Discovering the Magic of Edinburgh: The Potter Trail Harry Potter Tour

Nestled among the cobbled streets and historic buildings of Edinburgh, Scotland, lies a world of enchantment that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.

This city, rich in history and charm, also serves as a magical backdrop for the world of Harry Potter. As a passionate traveller and obsessive Potterhead (Ravenclaw here!), I couldn't resist the allure of The Potter Trail, a guided tour that promised to unravel the spells and secrets behind the beloved series.

A Magical Start

The adventure began at the iconic Greyfriar Bobby statue, a charming little dog that symbolizes loyalty and devotion. Tourists from all over the world come to rub his nose because it’s said to bring them luck. But the guides ask you not to do that as it’s wearing down Bobby’s nose. Here, I joined a group of fellow enthusiasts and our guide, dressed in a wizarding cloak, ready to take us on a magical journey. The Potter Trail, offered on a by-donation basis, was a wonderful touch, allowing everyone to contribute what they could and making the magic accessible to all. They also asked for donations at the end of the tour so people could pay based on what they felt the tour was worth (It is worth a ton, guys!).

The guide wanted it to be as interactive as possible and brought a handful of wands. First come first serve… You better believe I got in there. Sorry kids.

Greyfriars Kirkyard: A Stroll Through Inspiration

Our first stop was Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic cemetery that holds more than just gravestones. This eerie yet fascinating place is where Rowling found the names of some of her most memorable characters. As we wandered through the kirkyard, our guide pointed out the tombstone of Thomas Riddell, the inspiration for the Dark Lord himself, Voldemort. It was both thrilling and chilling to stand in front of the grave that sparked the creation of such an iconic villain.

The kirkyard also features the grave of William McGonagall, a poet known for his notoriously bad verse, whose surname Rowling bestowed upon Hogwarts' stern yet beloved professor, Minerva McGonagall. Each gravestone told a story, weaving together the threads of history and fiction in a way that only Edinburgh could.

The photo op in front of Tom Riddell’s grave was also pretty fun!

George Heriot's School: The Hogwarts Connection

From within the Kirkyard, we saw George Heriot's School, a prestigious private school that served as the inspiration for Hogwarts. While we didn’t get to go inside the guide provided incredible insight about the school, so it was easy to see the parallels. The school's four houses and impressive structure echoed the very essence of Hogwarts, making it a fitting muse for the creation of the school we know and love.

I don’t think I was the only person on the tour who was a wee-bit jealous of the students who have actually attended that school!

Many believe that Edinburgh Castle was the inspiration for Hogwarts, but this is not true. However, it’s still a beautiful castle and fun to spot all around the city. I highly recommend if you’re in Edinburgh, touring the castle just to see the castle!

The University of Edinburgh and Potterrow Port

Our journey continued to the University of Edinburgh, specifically George Square. JK Rowling received a postgraduate certificate from the University of Edinburgh in 1996 in modern languages. But this stop was a means to an end, as it was on the way to an important underpass. We walked under Potterrow Port, a site that inspired the scene where Harry and Dudley encounter the Dementors. The dimly lit, tunnel-like atmosphere felt eerily similar to the book's description, adding a layer of authenticity to the tour.

While walking through the tunnel, you can definitely see the similarities, and it’s conveniently in the middle of the town.

The Elephant House and Nicholson's Café

As we moved towards the famous Elephant House, our guide shared an interesting fun fact: while the Elephant House is popularly known as the birthplace of Harry Potter, Rowling actually wrote much of the series in an old café called Nicholson's (now called Spoons). This nugget of information added a fascinating twist to the narrative and highlighted the often-overlooked spots that played a crucial role in the creation of Harry Potter.

But shh, don’t tell people about Spoons, or it’ll get too busy!

Photo from “OutdoorActive.com”

Victoria Street: The Real Diagon Alley

Our final major stop was the bustling Victoria Street, a vibrant and winding road that served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley. Lined with colourful shopfronts and quirky boutiques, Victoria Street exudes a sense of wonder and whimsy that is perfectly suited to the magical shopping district of Rowling's imagination. As our guide explained why this street was chosen, it was easy to imagine witches and wizards bustling about, purchasing their wands and spellbooks.

In the 90’s (when Rowling was writing the books) Victoria Street was bright and vibrant (much like it is today), but off the street there was a dim and spooky alley, which became the inspiration for the eeriness of Knockturn Alley. The two together created the shopping districts we know and love from the series.

To cap off the magical experience, we snuck into the official Harry Potter store in “Diagon Alley”. It was like stepping into a shop in the real deal, filled with all manner of wizarding wonders. I couldn't resist buying Professor McGonagall's wand, a perfect souvenir to remember this magical adventure.

Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts

As the tour drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the magic of Edinburgh and the profound impact it had on J.K. Rowling's work. The Potter Trail was more than just a walk through the city; it was a journey through the imagination and creativity of an author’s mind.

As someone who is also a writer, it provided me with a lot to reflect on for my own work. JK Rowling was just an average person with an idea. She wrote in small coffee shops, was a single mom, didn’t have a lot of money, was an average student and got a slew of no’s before the one yes that changed her life. And her work changed the lives of millions of people. These tours are jam-packed with people.

Edinburgh's charm lies not only in its historic sites and stunning architecture but also in its ability to inspire and nurture creativity. For any Harry Potter fan, this tour is a must-do experience, offering a deeper understanding of the world that has enchanted readers for over two decades.

Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or simply a lover of history and literature, The Potter Trail in Edinburgh promises a magical adventure that will leave you spellbound. So grab your wand, don your cloak and step into the world of Harry Potter–the magic awaits.

To book your Potter Trail tour, head to their website and grab your FREE ticket.

TRAVEL TIPS FROM 6 WEEKS OF TRAVELING AS A DIGITAL NOMAD

Guest Post by Carlyita Co

I have been travelling around Mexico on my solo digital nomad journey for the past six weeks. I wouldn’t say that I am an expert traveller, but I have learned some things that have helped me stay grounded during this trip. 

First things first, I’m not on vacation. I’m travelling. These words can sometimes be interchangeable, but at this moment, they are not. For a long time, I imagined cruises and resorts and thought, yes, you are technically travelling, but it’s different from the trips that I’ve been on or seen online. For me, a vacation is a relaxing time. It’s meant to relax, release and unwind. If you are indulging in an all-inclusive resort or taking the seas by cruise ship, you are in full vacation mode. 

To me, travelling means being more engrossed in the local culture—eating street tacos, staying at hostels, seeing the sights, and living like a local. 

While you are travelling, you can experience vacationing, and while vacationing, you can do some travelling. No shame in either. Take whichever aligns with you! 

For me, this trip is all about travelling. I am living in Mexico for the time being. Here is my list of life hacks to help me ground down and feel empowered.

Travel slowly.

Don’t be afraid to stay for 5+ nights in one area. The shortest time that I stayed in one place was 3 days, and that felt WAY too short. As someone who works M-F online, I prioritize the weekends to explore. I also try to plan my travel days on weekends or days when I don’t have meetings or a lot on my to-do list so I can focus on my well-being during a hectic day.

Use the local currency.

No matter where you go, it is respectful and expected to use the local currency. I recommend talking with your bank before you leave and purchasing the local currency where you are going beforehand. That way, you are prepared to pay your taxi driver or hop on a bus with ease. Many countries will take USD as a form of payment, but you are getting a better deal when you stay local.

Decline the ATM exchange rate.

When you are travelling long-term, you are going to need to take out cash at some point. I have used the local ATMs in multiple different countries, and I only JUST learned that you can decline the exchange rate that they offer! The ATM will charge you a fee for using a foreign card, usually around $1-$2, then they will offer an exchange rate. Hit “no thanks” and your bank will choose an exchange rate which is usually better. I recently took our cash after learning this and saved $2! It’s not much, but it adds up.

Please note, your bank may charge a foreign ATM fee as well, mine charges $5 per ATM visit, so I try to take out the max amount each time to save on fees. Be careful which ATM you visit, I only visit an ATM if it has the PLUS symbol that matches the back of my card.

Learn some of the local language.

For the most part, wherever you go, a lot of people will speak at least a little bit of English. That being said, it is so valuable and respectful to learn the essential phrases in the language where you are going. Being here in Mexico, the Spanish that I learned in high school is slowly coming back. In other countries that I’ve travelled to, I make an effort to learn “Hello,” “Goodbye,” and “Thank You”

Get a local SIM card.

Having data to load your map when you’re exploring a new town/city/country is the most reassuring thing. Most smartphones are unlocked these days, and having a local SIM card is game-changing. A local phone number can help you stay connected and get deals while travelling. I recommend researching how to get a local SIM card.

In most cases, it will be MUCH cheaper to get the local SIM than to get the “travelling plan” that your phone company offers back home! It’s also great if you are somewhere with spotty wifi! If you are travelling around to different countries often, there are e-sims that you can purchase. Airalo is a great e-sim option! Use code CARLY5479 when you sign up for a bonus!

Be flexible.

Being flexible on your travel days could help you save hundreds on travelling. Flights will fluctuate every single day in price. If you have a window in which you can travel vs specific dates, you can save so much. For example, I am currently in Mexico City, and my next destination is Puerto Escondido. If I fly there next Friday, my flight is going to cost me $162. If I don’t mind leaving a few days earlier, I can get my flight for only $84.

It’s not hundreds of savings, but it adds up over time! I like to use the Hopper app to track when flights are cheapest! They will track the trends and let you know when the best time to buy is! Use code CARLYM2D6 when you sign up for a bonus!

Find your non-negotiables while travelling.

Long-term travel is hard. It’s full of ups and downs and life lessons. Something that I have found essential is to find my non-negotiables. When I first got to Mexico, I thought that a non-negotiable for me would be to have my own space—my own room. While I still find that important, it’s not always in the budget for a solo traveller.

I’ve been staying at hostels for short-term travelling, and I do my best to make myself feel safe and secure. That means locking up my valuables so that I have peace of mind. That means opting for a bottom bunk whenever possible so that I can make myself a blanket fort and have some privacy. That means booking smaller hostels to avoid the party scenes because I value sleep. Your non-negotiables may change from place to place, and that’s okay!

Here are some other non-negotiables that I’ve found while travelling: 

• Blanket fort wherever possible. My inner child loves these

• A backup charger, so I always have a phone battery

• My emotional support water bottle

• Hostels to meet other travellers. I’m shocked, too! I actually prefer hostels so I can meet people! I’ve met some AMAZING people over these 6 weeks

• Sunglasses and sunscreen. This one is kind of obvious in a tropical destination, but I don’t leave the hostel without my sunglasses and sunscreen

Remember what a badass you are.

I find myself getting so caught up that I’m not seeing enough, exploring enough, relaxing enough, meeting enough people. If I zoom out of self-doubt, I can see that I’ve been supporting myself in Mexico for 6 whole weeks!? How cool is that? Travelling is fucking HARD, but the hard times make the good times that much sweeter.

I hope that these tips help you if or when you embark on your digital nomad journey! Stay safe out there! 

This is my hot take but hostels with a cat are better than hostels without a cat.

XO, Carly

Experience the 7 Incredible Benefits of Outdoor Activities

Saxe Park, Victoria, BC, covered in snow with a beautiful sky - Taken on iPhone 14 Pro

I'm sure you've heard people talk about how important it is to get outside and you may be sick of hearing it but this is one of my favourite topics to talk about, so you get my thoughts on it today!

It may sound cliqué but being outside is honestly like medicine. Have you ever heard people say "Laughter is the best medicine?" Well, they were wrong. Laughter is second compared to some quality time in nature.

My favourite place is outside. It grounds me, it's my happy place, it's the place that makes me feel alive. I have this particular park close to my house that I walk through every day. It's a beautiful mix of forest that leads to the ocean (I live at the bottom tip of an island).

I especially love going there on stormy days. I have a spot where I go sit and watch the ocean dance. There are waves that gush at the rocks and jump up and over. It's magical. What makes this so hysterical is that I actually have a diagnosed phobia of water. Yeah, no joke. Completely petrified but absolutely love sitting at the ocean in its most volatile form. Riddle me that.

Honestly, being outside has so many incredible benefits. We can eat all the healthiest foods, go to the gym every day, work on our mindset, meditate, do all the things and it doesn't compare to the benefits you get from simply take a step outside, in the fresh air.

Sarah standing on top of a mountain after a hike with her arms out - Taken on iPhone 12

So, what are the benefits of being outside? I'll give you 7:

1. It boosts your energy

Seriously, skip that cup of coffee (well, actually, maybe don't if you drink it every day and love it) and instead try a little bit of clean, fresh air. One study suggested that even just 20 minutes of outdoor time can give your brain a boost of energy similar to one cup of coffee.

Being outside makes you feel "more alive," it leaves you with a strong sense of vitality and studies in the Journal of Environmental Psychology show that simply being outside far exceeds the energizing benefits of both physical activity and social interaction (now imagine exercising outside?!).

2. Helps reduce pain and stress

Research suggests that exposure to sunlight has a positive effect on our stress and pain levels. Studies have been done on patients who, after surgery, were exposed to sunlight and they reported less pain, less stress and, as a result, actually took less pain medication.

Furthermore, research has shown that individuals who spend time in nature have significantly reduced cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and increased levels of endorphins and dopamine (the happiness hormones). 

The takeaway? When you're feeling stressed, try stepping out and spending some time soaking up the rays (Mexico trip, anyone?)

3. Optimizes your immune system

My favourite benefit. This is one of the best ways to naturally optimize your immune system (or give it a boost if it's low) because it naturally does it without requiring any artificial strategy.

Scientists theorize that breathing in phytoncides (the airborne chemicals made from plants) increases our levels of white blood cells, which help our bodies fight off infection and disease. This is extremely important information. If you want to help fight a pandemic or your own personal illness, take a step out onto your balcony or in your backyard or, if you can, a walk and breathe in all those beautiful phytoncides.

4. Enhances creativity

Okay, where are my entrepreneurs and creatives at? I have some great news for you.

