the services you requested and in our legitimate interest to improve our services. 3. The Third Parties With Whom We Share Personal Information Information about our customers is important to our business. We share your personal information for very limited reasons and in limited circumstances, as follows: Service Providers: We engage certain trusted third parties to perform functions and provide services to our shop, such as delivery companies, payment processors, and analytics providers. We will share your personal information with these third parties, but only to the extent necessary to perform these services and in accordance with contractual agreements that require them to protect your data. Business Transfers: If we sell or merge our business, we may disclose your information as part of that transaction, only to the extent permitted by law. Compliance with Laws: We may collect, use, retain, and share your information if we have a good faith belief that it is reasonably necessary to: (a) respond to legal process or to government requests; (b) enforce our agreements, terms and policies; (c) prevent, investigate, and address fraud and other illegal activity, security, or technical issues; or (d) protect the rights, property, and safety of our customers, or others. Affiliate Marketing Partners: In the context of our use of affiliate links, we may share certain information with our affiliate partners or networks (e.g., the merchant whose product we are promoting) to track referrals and attribute commissions. This may involve the use of cookies or other tracking technologies. We only share the minimum necessary data for these purposes. Please see our "Cookies and Tracking Technologies" section for more details. 4. The Length of Time We Keep Personal Information (Data Retention) We retain your personal information only for as long as necessary to provide you with our services and as described in this Privacy Policy. However, we may also be required to retain this information to comply with our legal and regulatory obligations, to resolve disputes, and to enforce our agreements. We will generally keep your data for 4 years. 5. International Data Transfers We may store and process your information through third-party hosting services in the US and other jurisdictions. As a result, we may transfer your personal information to a jurisdiction with different data protection and government surveillance laws than your jurisdiction. If we transfer information about you outside of the EU/UK, we rely on legally recognized safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) or the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (if applicable and certified) as the legal basis for the transfer. We ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws. 6. Your Rights Regarding Our Use of Your Personal Information If you reside in certain territories, including the EU/UK and California, you have a number of rights in relation to your personal information. While some of these rights apply generally, certain rights apply only in certain limited cases. We will describe these rights below: ⪢ For EU/UK Residents (GDPR): Access: You may have the right to access and receive a copy of the personal information we hold about you by contacting us using the contact information below. Change, restrict, delete: You may also have rights to change, restrict our use of, or delete your personal information. Absent exceptional circumstances (like where we are required to store data for legal reasons) we will generally delete your personal information upon request. Data Portability: You have the right to receive a copy of your personal data in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format, and to transmit that data to another controller where technically feasible. Complain: If you reside in the EU/UK and wish to raise a concern about our use of your information (and without prejudice to any other rights you may have), you have the right to do so with your local data protection authority. ⪢ For California Residents (CCPA/CPRA): If you are a California resident, you have specific rights regarding your personal information under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA): Right to Know: You have the right to request that we disclose to you the categories and specific pieces of personal information we have collected about you, the categories of sources from which that information is collected, the business or commercial purpose for collecting, selling, or sharing personal information, the categories of third parties to whom we disclose personal information, and the categories of personal information that we have sold or shared or disclosed for a business purpose. Right to Delete: You have the right to request the deletion of personal information that we have collected from you, subject to certain exceptions. Right to Correct: You have the right to request the correction of inaccurate personal information we maintain about you. Right to Opt-Out of Sale or Sharing: You have the right to direct us not to sell or share your personal information to third parties. "Sharing" includes disclosing personal information for cross-context behavioral advertising. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information: To exercise this right, please visit our dedicated page: Right to Limit Use and Disclosure of Sensitive Personal Information: You have the right to limit our use and disclosure of your sensitive personal information to only that which is necessary to perform the services or provide the goods reasonably expected by an average consumer. Right to Non-Discrimination: We will not discriminate against you for exercising any of your CCPA/CPRA rights. ⪢ Exercising Your Rights: To exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the contact information provided below. We will respond to your request in accordance with applicable law. For CCPA/CPRA opt-out requests, we will provide at least two methods for submission, including an interactive web form accessible via the "Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information" link, and we will not require proof of identity for these requests. We will honor opt-out requests for at least 12 months. ⪢ Do Not Track (DNT) and Global Privacy Control (GPC) Signals: We strive to respect your privacy preferences. We respond to Global Privacy Control (GPC) signals as a valid request to opt-out of the sale or sharing of your personal information for California residents. We do not currently respond to "Do Not Track" signals. 