Tag: 20s

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Italy: Part One – Venice & Rome

After exploring the Swiss Alps, we set off for Italy, a journey that would take us through winding train routes and a few buses before we finally arrived in Venice. It was a long day of travel, but honestly? Worth every single connection. The views along the way were breathtaking, rolling green hills giving way to jagged snow-dusted peaks, tiny alpine villages tucked into valleys, and endless lakes shimmering under the sun. Thank God for Eurail.

Venice

Venice is the kind of place you think you know from postcards, until you actually step foot there. The canals seem impossibly perfect, the pastel buildings leaning gently over the water like they’re whispering secrets, and every corner feels like a painting come to life.

We stayed in Cannaregio, one of my new favourite areas in Venice, away from the densest tourist spots but still an easy walk to all the major sights. Our Airbnb was just what we needed: comfortable, well-located, and run by a fantastic host who gave us plenty of local recommendations. Plus, with five of us sharing the space, it felt like a true little home base.

Food-wise, Venice absolutely delivered. Two standouts:

  • Trattoria Bar Pontini – the kind of pasta that makes you stop mid-bite and just stare at your fork in disbelief.
  • Trattoria Da Mimmo – this was my first time trying cuttlefish, and it completely won me over. Highly recommend if you’re feeling adventurous.

Of course, I ate my body weight in gelato. One of my favourites was @bacaro_del_gelato_venezia – creamy, rich, and impossible to pick just one flavour.

Some of my favourite moments in Venice weren’t even tied to food (shocking, I know). Seeing Jeff Koons’ art up close was incredible, as was wandering into the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari – an absolutely beautiful church tucked away from the busiest streets. And then there’s St. Mark’s Square, which honestly took my breath away despite all the crowds.

After a few magical days, we boarded a train to our next stop: Rome.

Rome

This was my second time in Rome. The first was when I was 16, on a school trip, wide-eyed and running between sights with my friends. Coming back as an adult was a completely different experience- slower, more intentional, and with a glass of wine in my hand more often than not.

We stayed in Trastevere, an area full of cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and endless restaurant patios. Our Airbnb was modern, spotless, and in a safe, lively neighbourhood. The elevator, however, was possibly the smallest I’ve ever seen, which turned into one of those travel stories you can’t help but laugh about later. Our host was wonderful, and I’d 100% stay there again.

Food in Rome is a love language all its own. Some must-try spots:

  • La Cisterna Trastevere – hands down, some of the best pasta I have ever had. They warn you about portion sizes, and we completely ignored it… only to be served the largest plates of pasta I have ever seen. After a long day of travel, it was both overwhelming and glorious.
  • Come Na’ Vorta – great food at a great price, with a cosy, welcoming vibe.
  • Le Bistro Roma – this place is my personal “hidden gem.” I found it during my first trip, and now I recommend it to everyone. It’s right near the Trevi Fountain but still affordable, with high-quality food. My parents have been, my friends have been… and now I’m passing it along to you.

In terms of sightseeing, I couldn’t resist revisiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Even having been before, they still completely fascinate me – the scale, the history, the feeling of walking through something that has stood for thousands of years. The Pantheon and Trevi Fountain are equally awe-inspiring, with their intricate details and massive presence.

Venice and Rome couldn’t be more different, but that’s part of what makes traveling through Italy so magical. Venice felt like stepping into a dream – quiet mornings by the canals, long pasta lunches, and getting happily lost down tiny alleyways. Rome was alive with energy – history around every corner, the constant hum of the streets, and plates of pasta big enough to feed a small army.

From here, we were off to Florence, Naples and Capri, but that’s a story for Part Two.

St Marks Square
@bacaro_del_gelato_venezia
Trattoria Da Mimmo
Jeff Koons
La Cisterna Trastevere
Colosseum
Le Bistro Roma
Come Na’ Vorta
Pantheon
Trevi Fountain
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Things I Wish More People Talked About While Travelling

When you scroll through Instagram or TikTok, travel looks like a highlight reel: morning croissants in Paris, beach dips in Greece, spontaneous nights out in Barcelona, perfectly-filtered sunsets in Nice. And yes, those moments happen. I’ve had them too. But what you don’t always see are the parts in between: the weird, quiet, emotional, sometimes uncomfortable pieces of travelling that don’t fit in a photo.