If you're feeling a creative block or want a boost in creativity take a stroll and breathe in that fresh air. Psychologists found that backpackers score 50% higher on creativity tests after spending a few days outside.

This may be due to the fact that the outdoors can improve attention, mood, and give a greater scope for the imagination than an inside setting.

5. Reduces mental health symptoms

Another big one! I'm sure you have probably heard of this benefit but it's definitely worth noting here. As mentioned above being in nature increases the endorphins and dopamine in your system while decreasing cortisol. Your brain is already happier with these things and they occur naturally when you head into the forest.

Research suggests that the key here is nature and not just the outdoors. Breathing in the air when walking around skyscrapers and traffic jams of cars is not comparable to the air you get from being engrossed in nature such as in a forest.

When walking through a city setting there is a lot that can catch your attention. When walking through a forest it's much easier to turn your brain off and decrease rumination. Brain scans "showed reduced neural activity in an area of the brain linked to risk for mental illness" when walking in a nature setting.

Scientists have even found that during the harsher winter months being outside can reduce the severity of mental health symptoms, especially SAD (Season Affective Disorder).

6. Increase Vitamin D

Due to an increase in urban living and an increase in people working inside Vitamin D is a vitamin that is severely lacking in our society.

Sunlight is the number one way to get Vitamin D, so during the summer months, it is highly recommended to try spending as much time outside as you can so you don't need to supplement. Supplementing is fine but getting nutrients and vitamins the natural way is the best way!

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for a healthy functioning body. It has incredible benefits on your mental health, stress level and mood but also on other physical symptoms. For example, it can help reduce inflammation, absorb calcium and prevent osteoporosis.

7. Restores your focus

Studies show that walking in nature helps restore your focus when you're feeling low. So, next time you are struggling to focus at work, school or in general, just take a quick break for a walk around the block to get the blood flowing!

Often, we struggle to focus because our mind is full and incredibly active so we need ways to quiet our mind. A new kind of therapy is gaining in popularity called ecotherapy..... Time in nature. In nature, our minds have to process substantially less information (see the section on mental health symptoms) and this doesn't just help our mental health but also our ability to focus and our productivity levels. When we have less in our mind and less to worry about, we have more room to focus on the task at hand. There are fewer internal distractions.

The ocean at Saxe Park, Victoria, BC - Taken on iPhone 14 Pr

 So what do you think? Did I convince you to take more outdoor or walking breaks?

For me, as a busy entrepreneur, I know going outside is vital to my success. All of the benefits combined leave me at a much better starting point to have a productive and happy day. I ensure to make going outside a daily practice and I do it as much as I can. The excuse that I have too much to do no longer works because I know that a simple walk outside actually means I get more done in a shorter amount of time.

So, if you're a professional, an entrepreneur, a busy parent with kids or literally a human being then get yourself outside and reap the amazing benefits. You won't find these anywhere else in this natural of a state. You also won't find all of these benefits in one place so take the easy way!

Originally posted on SKE Creative Media

Unlock the Joys of Budget Friendly Travel: 10 Must-Try Tips for a Remarkable Trip

Travelling is one of the most incredible and sought-after activities. Over the years travelling has increased in popularity hugely, with many people leaving their traditional jobs for work that allows them the flexibility to travel as they please.

Often, there is only one thing that stops people from living that life of full-time travel or even just travelling as much as they want… Money.

In our post-COVID world, travelling and flying prices have increased roughly 20-60%.

We might have created more flexible schedules… But chances are, with inflation as crazy as it is, we might not have the funds to back up that increased flexibility.

But there are definitely ways to make travelling still attainable if it’s a high priority for you in 2024.

Try these simple hacks to have a fabulous trip without breaking the bank too much:

1.Research and Plan Ahead

Start planning your trip as early as you can and keep an eye on price trends, including discounts and promotions. Sign up for email lists for airlines, hotels, discount travel sites, etc. If you don’t have a destination in mind then keep an open mind. You might end up surprised with where you go. But, honestly, sometimes the best deals are the more last-minute ones. So, if you have the flexibility, spontaneous trips might be up your alley.

I also recommend researching budget-friendly travel destinations and accommodation options. If you don’t have a place in mind, start doing some research and you might end up finding something you really love!

2. Use cash instead of credit cards

This is my personal favourite one. I always grab cash for my trip. First, it’s kind of fun to have money that you don’t see every day (for me, it makes it feel more real) and second, it brings your spending habits to the forefront. In my brain it’s, ‘out of sight, out of mind’. If I can’t see it, I’m not aware of what I’m spending. With cash, you can physically see how much you spend. You can watch your money decrease and you can see how much you have left.

I love this for budgeting purposes and it actually makes me a little stingier than I normally would have been. I question if I really need to bring everyone back a gift, if I have to buy every cool trinket I see, etc.

3. Travel During The Off-Season

This was something we really learned in 2023. My husband was deployed for 7 months and because of that, we got a chunk of money from the government to go on a trip. We picked Greece! It was number one on my bucketlist for my entire life. But, when you travel this way, you don’t have a free-for-all on dates, you’re given a specific block of time.

So, we ended up getting mid-March to the start of April and it ended up being the best time to go! There were many reasons (you can check out one of the blogs I wrote about Greece!) but one of the best was cheaper flights, cheaper accommodations (and often upgraded accommodations) and cheaper attractions.

You can enjoy quieter destinations for a more affordable price.

4. Explore Budget-Friendly Destinations

When selecting your travel destination consider what your currency is like compared to others. Do some research and figure out which countries your dollar goes further in. For North Americans, Mexico, South East Asia, Eastern Europe and Central America tend to be a favourable currency exchange.

This doesn’t mean the flights will be cheaper but once you get there, spending money is often easier as our dollar tends to go further.

5. Cook Your Own Meals

Now, I’m not saying you need to cook all of your own meals, as some of the fun of travelling is enjoying the local cuisine but you can save a decent chunk of change by making at least some of your own meals. The easiest ones I have found are breakfast and lunch. If you’re staying in an Airbnb, I highly recommend having breakfast there each morning before heading out. You can also grab snacks or quick lunch options that you can take on the go with you once you head out to explore.

If you can, shop at the local markets for fresh and local produce. Not only are you supporting your own health by getting fresh food from its place of origin but you’re also supporting the local economy and small business owners. Win-Win.

6. Free and Low-Cost Activities

Again, this is where your savvy research skills come in handy. Almost every attraction you’ll find every place you go will have a fee associated. Some are a must-see, regardless of the price, like the Acropolis in Athens but you can often find amazing ones for an affordable price.

Seek out free walking tours (or by donation ones such as the Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh), museums (especially the less known ones) with discounted entry or outdoor activities such as hikes (some of the best views can be discovered while hiking. I had this experience in Stirling, Edinburgh and Santorini). You can also take advantage of nature, parks and local events.

7. Use Budget Airlines and Public Transportation

Opt for budget airlines and buses to save on your transportation costs. The big airlines are not the only viable option. So, many people swear by them, saying the smaller airlines aren’t as good but I’ve often had just fine experiences on them. Typically, if I’m going overseas, I stick to bigger airlines and just look for discounts but if you’re flying around the UK and other parts of Europe, keep an open mind.

For a more authentic experience, taking public transportation is also the best option! Using Uber or renting cars are definitely more convenient but to save some dollars and just relax and slow down, hit a train or a bus.

8. Decide on One Souvenir to Bring Back

Yes, everything seems so cool when you’re in another country but before buying, ask yourself if you really need all of those souvenirs, knowing they’ll just be trophies around your house or if one will be fine. These can eat up your budget so quickly. My favourite things to bring back are postcards (I have a growing postcard collection) and they happen to be probably the cheapest souvenirs you can find.

Hot tip - Do not tell your friends and family you’ll bring things back for them. You can feel free to do that if you like for some people (I bought my sister a birthday present in Greece and bought my mom a birthday present in Northern Ireland) but don’t promise you will. Once you do that it’s a slippery slope to bringing everyone something back.

9. Discount Cards and Passes

I’m always surprised when people don’t realize you can usually get discount passes for countries. For example, you can get a pass to visit a handful of castles in Scotland and a pass to get into all the historical attractions in Athens. Doing this ends up making seeing all of them a heck of a lot more affordable. For the pass we got in Athens, we essentially got at least half of the attractions for free.

Something else to consider is finding memberships or apps that offer discounts on accommodations, flights or activities. You can get updated on flights and accommodations you’re looking for and even find the best deals on activities and tours.

10. Connect with Locals

But, ultimately, when it comes to the best of the best and most affordable, no one knows more than a local. Often companies are trying to make money, so they’ll upsell you something you probably didn’t need. Instead, make friends with a local or find a local on social media and ask for recommendations.

This is also a great way to get an authentic experience of that country!

Happy budget-friendly travelling!

5 Best Things To Do In Stirling, Scotland

Okay, hear me out.

Sure, Stirling is not one of the big cities in Scotland and when people think of cool things to do, they often think of Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Isle of Sky. But, if I’m being honest, my favourite city in Scotland is actually Stirling.

You can read all about my adventures the first time I ever travelled in one of my earlier blogs!

There were so many things I loved about Stirling; the quietness, the unhurried atmosphere, the feelings of safety and freedom (probably from it being the first place I had ever really travelled to) but it also has some incredibly beautiful historic sites just like you’d find in Edinburgh.

So, here are the 5 best (in my opinion) things to do in Stirling, Scotland:

1. Stirling Castle

Inside Stirling Castle with a view of Queen Anne’s Garden (Adobe Stock Photo)

Okay, duh, I know, but it had to make the list. Stirling Castle, while it may not be as well-known as Edinburgh Castle, is a beautiful castle known for being the place where Mary Queen of Scots was crowned in 1543. I have been to visit this castle 4 (or 5) times now and the fiction novel I’m writing (if it ever gets finished) is based in Stirling and at Stirling Castle.

While a little bit smaller than Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle is still a large and fully intact castle that you can visit. It does get busy during tourist season but not nearly as busy as Edinburgh Castle. If you’re hoping for less of a crowd, I would suggest going when it rains. Let’s be honest, rain is Scotland’s natural climate and I feel, if you’re hoping for an authentic Scotland feel, you should embrace the rain. But, rain does often draw tourists away, so if you can handle it, then I highly recommend it.

It’s less than £20 pounds to visit and you can get an explorer pass to save and visit other landmarks as well!

2. The Old Stirling Bridge

The Old Stirling Bridge (Photo by Photos By Dave)

I’ve mentioned this bridge before and I have told my story in the blog linked above! You can go check it out if you’re interested!

I think this bridge is the most beautiful bridge I’ve ever seen. With a rich history. Here is an overview written by Historic Environment Scotland:

The present Stirling Old Bridge was built in the 1400s or 1500s, replacing a succession of timber bridges. Undoubtedly the best-known of these was one that stood nearby in the 1290s, when Sir William Wallace and Sir Andrew Moray defeated Edward I’s forces at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297.

The bridge also played a part in the Jacobite Rising of 1745, when an arch was removed to forestall Bonnie Prince Charlie’s forces as they marched south. The bridge today remains one of the best medieval masonry arch bridges in Scotland.

This bridge is a quick walk from Stirling Castle. It’s a pedestrian-only bridge and if you’re walking to the Wallace Monument, then this is where you’ll cross. It’s free to go to and I highly recommend reading the plate in front to learn more about the history!

3. Old Town

Entrance to the start of the Old Town Stirling Walking Tour

Old Town was fun! I explored this by myself and got to take my time looking at all of the buildings that are part of the “Old Town” of Stirling. If you go and explore by yourself, then this is free to do! I believe they have tours you can take, especially if you’re hoping to learn more about the sites but I took a travel book and learned on my own.

Included in Old Town are sites like the Old Town Jail, the Church of the Holy Rude and Graveyard, Argyll’s Lodging, The Tolbooth, etc. There is lots to do and if you take your time, this can take an entire day!

Find a walking tour here!

4. The Wallace Monument

View of the Wallace Monument in Stirling, Scotland from iStock

There are some great monuments in Scotland and the Wallace Monument should be on that list. What I preferred about this one over the Scot Monument in Edinburgh was that it didn’t get too skinny at the top that people had a hard time going up and down.

The Wallace Monument was opened in 1869 and was built to honour William Wallace, who was instrumental in bringing the Scots the victory they had at the Battle Of Stirling Bridge. This monument took 8 years to complete but talk of the monument started in 1818.

The monument is 246 steps to the top and the view is stunning! You can see the Wallace Monument in the distance from many landmarks around the town including Stirling Castle and the Old Stirling Bridge (the place where my husband proposed and many of our photos have the monument in the background).

Learn more here.

5. The Beheading Stone

Sarah standing in front of the Beheading Stone (Photo taken on early 2000s digital camera)

Stay with me here… I know this is not on most top lists but this is definitely worth the trek.

When I was taking my tour of Old Town one of the things listed was the Beheading Stone. So, I set out to find it. But this was 2014 so I didn’t have my phone and Google Maps to rely on. I had that travel guide you see in my hands with a small map.

It took me hours to actually find this when I’m pretty confident it was only a short walk from the Church of the Holy Rude Graveyard that I started at. But because of this, I actually got to see a lot of really great sites around Stirling (many of which I have since added to my book). I almost gave up but then I finally found it (don’t ask me how! I don’t think I could find that route again if I tried). When I did, I discovered, it was literally just a rock. But the view was amazing!

You pretty much could see all of Old Town and most of Stirling. I ended up having a wonderful chat with an older Scottish woman (who took this photo for me) and it ended up being one of my favourite parts.

It’s free to see and if you somehow take the crazy route I took, you’ll also get a great little hike in!

Stirling has some wonderful and memorable sites that make it well worth the visit. It’s only a short train ride from Glasgow and if you’re looking for something a little slower, this is where I’d recommend going.

But shh, don’t tell your friends and make it super busy. This is just between us!

I also made a YouTube video about my time in Stirling! Go check it out and give me some love!

Transform Your First Hike into an Unforgettable Adventure with These 5 Tips

You’re ready for your first hike!

This can be a super exciting and fulfilling new hobby and this first hike can make or break your overall impression of hiking. I know many people who had a really bad first hike and then they never wanted to hike again.