7. Data Security We are committed to protecting your personal information. We implement and maintain reasonable and appropriate technical and organizational measures designed to protect the personal information we collect and store. These measures include, but are not limited to: Encryption: Using encryption for data in transit and at rest, where appropriate. Access Controls: Implementing strict access controls and multi-factor authentication to limit access to personal data to authorized personnel only. Secure Servers: Storing data on secure servers with robust firewall protection. Regular Monitoring: Continuously monitoring our systems for potential vulnerabilities and attacks. Breach Notification: Maintaining protocols for promptly identifying, addressing, and notifying affected individuals and authorities in the event of a data breach, as required by law. While we strive to protect your personal information, no method of transmission over the Internet or method of electronic storage is 100% secure. Therefore, we cannot guarantee its absolute security. 8. Our Hosting Platform and Data Security" or "Data Protection Measures. CloserLives.com is built on the Wix.com platform. Wix.com is 100% committed to data protection. They are aware of privacy regulations being developed worldwide, including the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) and LGPD (Brazilian General Data Protection Law), which are similar to the European GDPR. Additionally, they stay informed on new guidelines about the use of cookies and similar technologies published by European data protection authorities. These privacy regulations are designed to provide everyone with more transparency about how their data is being used and stored, giving Wix users and visitors greater control over their personal information. Wix.com provides the technology to protect your personal data and any data related to your site visitors and members. While Wix provides the tools and infrastructure for data protection, we, as the site owners, remain responsible for ensuring your specific data collection and processing practices comply with all applicable laws. 9. Cookies and Tracking Technologies Our website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies (such as web beacons and pixel tags) to enhance your browsing experience, analyze site traffic, and for marketing purposes, including affiliate tracking. What are Cookies? Cookies are small text files placed on your device by websites that you visit. They are widely used to make websites work, or work more efficiently, as well as to provide information to the owners of the site. Types and Purposes of Cookies: We use various types of cookies for different purposes, including: Strictly Necessary Cookies: Essential for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. Performance Cookies: Allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. Functional Cookies: Enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. Targeting/Advertising Cookies: Used to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant advertisements on other sites. These may be set by us or by third-party advertising partners. Affiliate Tracking Cookies: Used to track referrals from our affiliate partners to attribute commissions correctly. Your Consent and Control: Under GDPR, we obtain your explicit consent for non-essential cookies through a cookie banner or similar mechanism when you first visit our site. You have the right to accept or reject different types of cookies. You can manage your cookie preferences at any time through our cookie consent tool or by adjusting your browser settings. For more detailed information about the cookies we use and how to manage them, please refer to our dedicated Cookie Policy . 10. Ezoic Services This website uses the services of Ezoic Inc. (“Ezoic”), including to manage third-party interest-based advertising. Ezoic may employ a variety of technologies on this website, including tools to serve content, display advertisements and enable advertising to visitors of this website, which may utilize first and third-party cookies. A cookie is a small text file sent to your device by a web server that enables the website to remember information about your browsing activity. First-party cookies are created by the site you are visiting, while third-party cookies are set by domains other than the one you're visiting. Ezoic and our partners may place third-party cookies, tags, beacons, pixels, and similar technologies to monitor interactions with advertisements and optimize ad targeting. Please note that disabling cookies may limit access to certain content and features on the website, and rejecting cookies does not eliminate advertisements but will result in non-personalized advertising. You can find more information about cookies and how to manage them here . The following information may be collected, used, and stored in a cookie when serving personalized ads: IP address Operating system type and version Device type Language preferences Web browser type Email (in a hashed or encrypted form) Ezoic and its partners may use this data in combination with information that has been independently collected to deliver targeted advertisements across various platforms and websites. Ezoic’s partners may also gather additional data, such as unique IDs, advertising IDs, geolocation data, usage data, device information, traffic data, referral sources, and interactions between users and websites or advertisements, to create audience segments for targeted advertising across different devices, browsers, and apps. You can find more information about interest-based advertising and how to manage them here . You can view Ezoic’s privacy policy here , or for additional information about Ezoic’s advertising and other partners, you can view Ezoic’s advertising partners here . 11. How to Contact Us For purposes of EU data protection law, we, Jennifer David & Leon Gregori, as owners of Closer Lives Inc and Closer Lives Emporium, are the data controllers of your personal information. If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, you can get in touch at: Email: [email protected] Physical Address: Canada Alternatively, you can fill out our online form here . We will always aim to reply back to you within 24 hours. 12. Policy Updates We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, legal requirements, or for other operational reasons. We commit to reviewing and updating this policy at least once every 12 months, or whenever there are significant changes in our data collection or processing activities. When we make significant changes, we will notify you by: Updating the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy. We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any changes. Back to Policy Hub How to Contact Us If you have any questions or concerns that are not addressed here, you can get in touch by email at: [email protected] Alternatively tap the button below to fill out our online form. Get in touch