I’ve spent the last few years slowly piecing together a life that includes a whole lot of wandering. Some of it has been dreamy, some of it has been chaotic, and a lot of it has been deeply personal. Along the way, I started to notice all the things people don’t really talk about while travelling, and I wish they did. Not because I want to ruin the fantasy, but because knowing these things would’ve made me feel less alone in the moments that weren’t so picture perfect.

For one, the loneliness is real. You can be surrounded by people, in a buzzing hostel, on a walking tour, out at a wine bar, and still feel completely disconnected. There are moments where you crave something familiar so badly it physically aches. Sometimes it’s triggered by something small: a text from your mom, a FaceTime that cuts out, a birthday you’re missing back home. Other times it just bubbles up quietly, like when you’re wandering a new city and suddenly realize you wish a certain person was there to share it with. That’s not something people show on their stories, but it happens.

There’s also this low-key exhaustion that builds from making constant decisions. When you’re travelling solo or even with friends, you’re in charge of everything: where to stay, where to eat, what to see, how to get there. Every single day is full of tiny logistical puzzles, and the mental load is a lot sometimes. You don’t realize how comforting autopilot can be until you’re completely without it.

And let’s talk about money. I’m careful. I plan. I budget. But the guilt still creeps in, for both spending and not spending. There’s this pressure to “make the most of it,” to say yes to the once-in-a-lifetime dinner or that guided hike or the extra night in a cool town. But it adds up. I’ve caught myself mid-bite, calculating the CAD conversion and wondering if I just overspent for a plate of average ravioli. And even when something is worth the splurge, it doesn’t always feel light and carefree.

The comparison trap is sneaky, too. You think you’re doing well, you’re soaking it all in, moving at your own pace, embracing new places and experiences, and then suddenly you’re scrolling and see someone doing more. More countries. More festivals. More rooftop Aperols with their new best friends. And you start to wonder: Should I be doing it differently? Am I missing out? Am I boring?

Then comes the other kind of comparison, the one that hits a little deeper and sticks a little longer. You see people back home finding their rhythm: building careers, buying homes, getting promotions, starting relationships that look like they’re going somewhere. There’s a strange ache that comes with it. You feel proud of them, but also unsure of yourself. Did I make the right choice? Should I have stayed and started building something too? Am I falling behind while everyone else is settling in?

It’s a quiet kind of doubt that doesn’t always shout, but whispers just loud enough to make you question everything, even when you’re surrounded by beauty, freedom, and moments you once dreamed of. It’s a weird space to live in: grateful for the life you chose, but occasionally haunted by the life you didn’t.

What I’ve come to realize is that travel doesn’t magically erase who you are. New country, same brain. Your anxieties, your self-doubt, your mood swings, they all come with you in your backpack. And some days, for no big reason at all, you just feel off. I wish more people said that that’s normal. Feeling homesick doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. Crying in a train station bathroom doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful. You’re just a person, doing something brave, and it’s okay to feel everything while you’re at it.

And not every day is going to feel like a scene from a movie. Some places are a bit of a letdown. Some hostels are just not the vibe. Some days are purely logistical, laundry, check-ins, missed connections. That’s not failure, it’s life. The less pressure you put on every moment to be magical, the more room you make for little joys to surprise you.

The hardest part for me? Balancing the excitement of what I’m seeing with the ache of what I’m missing. When you’re on the road, life doesn’t pause at home. Friends get engaged. Jobs come up. Family stuff happens. You feel pulled, grateful to be where you are, but sometimes painfully aware of where you’re not.

And now, as I begin planning my next trip, I’m starting to think more long-term. What do I want the next five years of my life to look like? If I don’t travel now, then when? But if I keep travelling now, what does that mean for things like stability, career goals, relationships? I know I’m not the only one asking these questions, and I also know that none of us have the perfect answer.

