I’d heard the phrase “Pura Vida” before, but it wasn’t until I set foot in Costa Rica that I understood what it meant. It’s not just a greeting, but a way of embracing life with joy and gratitude, something that I was lucky to experience firsthand during the 10 days I spent exploring Costa Rica with G Adventures National Geographic Journeys: Highlights of Costa Rica. It was the perfect balance of adventure, discovery, and comfort, and a reminder of how meaningful travel can be when it’s done with purpose.

I had high expectations for my first trip abroad, but Italy was more than I could have imagined. I wouldn’t have changed a thing, and we managed to do a lot in a short period of time. I could wander the streets of Florence all day and never get bored. We got to see all the major sites, eat some amazing food, and shop at all the stores and markets you could think of. I would go again in a heartbeat and am already dreaming of my next trip to Europe! 

Late September I travelled with a small group on a relatively new cruise line, Atlas Ocean Voyages. This ship is just 159 people – almost like a large yacht. We visited Lisbon, Seville, Casablanca, various stops in Morocco, and the Canary Islands for 9 days. It was a really different and interesting itinerary. All in all, the stops were filled with lots of history, nice beaches, great food, and well, it was just different.

Africa will change you. Or at least, that’s what those lucky few who have been on a safari before will wistfully recount when you tell them that you are going to Africa. The blistering African sun over the grassy plains of South Africa, the ‘smoke that thunders’ cascading over Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the awe-inspiring animals that you will encounter in the untouched swathes surrounding the Chobe River in Botswana, the kind souls that you will meet along the way… yes, it’s true what they say, Africa is a special place indeed.

In early August, I travelled with some friends for 14 days, sailing on the beautiful Explora I. This ship is definitely a 5-star experience. We cruised Explora Journeys from Istanbul to Venice, travelling up the west coast of Italy and back down around Croatia. The art, the design, everything about Explora I is unique. This ship is different than other luxury cruises (which I love as well), but this one – well, it’s quite special.

Late June is a wonderful time to arrive in Europe… warm days, lavender fields in bloom, and that intoxicating hum of summer travel. After a whirlwind 48 hours in Spain, we hopped on the high-speed train to the south of France. In just 4 hours, we arrived in Arles and made our way to the AmaKristina, our homebase for the next 7 days while we sailed the Rhône with AmaWaterways.

It’s funny how you can live your whole life in Canada, travel to countless places around the world, and yet never visit one of the most spectacular regions right here at home – the Maritimes! Finally, this spring my husband and I set out to explore Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Everywhere we went, people were warm, welcoming, and happy to share local tips and hidden gems. Combined with the breathtaking scenery and rich history, it truly made for an unforgettable trip!

Disney truly is The Happiest Place on Earth. My love of Disney began at a very young age, and I have been drawn to the magic of it ever since. During my recent trip to Disney World, I gained a whole new perspective on the parks, as well as some tips and tricks to share to help you navigate your experience. Disney can seem overwhelming at first, but our job is to make that experience as seamless as possible. I hope that my insider knowledge will help you feel more at ease during your Disney vacation!

Victoria has a charming, old-world feel, with historic buildings and beautiful Victorian-era architecture. It felt like time moved slower here. The weather couldn’t have been better, and we enjoyed two days of sunny skies, light breezes, and cherry blossoms in bloom. We spent most of our time doing two things: walking and eating. It was honestly the perfect way to take in this coastal gem.

I have just returned from Ireland, and like the Johnny Cash song, I am still dreaming of the wonderful Emerald Isle. After connecting through Toronto, my sister and I arrived in Dublin excited to experience the Irish culture and soak in the beauty. After our explorations in Dublin, we joined a Collette Tour, the Shades of Ireland. This is an excellent way to get a feel for the country when you only have a short amount of time to explore.