Access our Link Hub with quick links to travel guides, resources, tools, videos, and helpful pages across the Closer Lives site. Closer Lives Link Hub Travel. Create. Connect. Come Closer! Hi, we're Jenn & Leon – full-time travelers, bloggers, content creators & founders of Closerlives.com. Explore Closer Lives with quick access to our blog, travel resources, lifestyle emporium, country guides, newsletter, and social channels. EXPLORE OUR WORLD Visit Our Blog FREE Country Guides Travel Hub Poetry Watch Us on YouTube Lifestyle Hub TRAVEL SMARTER Travel & Lifestyle Emporium Essential Travel Resources Save up to 10% on eSIMs Travel Insurance Hotel Deals NordVPN for Safer Travel Daily Drop Credit Cards CONNECT WITH US Follow Us on Pinterest Follow Jenn & Leon on Instagram Subscribe for Latest News COME ON CLOSER Our Story Meet Leon Jenn's Grey Hair Journey Meet Jennifer Work With Us Write for Us Contact Us

Get to know who we are, our story, values, and what drives Closer Lives, from travel and creativity to community and shared experiences. Welcome to Closer Lives: Your Guide to Travel, Alternative Living, and Honest Storytelling At Closer Lives, We Explore More Than Maps. We Journey Through Mindsets Closer Lives is where thoughtful travel, intentional living, and real stories come together. We’re Jenn & Leon, full-time travelers sharing practical travel resources, destination guides, and personal experiences to help you explore the world with confidence and curiosity. After leaving the traditional 9-to-5 behind, we built a life shaped by freedom, creativity, and a desire to live differently. Our journey includes everything from long-term travel and digital nomad life to embracing personal transformation—like Jenn’s empowering grey-hair journey, which has become one of the most unexpected parts of our story to inspire others. What We Do We turn real travel experience into useful guides, smart resources, and everyday inspiration. We create detailed travel guides, honest reviews, itinerary ideas, and helpful tips for traveling smarter, saving money, and embracing a more flexible, alternative lifestyle. Through our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium, we curate products and resources we personally use—from travel gear to digital tools—to help you plan your next adventure with ease. Everything we publish has one goal: to make travel more accessible, meaningful, and doable for anyone who wants to step outside the conventional path. Read More Our Engagement Story Discover Aphrodite’s Rock, the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love, and our engagement spot! Find out more about our story, how it all happened, and all you need to know about visiting this incredible location (and also Leon's ancestral homeland). Who We Are Two curious minds, one shared path, shaped by travel, creativity, and lived experience. Together we bring backgrounds in coaching, teaching, writing, retail leadership, and creative entrepreneurship. These experiences shape the way we share our journey: practical advice when you need guidance, reflective storytelling when you need connection, and plenty of real-life insight from years spent living on the road. Jenn’s experience going grey has become a core part of our lifestyle storytelling—proof that growth and self-belief can come from the most personal places. Leon’s passion for creativity and exploration fuels our content, from travel hubs to social media guides. What We Believe That travel, curiosity, and self-belief can reshape how you live your life. Our guiding principals: Travel is a catalyst for growth Freedom comes in many forms Learning never truly ends Stories connect us in powerful ways Alternative living is possible for anyone, with the right tools, resources, and encouragement Meet Jenn & Leon More from Jenn Jennifer David Jenn is a former blogger in her 40s, has spent much of her life raising children (both her own and others), and is the founder of many projects. She is a former funeral director and a certified death, life, confidence, and mindfulness coach. Jenn could be a perpetual student of the humanities and is a big fan of culture and astrology (she's a Scorpio). She abides by the rule of living life to the fullest and finding one's true calling and purpose in life through manifestation and the power of belief. Oh, and she is a big fan of cuisine (who isn't!) She is also the intense but laid-back one. More from Leon Leon Gregori Leon is in his 30s (he's a cancer), has never married, and has no children (before meeting Jenn and her famjam). He formerly worked in retail and antiques/reclamation in the UK before leaving it all behind to join Jenn in Canada. Leon is a published author, a fan of Brandy, KFC, Subway, and loves history, architecture, football (Arsenal), pool (billiards), technology, and politics. He is the polite but particular one! Leon also runs our website in the background, constantly learning and evolving to help deliver the best user experience. What We Offer At Closer Lives, we blend creativity, exploration, and connection into everything we do. Here's how we bring you closer to the world and yourself. Closer Lives Emporium Our online store features travel-inspired designs and positivity-packed products. From fun apparel to vibrant suitcases, each item is thoughtfully designed by us, with love from the road. Explore the Emporium Explore Our Socials Catch our latest travel vlogs, lifestyle reflections, and poetic snapshots. Join us visually as we share what it means to live freely and curiously. Go to Social Media Hub Guides & Destinations Explore our Travel Hub for in-depth country guides, top destinations, and insider tips to plan smarter and travel deeper. Find inspiration, resources, and everything you need for your next journey. Go to Travel Hub Travel & Lifestyle Blog Dive into our slow travel guides, real-world tips, and behind-the-scenes stories. We share raw experiences, itineraries, advice, and more. Our blog is your go-to hub for inspiration, destination ideas, and life on the move. Visit the Blog Closer Lives Community A space to connect with fellow travelers, digital nomads, and alternative lifestyle enthusiasts. Groups are a place for advice, real talk, and shared stories from people living life on their terms. Go to Groups Essential Resources Find trusted tools, services, and money-saving tips to make travel simpler, safer, and more affordable. From eSIMs to insurance and beyond — everything you need to stay connected and prepared on the road. Go to Resource Hub Coming Soon: Digital Nomad Training Courses Ready to work from anywhere? We're building a practical course packed with honest guidance and real experience to help you take the leap into location-independent living. Coming Soon Stay Connected Sign up to get our fortnightly newsletters with the latest blog posts, product drops, exclusive sales, travel tips, and even a behind-the-scenes look at our adventures as full-time travelers. Subscribe to the Newsletter Interested in Ways to Work Together? Check out our collaboration resources to learn more, or reach out to us via email. Work With Us Write for Us Media & Partnerships Email Us