But even with all of this, the homesickness, the burnout, the awkward dinners alone and the internal spirals mid-bus ride, I still believe in the magic of travel. Not the fantasy version, but the real, gritty, emotional kind. The kind where you push past your comfort zone, even when your stomach is in knots. The kind where you meet someone on a walking tour who becomes your friend for the next two weeks. The kind where a quiet coffee in an unfamiliar café makes you feel unexpectedly calm and alive.

You don’t need a “perfect” trip to have a meaningful one. You don’t need a constant glow to be growing. You just need a little courage, a little curiosity, and a willingness to sit with the unknown. The truth is, even the harder parts, maybe especially the harder parts, are what make the good moments feel that much brighter.

And the good moments do come. Sometimes in big, sparkly ways. Sometimes in the smallest ones, like catching the train just in time, or laughing over wine with someone you haven’t seen for ages, or realizing, out of nowhere, that you haven’t checked your phone in hours because you’ve been too busy actually living.

So yeah, maybe more people should talk about how travel can be weird and emotional and kind of lonely sometimes. But I also wish more people knew that it’s still worth it, so worth it. Because through all the noise and the doubts and the minor travel crises, you end up finding something kind of beautiful: a deeper trust in yourself, a stronger sense of who you are, and a whole new way of looking at the world.

Wherever you are, and wherever you’re heading next, you’ve got this. And I’ll be cheering you on, probably, hopefully, from a café somewhere, dreaming of what comes next.

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Switzerland: Zurich to Gimmelwald – A Storybook Escape

Switzerland honestly felt like stepping into a postcard, everywhere I turned, there was something that made me pause in disbelief. Our journey started in Zurich, a city that immediately struck me with its calm energy, spotless streets, and that classic Swiss charm. One of our first stops was Café Henrici (@cafehenrici), tucked into Zurich’s Old Town. It’s the perfect place to cozy up with a coffee and people-watch, the vibes are immaculate. After fuelling up, we spent time wandering the city: walking along the Limmat River, visiting the Landesmuseum, and admiring all the beautiful churches and architecture around every corner. Zurich does a great job of blending the modern with the historic, and I loved getting a feel for both.

We made our way to La Pasta, a spot that we just happened to find and let me tell you, it delivered. Fresh pasta, cozy setting, and the kind of meal that hits just right after a long day of exploring. Another highlight was checking out ETH Zurich, it’s one of the most respected universities in Europe, and we stumbled across a cool student bar on campus. The whole area had such a fun and welcoming energy, plus the campus itself is gorgeous.

We stayed at the MEININGER Hotel Zürich Greencity, just a little outside the city core, and it was a great find. The hotel was super clean, well-connected to transit, and had everything we needed. We were a group of five and booked a 6-person mixed dorm, which ended up being perfect, we had the space to ourselves and it worked out to be affordable.

From Zurich, we made our way to the mountains, and honestly, this part of the trip felt like a fairytale. The journey to Gimmelwald was an adventure in itself: train from Zurich to Interlaken, then on to Stechelberg, and finally a series of gondolas to reach this tiny village nestled in the Swiss Alps. The entire time, the views just kept getting better and better.

Gimmelwald is a place I’ll be thinking about forever. We stayed at the Mountain Hostel (@mountainhostel), which might go down as one of the coolest places I’ve ever stayed. Picture this: a rustic lodge perched on the edge of a mountain, with homemade pizza, friendly faces from all over the world, and some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve ever seen. I literally found myself taking my glasses off and on, trying to decide if I was actually seeing what I thought I was. Spoiler: I was – and it was jaw-dropping.

The whole vibe of Gimmelwald was magical. We wandered over to the Honesty Shop, a tiny little store with no staff – just a notebook, a cash box, and a whole lot of trust. We hiked up to Mürren, a neighbouring town that feels like it belongs in a Hallmark Movie, and saw the famous Schilthorn, where some James Bond scenes were filmed. There were cows with bells, cats that followed us on trails, waterfalls crashing down the cliffs – it was everything you picture when you think “Swiss Alps,” but somehow better.