Starting off on the right foot can make a huge difference.

So, take some advice from people who have come before you. Take the advice of those who are passionate about hiking, who love hiking and those who have good experience doing it.

Here are my 5 best tips for taking you from the planning stages to dominating your unforgettable adventure:

1. Decide on the aesthetic you want

Sarah enjoying a beautiful view of Jocelyn Hill in Victoria, BC

Photo Taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Start here. This is where the fun begins, the dream begins. Start by thinking about what your area offers in terms of hiking terrain and the view at the top. You might have forest terrain and mountain view, ocean view, lake view, rocky terrain, swamp or desert terrain. The trail might be covered or open.

Once you know what your area offers, start to think about what you would like to experience. If you love an ocean view you’ll research only hikes with ocean views. But dream about what you’d like to experience so you can direct your research toward that or you can ask others for recommendations.

2. Download a trail app & research local hikes

View from a hike in Tofino, BC

Photo Taken on iPhone 12

Now, if you’d prefer not then by all means, you do not have to do this, but I highly recommend checking some out. I do not hike without an app now. First, they help you to see the options in your area. So, you can take your ideal aesthetic and compare some of the hike options near you. You can look at ratings and reviews from people who have done the hike. I do recommend reading through what others have said as they are often a more honest overview than you’ll see on Google.

Depending on the app people can also upload photos they have taken on the hike and you can see what you’re in for. This can be helpful so you know what the terrain is like and you’ll know if the view at the top is worth it… Let’s be honest, the last thing you want is to do a super hard hike with a lukewarm view at the top. NOT WORTH IT!

Second, you can get maps of the different trails. Some mountains have multiple options so you can select the one that works for you. Pay special attention to the rating the app gives the trail, the km/miles of the trail and the estimated time the trail takes. That way you are better able to plan. Then you can use the map provided by the app to make it to the top.

My favourite app is AllTrails. You can download it for IOS and Google! A great one for navigation is Gaia GPS. Another good free one is Hiking Project. But explore and find one you love!

3. Download the map of your hike for offline use

Sarah posing at the top of Mount Manuel Quimper in Sooke, BC

Photo Taken on iPhone 12 by hiking buddy Raven

Speaking of the map feature… If your app allows it, download the map of your trail for offline use. AllTrails definitely has this feature (although it may be a paid feature, I can’t remember). You cannot count on there being service, or good enough service, the entire way up. The last thing you want is to get stranded on a trail, especially one that isn’t marked well, and not know where to go. Make sure you download the map of your hike in the car so you don’t forget.

My hiking buddy and I have forgotten to download the map before and then we just had to guess our way to the top. Some trails are not always intuitive so it’s tricky to make the right decisions. Some trails also have multiple routes ranging in difficulty and if you’re not careful and not following a map you might end up taking a much harder trail than you had prepared… Yes, that has happened to me before!

4. Invite your friends

Sarah and Raven posing during a coastline hike in Sooke, BC

Photo taken on iPhone XR

Lots of people do like to hike solo. It can allow you to just tune out the world, be present in nature and enjoy the beauty in the silence. However, especially if you’re new to hiking, inviting friends can be a great idea. Your hike will be full of laughter, chatting and great memories. My favourite hikes have been the ones with my hiking buddy where we spent the entire hike in stitches.

Also, if you’re like me and a bit of an anxious person, hiking with friends can also provide you with some peace of mind. Anytime you’re out in nature you run the risk of coming across wildlife such as bears, cougars or other animals in your local area. You are walking into their home and they may not like it. When you hike solo you’re often quiet (as you have no one to talk to) and you might bump into each other. When you hike with others you’re generally louder so the wildlife avoid you. This is not 100% but a more likely situation.

5. Grab your favourite snacks & pack your bag

Sarah finishing Mount Cokely in style

Photo taken by hiking buddy Raven on iPhone XR

My favourite part… The snacks! The snacks are a non-negotiable on a hike, ask anyone.

I recommend getting an appropriate hiking bag and not a regular backpack. Regular backpacks can hurt your back as they are not supportive of this type of activity. If you don’t want to buy one right away you can always borrow one to try it out and if you end up enjoying hiking then a hiking backpack is one of the first things I recommend buying along with shoes (either hiking boots or trail runners).

For shoes, I use the Solomon Speedcross 5 trail runners (they now have a 6 out) and for a backpack, I use an Osprey (which is a very popular backpack).

Something else that might be good to have on each hike is a small first aid kit. I have one that is hiking-specific (you do not necessarily have to have a hiking one) and it’s small and doesn’t weigh very much. I love the Adventure Medical Kits as they know exactly what you need for an outdoor adventure, they’re affordable and they come in a great little travel case.

Depending on how long your hike is you’ll want to bring both snacks and food. For longer hikes, I like to bring something that we can make with the JetBoil such as miso soup or an instant noodles. I prefer snacks that are calorie-dense and loaded with nutrients like nuts and seeds, trail mix and if it’s not too heavy fruits and veggies. All things that are easy to eat while you walk and you can bring the leftovers with you. I try to not bring too much fresh produce s it can get heavy. I’ll bring a ziplock bag with me for garbage and compost which I will dispose of when I get home. Then I’ll clean the ziplock and stick it back in my bag.

I also typically bring a rain jacket on longer hikes just in case, even on sunny days. The weather can change quickly from the bottom to the top and I do not like being wet. If it’s raining I’ll also bring rain pants but I don’t bring those if it’s not raining. My rain jacket and puffer jacket are both Marmot but there are a lot of great brands out there for clothing!

For more information on recommended items check out this YouTube video I made on this topic!

Hiking is a great activity to get into and different areas offer different scenery, levels and overall enjoyment. Keep things simple, social and enjoyable and you’ll develop a lifelong love!

Check out these blogs to hear about other hikes I’ve done!

1. 5 Things I Bring On Every Hike Regardless Of The Distance

2. Finding Your Favourite Hike In Your Local Area

3. 5 Tips For Beginning Hiking With Children

5 Tips For Travelling As An Introvert

Get ready for your introvert travelling survival guide.

Are you like me?

I’m an introvert, INFJ, Enneagram 6, sensitive soul and HSP. All things quiet, sensitive and introverted.

If you are like me you’ll know that travelling to another country where there are new people and things, especially if you’re travelling with other people or even a group, can be daunting and challenging and ultimately draining.

But if you create a great plan that allows for some flexibility, while also taking care of your needs, then you’ll have the trip of a lifetime every time!

Here are 5 tips for having a great time travelling as an introvert:

1. Always have an escape route

If you are travelling with a group or in a place that is typically a really social place such as an all-inclusive somewhere having an escape plan for activities or wherever you’re going is key.

Research the city, place or activity you’re planning on doing that day and see what is around. Green spaces and nature work best sometimes even just having a couple of minutes of a breather in the street can help. Popping into a library, museum or coffee shop can also help. Even though a coffee shop is typically full of people you can still find quieter ones.

Even if you don’t use your escape route sometimes it helps your brain to simply know that you have one, that you’re willing to take care of yourself if you need it. But I highly recommend having one.

Sarah wandering through Santorini for a break

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

2. Build quiet time into your day

Plan ahead and build this in as a proactive tip. Try to add this into the middle of your day if you can.

This can include sightseeing by yourself in quieter sections of the town you’re in, going to the beach and decompressing if you’re in a place where there’s a beach nearby, grabbing a book, podcast, audiobook, etc. and spending an hour reading on your own either in your accommodation or in a green space, including meditation or mindfulness activities, etc.

But build it into the day. It can be tough with a group or other person but if you are upfront about your needs most of the time the other person will understand and may even want to do it with you. My husband always agrees to include downtime in our day and even as an extrovert he enjoys a quieter moment.

Sarah relaxing in Santorini reading a book

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

3. Bring your escape item with you

An escape item is a comfort item, something you can use to escape from the world for a few minutes such as a book or headphones, etc.

Keep those items close to you wherever you go. Even if you don’t think you’ll need them or have time to use them, trust me. Bring them with you. Sometimes having it nearby helps you feel better but it can also work if you find time to execute your escape route.

You might wander into a cafe or find a park for a couple of minutes and reading some pages of your book or plugging into a good playlist or podcast can be enough to help your energy last through the rest of the day. You might also use the headphones to do a quick meditation if you can find the space to do that but don’t get stuck without your escape item. They can also provide a great photo op!

Harry Potter and the Goblet Of Fire posing in the Elephant House cafe with Edinburgh Castle in the background

Photo taken on iPhone XR

4. Try choosing vacays where you don’t have to be social all the time

This is always nice to throw into your travel schedule. Mix things up. If you’re always going with a group or a particular person try out solo travelling. If you’re always going to bigger cities with a lot of sightseeing try going somewhere smaller or more relaxing.

You can even add smaller/less social trips into your travel schedule. Tropical places are often nice for this. All-inclusive’s do tend to be pretty busy but you can find smaller ones, go during less busy times or find a nice Airbnb of your own.

These vacations often allow you to decompress and fill your introvert cup up!

Sarah having a relaxing/anti-social tropical vacation

Photo taken on iPhone 6

5. Be okay with exploring on your own

Honestly, I love exploring on my own. And I am considered an anxious traveller (funny hey, since I love travelling so much I created a travel blog and vlog!). But in the right setting, this can be great.

You need to know the location you’re travelling to. If you’re going to a place that isn’t safe to be alone then make sure you take that into consideration but if you’re heading to a safe place definitely do this.

Plan activities you can do on your own. Take your time, don’t go by anyone’s timing but yours, do what you want when you want. I guarantee you’ll have a great time!

You don’t have to spend an entire trip doing this but have a day in the middle or a couple of days and watch how you transform the rest of the trip. Do what you need to do to keep your energy high!

Sarah posing by the Beheading Stone in Stirling, Scotland

Photo taken on early 2000’s digital camera

As an introvert, your energy decreases when you’re around people. It doesn’t mean you don’t like people or don’t enjoy spending time with people, it just means you’ll need a bit of alone time to bring yourself back up.

Spending some time alone on your vacation can be exactly what you need to feel relaxed and fulfilled. As introverts, we often notice the small things that most people miss. This can provide us with a deeper way of experiencing the world. Travelling can allow you to learn more about who you are so you come back with vigour and a deeper love for yourself and the world.

Happy travels!

P.S. Looking for a little more? Go check out my YouTube video on this topic! I include some things I didn’t include here!

How To Prepare To Hike In Another Country - Santorini, Greece

Hiking in other countries can be such a joy!

It’s a wonderful way to see the country you’re visiting. It gives you a different perspective; a birds-eye view and often the most beautiful view you can find.

This was definitely the case for the hike we did in Santorini.

It was the tallest peak on the island (which fun fact, it’s actually not an island, it’s a volcano!) which meant that we had the best view. We got almost a 360-degree view!

But if you’re interested in hiking while abroad here are a few things you need to know:

1.Bring only the stuff that is absolutely necessary

Sarah posing on a rocky terrain mountain

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

If you’re going for a vacation and fitting in a hike while you’re there (versus having a hiking-specific vacay) then you’ll need to be careful about what you bring. Since airlines charge an arm and a leg for luggage, especially overweight luggage keeping what you bring for a hike to a minimum is key.

The priorities are clothing. They should be suitable for the weather of the place you’re going. Look ahead to know what the forecast will be (which is a pro tip for any travel experience, actually). Even if you’re doing more than one hike I recommend only having one outfit if you can manage it. Footwear is also key. Know the terrain of the hike you’re doing. If you can avoid the large clunky hiking boots you will thank yourself. I only brought my trail shoes and they worked great. You could also bring a hiking-appropriate backpack as your personal item on the plane so it pulls double duty. Just take everything out and load it up with hiking stuff once you arrive.

2. Look up the weather & route ahead of time

Photos taken on iPhone 14 Pro

I recommend getting an app while you’re back home and searching for the hikes you want to do. Then if your app can do it download the map to be used offline. All Trails is a great one for this. The pro account is only $30 a year and you can easily download lots of different maps and you can program Google Maps or Apple Maps to take you to the start of where that specific route is.

Knowing what you’re walking into is important.

As mentioned above, I also recommend looking up the weather. When you’re hiking in another country you don’t know what will be the same and what will be very different. So, try to ensure you are as prepared as you can be. Know the terrain, the distance and the weather. While we were hiking the weather got hotter and hotter. We couldn’t finish the whole route because we ran out of water and it was so hot it was hard to breathe.

3. Research the hike & see what actual hikers have said

Photos taken on iPhone 14 Pro

This was one of the best things I did to prepare us. Google will often tell you one thing and can make it seem great but when you get there it’s pretty awful. On many apps, people can add their opinions to specific routes and you can read through them.

What’s great is many hikers will actually leave some tips and tricks about the hike, things that worked best and any warnings the hike might need. You can never be too prepared when you go and hike in another country. The last thing you want is to have something happen or to get hurt on the hike because you weren’t prepared and be left in a sticky situation.

Sometimes highly rated hikes on Google are not well-liked by actual hikers or they might suggest other routes to make the hike more enjoyable. Listen to real hikers!

4. Stick to the main trails

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Debatably the most important tips on the list. Depending on the country you go to they might have stricter rules. There also might be things about the trails that only locals know, that aren’t advertised. In some countries, you can actually be fined for going off the main trail. There can be dangers you aren’t aware of or even conservation efforts.

But when you stick to the main trails that are clearly marked you can still get a great hike and great view while also keeping yourself out of an awkward situation.

5. Keep it light & fun

Photos taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Unless you are a pro hiker, don’t take things too seriously. Maybe you go on lots of hikes back home so I totally get the allure of wanting to go hard but when you’re in another country and just on vacation try to keep it light and fun. The last thing you want is for the hike to put a damper on your vacation for either you or the person/people you’re with if you’re travelling with others.

Honestly, things will probably come up that you didn’t plan or know about and you just have to roll with the punches. The hike we did in Santorini was amazing but we were not expecting such open terrain (in Canada where I live most hikes I’ve done have lots of forest). We just slowed ourselves down and stopped lots to admire the incredible, expansive view. We also turned around when we ran out of water and still called the hike a victory.