Work with us on collaborations, partnerships, sponsored content, reviews, and creative projects built on real travel and lifestyle experience. Work With Us at Closer Lives At Closer Lives, we explore more than maps - we journey through mindsets At Closer Lives, we’ve built a platform around full-time travel, alternative living, and authentic storytelling. Through our blogs, videos, and lifestyle products, we connect with an engaged global community of readers and viewers who value mindful exploration and creative freedom. If you’re looking to reach a thoughtful, travel-minded audience through story-driven content that feels genuine, you’re in the right place. Mini Media Kit & Audience Snapshot A quick look at who we reach, what we create, and how your brand can connect through authentic, story-driven content. 94k Site monthly views 26k Blog monthly views 15 Domain Rating (DR) 15k + YouTube Subs 25k + Instagram followers Collaboration Types 🎬Dedicated YouTube Video: 500 USD minimum for a full 5- to 8-minute feature 🎞️ Integrated YouTube Segment: 300 USD for a 45- to 90-second brand inclusion ⭐ Sponsored Reviews: 250 USD for a permanent SEO article inc. images ✍️ Guest Post (You Provide): 100 USD with editorial review 📝 Guest Post (We Write): 200 USD, including SEO research and drafting 🔗 Link Insertion: 70 USD for a contextual 12-month do-follow placement 📣 Social Add-On: 50 USD per platform for Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest Write for Us Media & Partnerships Email Us For full policies and placement details, visit our Media & Partnerships page. Ways to Collaborate with Us We offer flexible, transparent partnerships — from guest posts and reviews to creative campaigns — crafted to align with your goals and our audience. Guest Post: Client Provided Price: $100 USD Includes: Editorial review, publication on the blog, and promotion. Content Scope: Unlimited word count, up to 10 high-resolution images provided by the client. Outbound Links: Maximum of 2 relevant, non-promotional links per article. Mandatory: Must be submitted and paid for via our official submission form. Guest Post: We Write Price: $200 USD Includes: Full-service content creation. Content Scope: Includes topic ideation, dedicated SEO research, professional drafting, and editorial review. Outbound Links: A maximum of 2 relevant, non-promotional links embedded by our team. Benefit: Guarantees alignment with our quality standards and maximizes publication speed. Link Insertion: (Existing Post) Price: $70 USD Service: We will contextually insert your link into an already published article that is relevant to your niche. Duration: The link insertion fee covers the administrative and editorial costs of adding and maintaining the link for a fixed 12-month period. Renewal fees apply after this duration. Policy Note: To maintain compliance with Google's guidelines, all inserted links are strictly reviewed for relevance and are designated as rel="sponsored" (policy-compliant). Requirement: Insertion is only possible if the link is contextually relevant to the existing article and the anchor text is approved by our editorial team. Sponsored Review Content: Honest, story-driven review of your product, service, or destination. Optimization: Search-optimized article, including high-quality images and screenshots (where applicable). Placement: Permanent blog placement with a policy-compliant, sponsored link (tagged with rel="sponsored"). Bonus: Includes promotion on one social platform of your choice. Prices are in United States Dollars, paid upfront via BACS, PayPal, Debit/Credit Card or Wise. Write for Closer Lives Share your voice, stories, and insights with our global community of travelers and creators. We welcome authentic, experience-led guest contributions. Are you passionate about travel writing and storytelling? Learn more about our guest blogging process, guidelines, and how to submit your proposal. We look forward to collaborating with talented writers like you! Write for Us Writer Guidelines Submission Form Our Reach at a Glance From 94K+ monthly site visits to over 15K YouTube subscribers and 2M+ views, our community continues to grow across platforms and continents. 94k Monthly site visits 15 Domain Rating (DR) 26k Blog monthly views 1k Email subscribers 15k + YouTube Subs - 2M views 250 + Blog posts 25k + Instagram followers 250 + Vlogs Trusted Partnerships & Collaborations We’ve worked with leading travel brands, ethical companies, and hospitality partners who share our commitment to meaningful storytelling. View Mini Media Kit The Story Behind Closer Lives From teaching online to exploring 40+ countries, our journey has evolved into a creative platform blending travel, storytelling, and connection. When we set off to travel full-time, teaching English funded our early adventures — but storytelling became the compass. From that spark, Closer Lives was born: a travel blog, YouTube channel, and creative hub built from our shared experiences across 40+ countries. We’ve since grown to 300K+ article views and 2M+ video views, collaborating with inspiring partners while staying true to authenticity and usefulness for our audience. Today, we continue to explore, write, film, and create — always with a focus on meaningful connections and mindful travel. Before We Collaborate A few practical notes to keep our collaborations transparent, aligned, and rewarding for both sides. Content must align with our values: travel, lifestyle, digital nomadism, ethical brands. We retain editorial control and may decline non-relevant submissions. Payments: upfront via BACS, Credit / Debit Card, PayPal or Wise. Prices in USD and subject to change. For full placement details, see our Media & Partnerships page. Common Questions About Collaborations A few quick answers to help you plan and get the most from your partnership with Closer Lives. How quickly do you respond to collaboration requests? We usually respond within 48 hours (business days). For time-sensitive campaigns, please mention “Urgent” in your subject line. Can you create custom packages or ongoing collaborations? Yes! We often tailor packages for repeat partners or multi-post campaigns. Just mention your goals when reaching out. Do you accept product exchanges or gifted stays? Occasionally — if the brand, destination, or product aligns perfectly with our travel niche and storytelling goals. All gifted collaborations must still follow disclosure guidelines. Will my collaboration include social media promotion? Social posts are optional add-ons for +$50 USD per platform. We’ll happily advise which platforms best fit your campaign. How long do published collaborations stay live? Posts and reviews remain live permanently unless they become outdated or the brand discontinues operations. We guarantee active links for at least 12 months. Can I request an update to a past collaboration post? Yes. Minor updates (like links or logos) can be made within the first 12 months at no extra cost. Have more questions? See our Collaboration FAQs → Ready to partner up? Send us your brief — we’ll confirm fit, outline deliverables, and share next steps. Media & Partnerships For sponsored content, link insertions, brand campaigns, and paid partnerships with Closer Lives. Share the essentials below, and we’ll reply by email within 48 hours. First name(Required) Last name(Required) Company/Agency (Required) Email(Required) We’ll respond by email. Continue to Partnership Details → We do not accept link swaps, PBN requests, or domain-list outreach. Automated mass emails may be silently discarded. Interested in other ways to work together? Check out our other resources to learn more, or reach out to us via email. Work With Us Write for Us Writer Guidelines Email Us

