Travel Beach Love

2024 was another unforgettable year of adventure—filled with castle hikes, coastal getaways, and more plane rides than I care to count. While I didn’t keep up with blogging after every trip (life got busy!), I couldn’t let the year slip by without pausing to look back on the incredible places I explored.

Year in Numbers

• Countries Visited: 7
  
• New Cities Explored: 15+
  
• Most Magical Moment: Sunrise at the Grand Canyon
  
• Best Bite: A warm croissant on a rainy Paris morning
  
• Favorite Trip: Scotland solo birthday adventure

 Europe Adventures

🇬🇧 Scotland

I kicked off my birthday with a solo trip to Scotland—and wow, what a gift it was to myself. I spent two full weeks diving deep into the rugged beauty of the Highlands, exploring ancient castles, hiking misty trails, and hanging out with baby highland coos (yes, they’re as adorable as you imagine). It was peaceful, empowering, and exactly what I needed.

🇵🇹 Algarve, Portugal

Another solo getaway, this time on the sun-drenched southern coast of Portugal. Days were spent lounging poolside, taking dolphin-watching boat rides, and meandering through postcard-worthy coastal towns. The Algarve was pure luxury and bliss.

🇫🇷 France

France is an annual stop for me thanks to work, and I’m not mad about it. I attended the Cannes Lions Festival in the south, but the true magic, as always, happened in Paris.

No matter how many times I visit, the City of Light still takes my breath away. Between the food (hello, daily baguettes), the fashion (Hermès, Chanel, Dior!), and the sheer beauty of every corner, Paris remains my happy place.

🇩🇪 Germany

I returned to Cologne for Gamescom, one of the world’s biggest gaming events. Though it was a work trip, I carved out a little time to enjoy the city’s historic charm and riverside walks.

🇲🇨 Monaco + 🇫🇷 Eze

While in the French Riviera, I made a quick trip to the glitzy streets of Monaco and spent time in the fairytale-like hilltop village of Eze. Even short visits here feel like stepping into another world.

🇲🇽 Family Time in Mexico

Cancun, Quintana Roo, has become something of a second home over the years. When my sister chose it for her 40th birthday celebration, I was all in.

We took a boat to Isla Mujeres and spent the day floating in turquoise waters, sunbathing, and simply soaking up the beauty. That tiny island remains one of the most breathtaking places I’ve seen in Mexico.

🍁 A Quick Trip to Canada

Toronto was a short stop for a work event, but I managed to squeeze in some fun—including a helicopter ride over the city and a peaceful stroll through the botanical gardens just outside town. The autumn colors were putting on a full show.

🇺🇸 U.S. Travel Highlights

🌴 Miami, FL

A fast-paced work trip with just enough downtime for a poolside moment or two.

🌊 Boston & Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Boston didn’t leave a strong impression (I was mostly there for meetings), but a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard more than made up for it. Even at the tail end of the season, the island had so much charm.

🏜️ Arizona Road Trip

This one might be the highlight of my U.S. travels in 2024.

I finally saw the Grand Canyon—and it didn’t disappoint. Hiking up before dawn to watch the sunrise over the canyon was one of the most surreal and beautiful moments of the year.

I also visited Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, both equally stunning. There’s something about the desert light that feels otherworldly.

2024 was packed. Between airports, hotel check-ins, suitcase living, and conference name tags, I sometimes forget just how lucky I am.

But looking back, I’m filled with so much gratitude—for the people I met, the places I wandered, and the memories I made. Whether for work or wanderlust, travel continues to be the heartbeat of my life.

Here’s to the next adventure. 🌍✈️

xoxo

Travel. Beach. Love.