Who knows why I’m obsessed with doors? Maybe it’s that they are the entrance way to something unknown on the other side. Whatever the reason, when I’m on vacation I love finding and taking pictures of great doors. I wonder how many people must have passed through those doors before me? Who designed the door? Doors can have so much detail or be something so simple. Each door holds a story and my mere being there with the door I am part of that story. Doors can be welcoming or they can ward off unwanted intruders. Do you notice doors on your travels?

We have recently been in several discussions with people about property. To own or not to own? House or condo? Owning a home means maintaining a home even when you are away. Having a condo has its perks, someone is looking after the property outside. Keeping an eye out. You still own and gain equity but no longer have to deal with the ‘joys’ of home ownership. Both come with their own perks and their own downfalls. Today I was reminded of one of the downfalls, as I was up to my neck in landscaping. I was reminded of the beautiful gardens we get to enjoy without all the work! Travelling has lead us to some incredible gardens. If you are a gardener I give you lots of credit for your passion with landscaping. I am however not a gardener but I am an enjoyer of beautiful things at home and away! So I leave you to ponder home or condo or just sell everything and rent? What works for your lifestyle? Of course don’t forget to make time to see the beauty in the landscape wherever you choose to be.

Which do you prefer sunrises or sunsets? I feel both are beautiful in their own way. Either the beginning of a beautiful day when everything is calm and the sun starts to rise bringing with it hope for what will come in the hours ahead. Or the end of a joyous day curtsying her way out like a lady ready to dance the night away. Whatever you choose both are beautiful moments to pause and to reflect. Either by setting your intentions for the day or by showing gratitude for the day that has passed. Take this time for yourself, you deserve it!

In the off season free style travelling is a possibility. Take a drive and stop wherever you want. Enjoy the view, pack a cooler and explore. Figure out your accommodations on the fly. It can be freeing to just uncover new places without a fixed time line. If you like a place stay, if not just continue on to the next spot. Remember to check in from time to time with family and friends to ensure your safety. Stop at an information booth or look up the areas tourism site on-line, and figure out what you want to visit then go. Maybe you are into beach towns, maybe museums are your thing or is it shopping that fills you with joy. Whatever you choose to do, do it with mindful intention and enjoy!

May was a month of reflection, preparation, and appreciating the beauty around us. From slowing down to smell the roses to planning for future adventures, each mindful moment offered an opportunity to pause and find meaning in our daily travels through life.

This month we explored themes of sustainability, economic impact, hidden gems, and the importance of being present. We also shared practical tips on saving for travel, managing allergies while enjoying spring blooms, and the joy of collecting meaningful mementos from our adventures.

When you travel do you like to bring back a souvenir or two to remind you of your trip? Many people have different collectables that they are in search of. Finding that perfect memento to commemorate your adventure can be so much fun. I love pottery and I tend to search out small additions to add to my collection by walking through local markets. Traditionally I see people on the hunt for paintings, Christmas ornaments, or even key chains and fridge magnets. Whatever you like to recall your vacation memories is always a good idea in my opinion. Just be sure to enjoy the process of the hunt and not to let the hunt take over as the main event. Shopping can be enjoyable but can also be a burden. Don’t stress to find the perfect memento. Keep in mind you don’t want your recollection to be that of: I searched the place over wasting all my time looking for that special piece. Coming back from vacation and reflecting for me is when I get to recall the interactions I had with a local artists who’s hands made the bowl that I brought back, or the history of the type of clay that was used. I so enjoy the story that goes with my pieces. I remember the artists as fondly as the art. To me the memento holds so much more then the object, it’s about human interaction and the experience of where I was and who I was with.

The first time I checked my Amex Aeroplan Reserve statement after a two-week trip to Greece, I did a double-take. The lounge access was flawless. The companion voucher was generous. But the foreign transaction fees? They had quietly eaten nearly four percent of every euro I spent. As a travel credit card hobbyist who had spent months researching the best points strategies, I felt foolish for ignoring the most predictable leak in my travel budget.

Spring has sprung flowers are blooming and the scents are incredibly intoxicating… that is if you don’t suffer from allergies. If you do you should stock up on allergy medication before leaving on vacation. You also should always carry Benadryl just in case. I try to always have some on my person. Different places around the World can trigger an allergy attack. If you are sensitive like me, having eye drops and allergy meds are my saviour. Some of my favourites are: Claritin Allergy Medicine, 24-Hour Non-Drowsy Relief 10 mg, 50 Tablets (US link) and Visine Antihistamine Advance Allergy Eye Drops, 15 ml (US link). I don’t need allergy medication all the time, but when I do I have it. So enjoy spring, go for a walk and stop to smell the roses 🥀.

Have you ever just walked around a foreign city, maybe foraging for something to eat, or stepping into a little shop off an alleyway? These moments leave us wanting more. They are not planned, not on the itinerary they are the hidden gems of travel. Sometimes you get to share in on someone else’s experiences and they are moments that never disappoint. Driving to a near by town and exploring a new coffee shop or a local market, what joy! Keep your eyes open and you may just spot a hidden gem that becomes a favourite spot.

Pay yourself first, if you want to travel you need to plan for it. We decide where we want to go, how much it will cost, add 20% then start saving. Once we get a goal in mind, we find ways to make it happen. Sometimes it’s taking on a new job, sometimes it’s selling things we no longer need, but we always find a way to travel. Traveling is important to us and if it’s important to you, you also should find a way to cut expenses and make it happen for you. It’s great for your mental health to look forward to new adventures big and small. It is more expensive to live, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make time for a trip, even if it not overnight! Not every trip needs to be grand.

There is something about water that just calms me. I feel truly at peace when I am near the water. The ocean awakens all your senses. Seeing the amazing water views. Hearing the waves. Smelling the salty air. Strolling through the water, walking from sandbar to sandbar. I also enjoy the food that comes from the ocean, fresh fish and seafood yummy! Take time when you are near the ocean to soak it all in! You will not regret it.