About

I was bitten by the travel bug at an early age – what remains are fond memories of childhood outings and family vacations (and of course more than a few awkward family photos, those remain too). Today, I’m making new travel memories, sometimes solo, often with friends and family, almost always with Mr. Vacay. But as memories fade, so do the details. I write because I want to savor the details of my travels, and make the memories last just a little bit longer.

Traveling offers me an opportunity to recharge, to learn new things, to change perspective. It offers an escape from the day-to-day, a getaway (a vacay!) from work, from life, from ordinary-reality. I’ve got an ordinary job that takes me new places and also helps to fuel my travel & vacation habit. But vacationing is where my heart is, sort of my side-gig (where I spend WAY MORE than I make). And like most things in life, I pursue this like a trained professional. You know what they say, “DO WHAT YOU LOVE.”

I love researching new destinations – because I’m curious. I’m curious about people and places, sights and sounds, tastes and smells. I love vacations, staycations, and daycations – long or short, near or far, budget or lavish, bring it on! I also love revisiting past favorites – and that’s why I started documenting my trips. I want to remember the journey, the experience, how I got there, where I went, and the people I shared it with! But most importantly, I love helping others – as a resource or advisor, so I offer up my trip tips and travel tricks.

This is where I share my notes and thoughts – of the places that I don’t want to forget. This is where I tell my stories – of the places I have been, and the places I have loved. This, is my novel.

“When our past becomes a novel our memories are sharpened.” – Carlos Eire, Waiting for Snow in Havana

— Alina C. —