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About you
I’m a 30-year-old veterinarian who has lived in Canada, Hong Kong, Australia, and now, America. I love all kinds of travel, whether it’s luxury travel or a cabin stay in a national park. However, I will admit I have a real soft spot for outdoor adventures and unique hotel stays (ie riads, glamping, igloos, tiny homes).
Why do you travel and look for adventures?
I make traveling a priority in my life because I’ve realized how important it is for my mental health, especially in the veterinary industry where compassion fatigue and burnout are very real causes of a diminished workforce (read: vet and vet tech shortage), which further amplifies the stress on the remaining workers in the industry.
Traveling also helps me appreciate what I have. It’s a great way to shift your mindset and help you practice gratitude.
What kind of adventures do you look for when you travel?
Anything outdoors that makes me feel like I am reconnecting with nature because I’ve spent so much of my life in big cities (ie glaciers, deserts, mountains, oceans). I also don’t mind extreme temperatures, the more extreme the better because I want to get out of my comfort zone and experience things that I can’t at home.
What’s your go-to travel hack?
Get a travel wallet. I have one that has multiple pockets for different currencies, a passport holder, a bunch of card slots, and a pen holder so you always have something to write with. I never worry about where my passport has gone and the pen has come in handy so many times (you know you’re going to have to fill out a customs form at the airport).
Got any gear you can’t travel without?
My iPhone (with a data plan for the country I’m in)
What destination are you eager to go back to?
Japan. The food is amazing and the culture is so unique and beautiful. It’s metropolitan but also has some of the prettiest hikes and ski resorts.
How do you stay safe when you’re travelling?
1) Have a prepaid data plan on your phone so that you can always be in contact with your family and Google a map if you’re lost.
2) Don’t make it well known that you’re a solo traveler
3) Listen to your gut feelings. If you’re getting bad vibes, get out of there
What’s the best way to experience a destination like a local?
Find a local to hang out with! There are plenty of apps nowadays for people to meet friends and hang out together.
What’s your favourite word in another language?
mitarashi dango – I don’t have a favourite word but this is the name of my favourite sweet and savoury Japanese dessert
When and where are you next travelling?
I hope to see more of the National Parks in America. I’m planning a trip to Arches National Park in Utah next spring. I’m also heading to Europe in the summer (exact itinerary TBD)