How we recovered disabled Instagram accounts. Real steps, timelines, mistakes to avoid, and honest outcomes. Instagram Account Disabled Recovery – How to Fix & Appeal in 2026 Hi, it's Leon here 👋 I know how crushing it feels to suddenly find your Instagram account disabled. When it happened to me, I felt a mix of shock, anger, and helplessness. For many of us, Instagram isn’t just an app — it’s our creative outlet, our community, even our livelihood. Losing access can feel like losing a part of your identity. If you’re here, you’re probably staring at a login screen telling you your account has been disabled. I’ve been there, and I want to help you through it. While Instagram has removed some of the older recovery options, there are still paths back in. In this guide, I’ll share the updated recovery process for 2025, practical steps you can try right now, and tips to prevent this nightmare from happening again. FAQs Follower / Unfollower Tracking Back to Social Media Hub ADVERTISEMENT Why Instagram Accounts Get Disabled Back up your account details to protect against restrictions, hacks, or sudden loss. A simple habit can save your content and connections. 💡 Many accounts are disabled by mistake. If you know you haven’t violated rules, stay firm in your belief when trying recovery routes. ● Policy Violations: Content flagged for hate speech, nudity, harassment, or misinformation. ● System Mistakes: Automated AI systems wrongly flag harmless content. ● Suspicious Login Activity: Logging in from new countries, devices, or using public Wi-Fi without protection. ● Copyright Reports: Using media without rights can trigger an immediate ban. ● Fake or Impersonation Claims: Sometimes triggered by malicious reports. First Steps After Your Account Is Disabled When it happened to me, I wasted valuable time panicking. Looking back, here’s what I recommend doing first: Take Screenshots Always save the exact error messages you see. Check for Appeal Button Some users still see “Disagree with Decision” on their login screen. Use it immediately if it’s there. Log In From Different Devices Sometimes a desktop or another phone gives different recovery prompts. Stay Calm Don’t rush to create multiple appeals or accounts right away. 💡 Document everything; it helps if you need to reference timelines when contacting Meta support. The 2025 Recovery Options Since Instagram has suspended most old appeal forms, recovery now depends on three main paths: The Hacked Account Recovery Flow If you suspect foul play, such as your password being compromised, this is the best option for recovering your account. Go to Instagram Hacked Help Follow prompts to confirm your account type and username. If available, you may be asked for selfie verification or to confirm your email. 💡 This option works best if your account was disabled due to suspicious login attempts. Appeal Through the Login Screen Use different devices if not seen on the login page. Note that this opportunity usually only appears once, and decisions are final. When trying to log in, look for “Disagree with Decision” or “Request Review”. If it appears, use it right away. Explain that your account was wrongly disabled and that you follow the guidelines. 💡 This option isn’t always shown, so don’t panic if you don’t see it. Ensure the Instagram app is updated. All else fails: take the Meta Verified Route Create a new Instagram account. Alternatively, verify your Facebook account (linked to Instagram). Purchase Meta Verified — this gives you direct support channels with real humans at Meta. Use this to raise a ticket about your disabled account. 💡 While Meta Verified costs money, many users have found it’s the only way to get an actual response. 💡 While we are not affiliated with Meta in any way, we do offer free support, and the Meta Verified option has been the most successful in recovering accounts this year—if the disablement was a genuine error. My Experience With Recovery When my account was disabled, I tried everything: forms, appeals, waiting. Nothing worked until I leaned into the routes that actually connect you with support. That’s why I’m writing this guide — to save you the wasted time and stress I went through. If you want the full details of my personal journey, I’ve documented it in these posts: My Instagram Account Was Disabled: Here is How I Got it Back and How You Can Too! Instagram disabled your account? I’ve been there. This step-by-step guide shares how I fought back - and won. Real results, tips, and everything I wish I’d known from the start. Recover Your Account How to Recover a Deactivated or Disabled Instagram Account: Step-by-Step Guide Lost access to your Instagram account? This guide covers everything from appeal links to live chat with Meta. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid a repeat. Your Steps to Recovery Preventing Future Lockouts Even if you get back in, prevention is key. Here’s what I wish I had done earlier: ● Enable Two-Factor Authentication: The best layer of protection. ● Avoid “Follower Tracker” Apps: These often trigger auto-bans. ● Use a VPN: Protects your logins, especially on public Wi-Fi. ● Keep Details Updated: Email and phone number linked to your account. ● Know the Guidelines: Don’t risk copyright or content flags. 💡 If Instagram is important to your work or business, consider Meta Verified as an insurance policy. Access to support is worth it. Get 73% off NordVPN's 2-year plan + 3 extra months If you manage Instagram from hotels, cafés, or airports, use a VPN to encrypt your connection and reduce risk on public Wi-Fi. Get NordVPN FAQs – Disabled Instagram Accounts Quick answers to the top questions about disabled Instagram accounts, and recovery. How can I protect my Instagram account from being disabled or hacked? Use a strong, unique password, enable two-factor authentication, regularly monitor your account activity, and avoid using third-party apps that violate Instagram's guidelines. Find out more (https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/my-instagram-account-was-disabled-here-is-how-i-got-it-back-in-2022)on our blog. See our Frequently Asked Questions (https://www.closerlives.com/frequently-asked-questions)for other queries. How can Meta Verified help me get my Instagram account back? Meta Verified provides additional support and verification features. If your account is disabled and you are verified, you may receive priority in resolving the issue. What should I do if my Instagram account was hacked and I did not violate any guidelines? If you believe your account was hacked, use Instagram’s account recovery tools and report the issue through the Help Center.