Hiking in other countries can be the highlight of your trip if you go well-prepared and keep things fun.

I highly recommend when you’re travelling, try to find at least one really great hike. Some countries have incredible landscapes that you can really only take in when you are high above.

Happy travelling and happy hiking!

XO,
Sarah

My Top 5 Touristy Things To Do In Edinburgh, Scotland

I have been to Scotland 3 times but I always find new things to explore each time (while also re-exploring some of my favourites!).

I’m the kind of person who doesn’t mind seeing something more than once if I really love it. I can always find something new to see!

Now, these are not hidden gems and can be quite busy depending on the time of year you go. These are all quite touristy things but in my opinion well worth seeing to say that you’ve seen them or experienced them.

Scotland is a beautiful, historic country and there are many great places and Edinburgh is definitely not a city you should miss on any trip there. There’s something so different and enchanting about it, especially in the main touristy section.

I highly recommend checking out these 5 attractions when you’re in Edinburgh:

1. The Castle… Duh

This had to be in here. And I know what you’re going to say… It’s probably the biggest tourist attraction and is it really worth it? Yes, it is.

You have to see it at least once. Scotland is well known for its castles and if you’re a fan of castles, history or architecture then they’re well-wroth seeing, especially Edinburgh Castle, as it’s the most famous. It’s also quite large and very well preserved. Many castles you come across are ruins, smaller or not as elaborate as Edinburgh.

You can spend an hour or more here if you’re really interested. They have lots of great historical plaques to read or you can take your time viewing the different rooms, hallways courtyards, etc.

My husband’s favourite part was viewing the cannons, which they displayed loud and proud. My favourite part was viewing the bedrooms that were all decorated, allowing you to daydream about what life was like living in Edinburgh Castle.

The guided tours are also really great in case you want to learn more or have questions.

Rainy photo of Castle taken on iPhone XR. Other photos taken on iPhone 7.

2. Edinburgh Dungeon

I can honestly say this was probably one of my favourite things I have ever done on a trip. My band had taken a day trip into Edinburgh but it was rainy that day so most of them just sat in a pub for the day. My husband and I and our friend and his daughter weren’t overly interested in doing that. His daughter had made a list of everything she wanted to see while they were in Scotland and the Dungeon was on her list and, conveniently, right around the corner.

My husband and I had never heard of it but we were absolutely game to do anything that wasn’t just sitting at a pub all-day so we went into the Dungeon with no expectations.

It was not at all what we expected. I assumed it would be like the castles with the plaques and you walk around and view things but this was more like a theatre production. It was incredibly well done, entertaining, educational yet enticing. You can’t take photos inside so I don’t have many but it’s honestly, something we still tell stories about and I would absolutely go again.

It can be a touch scary so maybe not so great for young kids but our friends’ daughter was 11 and she had a blast.

Start of Dungeon photos taken on iPhone XR. Branded Dungeon photos taken with Dungeon cameras.

3. Harry Potter Tour

If you’re a Harry Potter fan this is a MUST SEE. It was an absolutely fantastic tour and it’s by donation which is amazing if you’re trying to stick to a budget.

Your tour guide shows up dressed up and with wands to hand out (there isn’t enough for everyone so, make sure, if you want a want, you go to the front and grab one right away). They then take you to all of the sites that inspired parts of the books. JK Rowling wrote the first few in coffee shops in Edinburgh (and actually not the one that is so famously known for it, you’ll be surprised) and so, she took a lot of inspiration from around the city.

We found this tour really neat and it was fun getting to see her original vision for different people and locations. The tour isn’t overly long either, it starts at a decent hour and you’re done in time for lunch.

The tour ends on the beautiful Victoria Street, the famous street that is the inspiration for Diagon Alley and the tour happens to stop right outside of the official Harry Potter store, which we, of course, had to go check out… And buy a wand from (I chose Professor McGonagall’s wand).

Photos taken on iPhone XR.

4. The Royal Mile

Well, you can’t see the castle without first seeing the Royal Mile (the castle is at the end of the Royal Mile). There are a lot of really neat things to see as you walk up the Mile. It’s entirely made up of cobblestone roads and historic buildings, so if you’re like me and you like historic buildings this will be your jam.

My band typically goes to Scotland for the World Pipe Band Championships so we are there at the same time each year. Due to this, we are always exploring Edinburgh during the Edinburgh Tattoo and the Fringe Festival. Both are really neat events to check out if you have time.

There are lots of shops, pubs and sites along the Mile. If you’re willing to take your time and explore, you can find some really neat parts tucked away. Closes are like little alley’s that take you to quieter areas of the Mile. If you’re an Outlander fan you may even recognize some of them!

Photos taken on iPhone 7

5. Hike Arthurs Seat

If you’ve read any of my other blogs you’ll know that I am a big hiking and adventure fan so a trip to a new place just wouldn’t be right if I didn’t go on a hike. What’s nice about this one is you can make it a longer hike or a shorter hike depending on your timing and preference.

It’s in the opposite end of Edinburgh Castle and has a nice view of Holyroodhouse Castle; a beautiful modern castle, not as big as Edinburgh. If you’re looking for a bit of nature within the city you’ll want to do this.

For something short, you can go just to the viewpoint, which only takes a couple of minutes. There is a 3.5km hike that takes about an hour and a half, which takes you to the seat. But there are other hills in this area so you could keep exploring if you wished. You end up with a gorgeous view of the city and its many amazing sights. The actual hike also, isn’t overly challenging so it’s good for taking kids.

Photos taken on iPhone 7

Edinburgh has some amazing sights to see. So many that you can go over and over and still find new things to see. There are also more touristy things as well as, some incredible hidden gems to explore.

On your first visit, it’s good to catch the big ones. No matter what you choose to see you will love it.

Happy travels!

Introducing The Travelling Bookworm

When I started this blog I wanted to do it just for fun.

I wanted a place to get my thoughts, my passions and my excitement out. To talk about the things I loved most. I wasn’t interested in doing it to make money or anything, I just wanted to be able to expand my creativity and share these things with the world.

Adventure and travel are things I love to do and love to talk about but they didn’t really fit in with my business-related blog that I already had. I didn’t really want to always be trying to figure out how to relate the topic to a business lesson so with the helpful nudge of a coach I took the plunge and created Sarah’s Grand Adventures.

But I realized I had another love that I wanted to explore…

Books.

I have always loved reading and writing.

Writing helped me explore my creativity and I easily made it into my career. It was the only way I felt I could properly and fully express myself, my true self.

But reading was different.

For me, reading was about safety and security and escape.

I always had a difficult time with safety based on childhood experiences. Books were my safe haven. I could hide inside a book, in another world, with other characters. Whenever I needed to escape this world, to escape reality, I would pick up a book and get lost in it.

There were definitely go-to books and if the world wasn’t our real world it was even more appealing. I loved fantasy for that reason.

This is still the case.

Whenever I’m feeling particularly down or in a depressive slump the fantasy realm is where I seek comfort and safety.

So, I wanted to find a way to include that in things… Which is how The Travelling Bookworm was born!

Let me introduce to you the Travelling Bookworm.

I created a TikTok account. I still wanted to be able to share my travel and adventures but I also wanted to share about books too. So I decided TikTok was the best way to do that.

Now, I’m not getting rid of Sarah’s Grand Adventures because I will definitely be continuing to have many grand adventures. I feel the most myself and present when I am out on an adventure or travelling somewhere but I was like… “How can I combine both my loves into one.”

So, the Travelling Bookworm will be a sub-brand of Sarah’s Grand Adventures. I’m going to link my TikTok account to this site so you can keep up with everything. I currently am posting TikTok’s about both books and travelling (hence the Travelling Bookworm) and it seems to be going quite well.

I’m still small but I’m just loving creating freely and not having to worry so much about stats and making money. I’ll keep going until it’s no longer fun!

If you love adventures, travelling and books please go check me out and give me a follow/like some of my stuff. Let’s have some fun and bond over things we love!

Wishing you a wonderful week!

XO,

Sarah

Do’s and Don’t’s For Travelling and Visiting In Greece

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Greece is (and was) an amazing vacation. But like most places, it has its uniqueness and things that you should be aware of.

When you travel it’s good to do some research on the country before you go, even if you think the country is similar to yours. You don’t want to run into trouble — or awkwardness — if you do something differently.

It’s also good to be aware of things so you can maximize your time and money and have fun. Each country has its own set of ‘must-haves’ and you don’t want to not experience one, in case it’s a while before you get to come back. With Greece being far from where I live and quite expensive to get to and stay in, I wanted to make sure I made the most out of the trip.

So, here is my list of do’s and don’t’s when going to Greece!

Do’s:

1. Buy a combined Athens ticket

The Ancient Agora in Athens

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

This was the best tip we were given before going to Greece. We had friends who had gone and they said they bought all of the attractions tickets separately which costed way more money than any of the combined tickets. So, we did some research and found a combined pass that worked best for us.
There are a few options. We chose the option without the hop-on/hop-off bus tour of Athens. By the time we got the tickets, we felt we had seen most of what we wanted in Athens. We had already gone on an excursion up to central Greece and most of the ancient attractions we wanted were within walking distance.
See, my Acropolis blog for links to combined tickets!

2. Go to the islands

Oia, Santorini

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

This is a must and something we wish we had looked into more. We did go to Santorini but that was the only island and we regret that decision. While the islands can be harder to get to with ferries being long rides and airplanes being fairly expensive my husband and I have both said that if/when we go back we want to island hop.
Santorini was something out of a dream or a painting. It was gorgeous, it was relaxing, it was fun, we felt safe and we 100% would go back. There aren’t as many things to do as the big city of Athens but that didn’t feel like the point of Santorini.
The islands are, truly, the best part of Greece. They’re beautiful and each one has its own uniqueness so you don’t feel like once you’ve seen one you’ve seen them all. Go to the islands!

3. Research tourist information for different seasons

Ancient City of Thera, Santorini

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

This is important. Depending on the time of year you go things can be closed. But during peak season things might be crazy and overwhelming. Make sure you look things up before booking your trip. You wouldn’t want something that you were really hoping for to be closed for the season.
This is especially true on the islands. We were very lucky when we went to Santorini. We were there from March 24-29 and Greece’s tourist season starts on April 1st. Where we were in Santorini, we were virtually the only tourists because it was right before the start of the season, but the restaurants and attractions had started opening up to get ready for tourist season. We found we often had restaurants and attractions to ourselves and that was amazing. But had we come earlier it might have been a lot more difficult to find somewhere to eat.

Greece also has a mandatory quiet time. Which is a lot more relevant on the small islands and smaller towns on the mainland than in the big city of Athens. In Athens, nothing shut down (not that we saw anyway) but we always had a food plan just in case we couldn’t find something from 3pm until 5pm.

4. Try Greek Coffee

Greek coffee at Piraeus

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Greeks are very serious about their coffee and it is for sure a must-try. I don’t drink coffee anymore but even I knew I needed to try one. Either try a Greek coffee or a frappe. Both are delicious.
Coffee is an important part of the Greek culture as well. Food and beverage are the pinnacle of everyday life. They’re a heavily social event and if you’re going to go to Greece you have to experience Greek culture and traditions. So try slowing down your eating and drinking.
Wait staff won’t rush you along (truly, sometimes we had to wait half an hour for our bills or a beverage refill). But just go with it. You’re on vacation and sometimes it’s really nice just to sit outside in the sun and slowly enjoy your cup of tea or coffee.

5. Relax

Relaxing at our Cave hotel in Santorini

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Going along with the slow coffee theme, relaxation is huge. In North America, we can often be rushed and not truly get to sit and enjoy our meals, coffees or days Relaxation is a number one priority for Greeks and it’s one of the things I loved the most about Greece.
Just like with the mandatory quiet time and the slow coffee, relaxation is simply built into the day. Unless you’re driving in the big city of Athens, Greek people are not in a rush to get places and that kind of mindset is contagious.
You’re on vacation so take your time, allow yourself some siestas and don’t always feel like you have to run from place to place. Believe me, I am a fast walker and there were definitely limits to my ability to walk behind slow people but I certainly enjoyed not always feeling the pressure to rush, rush, rush.

Don’t’s:

1. Wear the wrong clothes when visiting churches/monasteries

Meteora Monestary

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

We did an excursion to the Ancient City of Delphi and to the monasteries of Meteora which was an amazing experience (despite it being a very long drive back to Athens) but something we learn (boy, was I glad we read the excursion instructions) was about the clothing restrictions.
Now, I know there is a huge movement about letting people wear the clothes they want to even if it doesn’t fit your ideal version of modesty but not every country is like yours and has the same mindset. So, when you choose to go to another country you should be aware of what is normal and customary and mandatory. Going into the monasteries you need to be modestly dressed.
They ask that women wear dresses or skirts and all people need to have their shoulders covered. This is a long tradition and they simply won’t let you enter if you’re not dressed appropriately. Most have covers you can borrow to wrap around your waist like a skirt but some have ones you can buy so be prepared.

2. Be an obnoxious tourist

Pyrgos Kallistis, Santorini

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

While Greece may look and feel similar to countries such as Canada or the US the customs, traditions, etiquette and expectations are different.
When you’re staying in AirBnb’s something to keep in mind is the hot water. Every one we stayed in had the same rule. the hot water switch was turned off and when you wanted to shower you needed to turn it on for 20 minutes, have your super fast shower and then turn it off. Sometimes you’d only get like 2 minutes (5 if you were lucky). Don’t be the tourist who keeps the switch on and costs the owner a ton of money.
Also, be mindful when you’re out and about to not be outwardly judgemental or annoying. You are representing your country so people will associate your behaviour with your country. Be respectful and courteous when you’re out in public and to the people.
Honestly, this is great advice for wherever you go. You don’t need to go travelling to other countries and act like a jerk and be disrespectful. The last thing you want to do is offend the locals. Greeks are typically quite calm and chill. Try to match their energy and be friendly and kind.

