Does Travel Misadventure Get More Attention?
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.
The First Time I Felt Truly Warm
I love strapping on snowshoes and ducking beneath powder-laden pines—desperately hoping the tip of my tuque doesn’t riffle the branches above and send chilly cascades down the back of my neck. There’s something to be said for traipsing around the inside of a snow globe. Sure, it’s breathtaking. But…it’s cold. Spring. Even with longer days, […]
7 Ways to Fund Your Way Around the World
Travel doesn’t have to break the bank. From living abroad to volunteering for free stays, exchanging lives, or traveling off-season, there are plenty of ways to explore the world without accumulating debt. Sometimes, it’s about making trade-offs and choosing experiences over stuff. Here’s how I did it.
How It All Started
I travel because I can’t NOT travel. After setting a goal to visit 30 countries before 30, I reached 42 by 2024. Now, I aim for 60 by 60—18 countries in 9 years. It’s costly, but totally do-able. Travel changes you, and I’m ready for the next adventure.
Burn, Baby, Burn Your Way Through Costa Rica
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
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
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
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
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
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.