US native. Former resident of Romania. Current solo female globe trotter.
My first international venture as an adult was in 2009, a short mission trip to South Africa. Not only was that trip deeply impactful for my faith, it also sparked in me a passion to go abroad again and often.
I've now traveled to 4 continents for various lengths and occasions. My country list includes Romania, Israel, England, Scotland, Wales, Canada, The Netherlands, and numerous places around the USA. I've done group tours, volunteer work, solo travel, studied abroad, and taught internationally. I lived for over a year in Romania, and it's the place I can tell you the most about as a travel expert.
My travel style is slow, spontaneous, and - shall we say - richly flavorful. I prefer to stay for longer lengths in places rather than having a whirlwind sightseeing venture. I'll skip the chain restaurants for a hole-in-the-wall café any day of the week. I don't plan a full or strict itinerary for myself. I often leave wherever I'm staying in the morning, search for coffee from somewhere I've yet to try, and see what the day brings.
My favorite things to do and see as I travel are...
- EAT -
Try whatever is local. Order the special of the day. Talk with the restaurant staff.
- WALK -
There's no better way to connect with a new place than on foot. It encourages me to slow down, notice, and get a feel for community.
- HIKE -
I'll be honest, I'm a lazy hiker. By "hike," I mean a few hours at a slow pace. Less of the strenuous exercise, more of a walk in nature.
- MUSEUMS -
My favorites are often the little museums overlooked by big tour groups. Spend an afternoon. Read the descriptions on exhibits. Talk with the docents. Buy something in the giftshop.
- CHURCHES -
I'm fascinated by the various ways people have worshipped the God of the Bible over centuries and across borders. Many older churches are also museums or tourist-friendly spaces. Some additionally hold regular liturgical services.
- CASTLES -
Castles, fortresses, palaces, big ol' houses: these places transport me back in time. I imagine the people who built, lived in, and defended them. What would they think of how we now live?
If this kind of travel sounds ideal to you, follow me to easily access all the resources I've created. I'd love to help you experience slower, more meaningful travel. If you're solo traveling, especially as a female, I have tips for how to make the most of your trip, with low stress, reasonable safety, affordability, and lots of fun. Schedule a consultation with me, and we'll work together to get you wheels up on your next adventure!