3. Assume you have the right of way as a pedestrian

Entrance to the Acropolis

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

This seems to be a European and British thing. In North America, pedestrians pretty much have the right of way wherever we are. At lights, at crosswalks, we even often get away with jaywalking. But not in Europe or the UK and Greece is no exception.
Cars in bigger cities, such as Athens, drive well over the speed limit and often without regard for the rules and motorcycles own the place. Lane splitting is allowed and they always do it. Motorcycles will go right to the front of the line at lights and take off like jets.
Be mindful to wait for the cars (even on crosswalks) and take a few extra seconds to pause before immediately crossing at an intersection (people run red lights often).

4. Get overly intoxicated

Having the most delicious hot chocolate at a restaurant in Athens

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Greek people, while they do drink, they don’t drink to intoxication. So, going along the lines of “don’t be an obnoxious tourist,” don’t go and get drunk and make a scene. Greeks don’t pre-drink before heading out and even when they are out they tend to have one or two and drink them slowly.
In Santorini, we found people really only had alcohol with dinner and often, they didn’t even finish one.
If you enjoy drinking, partying and getting drunk, Greece is not the country for you. You can definitely have alcohol but it’s not the place to get intoxicated. Instead, choose a Greek coffee (or a delicious hot chocolate like I had here)!

5. Don’t spend too much time in Athens

The Ancient Site of Delphi

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

One thing we wished we had known before booking our trip… Athens isn’t that great of a place. Greece is amazing and the historical sites of Athens we absolutely incredible but Athens itself… Meh.
We found that Athens was crowded, dirty and full of run-down buildings and crime. It’s definitely worth going to for the sites but we spend 2 of our 3 weeks there and found it was too much time; we ran out of things to do.
My recommendation, spend no more than 5 days in Athens and the rest of your time on the islands or in other cities on the mainland (but definitely the islands). We got a 5 days pass for the main sites so we made a plan to see about 2 sites per day. Some days we ended up finishing by 12:30/1pm and then having nothing to do for the rest of the day.
We walked and explored a lot and there are tons of restaurants to go to but it often felt overwhelming with restaurants trying to force you in, vendors holding up their products at you and the immense crowds (and it wasn’t even peak tourist season).
So, limit your time there and explore more of Greece!

Greece is an amazing trip. If you do your research, understand their customs, traditions and culture and make a good plan for where you want to go and what you want to see, you’ll end up having an amazing time.

Happy travelling!

5 Things I Bring On Every Hike Regardless Of The Distance

Sarah standing at the top of Joceylyn Hill, Victoria BC

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

I am someone who likes to be prepared… Usually over-prepared.

Even for like 6 or 7km hikes I will bring my big hiking backpack. Not necessary but since it straps at the chest and waist it actually doesn’t sit on my shoulders which is important for someone with a shoulder injury.

But I have had times where I wasn’t able to be prepared and something happened that I could have helped with, if I had my regular stuff.

Every time you go for a hike anything can happen. Injuries occur, hunger/dehydration, if you bring an animal or a child you need extra considerations.

So, here are a few things that I bring on every hike regardless of length, complexity or distance from things:

1. A hiking first aid kit (or any first aid kit)

100% a non-negotiable. I could be doing a flat 3.5km hike and I will bring it. It’s always the hikes you don’t bring one that someone has a big fall and gets hurt.

When I was hiking Mount Cokely on Vancouver Island I had this happen. I had a big fall and completely tore up my leg and knee. We didn’t have a first aid kit. We still had a bit of a ways to go down the mountain so I decided not to look at my leg until we got back to the car. I figured if I looked then I probably wouldn’t make it back. Luckily, when we got back my friend had band-aids but nothing else and it was a pretty long drive home

2. Snacks!

I have discovered that on hikes my blood sugar can drop pretty quickly, especially if it’s a tricky one. So I bring a ton of snacks… more than I would ever want to eat on a hike.

My big backpack has small pockets on the bottom attached to the waist strap. In one of them, I have a couple of small, packaged snacks whose purpose is to give me a quick shot of energy. I have fruit bars and Go-Go Squeezes usually and a small packet of nuts/seeds.

I always bring other food but that typically goes in the main part of the backpack. If the hike is long I will bring something to make such as miso soup or some kind of ramen noodles. Those tend to be the easiest to make and eat while hiking. But the MVP of the hike is definitely the little pocket snacks!

3. Hygiene supplies

In the second waist strap pocket I have small hygiene supplies — Hand sanitizer, tissues and wet wipes. In the upper pockets of my backpack, I have more hand wipes and a microfiber cloth.

I am someone who hates sticky hands. I find it distracting and my brain can only think of them when they’re dirty or sticky. So I have an excess amount of ways to keep my hands clean.

This is super helpful when you need a bathroom break or you’re going to eat. You never know what your hands come in contact with in the wild (my fear is animal pee! lol) so it’s always good to come prepared.

4. A small zip lock for garbage

What you take in you take out. I always take a zip lock with me (the same one each time. I separate it into bins and wash the zip lock for next time). I prefer a zip lock because I can close it and not worry my garbage is going to end up in my bag.

Even compost goes in the zip lock. I have a compost bin and prefer to take that with me. If I use a wet wipe I must take it with me. This is mandatory.

The worst thing to see on the trail is someone’s garbage, including dog poop bags. The zip lock doesn’t take up a ton of space, I just use a medium one and for the most part, I don’t create a lot of waste on my hikes so it’s an easy enough addition.

5. A thin raincoat and liner

Now, if you don’t live on Vancouver Island this may not be applicable to you but I do. Victoria is a rainforest and even if there is no rain in the forecast any Victoriaite will tell you that means nothing. So, even in the dead of summer, I will always bring a raincoat.

But I have also shown up to a hike and been surprised by snow so I have a set that includes a waterproof outer layer and a fleece-lined inner layer. I can button them up together or wear them separately. But I always make sure I have them. The worst is getting halfway through a hike and either ending up wet or cold. Or if you have a friend who didn’t come prepared you can be their saviour.

Being over-prepared is completely fine when you’re hiking or out in nature.

There are some things that I bring on every hike even if I think I won’t need them. I’d rather they stay untouched than make it into a hike have to cut it short or suffer because I didn’t come prepared.

These items are helpful when I am hiking alone or with other adults. For tips for hiking with kids check out this blog post.

Happy Hiking!

The Perfect Place To Relax - Santorini, Greece

Oia, Santorini at sunset

Photo taken on iPhone 14 Pro

There is a lot of hype when it comes to Santorini.

So many people told us it was a must-see while we were in Greece. Many travel accounts on the internet came back with “it’s overrated” and suggested less hyped-up islands that were supposed to be prettier and less busy.

We were nervous that we’d end up disappointed and that it really would be overrated - similar to our feelings about Athens overall. We were worried we had made the wrong choice about which island to go to…

To be honest with you…

We absolutely loved Santorini.

It didn’t feel overrated, it was worth all of the hype and it wasn’t busy at all.

They say tourist season in Greece starts on April 1st (which made sense because our Airbnb that went past the 1st was definitely more expensive than our earlier ones. But we discovered that April 1st is the start of the early tourist season and May is truly when things pick up.

We were in Santorini from March 24-28th; right before early tourist season.

In the part of town that we stayed in it felt like we were the only tourists, which was great. It wasn’t busy at all.

We easily got into the restaurants we wanted, the beaches weren’t crowded, the attractions had no lines (and The Ancient City Of Thera only had us - Watch out for this blog post later) and our hike was amazing and felt like we were the only people in the world (Will also be doing a blog on this). We even got an upgraded room at our Cave Airbnb because there was availability.

And while going before tourist season didn’t come without its challenges (restaurants had more limited hours) many of the restaurants that had closed for the off-season were starting to open when we were there to get ready for the influx of tourists. But even if not everything was open we still had plenty of options (and many were the ones the locals went to which meant they were even better!).

We stayed in an area called Pyrgos Kallistis in a cave house. If you go to Santorini staying in a cave is a must. The experience is so fun. However, if you happen to be 6 foot 1, like my husband, watch the doorways because the caves really are made out of solid rock… His head can confirm.

The Airbnb host was incredible. She went above and beyond.

Scott and I were put on Standby for getting there and only I made it on the flight so I got there a few hours before Scott. They arranged a car to come collect me at the airport and take me to the Airbnb. When I arrived I was met by Zoi, the host. She gave me a tour, upgraded our room and then put me in her car and took me to dinner (which she bought!). Then she took me out to eat on the balcony of another place she had just purchased that she was in the process of renovating.

She also told us a couple of things about the island.

First, there are no addresses on the island. This was an interesting experience because to find something we had to be given specific directions and Google Maps was quite comical. Every “street name” was essentially the same because there weren’t any street names. We figured everything out but we often found we had to re-route because there were places Google told us to go that cars just couldn’t go.

Second, Santorini is, in fact, not an island at all. It is an active volcano.

This was a really neat experience. We didn’t notice the ash floating around that much but the beaches were cool! We went to one called “Black Beach.” The name comes from the fact that the sand is completely black. They also have one called “Red Bach” and I bet you could figure out why it’s called that.

On our hike, we were able to see almost a 360-degree view of the island and we could see the volcano. I’ve never seen one from that view before.

Third, the white stone caves are white because they are painted, they are not naturally white. It turns out that it’s the law that you have to keep them white… Citizens are constantly having to paint their caves. We witnessed this happening as our Airbnb was being painted while we were there.

Apparently, the ash floating around constantly falls on the caves and starts to make them a little gray and the photos just wouldn’t be as good if the caves were gray instead of white.

Fourth, Greeks have a very different idea of hot and cold than Canadians. Scott was disappointed because the pools weren’t open and he was really looking forward to the pool. Our host told us it was uncharacteristically cold and “no one would swim in them this cold.” Scott greatly disagreed.

The temperatures were between 18 and 23 degrees Celcius (64.4 and 73.4 degrees Fahrenheit) while we were there. For the Canadians it was solid summer weather, for the Greeks, it was cold. We saw this in action one day at a restaurant. It was 22 degrees C and the sun was hot and beating down on us. We were in shorts and tank tops and sweating buckets. A Greek family sitting next to us finishes their food, stands up to leave and they’re in long pants and they put on down-filled puffer jackets before heading out the door. It floored us.

Photos taken on iPhone 14 Pro

We particularly loved how laid back and relaxed everything was.

There really is something about that “island time.”

But there was no crime and so much trust. We drove a random local back to his car after a hike and he chatted our ears off and gave us a fantastic restaurant recommendation for that night to watch the sunset.

We were told the best sunset on the island was in Oia, which was high on our list to see.

We went to the restaurant he recommended (which was amazing) called Thalami. Oia had more tourists than where we were staying but still not a huge amount.

The food was incredible, the view was incredible and the sunset definitely met our expectations.

The real beauty of the island was the sunset (which I, of course, took a zillion photos of). I thought the sunset was beautiful everywhere on the island but seeing it in Oia was definitely an unforgettable moment, one of my favourites of the trip.

Oia has a really cute little strip you can walk up filled with shops. When you reach the end you get an amazing view of the caves and sunset. Enjoy literally watching the sun set with the large collection of photos of the sunset at every point on its way down.

Photos taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Yes, Santorini comes with a lot of hype and while we cannot speak for what the experience is like during peak season I can tell you, we had an amazing time and would absolutely go back.

I’d love to see more of the islands but for our first time in Greece, I absolutely fell in love. We both were disappointed when we had to leave and while there isn’t necessarily as much to do as the big city of Athens if you enjoy a quiet, slower pace to just relax, unwind and explore, Santorini meets that need.

The end of March was a great time to go as things were opening back up but it still wasn’t overly crowded with tourists.

Add Santorini to your bucket list for sure!

The Feeling of Seeing An Iconic Sight For The First Time - Acropolis, Athens, Greece

Outside and below the Acropolis of Athens

I know this is a blog and this will be a funny thing to say…

But words cannot describe the feeling of wanting and dreaming of something for your whole life and finally walking in and seeing something so incredibly iconic for the first time.

It literally takes your breath away.

After a cluster-bomb of a time getting to Athens (try 55+ hours, a 2-hour delay causing me to be a day and a half late, a strike in Italy, baggage being stuck and no one wanting to get it for us, being the only person who didn’t get on the earlier rebooked flight, etc.) having this be one of the first things we did was exactly what I needed to start turning this trip around.

No matter what time or day you go there are a lot of people there and long lineups so just brace yourself and get in line.

The sight is worth the wait and it didn’t take all that long. I highly recommend buying tickets online ahead of time and even finding a combined pass.

LINK

The pass we got was $30 each for 5 days and included all of the major attractions including the Acropolis. Look around on Google to find the best deal

When you enter you head to the South Slopes and you see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Looking down on the theatre was really neat. It looks huge. However, when you compare it to the Theatre of Dionysus on the other side of the hill you realize it’s actually quite small!

Imagine watching a play at either of these theatres! It must have been exhilarating.

Next, walk all the way up to the Acropolis area itself.

The entrance to the Acropolis, Propylaia, is amazing! Built between 437 BCE and 432 BCE, the marble pillars tower above you like this incredible dominating presence. The first time we went you could walk right up the middle. There were no ropes partitioning the sides.

The feeling of walking through this entrance makes you feel like you’re part of greatness. You’re walking into something great. The ancient Greeks certainly liked to make their greatness known and this entrance is absolutely a statement of that.

My favourite part about travelling around Greece and going to all of the historical sites was imagining when these places weren’t tourist attractions but the real town.

Imagining what the people at the time were like, what they did, how they interacted with these things. I imagine ancient Athenians walking through this entrance to get to the Acropolis. I imagine myself as an ancient Greek walking through this entrance into the Acropolis and seeing the Acropolis for the first time.

At that moment all of the tourists ceased to exist and it was just myself and other ancient people going about our business here!

Just when you think you’ve seen the most amazing thing you enter the Acropolis.

Videos don’t do it justice.

Just imagine walking through this incredible hilltop when it was in its prime.

Fun fact, nothing is allowed to be built taller than the Acropolis in Athens. So still to this day, the Acropolis is the tallest feature in the city. When we were walking around almost everywhere nearby you caught a glimpse of the Parthenon at the Acropolis.

