Build Simple Backend (Node.js + PostgreSQL) for Minimal Tourism App

I'm looking for a skilled backend developer to help set up the technical foundation for a minimal, clean tourism app focused on curated travel experiences in Nepal (like scenic viewpoints, temples, cafés).

This is the first small phase of the project — no frontend work is needed yet. The goal is to build a solid API and backend structure we can expand on later.

Key Tasks:

Set up a backend using Node.js and PostgreSQL

Build the following core features:

User authentication (simple, secure setup — can be extended later)

Data storage for journeys and stops (name, photo, story, location)

API endpoints for frontend to fetch journeys and individual stops

QR scan logic (mock or simulated — user scans to unlock a stop)

Use clean structure and sample/dummy data. I’ll handle design/UX later.

Ideal Candidate:

Knows how to build lightweight, scalable Node.js APIs

Has worked with PostgreSQL, or has used Supabase/Firebase-style logic

Communicates clearly and writes clean, modular code

Bonus: Experience with tourism, travel, or interactive map-based apps

Budget:
This is a small test project. Please share your estimate for this scope. If it goes well, there is more work ahead (map logic, user journey saving, frontend integration, etc.).

Let me know once you’ve updated it or posted it—I'll help you review responses.