From First Solo Adventures to Full-Circle Travels: Reflecting on My Journey Across the Globe

Travel has been the one constant in my life, the thing I’ve always cared about deeply—not just a pastime or a way to escape, but a defining passion that has shaped every part of who I am.

It all started when I was 14, saving every penny from my job hosting and bussing at a local micro-brewery to fund my first solo adventure. By 15 I had saved enough to go sea kayaking in the Outer Banks of North Carolina—a trip that taught me the thrill of exploring the unknown and the value of investing in experiences. Since then, the wanderlust hasn’t stopped.

After 15 years of adventures, this year felt like a full-circle moment. For the first time, I revisited countries I’d been to before. Scotland in November—a place so magical it feels like stepping into another world—and soon, Hungary. These return trips reminded me how much travel isn’t just about ticking destinations off a list but about deepening your connection to the places that leave a mark on your heart.

Mapping My Adventures

Let’s talk numbers. I’ve had the privilege to visit 15 countries and 27 states. And no, I’m not counting the states I’ve just breezed through on road trips (because we all know driving through Nebraska isn’t quite the same as exploring it). Making a map of everywhere I’ve been was like opening a time capsule of memories. But I’ll be honest—I’m probably missing a few pins. After years of travel, some trips blur together in my brain, and a decade later, the details aren’t as sharp as they once were. That’s part of the reason this blog exists—to document these adventures, both for myself and for anyone dreaming of their next escape.

Why Travel Means Everything to Me

There’s this incredible feeling I get when I’m traveling—it’s like all the puzzle pieces of who I am click into place. Whether it’s wandering through a bustling market in Bangkok, eating a gluten free croissant at a café in Paris, or hiking to the Bagby Hot Spring in Mt. Hood, Oregon, I feel grounded, alive, and deeply connected to the world. Exploring new cultures, diving into unfamiliar cuisines, or stumbling upon hidden gems that make you go, “How have I never heard of this before?” – I’m dreaming of you Nandos. 

For me, spending money on travel isn’t an expense—it’s an investment. Every dollar saved and spent on seeing the world has made me richer in ways I can’t even put into words. It’s the only kind of spending that is truly worth every single dollar spent.

The Beauty of Sharing Adventures

Writing this blog feels like another layer to the adventure. It’s a space to look back, reflect, and relive the best moments of my travels. It’s also a way to share my experiences with friends (and anyone else who’s curious) looking for travel tips or inspiration.

Travel isn’t just something I do; it’s who I am. And if I can inspire even one person to step outside their comfort zone and explore a new corner of the world, then this blog will be worth every second I spend pouring into it.

Thank You for Following Along

To everyone reading this, thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’re here for travel tips, a little inspiration, or just to see the world through my eyes, I’m so grateful. Here’s to more adventures, more memories, and more moments that make us feel alive.

Until next time, roam freely. 🖤