I truly can’t recommend Gimmelwald enough, it’s peaceful, untouched, and absolutely unforgettable. After a few dreamy days, we headed back down the mountain and set off for Italy, still buzzing from our alpine escape.

Throughout Switzerland, I was using my Eurail Pass, which made getting around super easy, especially for the major train routes. For more remote areas like Gimmelwald, we had to piece together gondolas and local transit, but that just added to the fun.

All in all, Switzerland left a big mark on me. To be frank (lol), Switzerland is quite expensive. From food and drinks to activities, the costs can add up quickly, but in my opinion, it’s 100% worth the splurge. The natural beauty, the peaceful atmosphere, and the once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll have there make every franc feel well spent. It was serene, stunning, and felt like a deep breath for the soul. If you ever get the chance to go, take it. You won’t regret it.

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Knowing Where to Go & For How Long

Where should I go? How long should I stay? Should I get a visa, go solo, or bring a friend? These are the questions I’ve been asking myself (and maybe you are too). In this post, I dive into how to balance your gut instincts with practical choices, from budget and visas to life goals and what you leave behind. Plus, a peek into my own planning process as I figure out my next adventure at 25.

One of the biggest (and most intimidating) parts of travel isn’t picking flights or packing your suitcase, it’s deciding where to go, and how long to stay.

It sounds easy until you actually start planning, then suddenly the questions pile up:

  • Do I go somewhere I’ve always dreamed of, or somewhere more affordable?
  • Should it be a quick trip or a long adventure?
  • Solo, or with someone else?
  • Is it worth what I’d leave behind?

I don’t have all the answers (spoiler: no one does), but here’s how I’ve tried to figure it out, and maybe it’ll help you too.

Follow your gut (and your heart)

Honestly, this is where it always starts for me.
Sometimes it’s a single photo, a video, or even hearing someone talk about a place — and suddenly, you can’t stop thinking about it. That quiet, stubborn feeling that says “go.”

And trust me: your gut knows more than your spreadsheet does.
Some of my best trips started because something just felt right, not because it made perfect sense on paper.

Cost vs. dreams

The hard truth: you might have to balance what you want with what’s realistic.
Dreaming of six months in Paris? It’s possible, but only if you can make the budget work.

So I ask myself:

  • Is this a place I’d love to experience deeply, slowly?
  • Or would a shorter trip still feel special?

Sometimes it means trading a big luxury trip for a longer stay with simpler comforts, and sometimes it means saving up to really do it your way.
Neither answer is wrong; it just depends on what matters most to you.

Long-term vs. short-term

I’ve done both, and they really do feel like different worlds.

Long-term (6+ months):
You discover favourite cafés, spot locals you recognize, learn shortcuts, celebrate holidays abroad, even find a little routine. You live there, not just visit.

Short-term (a week, a month):
It’s exciting and fresh; you squeeze in sights, meals, and memories. It’s more intense, but sometimes exactly what you need.

Ask yourself what you want from the trip: depth, variety, or a mix? And remember, you can always go back.

Solo or not?

Travelling solo scared the life out of me at first, but it taught me so much about who I am when no one else is around.
You choose what you do, learn to trust yourself, and realize how capable you are.

Travelling with a friend or partner, though, is just as wonderful in a different way. Someone to share laughs, split snacks, take photos, hype you up, and navigate challenges together.

Your choice might depend on your personality, destination, or even just the season of life you’re in. Neither is “better”  they’re just different stories.

Visa vs. no visa

Some places let Canadians stay months without a visa. Others offer working holiday visas, which, trust me, are truly once-in-a-lifetime. I learned this the hard way: once it expires, you can’t apply again!

Visas can feel like paperwork headaches, but they unlock deeper experiences: working, renting an apartment, staying longer than a tourist ever could.
If you’re under 30 (sometimes 35), look into them, it’s a window that doesn’t stay open forever.

