Manolo, our beloved taxi driver “turned best tour guide ever,” took Juan and me to a secret lagoon with volcanic views. The only visitors were the three of us and one other couple…
photo blog
A Treehouse Tucked Away…
During our time on San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos, Juan befriended a local taxi driver named Manolo. Of course, the two of them had a lot in common: Spanish is their native language, they grew up in Ecuador and they seemed to laugh at the same things (probably at me)!
Kidding aside, Manolo was one of the coolest locals we met on the island. Why do I say this? Not only was he a “salt-of-the-earth” kind of dude, but he became our private chauffeur and took us to some unique places.
Our first stop on our “non-touristy” tour of San Cristobal Island was an eco-friendly treehouse. A family generated this treehouse – as well as other rooms on the property – from 100% recycled and sustainable materials! The hippie in me loved this and never would’ve known about it had we taken another taxi…
Have you ever befriended a kind stranger while traveling? And if so, do you still keep in touch? 🙂
She dreams more than she sleeps (Kalmar, Sweden; January, 2016)
No matter where I am now, I will always be longing for the life I once had. It’s hard to believe that I took this photo THREE YEARS AGO. I’m feeling incredibly thankful today…
So Much Fun – and fog – in Finland! (March, 2016)
Two students during my 2016 study abroad adventure were from Finland and downplayed Helsinki so much; I was amazed to find out that Helsinki had quite a bit to offer. All of us (especially the Americans) LOVED Finland’s capital. Helsinki had the most unique churches, which were actually made of rounded wood and rocks. Surprisingly, this city had one of the best Mexican restaurants I have ever experienced! Who would’ve expected that from such a small country in Scandinavia?
Photo Highlights of 2018
2018…what a year! So many incredible things happened, which has led to lifelong memories that I’ll always cherish.
I was able to spend lots of quality time with my Little Sister of four years, Aniya!
I had a travel marathon from March – July (Chicago, Boston, Iceland, Myrtle Beach, Peru and Portland)! I was able to spend time with old friends, have a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with my mom, hang out with my brother on the west coast and get engaged during this short period of time!
I was able to spend more time with my pup Linley than ever. We even went to a baseball game with grams in Detroit!
My dad and I were able to hang out a lot more than usual, now that we’re in the same department at work. My dad is also in Big Brothers Big Sisters, and seeing his Little Brother grow up is amazing (and scary…)!
My best friend (who I call my twin) and I share the same birthday!!! We were able to celebrate our 25th year on this earth together 🙂
My fiance and pup cheered me up on Halloween as they dressed as a minion and a bee!
And the most eventful day was Friday, November 16, the day I married my best friend 🙂
I have no idea what could be better than repeating 2018, but I’m very excited for what 2019 has in store for all of us 🙂 Happy New Year!
Black Sand Beach, Iceland
My mom and I returned from Peru yesterday evening! I really need to wrap up my Iceland posts to start my Peru ones…
After Bethany and I left the glacier, we were able to visit a black sand beach! It was great because the sun was out (at first) and the landscape reminded me of Ireland all over again!
As you can see, the sun doesn’t stay out for long in Iceland…
The sand was so pure and dark, that my boots blend in here!^
My Michigan roots have always led me to water, and I’m happy to have seen this side of Iceland!
Some Favorites from 2017
2017 was a great year, but cheers to 2018 and more adventures to come!
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! 🙂
We meet again, Big Ben!
I visited London during the summer of 2014 and left a piece of my heart there! The charm, the elegance…all of what London had to offer attracted me and made me want to go back!
I was supposed to visit London with a friend at the end of March, and although our plans changed last minute, I am thankful I was still able to see the city that captured my heart nearly two years ago.
At night, everything seems to be glowing and prestigious! I love the contrast this city has to offer: busy at night, and calming during the day.
“Do one thing a day that scares you.” Simple, truthful, brilliant…
Whether I was drinking at my favorite pub, strolling through Regents Park, or seeing shows on Broadway, London Round II did not disappoint!