We, of course, took photos every time we caught a glimpse.

At the top of the Acropolis, there are a few different sights to see. Of course, you have the Parthenon which is the biggest presence at the Acropolis (and throughout the city). When we went it was going through some restorations so we had to use our imaginations a bit (ooo, a tough one for me hey).

This incredible temple is one of the largest temples to have ever been built in Greece. It was dedicated to Athena Parthenos and was completed in 438 BCE in time for the Great Panathenaic Festival (Lonely Planet).

The Parthenon consists of 8 columns at each end and 17 on each side and were meticulously sculpted.

You can also walk over to this round tower where the Greek flag is and look out over the side to see the rest of the ancient city (all of the sights of Athens are quite close to each other naturally).

Aside from the incredible Parthenon the Acropolis is also home to the Erechtheion which consists of the Porch of the Caryatids and the Temple of Poseidon.

The Erechtheion was an incredible sanctuary. It was said to be built on the most sacred part of the Acropolis Hill; the spot where Poseidon struck the ground with his Trident. The goddess Athena also planted a sacred Olive Tree at the back of the sanctuary (a tree that still resides there today).

Attached is also the Porch of the Caryatids which is supported by 6 maidens designed as columns. However, the columns residing there today are recreations. 5 of the 6 original columns are currently housed in the Acropolis Museum with one empty spot for the 6th column which is in the British Museum.

On the back side of the Sanctuary is the Temple of Poseidon. It is recognizable by its 6 incredible columns and the fissure in the floor which is said to either be from Poseidon’s Trident or Zeus’ Thunderbolt.

The back side is also where you can find Athena’s sacred Olive Tree.

This ancient building may seem quaint in comparison to the Parthenon residing on the same hill but let me tell you, it holds its own and has an even more incredible mythology.

To me, the stories, the history and the mythology are the parts I care about. I invested in doing some reading before I left for Greece and since being home have also been researching. That’s why I love letting my imagination run wild in my own little world while exploring these incredible pieces of history. My husband, however, prefers to know how it was built and when it was built so he spends a lot of time reading the signs at the different sights.

The best part is that there is a little bit for each of us up there. He can casually take his time reading the signs and I can gaze at the different landmarks and zone out.

You can head back down the opposite side of the Parthenon from the hill.

The back side shows another beautiful view. There are a series of signs that depict the entire process (my husband was in heaven) and you get a great view of the Theatre of Dionysus (a fraction of its former glory. To see what the theatre looked like originally spend a day in the Acropolis Museum).

It may feel like you’re leaving but there is still plenty to see.

On this backside, you’ll be able to see the Temple of Athena Nike. It almost feels like it’s hidden but I assure you, it’s a hidden gem you want to see. It’s small but mighty. Inside is a statue made of wood of Athena as Victory (you can get a better view in the Acropolis Museum which also houses a depiction of Athena Nike fastening her sandal (Lonely Planet)).

I highly recommend taking a quick stop back toward the entrance to see the Beulé Gate before heading to the lower slopes. The gate is an interesting feature. Beware, it’s quite hard to get a photo without other people (I used the magic of Photoshop for mine) but if you have a bit of patience you can find a lull and get a photo with very few people.

From there backtrack to go past the Odeon of Herodes Atticus so you can reach the lower slopes.

I particularly loved the lower slopes for their light and peaceful atmosphere. It almost seemed like most people didn’t realize there were things to see down here.

But there are a few great smaller things to see such as the Asclepieion, the Stoa of Eumenes, the Temple Of Themis and a gallery of statues.

Take your time down here. The Acropolis Hill is loud, bustling and overwhelming but down here is a lot more serene and you don’t feel rushed.

There are a few sights in Athens that are well worth seeing. Some take you a short amount of time while others may take a little bit longer. I will be writing a blog on the length of time the other sights take to help you plan your time in Athens.

But if you only have a day or two in Athens, the Acropolis and slopes is a must-see attraction. It is often quite crowded but you get the biggest bang for your buck and you get an amazing big picture of what life in Athens was like in ancient times.

Enjoy!

All photos taken on iPhone 14 Pro

Get Ready With Me For My Trip To Athens, Greece

Note: All images used in this blog are stock photos (we haven’t left yet so we don’t have Greece photos yet)

To say I’m excited about this trip is an understatement. I can’t even put it into words.

Greece has held the top spot on my Bucketlist for as long as I can remember.

When I was a kid I watched the movie The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants. In the movie one of the characters is Greek and she goes to Greece for the summer. When she gets to Greece she, uncomfortably, rides a donkey through the city to get to where her family lives. It looked like Santorini so I’ve just always imagined that it was.

I watched that scene repeatedly and my favourite scenes in the movies were the ones in Greece.

From the moment I first watched that movie I was hooked.

Greece was the coveted place. It felt unattainable, which is why I held it in such high regard.

In high school, I did a project on it and even in university, I did a project on it.

I was obsessed with Greek Mythology (or just all mythology. There’s something about old stories…).

But it’s finally here….

In exactly one week from right now I’ll be starting my journey to Greece (it will take me more than 24 hours to get there so I won’t technically arrive until St Patrick’s Day, which is kind of funny. The Irish girl arrives in Greece on St Patrick’s Day).

So, I thought I’d walk you through how I’m preparing and my must-have items for a big trip like this (and don’t worry, there will be plenty of blogs on Greece with lots of photos once I get there).

Getting Ready For A Big Trip:

1. Take care of flights, transportation and accommodations well ahead of time

This one is a must. I am very much a type-A, controller and like to know everything ahead of time. I do consider myself a free spirit and be-in-the-moment kind of person but I have too much anxiety to leave big international trips to chance.

For Greece, I was at the mercy of the Canadian Military. We got this trip because my husband was deployed for 7 months and when they’re gone for that length of time you get a subsidized trip. But that means that they have to do all the bookings.

But once everything is booked and ready I like to have everything in one place so if I can I will download everything and even print it off it’s big because I won’t know how good the wifi is in certain airports. I put everything into a bag or a pouch so it’s all together but I review it so I am very familiar with it, especially if I have a lot of layovers.

I also want to make sure I am well-versed in getting from the airport to the accommodations, which is why I love Airbnb. Everything is laid out well, you can find great hosts that provide a ton of instructions, and let you know the best ways to get from the airport or other points of entry to the Airbnb, what’s nearby for food, shops, attractions, etc. You can also ask for recommendations.

2. Buy an actual travel book

Yes, you absolutely can use the internet or something digital but I actually prefer to grab a good old fashion print travel book. Something I have always done is used a travel book for their maps, and recommendations and to keep track of what I had done and seen. When I went to Scotland I would take it around with a pen and check mark and date everything that went to so I’d remember it.

Yes, this definitely sounds super touristy but I loved getting to do it. And now we have phones that tell us the location of the photos we take and that’s great but there is still something about the travel book!

Trust me on this one.

3. Purchase foreign currency

I prefer to travel with paper money instead of using a credit card. For one thing, it’s just really fun to see the currencies of other countries. I love learning about individual countries’ histories, cultures, mythology, customs, etc. Seeing their money is just a fun part of the experience.

But also, for me, it’s a great way to budget.

I can’t say sticking to a budget or managing money is a strength of mine… So what I do is request actual money and that way I can visually watch how much I’m spending. With a credit card, you can just keep swiping. For me, it’s like out of sight out of mind. So I need something more physical and that I can’t pretend doesn’t exist.

To know how much to request I would recommend making a list of all the things you’d like to do, research the average cost of food and other expenditures and then add it all up. You can usually find all of this in a travel book.

I also highly recommend requesting money from your own bank. They can usually get you the cheapest rates. Requesting at the airport or even in the country usually has some extra cost associated (not always but I’d look around before relying on the airport).

4. Start packing/laying things out 7-5 days before your trip (more if you’re neurotic like me)

The last thing you want is to pack the night before and realize you don’t have something you absolutely need. Big trips can be tricky, especially if you haven’t been to the country yet. You may not know what you can get there or the price (if you’ve budgeted your spending and something isn’t included that could end up being a nasty situation).

I like to lay everything out ahead of time so I can see everything. I’ll make a list and check things off and try to think of everything I could need.

Look at regular weather trends (you can Google averages) and then about 1-2 weeks ahead of time you can start looking at the actual weather forecast. This is something that is a must-do. You don’t want a nasty surprise where you thought it would be warm and it rained the whole time. For instance, my research told me Greece only rains about 1-2 days on average for the month of March but looking at the 2-week weather forecast there’s a different story. It looks like a coat will be required due to rain.

5. Make a list of must-sees

It’s okay to want to be spontaneous but at least make yourself a list of must-sees from your travel book or recommendations from others. If you announce where you’re going and you have everyone you know whos been there telling you you have to go somewhere… Go there. For us, that was Santorini. Everyone I told that I was going to Greece said “you HAVE to go to Santorini,” so we booked a fight in the middle of the trip to go there.

But make a list of sights you want to see and you can either plan ahead for when you’re going to see them or go with the flow if that works better. I recommend trying for one big thing a day (you can try for two if you think you’ll have time and they’re close). For example, in Athens, we will do the Parthenon on one day and the Acropolis on another. Not both on the same day.

My Must-Have Items I’m Bringing To Greece (or other big trips):

1. Lonely Planet Travel Book

Out of all the books you can get Lonely Planet, I consider the best. It’s the most accurate and detailed. What I also love, especially in my Greece one I got recently, is it includes history and bits on local culture and ways of doing things. As a history nerd, I really appreciated that.

2. Packing Cubes

I got some good cheap ones off of Amazon but if you tend to go overboard (guilty) with packing, these are the way to go. I recommend getting a variety pack. Mine include 4 for clothing, one for shoes, one for undergarments, a makeup and toiletries kit, a zippered bag and a drawstring bag.

They’re also waterproof, durable and dirt resistant. You definitely want them to last.

3. Silicone Travel Bottles

If you’re bringing your own shower supplies silicone travel bottles are definitely the way to go. Taking your big bottles can take up too much space (especially if you’re trying to pack lighter) and the big bottles often pressurize and make a big mess in your bag.

The silicone bottles hold up much better in the air, take up far less space and are better for the environment than grabbing a bunch of the little travel ones from the stores themselves. You can find these all over. Amazon has a great selection and the pharmacy and other stores usually have some.

4. Universal plug adapters

My husband and I have a handful of the universal adapters. Something that not everyone realizes is that countries around the world need different plugs. I recommend researching the specific plugs for the country you’re going to. For Greece, we need the European ones.

We prefer universal because there are just a lot of countries and we would hate having to buy adapters for all the different places, especially if we only went once. The universal ones often contain adapters for a variety of countries. You’ll be able to use the right plug for the sockets and also the right wattage. This is important if you don’t use an adapter when you’re in another country you can accidentally start a fire or fry your device.

5. A pair of throw-away shoes

This may seem like a silly one but if I’m going to a country where I know I’ll be doing a lot of walking, I’ll go to Walmart and find a pair of shoes I can walk in for a price that I don’t mind paying for a pair that could potentially just get tossed in the garbage at the end.

I wouldn’t recommend going and buying a pair of $200 shoes for your trip because that would be much harder if they accidentally got ruined. Walmart has some cute shoes for great prices. I just bought my pair for Greece a couple of weeks ago for $15. They’re cute, I can walk in them, they have memory foam soles so my feet will be comfortable and for $15 if they get ruined from all the use in Greece, I won’t be heartbroken about throwing them out. They’re replaceable.

A Relaxing Vacation or an Exploration Vacation? Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

My husband and I have this debate all the time…

Do you prefer a relaxing vacation or an exploration one?

My husband is team relaxation all the way. Give him a pool deck or beach and a tropical location for two weeks and he’s in heaven…

I, on the other hand, can only “relax” for so long. I much prefer the kind of vacation where you get to explore and learn new things. I love to walk around and see things. I love finding beautiful hikes and landscapes, I love beautiful buildings and I love history and culture.

So you can understand why we always have so much trouble picking vacations… He wants to lie on a beach and do nothing and I want to do EVERYTHING.

But we do eventually select a vacation and we pretty evenly split relaxing and exploring.

Our first real relaxation vacation was to Peurto Vallarta, Mexico (or just outside). We stayed at the Grand Palladium all-inclusive resort.

Panorama photo taken of the beautiful Grand Palladium resort in Mexico with the ocean and beach in the background

Photo taken by Scott Hennessey

We loved this trip because it was our first trip together out of Canada and the trip we realized we actually loved travelling together. I had taken a big international trip in 2014 to Scotland and absolutely fell in love with travelling. The freedom, the sense of adventure, the new sights and experiences, all of it. My husband had been all over Canada and to parts of the US but nothing past that. And we had never gone out of the country together.

To us this was thrilling and full of excitement and honestly this trip and the resort did not disappoint.

The Grand Palladium was a bit pricy (although we got an incredible deal on Expedia!) but it was well worth the price (especially after comparing to another all-inclusive in Mexico years later).

There are some great excursions you can take in Mexico but for the most part Mexico counts as a relaxation vacation, especially this trip as we did not do any excursions.

We accidentally were conned into doing a timeshare presentation that took all day and they did not hold up their end of the bargain. We ended up losing a whole day and we were a bit uneasy about leaving the resort again. We talked about an excursion but we ended up being happy just staying there.

Me looking out at the beautiful beach and ocean

Photo taken on iPhone 6

We arrived in the late afternoon/evening so we just took some time to really take in that we were in Mexico, an incredibly beautiful place. It really took our breath away. We also explored a little bit (we like to acquaint ourselves with the resort). I recommend doing this whenever you travel somewhere like Mexico. Find the food places, the pools, the routes to the different places you’ll want to go, the entertainment (and figure out what entertainment is) and look to see if they have in resort activities.

This particular resort had incredible nightly entertainment, fairly tame, just shows and such in an outdoor theatre. They also had a great schedule of activities you could do. We chose archery, salsa lessons, a trampoline exercise, beach volleyball and I did some pool deck yoga. They also had an assortment of other activities you could do on your own such as, tennis (which we did at the hottest part of the day… mistake!) and my husband tried snorkling.