(https://www.instagram.com/hacked) Instagram will guide you through securing your account. What should I do after receiving the first Instagram account disabled message? Read the message carefully. Instagram typically provides a reason for disabling your account (i.e violating community guidelines). If you believe it was a mistake, proceed with appealing through the provided link on the app. See our Frequently Asked Questions (https://www.closerlives.com/frequently-asked-questions)for other queries. Will I be able to recover my disabled Instagram account? In most cases, if you didn’t violate any guidelines, there’s a good chance you can recover your account by appealing. However, if Instagram determines a severe violation, recovery may not be possible. If your appeal has been unsuccessful, Instagram will begin the deletion process. The deletion process is irreversible, and will take 30 days to complete from the date of Instagram's final decision. Why did Instagram disable my account? Instagram may disable accounts for various reasons, such as violating community guidelines, using automation tools, or unusual activity. Sometimes, accounts are mistakenly flagged or compromised. Generally, you will have 28 days to recover your account before the deletion process begins. Instagram only allows one appeal, and typically its decision is final. How long does it take to recover? Anywhere from a day to weeks. Meta Verified often speeds this up. Can every account be recovered? No, permanent bans for severe violations are rarely overturned. Do I need ID? Yes, often Instagram requires ID that matches your account info. What information does Instagram typically want to know during the appeal process? Instagram may ask for identification verification, details about why your account was disabled, or proof of identity if your account was hacked. They may also ask: 1. Which 3rd party apps, tools, or services have you connected with your IG account? 2. Has your account been compromised/hacked in the past few months? 3. What is the primary use of the account? 4. How many people have access to the account? How many actively use it day-to-day? 5. What are the most commonly used features of Instagram that you / your team uses on this account (search, messaging, commenting, etc.)? The important thing here is to be honest; Instagram will be able to see all of these things behind-the-scenes, so denying them could significantly harm your chances of regaining your account. What should I do if my Instagram ad account is disabled or has issues? Visit the Facebook Business Help Center to appeal or resolve issues related to your ad account. Ensure your account complies with all advertising policies. You can find out more information on how to do this here.(https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/my-instagram-account-was-disabled-here-is-how-i-got-it-back-in-2022) How can I get help from Facebook Live Support for Instagram issues? Facebook Live Support can assist with Instagram-related issues. You can access this feature through your Facebook Business account or through the help section in your Instagram app. What should I do if I haven’t received a response from Instagram after 7 days? If you’ve waited more than a week without a response, you can try to reach out via Facebook Live Support (https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/how-to-recover-a-de-activated-or-disabled-instagram-account)for further assistance. At this stage it would be worth considering opening a new account, where you can apply for Meta Verified (https://www.closerlives.com/blog/post/how-to-recover-a-de-activated-or-disabled-instagram-account)and access Instagram Live Chat. Note that there is no guarantee either of these options will either work or be available to you. What should I avoid doing while waiting for a response from Instagram? Do not create a new account or continue to engage with your current account during the appeal process. This may further complicate your case. What should I do after submitting an Instagram account appeal? After submitting an appeal, wait for Instagram’s response, which can take up to 14 days. As of 2025, Instagram has changed its policy to only allow one appeal. Decisions made after this are final and cannot be reversed. What are Instagram Disabled Account Appeal Forms, and how do I use them? Appeal forms were previously used to submit a request for Instagram to review your account’s suspension. In 2024, it appears that Meta / Instagram has removed the functionality of these forms. How can I contact Instagram regarding a disabled account? You can also contact Instagram on the app via Live Chat, however this is only available to Meta Verified users. It is also possible to contact Meta if you have a Business Account. You can appeal through Instagram directly on their website at: What if I don’t see an appeal option? Use the hacked flow or Meta Verified route. What if I never get a response? Sadly, some accounts aren’t restored. In that case, creating a new account may be the only option. 💡 Tip: If you can’t get your old account back, focus on securing your new one right from the start. Closing Thoughts I won’t sugarcoat it — recovering a disabled Instagram account is stressful and sometimes feels hopeless. I know because I went through it myself. But with persistence, patience, and the right approach, recovery is possible. My Instagram Account Was Disabled: Here is How I Got it Back and How You Can Too! Instagram disabled your account? I’ve been there. This step-by-step guide shares how I fought back - and won. Real results, tips, and everything I wish I’d known from the start. Recover Your Account How to Recover a Deactivated or Disabled Instagram Account: Step-by-Step Guide Lost access to your Instagram account? This guide covers everything from appeal links to live chat with Meta. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid a repeat. Your Steps to Recovery Share Your Experience: Join Our Free Group We created this group because Instagram account recovery is confusing, stressful, and often exploited by scammers. This is a space for real support, real experiences, and honest guidance. View Group Additional Resources Whether you regain your old account or have to start fresh, remember: your creativity and voice matter more than the platform. If this guide helped you, I’d love for you to check out our Social Media Hub, where we share more resources to protect and grow your digital presence. Back to Social Media Hub Find Leon on instagram Get in Touch Subscribe for updates Subscribe to stay connected with our recovery support group, helpful updates, and shared experiences from people going through the same process. Email* SUBSCRIBE Please add me to the mailing list.

