Does Travel Misadventure Get More Attention?

Man falling head first down the stairs.

In this post, I reflect on the importance of conflict in storytelling. After exploring Wendy Dale’s insights on memoir writing, I wonder if my own tales—like collecting shells on a serene beach—are too mundane. Perhaps you’re more drawn to stories filled with chaos, like getting kicked out of a rental in Slovenia or being caught in a storm that changed history.

Burn, Baby, Burn Your Way Through Costa Rica

A burning ember flying through the sky, so that it appears to have a tail behind it.

Our March Break mountainside near Playa Potrero turned into quite an adventure. Lounging in the infinity pool we suddenly noticed ash falling from the sky and our vacation took an unexpected turn. A peaceful retreat was soon intense and fiery. Keep reading to find out what happened next…

Burn, Baby, Burn Pt. 2

A bottle of Colonel E.H, Taylor rum with a fire in the background, framing it.

As wildfire flames neared our Airbnb in Costa Rica, we considered evacuation. Despite the locals’ nonchalance, the fire crept closer, threatening our escape route. Forced to leave, we spent hours at a sports bar. Upon returning, we watched the flames dance, unsure if we’d make it through the night.

A Terrifying Trek Around the Back Roads of Guanacaste, Costa Rica

A very steep laneway going upwards. A sign is posted at the base saying entry prohibited.

We set out to visit Castillo de Lilo, a mountaintop restaurant with breathtaking views, but the journey quickly became a terrifying adventure. With steep, gravel roads and a compact car, we found ourselves stuck—twice—before finally making it to the base, only to be stopped by “No Trespassing” signs.

Friendly and Not-So-Friendly Costa Rican Wildlife

A very green iguana with large spikes down its spine on paved stones beside a pool.

In Costa Rica, we found ourselves surrounded by creatures: monkeys howling in the trees, geckos darting by, and even a scorpion chilling out with us for a drink. Read about our encounters with snakes, toucans, iguanas, and a feisty little cat we named Sparky Joan.

Ferryland, Newfoundland: A Lighthouse, A Wedding & A SingSong

A lighthouse on a large hill is half-covered in fog. Several people, barely discernible, gather in a group around one another near the base of the lighthouse.

Hiking to the Ferryland Lighthouse in Newfoundland, we unexpectedly witnessed a wedding. Surrounded by fog, tide pools, and retirees singing Irish tunes, we couldn’t help but reflect on what makes a place sentimental. A moment of serendipity with my teens, as we discovered more than just a wedding.

The First Time I Felt God

Mauritius Underwater Waterfall, Photo by Xavier Coiffic, Unsplash

In Fiji, while exploring ancient villages and hiking through jungle trails, I unexpectedly felt a profound spiritual connection. Amid stunning views and challenging hikes, God slipped into my soul, overwhelming me with joy and tears. It was a moment I can’t explain, but I knew it was real.