Photos taken on iPhone 6

The one reason I like relaxing vacations is that it feels a lot more casual and less time constrained.

You can make plans and change them quite easily (except for the excursions you should stick with those timings) but if you choose not to do an activity and just lying on the pool deck instead you’re free to do that. While an exploration vacation feels a lot more rigid with timings. If you’re going to explore a certain city that day it’s harder to reschedule because there is often so much to do and see.

I also did enjoy having more free time to just sit and read and less time being spent on my phone. Unplugging from the “real world” was a really amazing benefit. I do not get a SIM card when we stay at a resort like this.

Reasons why my husband loves relaxing vacations… He can literally do nothing and it’s the best thing he can imagine.

Since this was our first time in Mexico and an all-inclusive we didn’t really know what to expect but if we had expectations it would have blown ours out of the water. It was an incredible first experience.

As someone with a lot of food allergies and restrictions, I was completely comfortable and taken care of. A travel agent told me just to let them know about my allergies and they could walk me through and that was accurate. At this particular resort, they had a huge variety as well. They had different stations in their buffet such as a breakfast bar and a separate egg station where they cooked your eggs from scratch, there was a salad bar, a fruit station, a pasta bar, a meat station, a Mexican food station and more. They also had an incredible dessert station! They also had other restaurants that you could reserve a time for as well as a snack shack for alternate times of the day if you got hungry - we always did!

Oh, and don’t forget the fabulous 24/7 Room Service… A personal fave!

Photos taken on iPhone 6

A few things we did not expect:

Which ended up being some of our favourites…

The resort randomly had a crocodile at the front. We decided he was our pet. We visited him a couple of times a day, each day we were there. I had never seen a crocodile in “real life” before so this felt like such a novelty.

On top of that, they also had a Zoo in the resort. Just a small one but it was kind of fun to see something so different. They used it as a sanctuary/rescue for the animals and they had caretakers looking after them.

Photos taken on iPhone 6

Another unexpected thing that we ended up loving was the Hemingway Bar. Surprisingly not that busy. It was a little indoor bar near the entrance of the resort (and our crocodile friend - we always visited before heading into the Hemingway Bar). It was a nice relaxed atmosphere with games and comfy chairs and we made friends with the bartender Martin (pronounced Mar-teen).

We loved coming here after dinner when we didn’t want to go to the pool while we waited for the nightly entertainment. Scott and I enjoyed many games (in which we were far too competitive) and used it as a time to just talk without being distracted by screens and other things we had at home.

I think some of my favourite moments were spent here.

Photo of husband taken on iPhone 6. Photo of me taken on some kind of Samsung phone.

We also loved that this particular resort had an adult-only pool. We realized how much of a luxury that was when we later went to another resort and they did not have one. This resort had a kids club (which honestly looked like so much I kind of wanted to join in. The kids were able to go play in a rec room type of environment with so many amazingly cool things. But you’d also always see the kids club going around the resort on adventures with the staff. It’s like the coolest summer camp you’ve ever seen).

But many of the pools ended up being so busy and crowded with kids it was hard to read and relax and often the kids would splash water on the deck. It was great that they were having fun but I can say it was nice to have an adults-only pool so that the main sounds you hear were the sounds of the waves lapping over themselves.

Finally, the best recommendation I could give you if you’re choosing an all-inclusive for your relaxing vacation…

Find a resort that has a good spa.

No seriously…

Look online to see if the resort you’re looking at has a spa and if it does go check out some of the reviews. We ended up having two massages each in the 7 days we were there and they were amazing. Some of the best massages we had ever had.

And what we particularly loved about getting those massages is it then gave us access to the spa’s relaxing personal pool. We were the only ones when it went. The noise of the resort was blocked out, there was relaxing music and a waterfall, the temperature of the water was perfect and there were amazing chairs and beds if you wanted. There was also no time limit for how long you could stay.

No phones or cameras were allowed so there are no photos. Those memories simply live in our heads.

While my preference is exploration vacations I think relaxing vacations definitely have a place. I enjoyed Puerto Vallarta and The Grand Palladium resort.

Staying at an all-inclusive where food and everything was included was an incredible way to go. All of the cost was in one and with an incredible Expedia deal it made this vacation one of my all-time faves!

So let me ask you?…

Are you team relaxation or team exploration?

Finding Your Favourite Hike In Your Local Area - Mount Manuel Quimper, Sooke, BC

I’m a pretty passive person when it comes to hikes.

I usually let other people pick them. My main hiking buddy often picks our hikes and so it was she who picked Manuel Quimper originally.

I only started hiking in 2020 as a pandemic hobby. I wanted to do something with my best friend, get outside for some fresh air and feel a sense of peace and normalcy in the heart of a fairly crazy time

The first time we hiked Mount Manuel Quimper was March 21st, 2020 (actually I think that was our first hike period) and after that, it became my absolute favourite hike. Whenever people ask what hike I’d like to do I suggest that one… I’m running out of people who want to do it with me.

Sarah standing in front of a beautiful ocean view at the top of Mount Manuel Quimper

Taken by my Friend Raven McCallum on the iPhone XR

I don’t know how I did it but I did all our first hikes with my pink Nike Free running shoes which I would not recommend to be your hiking shoe of choice. It was flat with no grip and I slipped and slide all the way up the mountain.

Out of all of the hikes I’ve taken why is this particular hike my favourite?

First, there is something so special about your first hike that makes you fall in love with hiking. You either love it or you don’t. If you don’t fall absolutely, head-over-heels in love with hiking your first time out, chances are you won’t be so keen to do it again. But if you do happen to unlock your next-level obsession, that first hike often means a lot to you.

I felt free, I felt wild, I felt like I was where I wanted to be, where I needed to be.

Sarah sitting at the top of Manuel Quimper preparing food

Taken by my friend Raven McCallum

Also, it’s the right amount of hard versus pay-off.

You know when you go on a hike and it’s so stinking hard and the scenery sucks on the way up but you remain hopeful for that gorgeous view at the top but when you get there… It is a huge let-down?

Yes, those hikes we don’t repeat again.

But Manuel Quimper is a good amount of challenge (not the hardest so you can take fairly beginner adults up) with beautiful scenery on the way up and a spectacular view.

As you’re hiking up it’s fairly wet and swamp-like so I suggest good waterproof shoes… Especially if you’re hiking in the winter (as I did on New Year’s Day this year and it was pretty much completely flooded). It decent amount of elevation but it’s consistent as you descend up the mountain for about 5-6km’s so it’s not as difficult.

You get absolutely beautiful forest views (I’m a sucker for exploring the woods!) but as you get higher you get little sneak peeks of the ocean view.

Taken on iPhone 12 (second and third photo converted to long exposure)

Once you reach the top there is a little house that you can go and sit in (it protects you a little bit from the cold and elements).

The little house was previously a fire lookout tower built in the 1920s (and has since had repairs done so it’s completely safe to go up into) back when Mount Manuel Quimper was named Mount Shepherd. In 1939 it was renamed Mount Manuel Quimper. For more details on this story check out the Sooke News Mirror.

The best part about this little house is on gross days you can have your mandatory top-of-mountain meal (we often like to either have miso soup or a Mr. Noodles variety that we can make using our JetBoil stove) and of course a cup of tea.

There is also a guest book to sign if you’re interested!

First photo of the fire lookout tower taken by West Coast Hikes. Photos 2 and 3 taken on the iPhone 12

But let’s be real…

The main judge of whether a hike is a good one you’ll do again or a flop is the view at the top.

I love a mixed view. I don’t want just water but I don’t want just forest. I love when one shot can get me both.

Mount Manuel Quimper provides both. I love that for a lot of the upper part, the water peeks out of the trees playfully as if it’s inviting and encouraging you to continue onwards; a little tease of what’s coming. Honestly, those are some of my favourite shots to get.

On Vancouver Island, I feel that we’re quite lucky in terms of beautiful views and amazing hikes and Manuel Quimper definitely does not disappoint.

At the top, there are many spots where you can sit and take in the whole view. What I love the most about Quimper is the vastness of the view. You sit on the rocks and just take it all in while you’re having a snack on a nice day. On New Year’s, my hike resulted in immense fog at the top but it made it feel like an entirely different hike.

First two photos taken by Raven McCallum, third photo taken on iPhone 12

Choosing your favourite hike can be a trial-and-error process and something you’ll just feel when you do it. I was lucky to find my favourite hike on my first one but you might need to do a few.

Just think about what your favourite elements are in a hike, what you like to see and experience and just try a few different ones.

If you do one hike and didn’t particularly love it, don’t give up. Try another one, get recommendations from people who are more avid hikers or in a hiking community/app, try going during different times of the year, different weather, etc.

After a while, you will find your favourite and then it will become the one you default to and your friends will become sick of you asking to do the same hike repeatedly.

Happy hiking friends!

5 Tips For Beginning Hiking With Children - Thetis Lake, Victoria, BC

Do not underestimate children’s natural strength and energy. I feel we far too often do that.

We assume things about their abilities because they’re “too little” or “too young” but they can actually - and should actually - do more than we give them credit for.

On Sunday I had the experience of taking my niece, age 5 (on the day!) and 7 for a hike.

Now, I have been following a bunch of adventure and travel with children-based accounts and I love them so I really wanted to have that type of adventure and I thought my nieces were the perfect kiddos for it.

I know my nieces really well. I know their personalities, what they like and don’t like and I know they love the outdoors and playing outside. We have gone for plenty of walks and to the park for plays and honestly, those girls almost prefer to run through the trees than they do playing on the actual structure.

So, I knew they would be the kind of kids who would enjoy this experience.

If your kids are not outdoor kids that’s okay, you just might first want to start with regular walks and other fun outdoor activities.

5 year old hiker rocking this hill during a hike at Thetis Lake

Photo taken on iPhone 12

Here are 5 Tips For Taking Kids Hiking (who are new to hiking):

1. Choose an appropriate environment

7 year old hiker climbing a hill during a Thetis Lake hike

Photo taken on iPhone 12

When they’re just getting started and they’re young it’s good to select an environment that provides both a challenge but also is easy enough that they can accomplish it without losing their interest or ending up with grumpy kids.

Knowing your child’s strengths and what skills they’re still working on will be helpful in choosing your location.

Based on the ages and experience levels of my nieces I chose Thetis Lake in Victoria, BC.

I knew they were both naturally good athletes with lots of energy so I knew they could accomplish a 3.5km hike. But Thetis Lake provides the best of all worlds.

It feels like a hike with its lake and forest views so they were able to experience nature and it was a great combination of uphills and flats. There were a handful of uphills (which I warned them about as we came up to them) but nothing too challenging. Enough that they got to practice what an actual hike would be like but enough flats they could get some breaks in.

It also provided a lot of fun exploring and scenery for them!

2. Prepare them ahead of time for what it will be like & the expectations

5 year old hiking with a jacket and a backpack with the essentials at Thetis Lake

Photo taken on an iPhone 12

It’s a great idea to tell your kiddos what to expect for the hike. I told them the length, that it was through the forest and we could run around, I said there were a couple of hills at the beginning but it got flatter as we went along.

I also let them know that we could take breaks whenever they wanted and it was completely okay to ask, I said we should explore with all of our senses (except taste because “trees are pretty yucky tasting.” Make sure you use kid-appropriate language. I didn’t say the hike was 3.5km’s I said it would take until the clock had a 4 in front of the number.

I wanted to make sure we stayed safe so I set out 3 expectations. 3 is a doable number for most kids and my rule of thumb is to have two that are “serious” for safety and one that will make them laugh.

My “rules” for our hike:

1. You don’t have to hold my hands or stay at my side (unless you want to) but I always need to see you or you need to see me

2. We need to take care of and protect the earth. It’s precious and gives us lots of things so we don’t want to destroy it.

3. We must have so much FUN!

(Feel free to snag these or you can make your own).

3. Keep it fun and engaging

5 year old hiker watching otters by the lake at Thetis Lake

Photo taken on an iPhone 12

This is key when you’re out with kids, especially ones on the younger side because let’s be real… Hiking isn’t that interesting when you’re 5 years old with a backpack full of stuffies.

So, it’s important to find ways for them to enjoy themselves. If they finish the hike and there was nothing interesting their memory of hiking will be “it’s boring” and they won’t be inclined again. Whereas, an adult might think “one hike sucked but it doesn’t mean the rest will.”

When I take kids hiking I like to think of fun ways to keep them engaged, little games, surprises and adding in things that I know they’ll like.

So, at the start, I told them I wanted them to explore with all of their sense (except taste unless we were having a snack) and we went over what all of our senses were so as we went through we were able to point out things using different senses.

Also, towards the beginning, I knew there were a couple of hills and I wanted to make sure they remembered all of the hike as fun so I turned on the song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” and we jammed and danced up the hill (which incidentally was the highlight of the hike. Their mom told me the 5-year-old came home going on and on about it. Hiking win!).

You can play games like iSpy, Follow The Leader, Find It, Nature Bingo (my plan for next time) and a Scavenger Hunt. For more information see Tales Of A Mountain Mama.

Otters popping out of the water at Thetis Lake

Also, try to be captivated and excited by what’s naturally around you. We were so lucky during one of our breaks, two women came up to me and said “take them to the water, there are otters that keep popping their heads up!” The kids love this!

Photo take on iPhone 12

4. Lots of praise, encouragement and… breaks

7 year old hiker finding a great spot for a snack break at Thetis Lake

Photo take on iPhone 12 (face blurred for privacy)

This is so important. Adults are fairly self-motivated. They can do things using internal motivation… kids… not so much; they’re still learning that one.

And honestly, not all adults have it mastered either.

Kids love praise and when they’re trying something new and potentially challenging they need to know they’re doing well to keep going. Thetis Lake is a loop so they’d have to make it all the way around.

Kids seek praise. Once they do something like get to the top of the hill, they’ll often turn to you for a bit of praise and desire to share how proud they are. Give it, give it freely and give it lots. Hiking is not an easy feat even for adults and even if you feel it’s an easy hill when you’re 4 feet tall it’s a great accomplishment.