The money question

No one loves budgeting, but it’s freeing to know your limits.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you want hostels, markets, and street food?
  • Or boutique hotels and fancy dinners?
  • Will you work along the way?

It’s not just “how much do I have,” but “how much do I want to spend on this experience?”

What you leave behind

The part we don’t always talk about: family, friends, pets, partners, birthdays, jobs.
Travel doesn’t exist in a vacuum; something always gets paused or missed.

For me, I weigh:

  • How long am I willing to be away?
  • Will I regret missing something at home?
  • Is the trade-off worth it right now?

Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes it isn’t. But being honest with yourself matters.

Where you are in life

I think a lot about age and timing.
Where do you see yourself in five years? Will this trip fit into that plan, or change it?

Some travels feel best before bigger commitments; others fit beautifully at any stage.
There’s no deadline to see the world, but sometimes, your life stage helps guide when and where to go.

The “how long” question

It’s not always about visas or money; sometimes it’s emotional:

  • Do I want to feel settled somewhere?
  • Do I just want a burst of adventure?
  • Do I want to keep moving or stay in one place?

There’s no rulebook. I’ve loved quick city breaks and months-long stays, each gave me something different.

The final thought

When people ask me how to choose where to go and for how long, the truth is: there isn’t a formula.

Start with your heart, check in with your reality, and ask yourself:

  • Where lights you up?
  • What can you afford; in money, time, and what you’d leave behind?
  • And what feels right for right now?

And remember: there’s no perfect choice, no “best” way.
The important part is that you go at all.

Because whether it’s a weekend, a month, or a year… you’ll come home different.
And that’s always worth it.

My personal experience

Right now, I’m in that planning stage again.
I’m always super excited for my next adventure, but there’s always that little battle in my head:
Where do I go? How long do I go for? Should I get a visa? Who should I go with? What am I potentially leaving behind? Should I follow my gut or my heart?

And now, being 25 (oof), I’m starting to think about a five-year plan for myself and what I want my future to look like. If I don’t travel now, then when will I? But if I keep travelling now, what will my next five years look like?

I don’t think anyone truly knows the “right” answer. I sure don’t. But I do know that in the end, I’ll come to the answer that’s right for me.

And maybe that’s the point.

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New Zealand: Part Two

After falling in love with Auckland, Hobbiton, and Rotorua, it was time to explore more of New Zealand’s North Island. From lakeside views to late-night chats in hostels, here’s a look at the next chapter of my trip:

Taupo

Taupo was such a refreshing stop. I stayed at Based by the Lake:a great hostel with an unbeatable location, very walkable and close to the main street. The rooms were comfortable, clean, and best of all, the bathrooms were ensuite. (If you’ve backpacked, you know what a luxury that is!)

One of the highlights was seeing the famous Hole-in-One Challenge on the lake, it looks very challenging, but so fun. For food, I need to shout out Pauly’s Diner. Hands down the best burger I’ve ever had. No exaggeration. If you’re into milkshakes, the strawberry is also a must try!

Another fun stop? The McDonald’s that’s inside a real airplane, super quirky and cool. Taupo also had plenty of great swim spots to relax and cool down.

Napier

Next up was Napier, which felt like stepping into a different world. The art deco buildings and seaside vibe were a dream. I visited the National Aquarium of New Zealand, which was so fun and beautifully done. Overall, Napier had such a cool aesthetic and energy, it felt creative and peaceful all at once.

Hastings

In Hastings, I had a totally different kind of experience, fruit picking! I worked picking kiwis and grapes while staying at Eco Lodge Pakowhai. The hostel had a really welcoming atmosphere with amazing people. But heads up: I’d definitely recommend having a car if you stay here. Public transportation isn’t great, and a car gives you more freedom.

Wellington

Wellington was my final stop before heading back up to Auckland, and I loved it. The waterfront is gorgeous, and there’s no shortage of cute cafes, shops, and places to explore. The vibes were just great, definitely one of my favourite cities.

