Bonjour. Sawadee. Namaste. Hello! Thanks for dropping by. I’m Cristina, a 30-something Canadian based between Toronto and the World. I quit my job in TV journalism to travel, volunteer, and write about it.
My Story.
My journey began in 2007 when I made a last minute, impulsive decision. I skipped college graduation, packed (an embarrassingly) massive suitcase and headed on my first solo trip over the ocean. I started in London and moved my way through 16+ countries and 28+ cities in Europe on a shoestring. It was a life changing experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and altered my perspective on passion & purpose; life, possessions, and authentic happiness.
I eventually did go back to Canada. I got a degree in Journalism with a focus on International Development and worked in TV as a field/chase producer, writer, and reporter. But the career hustle, bad stories, and the 9-to-5 routine drained who I was. I stopped learning. I lost passion. I lacked purpose. So I turned down my dream job (twice) to redesign a lifestyle that better fit my values for travel, learning, time over money, and the simpler things in life.
How I Travel and About this Blog.
My travel style has changed since my first backpacker trip. My travels are now slower, longer, and more local, usually settling and living in a place for at least one month. I travel minimally, with a carry-on only (because we really don’t need as much crap as we think). And it’s no longer about budget travel but better travel – embracing our differences; opening ourselves up for compassion, connection, perspective and local experiences. Of course, along the way, discovering delicious coffee to fuel the soul.
Let’s connect! Follow me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Leave me a comment on one of my posts or better yet, subscribe below for updates.