Once you notice them starting to lose energy and excitement that’s when encouragement and laughs are required. I always try to make them laugh and keep them talking. There are no screens (except the snap-sapping of cameras - It can be a good idea to get your kids little cameras. The 7-year-old brought her VTech KidiZone camera) so it’s a great time to talk and get to know them more and be really present with them. Most kids love having people pay attention to them.

And breaks… the greatest tool in your toolbox. Yes, hikes with kids will absolutely take longer but you’ll be surprised at how quickly they pick it up.

But I told them right from the start we were free to have as many breaks as we needed and I also modelled asking for a break part way through so they knew it was really okay to ask.

I also brought them a little surprise treat (chocolate peanut butter cups) to enjoy halfway through.

It’s okay to allow the hike to go slower as well. Stop and look at things, create teaching moments, have dance parties, get them to make funny poses and explore the scenery. It’s all okay and will only reinforce them having a positive experience and wanting to come again.

5. Encourage risky - but safe - play

5 year old climbing up the rocks at Thetis Lake

Photo take on iPhone 12

A parent’s worst nightmare, amiright?

Here’s the thing, I have already established they need to be in my eyesight and if you have a level of trust with them this won’t be a problem. But do they need to stay right at your side?

Maybe, depending on the hike and age of the kids. I had a 5 and 7-year-old in a really commonly used family trail and they both listen really well. We walked the trail but I let them go and climb up on rocks, walk on “balance beams,” explore in the wooded areas, run, jump and play.

I was there if they needed me (the 5-year-old want to balance on something with a bit of a drop so I held her hand to keep her safe but I allowed her to explore what she was capable of).

Kids learn so much through risky play, they develop a sense of trust in their bodies, they get stronger, they develop self-esteem and confidence and improve their executive functioning skills. For more information on ways to encourage risky play check out this Active For Life Article.

Kids are active, resilient, have lots of energy and get excited about things. If you’re excited they’re excited.

Hiking can be a great family activity and don’t be afraid to take them out when they’re really little. The earlier you take them out the more used to it they’ll be. There are many great examples of hiking kids on Instagram and I encourage you to go check out some of those accounts for inspiration if you’re interested in teaching your kids to hike.

To get started, I suggest more of a nature walk, athletic clothing (no shorts, even in the summer, depending on where you are), a good pair of running shoes and have them carry backpacks with their own supplies. It doesn’t have to be a ton of stuff but it’s a good idea to teach them about responsibility by being in charge of their own supplies like water, a snack, a camera and anything else you and they might feel they’ll need for the hike.

Happy hiking!

The Life Changing Experience of Your First International Travel- Stirling, Scotland

My mother-in-law said something to me recently that really impacted me. She said, “You cannot travel internationally and come back the same person.”

And honestly, how true is that?

Especially your first international travel experience.

Growing up we didn’t travel, especially to other countries. My mother is not the best traveller; severe motion sickness. Not at all pleasant.

So my first international travel experience was at the age of 22 in 2014 to the small-ish town of Stirling, Scotland.

Beautiful green rolling hills in Stirling, Scotland. The Old Stirling Bridge in the bottom and the Wallace Monument on the hill.

Taken with early 2000’s digital camera (type unknown)

The moment I stepped off the bus in Stirling after flying into Glasgow airport I fell in love.

Stirling was everything I had dreamed Scotland to be. It was a small town but big enough to have an important castle and a university. It had beautiful stone buildings, a monument, enough sights to fill an entire 10 days and cobblestone roads (oh, did I ever love those cobblestone roads).

Buildings in Stirling, Scotland featuring an example of Cobblestone roads

Taken with early 2000’s digital camera (type unknown)

But there was something that amazed me the most…

It was how I felt.

Now I might have been expecting to feel different so the self-fulfilling prophecy made it so but honestly, I felt everything lift off of my shoulders immediately. I felt free. I felt empowered. I felt at home.

We got off the bus in front of a watering hole (I soon found out this meant that they did not serve food, only drinks and I was sober at this time so when I ordered an ice tea that request was met with a very strange look). Our accommodations weren’t ready yet so my entire band filed into this little tavern (taking up the entire place) at about 2 in the afternoon. There we met a young girl with her parents.

It turned out she was from the US but had been going to school at Strathclyde University in Stirling, conveniently that was where we were staying, and her parents were there to watch her graduate.

I remember thinking that she had exactly what I wanted. I had always wanted to study abroad. I had even started making plans for it. Those plans didn’t end up working out but these things happen for a reason.

Photo of Stirling, Scotland and the Stirling Castle Graveyard taken from Stirling Castle

Taken with early 2000’s digital camera (type unknown)

Here’s what I love the most about Stirling (and why it’s my favourite city in the world (so far)):

1. The greenness.

   Okay, so this is all of Scotland and the UK thing in general. It’s very green.

2. The historicness.

   I was so intrigued by the cobblestone roads (that is until I had to march and drum in a parade up them and almost ate it) and fell in love with the look of the buildings and the “old town” part. There is a lot of that all around Scotland but Stirling felt like all of it was this way. If you go to Glasgow there are a decent amount of old-looking buildings but it honestly is like any other big modern city.

3. The small and safe feeling.

   It was definitely a small-town feeling. And I felt so safe there. It was almost like it was familiar. And I think honestly, for a first-time international trip that was such an important part. If I hadn’t felt so safe and comfortable I don’t know that I would be as in love with travelling as I am. I think your first one is a make-or-break-it kind of thing. No matter if it’s good or if it bombs you come back a changed person but having a good first travel experience will really set the tone for how you go about travelling in the future or if you even do.

But I’d like to tell you a story about this first experience that led to some great things in the future.

The Old Stirling Bridge, Stirling Scotland

Taken by Dave Mann - Photos By Dave

On this first trip to Scotland when we stayed in Stirling we came as a band. We had two main events; playing in a parade where we march through the streets (yes, those cobblestone streets… And yes, I did slip on the cobblestone while marching) of Stirling for a festival and playing in Queen Anne’s courtyard in Stirling Castle.

These were absolutely amazing. I cannot describe to you how exciting it was to play in the castle. The acoustics in the courtyard were unbelievable and the feeling of doing something so unique that I had never experienced before was amazing.

The band then got to tour the castle for free. We took photos and had a blast. It quickly became my favourite castle in Scotland (yes, even more than Edinburgh). My secret dream was to get married there however, that dream was soon squashed when I discovered it cost about $17k (probably more now) to get married there. I even started a fiction book which was based at the castle…

No, in case you’re wondering, I never finished it.

All photos taken at Stirling Castle in Stirling, Scotland on an early 2000’s digital camera

When the band goes to Scotland we stay at the university residence. It’s an easy way to keep band members altogether for an affordable price and our first trip to Stirling was no exception. We stayed at the University of Strathclyde residence across a bridge from the main part of town.

That bridge was the Old Stirling Bridge where the battle of Stirling Bridge took place (I know, you probably never would have guessed that name. It’s so creative).

The Battle Of Stirling Bridge was a historic victory during the first war of Scottish Independence. The forces of Andrew Moray and William Wallace (after the Wallace Monument in Stirling) defeated the combined English forces as one of the only victories the Scottish had against the English at that time.

But here’s what my bandmates and I knew about it…

Every morning for breakfast a whole herd of us would march ourselves across the bridge (it was right where we were staying) into the little bakery on the other side of it to grab ourselves a coffee and pastry for about 1 pound. And their stuff was amazing.

One thing I came back from Scotland preaching was that the coffee over there was far superior to any coffee in Canada. It’s true. I no longer drink coffee (since about 2018 but I would absolutely drink coffee there).

This little bakery made amazing coffee and their pastries were out of this world. They were in a strange part of the town and I don’t think in a touristy part but they were the best kept secret in Scotland.

The best bakery in Stirling

Taken with early 2000’s digital camera (type unknown)

Ultimately, this trip changed me.

I fell in love with the freedom and independence I felt.

At home, I was so dependent on people, yet hyper-independent at the same time. I felt like I didn’t know how to be alone yet I always suffered in silence.

I had severe depression and extreme anxiety, I had OCD, undiagnosed ADHD, undiagnosed Sensory Processing Disorder, suffered from selective mutism and shyness and I was in the middle of an Eating Disorder I didn’t want to admit. I lived in fear of everything and anything. I always felt stuck. Stuck having to be the person everyone thought I was. Stuck in perfectionism. Stuck hating life. I didn’t want to be there anymore.

But on that trip to Stirling, I was none of those things.

I no longer felt scared or anxious, actually, I felt empowered and brave. I no longer felt sad and I genuinely wanted to still be on this earth. I ate without needing to run for 10 km’s or have an hour-long workout where I told myself how disgusted I was with myself (I went to the same restaurant multiple times alone and devoured the most amazing bowl of mac n cheese). I didn’t feel obsessive I felt present in the moment. I no longer felt scattered and overwhelmed I felt grounded.

That was the trip that made me fall in love with travel and showed me a world without my “alphabet soup” of struggles.

I can’t say that my life was perfect from there on out. Once I returned home and had demands placed back on me I still struggled but that trip showed me there was another way.

It showed me that those things were not out of my control and there was something that could be done. I wasn’t hopeless anymore. Travel gave me something to live for. In those rolling green hills I chose to live.

I felt so brave that one day I went off exploring Stirling on my own.

All photos of Old Town in Stirling taken on an early 2000’s digital camera. Photo quality is poor.

If you’ve been considering a solo travel experience (or any travel experience) let this be your sign…

Travel and exploration is the thing I love most in the world.

I literally owe my life to it.

XO,
Sarah

How To Find Beauty In Your Backyard - Saxe Point Park, Victoria, BC

Why did I decide to start an adventure travel blog you ask?

Don’t you already have so much on the go?

The answer is yes, I do have so much on the go but the full answer is a little more complicated than that.

See, I’m an online business owner. I am a copywriter. I write for other people. But I only changed my business back to that just a couple of months ago.

The story is kind of funny actually.

When I first started as a virtual assistant my first ever VA job was writing a blog for a real estate company in New York. I had never been to Queens, New York and I certainly did not know anything about the real estate business. Nor had I ever been paid to write for someone.

At that point, I did have my own blog. A parenting and development blog and I was in the process of writing a book (no, I have not finished writing that book).

Eventually, I lost track of the reason I had initially started my own business. I left it behind because I was so focused on making money and on pursuing someone else’s dream. I tried offering a million different services and never felt fully satisfied with any of them.

We moved into the place we are currently living in September of 2020 and since then I have gone on an almost daily walk into a place called Saxe Point Park.

And I have always been amazed by the fact that I never seem to get bored of taking that same walk 5-6 times a week. I find myself just continuously taking photos of the same places because the views just completely take my breath away.

Photo taken on iPhone 12

I have also started learning to shoot on a DSLR camera. Now I am by no means a professional I am still learning about the settings and how to not have my photos end up so bright but it’s been fun to invest time into learning.

Saxe Point was the first place I took that camera. I spent almost 2 hours there one day playing around with the camera trying to get some great shots. Doing that quiets my brain and gives me time to reflect.

What I reflected on during one of these walks was that I was lying to myself…

I never really wanted to be a coach, I didn’t start my business to become a 7-figure business owner (don’t get me wrong that’d be awesome but it wasn’t the dream I was chasing), I didn’t particularly want to do a lot of the services I was currently doing (I only did them because I thought they’d make me money).

It was on the particular photo walk where I took this image of the ocean that I finally got honest with myself.

Photo taken on iPhone 12

All I really wanted to do was capture the beauty. I wanted to write about it and I wanted to photograph it.

Now writing I knew how to do but photography… Not so much.

So I declared I was a copywriter and started to learn everything I could. I’m still learning about the photography (both on the iPhone and on a DSLR, just to see which one I like the most and sometimes the phone is just the convenient one).

And I realized, from diving into this, that there is beauty literally in my backyard. It takes me 5 minutes to walk to Saxe Point Park.

Photo taken on iPhone 12

I crave adventure and I love travelling. I’m not as good at taking vacations, you know the kind where you just relax for a week or two, lying on a pool deck or beach doing nothing. Turns out… I suck at doing nothing.

I love the travel where you explore, see new things, new people, learn stuff.

I love getting lost in the expansiveness and the beauty of a place I have never seen before.

I also love to capture that beauty.

But the thing is… I have beautiful sights and amazing places to explore right here.

Even in the winter, I don’t miss a walk into Saxe Point because just look at this!

Photo taken on iPhone 12

That’s why I decided this wasn’t just going to be exclusively a travel blog. This was going to be an adventure travel blog because I live in a place that is so beautiful and full of life that people come here for their vacations.

When my dad came for my wedding in 2021 (don’t you worry, there will be a blog on that as it was full of adventure!) he said something I’ll never forget…

“You live where we like to vacation.”

And he’s not wrong. I’ve been told this a lot. Friends and family love to come visit me because this is a very appealing local and non-local vacation or travel destination.

Saxe Point Park is one of the many areas in Victoria that offer both a wooded backdrop and an ocean backdrop. Sometimes you can get both in the same photo.

Photo taken on iPhone 12

But here’s the thing….

We get so caught up wanting to chase the overseas vacation and travel that we forget that we have beauty often right in our backyard.

I might live in a tourist hotspot but if you look hard enough I bet you can find beauty too.

Here are some suggestions for how to find these gems:

1. Check hiking apps for great hikes if you live in a place with mountains or trails

2. Google your town or city as if you were a tourist and see what’s advertised for tourists

3. Get in the car and simply drive around. Not with a destination in mind but just simply with a curious mind

4. Slow down when you head out. Sometimes to see the beauty in the everyday all it takes is to unplug those headphones and to slow down and notice what’s around you

5. Join FB groups for your local area or search hashtags of your town or city for some good ideas

So, if you ever decide to come check out Victoria, British Columbia go check out Saxe Point Park on the beautiful lək̓ʷəŋən traditional territory also known as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.

To learn more about this territory and the original peoples who lived here head to www.songheesnation.ca/community/l-k-ng-n-traditional-territory

Photo taken on iPhone 12