Some highlights:

  • Wētā Workshop: A must-see for movie buffs. So cool to see behind the scenes of some of the biggest films made in NZ.
  • City Gallery Wellington: I’m always up for a bit of art and culture.
  • Wellington Zoo: Such a fun afternoon, its on a very steep hill beware lol…

I also got tattooed by a local artist here, a perfect souvenir that will last forever. Shout out to @snake_eyes.tt at Cuba Street Tattoo.

The Northern Explorer Train

Taking the Northern Explorer train from Wellington to Auckland was one of the most scenic journeys I’ve ever been on. It’s long but worth it, rolling hills, mountains, tiny towns, and wide open landscapes made the whole ride feel like a film. It is defiantly a once in a lifetime experience and I can’t recommend it enough. 

Travelling with a Friend

Most of my New Zealand trip was done with one of my best friends, and I honestly wouldn’t change a thing. Traveling with someone you trust brings such a sense of comfort. It felt like a safety net, someone to split snacks with, laugh with, and hype you up before every adventure. We made so many amazing memories together and that shared experience only brought us closer. I felt braver, more open to trying new things, and just genuinely happier with someone by my side.

Travelling Solo

But there were solo moments too. And as an introvert, they pushed me in the best ways. I won’t lie, I was scared. Like, really scared. But solo travel teaches you things nothing else can. You learn to trust yourself. You make your own decisions. You discover who you are when no one else is around.

There were moments of loneliness, sure. But also moments of real clarity and joy. I explored new cities, met new people, and had experiences that are now some of my proudest memories. If you’re thinking of doing a solo trip, even just a short one, do it. You’ll come back stronger.

A Love Letter to New Zealand

While my time in NZ didn’t end the way I planned (I got really sick, more on that in Part 3), it remains one of the most beautiful, soul-refreshing experiences of my life. The people are kind (maybe even kinder than Canadians, yep, I said it), the views are unmatched, and the lifestyle is so peaceful and grounded.

I’ll definitely be back to explore the South Island and revisit some of my favourite North Island spots. New Zealand has left a mark on me I’ll never forget, and there’s so much more to come.

Stay tuned for Part 3!

Taupo Hole-in-one Challenge
Paulys
Grape Picking
Welly
Kiwi Picking
Weta
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New Zealand: Part One

My first few weeks in New Zealand were nothing short of magical. From the vibrant city vibes of Auckland to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, this trip was filled with unforgettable moments, unexpected surprises, and some serious “pinch me” experiences. Here’s a look at the highlights from my time exploring the North Island:

Auckland

Auckland surprised me in the best way. It has this perfect mix of big-city energy and laid-back coastal charm. I stayed at Lylo Hostel for a few days, and I honestly can’t recommend it enough. The vibe was fresh and modern, everything was super clean, and the staff were so friendly and helpful. It felt like the perfect spot to start an adventure, especially if you’re traveling solo or hoping to meet people on the road.

The Viaduct was one of my favourite areas to wander. It’s packed with lively bars, great restaurants, and a gorgeous waterfront view. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an entire evening just eating, chatting, and people-watching.

One of the most unique things I did in Auckland was visit Drury Hills Winery, which specializes in fruit wine. It was such a fun and different tasting experience, I’d never tried anything like it before. The atmosphere was lovely and so were the owners, I left with a few bottles (because obviously).

For beach days, Maraetai Beach was a dream. The water was crystal clear, and it was quiet enough to feel like a hidden gem. I could’ve spent hours there, just reading, listening to music, and soaking in the view.

And if you’re a market girl like me, weekends in Auckland are heaven. I visited a few, but the Clevedon Village Farmers Market was definitely my favourite; think small-town charm, fresh local produce, amazing handmade goods, and food stalls that had me going back for seconds. (The Karaka Market was also super cute!)

A completely random but iconic highlight? I got to see Harry Styles live in Auckland! The energy, the crowd, the outfits, it was everything. Seeing him in New Zealand made it feel even more special, like this little unexpected crossover moment.