Watch our travel videos on YouTube, sharing real journeys, destinations, cruise life, culture, and behind-the-scenes moments from the road. Jenn & Leon on YouTube: Real Travel, Real Stories Inspiring Travel, Culture & Lifestyle Through Honest Vlogs from Global Adventures We explore more than maps; we journey through mindsets. Follow our full-time adventure across 44+ countries through honest, heart-driven vlogs. Subscribe on YouTube Visit our Store Meet Jenn & Leon – The Duo Behind Closer Lives 40+ countries ▪ FT travel since '21 ▪ 2.5m+ views ▪ 260+ videos We’re Jenn and Leon, a Canadian–British couple who left the 9–5 behind in 2021 to travel the world full-time. From meeting on a cruise ship in Australia to now filming our journey across 5 continents, our content brings together the raw and the remarkable. Our YouTube channel has grown to over 15,000 subscribers, 2.5 million views, and more than 260 videos, capturing stories that range from local food finds to luxury escapes, cultural insights to real-world travel advice. Whether you're a slow traveler, holidaymaker, digital nomad, or simply wanderlusting from home, you're welcome here. Watch Our Latest Videos ADVERTISEMENT Press Play: Top Pick Vlogs Our most popular vlogs, from trains to burgers and basketball to China! New here? These are some of the videos that helped grow our community. From first-time cultural experiences to epic food hunts and eventful train rides, they offer a taste of what we’re all about. Explore by Destination, Theme, or Mood Watch by destination, theme, or mood, travel your way. We’ve organized our 260+ videos into themed playlists so you can binge by vibe. Whether you’re planning a trip, dreaming of one, or just need a break, get started here. TURKEY THAILAND INDIA ENGLAND MEXICO GEORGIA EGYPT JAPAN View All Playlists YouTube FAQ Answers to the questions we’re asked most about travel and life on the road. What kind of videos do you share on YouTube? Our channel focuses on real-world travel experiences, blending budget vs. bougie travel, slow travel, and food and street eats with honest, story-led travel vlogs. More recently, we’ve also shared personal lifestyle content, including Jenn’s grey hair journey, which explores identity, confidence, and aging on the road. Whether we’re exploring a destination slowly, comparing costs and comfort levels, or documenting everyday travel moments, our goal is always to show what travel actually feels like, not just what it looks like. How often do you upload new videos? We typically upload biweekly, although our schedule can become more frequent depending on where we are and how busy our travel schedule is at the time. Because we travel full-time, our upload rhythm reflects real life on the road. Some weeks are quieter and reflective; others are packed with movement, filming, and spontaneous stories worth sharing. Where have you filmed your travel videos? So far, we’ve filmed across 40+ countries worldwide, with more than 75 combined trips across those destinations. Our videos span multiple continents and a wide range of travel styles, from long stays and repeat visits to short-term explorations. We often return to places we love, which allows us to share deeper insights beyond first impressions, especially when it comes to food culture, daily life, and how destinations feel over time. Do you work with brands, tourism boards, or destinations? Yes, we’re open to collaborations and have experience working with tourism boards, hotels, experiences, and travel-related products. We’ve partnered with brands such as GigSky (https://gigsky.pxf.io/6eJ7YN)on multiple occasions and have collaborated with companies like Timekettle, a translation device brand, alongside other travel-focused partners. All collaborations are approached with honesty and transparency. We focus on experiences and products that genuinely fit our travel style and audience, and we aim to create content that feels informative and authentic rather than scripted or overly promotional. How can viewers support your channel and work? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel,(https://www.youtube.com/@JennandLeon) watching our videos, and engaging through comments and shares. You can also: • Join our wider Closer Lives community(https://www.closerlives.com/community-groups) • Subscribe to our newsletter for thoughtful updates • Support our work through the Travel & Lifestyle Emporium,(https://www.closerlives.com/travel-and-lifestyle-emporium) where we share products designed by us Every bit of support helps us continue creating honest, experience-led travel content. Collaborate with Jenn & Leon Authentic storytelling for brands, places, and experiences worth sharing. We’ve worked with brands, tourism boards, hotels, and promoters across the globe. From sponsored stays to restaurant features and cultural experiences, we create honest, story-driven content that resonates with curious, conscious travelers. With over 2.5 million views, a growing subscriber base, and a track record of delivering high-quality visuals and narratives, we offer more than just visibility. We offer connection. Opportunities Include: Destination Campaigns Immersive storytelling that brings places to life through real experiences, culture, and local moments. Long-Form Travel Vlogs In-depth YouTube videos capturing destinations, journeys, and experiences in full narrative form. Brand & Product Reviews Honest, experience-led reviews of products and services we genuinely use while traveling. Travel Diary Series Multi-video stories that document a place, theme, or