Also… shoutout to my tattoo artists in Auckland and Wellington: @keithlintattoo and @snake_eyes.tt. If you’re thinking of getting inked while you’re there, these two are insanely talented and so lovely to work with. Tattoos are such a perfect souvenir, if you’re into that.

Hobbiton

This one deserves its own paragraph because… bucket list moment unlocked. As a longtime fan of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, visiting Hobbiton was a literal dream come true. Every inch of the set is ridiculously detailed and well-preserved, you really do feel like you’ve stepped right into Middle-earth.

We toured the iconic Hobbit holes, strolled through the gardens, and ended the visit at the Green Dragon Inn, which proudly holds the title of the busiest pub in all of New Zealand. (And yes, I had a pint of cider and yes, it was amazing.)

Fun fact I learned: they brought in a special breed of sheep just for the movies to make everything look extra magical. That’s the kind of detail that makes this place feel truly special. If you’re thinking of going, I highly recommend renting a car or booking transportation ahead of time, it’s a bit off the beaten path but absolutely worth it.

Rotorua

Next up: Rotorua, aka the land of steam, mud pools, and hot springs. It smells like sulfur but looks like a dream. I stayed at Rock Solid Backpackers and had such a great experience, clean rooms, central location, and the kind of travellers you actually want to chat with in the common areas.

One of the most relaxing and memorable experiences during my time in Rotorua was visiting the Polynesian Spa. I opted for the private hot pools and it was absolutely incredible; peaceful, calming, and the perfect way to unwind after a few busy travel days. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, I’d highly recommend carving out time for a spa day while you’re in Rotorua. It’s the ultimate treat-yourself moment and truly a must-do in the area.

One of the more unexpected things I did? I pet a lion cub at Paradise Valley Springs. Wild, right? It was one of those surreal travel moments that sticks with you forever.

Then there was the Skyline Luge, which I can only describe as Mario Kart come to life. You hop into a tiny cart and speed down a mountain track with curves, views, and a whole lot of adrenaline. It was chaotic, slightly terrifying, and so much fun.

To top it off, I happened to be in town during a Red Bull event, which added this extra buzz to Skyline. Live bike races, cool installations, and a crowd that brought the energy, it felt like the perfect end to my adrenaline moment in Rotorua.

This is just the beginning of my New Zealand story, but it already feels like one of the most unforgettable chapters of my life. I’ve barely scratched the surface, and I can’t wait to share more from the North Island and beyond in Part 2. Stay tuned!

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Nearly 25…

Turning 25 feels like crossing an invisible threshold, one I didn’t know I was walking toward until suddenly it’s just over a month away.

I finished university, and like many others, I left with a degree I wasn’t sure how to use. And that’s okay, more people are in the same boat than you’d think. Some are working jobs completely unrelated to their studies. Some are exploring different paths. Some are figuring it out one odd contract or side hustle at a time. There’s no perfect blueprint.

Friendships have changed, too. Some have faded so slowly I barely noticed until months passed without a text. Others ended more abruptly, in silence or in words we didn’t know how to take back. And while that used to hurt more, I’ve started to understand that not every friendship is meant to last forever, some are there for a season, to teach you something, to get you through a phase, or to remind you of who you were at a certain time in your life.

But there’s beauty in that, too. Because some friendships come back. A message out of the blue turns into a conversation that feels like no time has passed at all. People grow and change, and sometimes they grow in the same direction again. I’ve had friends I thought I lost forever find their way back into my life, and this time, the connection feels deeper, more mature, more honest.

I’ve also made new friends in places I didn’t expect to: through work, mutual friends at parties, while travelling, and even online. These aren’t always instant soulmates. Sometimes they start small; a shared joke, a kind gesture, and slowly become the people you text when something exciting (or awful) happens. You realize that good friendships don’t always look like what you imagined in high school. They’re less about constant communication and more about feeling seen, supported, and safe when you do talk.

The hardest part has been accepting that friendship isn’t about quantity. It’s not about having a big group chat or always being surrounded by people. It’s about depth. About knowing someone truly has your back. About being there for each other when it counts, even if you haven’t spoken in a while. And learning to be okay with the gaps in between.

In your twenties, friendship becomes less about proximity and more about intention. It’s not always convenient. People move, work different schedules, change priorities. But the ones who want to stay in your life will make space for you, and you’ll do the same. It might not look like the sleepovers and spontaneous hangouts of your teens, but there’s something beautiful in growing alongside people who are also just trying to figure life out.

Relationships? That’s a whole chapter in itself. There have been casual flings, awkward first dates, hilarious miscommunications, and a few moments that made me question everything, but also some really beautiful connections. Some experiences were fleeting but fun, others taught me more about myself than I expected. Through it all, I’ve learned many things, good and a bit questionable, but I wouldn’t want to change that.

Somewhere in the mix of late-night conversations, coffee dates, travel crushes, and “what are we?” talks, I’ve started to see that love doesn’t always come in a lightning bolt moment. Sometimes it builds, quietly, patiently, and sometimes it surprises you. Whether it’s something short-lived or something long-term, relationships in your twenties remind you how capable you are of loving, learning, and growing. They aren’t just about finding “the one”, they’re about discovering different versions of yourself along the way. And that, honestly, feels kind of magical.

Travel, everyone says “do it while you’re young.” And I have. I’ve wandered cobblestone streets in Europe, walked the hills of Hobbiton, eaten tacos on a beach in Mexico, and lived out of a suitcase longer than I ever expected. And honestly? I wouldn’t change it. Travel has opened my eyes to new cultures, people, food, and perspectives. It’s taught me how to navigate unfamiliar places (and train stations), adapt when plans change, and feel at home even when I’m far from it.

But sometimes, I do wonder; where does it all get you? Is it just a series of Instagram posts and postcards? Is it avoidance? Is it the “right” thing to do, or just the most romanticized?

The truth is, it’s not always glamorous. There are missed connections, bad Airbnbs, language barriers, and days where you feel completely alone in a crowd. But there’s also a kind of magic in that discomfort. You discover so much about yourself when you’re in a new city with no familiar safety net, when you have to make decisions, find your way, meet new people, or just sit with yourself in silence at a café.

Some of my best memories live in those moments; watching a sunset in a place I may never return to, laughing uncontrollably with someone, or simply getting lost and finding something better than what I was originally looking for.

Travel hasn’t “solved” my life, but it’s added layers to it. It’s given me stories, perspective, friendships, and an understanding of how big (and small) the world really is. It made me realize I can be brave, that I can make it on my own, and that sometimes you just have to book the ticket and trust that the rest will follow.

So is it worth it? Definitely. But it’s not the answer to everything, it’s just one chapter in figuring it all out. A really good chapter.

At times, I’ve felt behind. Like I’m not on the same timeline as everyone else. Not sure what job I want. Not sure what city I want to live in. Not sure if I’m doing this whole “adult” thing right. And while I’d love to say I’ve figured it all out. I haven’t. Should I be listening to Mel Robbins? Should I be waking up at 5am and cold plunging and journaling with a gratitude pen? Should I just take the stable job and stack savings, or risk it all to pursue something creative?

There’s no clear answer. And that might be the point.

The first half of your twenties is strange. You go from being told what to do every year of your life; school, graduation, next steps, to suddenly having full control. No rules. No road map. No bumpers on the bowling lane. You can do almost anything (within reason… let’s be real), and that freedom is both thrilling and terrifying. You start to realize how deeply human everyone is. No one – not a single person – has it fully figured out.

And weirdly, that helps.

So here I am, nearly 25, standing in that in-between space. A little lost, a little hopeful. I don’t know what’s next, but I do know I’m not alone in feeling this way. And if you’re reading this thinking, same, then I’m glad we’re in it together.

Because this might not be the most stable, certain, or polished chapter of life… But it sure as hell is an interesting one.