journey, ideal for deeper audience connection. Short-Form Features High-impact YouTube Shorts, Instagram Stories, and Reels designed for fast reach and engagement. Launches & Event Coverage Creative coverage for openings, experiences, tours, or campaigns that deserve lasting visibility. Over 2.5 million views, 15,000+ subscribers, and over five years of full-time travel storytelling. Looking to work with us? View our media kit for audience insights, past collaborations, and content formats. Media Kit Media & Partnerships Email Us It’s About More Than Just Places Less polish, more meaning, and travel as it really happens. We share the beauty and the chaos: visa mishaps, language stumbles, hidden cafés, and magical moments you’ll never find on a travel brochure. We create vlogs that feel like conversations. With thoughtful insights, a dose of humor, and a focus on how travel shapes our lives, our videos reflect both the external journey and the internal one. Watch Our Latest Videos See More Behind the Scenes Behind the curtain, real moments, and life between uploads. Follow us on Instagram for travel snapshots, Reels, and candid stories in real-time. Get inspired by the places we’re currently exploring, and see what didn’t make it into the vlog! Instagram Follow YouTube Subscribe Facebook Follow Pinterest Join Join Our Journey Travel together, stay connected, and be part of Closer Lives. Become part of the Closer Lives community. When you sign up, you’ll get access to member-only updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and a 20% welcome discount to our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or living a nomadic life, you’ll find resources, encouragement, and shared experiences right here. Stories, updates, and travel insights, sent only when there’s something worth sharing. No spam. Just the good stuff. Email* SUBSCRIBE Please add me to the mailing list. Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide.

Explore our Travel Hub featuring country guides, destination overviews, travel resources, and practical planning tools shaped by real travel experience. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Welcome to your all-in-one Travel Hub—a gateway to seamless exploration. Whether you're looking for expert travel blogs, detailed country guides, or essential resources like transport booking, nomad insurance, and eSIMs, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated travel content and start planning your next adventure with confidence. Wherever you’re headed, let this page be your shortcut to hassle-free travel! ADVERTISEMENT Advice Get practical travel advice on budgeting, safety, packing, visas, and more. Learn from our experiences to travel smarter, stress-free, and with confidence. Get Travel Advice Blog Discover firsthand travel experiences, expert tips, and in-depth guides from our adventures across the globe. Plan your next trip with confidence. Read Travel Blogs Destinations Explore our destination guides covering cities, countries, and hidden gems worldwide. Find top attractions, must-know travel tips, and local insights. Explore Destinations eSIMs Stay connected on the go with the best eSIM options for travelers. Say goodbye to expensive roaming fees and enjoy seamless mobile data worldwide. Get an eSIM Guides Detailed guides for travelers exploring new countries. Learn about culture, transportation, local etiquette, and top attractions in every destination. See Country Guides Hotels Find the perfect place to stay with our hotel recommendations. Compare options, from budget stays to luxury retreats, in top destinations. Find a Place to Stay Cruise Experiences Cruises Explore our new Cruises page, where we share our personal cruise adventures—starting from when we first met on a ship—along with helpful tips, accessibility advice, food reviews, and honest comparisons like eSIM vs ship Wi-Fi. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or planning your next voyage, find inspiration and resources here. Instagram On Jenn and Leon Travel, we share captivating photos and insights from our adventures in destinations like the Philippines, Egypt, Turkey, and beyond. Jenn & Leon Travel Join Our Journey Sign up and get our latest blog posts, product drops, exclusive sales, travel tips, and even a behind-the-scenes look at our adventures as full-time travelers. Subscribe Nomad Insurance Stay covered wherever you roam with the best travel and nomad insurance options. Protect yourself from unexpected costs and travel with peace of mind. Get Travel Insurance Resources We built this hub to share what really works. These aren’t random affiliate links. They’re resources we use, rely on, and recommend for full-time travelers. Browse Travel Tools Transport Seamlessly book flights, trains, buses, and more to get where you need to go. Compare prices and find the best travel options to fit your journey. Search Transport YouTube Watch our latest travel videos for visual inspiration, destination walkthroughs, and practical travel tips to enhance your journey. Watch Travel Videos Join Our Community Jenn & Leon at Closer Lives Closer Lives was created to bring people, places, and stories closer together. Through travel, culture, history, poetry, and personal experience, we share the moments that shape how we see the world, and ourselves. If you enjoy thoughtful travel guides, real experiences, and creative storytelling, you’re in the right place. You can also explore our Travel & Lifestyle Emporium , featuring inspirational travel pieces designed by us and shipped worldwide.