About my Blog

Welcome to my blog, the Introverted Adventurer! Following my trip to Tanzania to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, I was inspired to share the lessons I learned while on this epic adventure. As I started documenting the trip, I realized I could also share the other off-the-beaten-path adventures that I have engaged in both global and local. Introverts like adventure too, didn’t you know?!

Large groups tend to overwhelm me, so I gravitate towards activities with smaller, more intimate settings. I’m hoping my stories serve as inspiration for the other like-minded travelers out there.

Experiences over Material Things

The travel bug bit me pretty early on: right after graduating from grad school I scraped together the last money I had in my account and rather than buy a new work wardrobe, I went on a December tour of Europe with two friends as a last hurrah before starting my corporate job. We traveled for three weeks and went to Madrid, Paris, North Eastern France, Venice, then Rome in time for the New Year’s celebration. Mistakes were made, lessons were learned, but most importantly I LOVED experiencing new cities, new food, new activities, and the European Christmas Markets.

Travel Style-Cities

My favorite activity while traveling through European cities is to find a cafe where I can sit outside and people watch while sipping on a local beverage. I look at the fashion of the locals, the pace of life, the sounds of chatter. Afterwards, I research or ask a local to point me in the direction of the least touristy restaurants that will serve up delicious local fare. I will share my best finds in future posts.

The Healing Power of Nature and Outlets for My Creativity

I find that immersing myself in nature, and especially in the mountains, has been among the best healers for my chronic stress, anxiety, and symptoms of burnout. I have prioritized actually taking my vacation time, disconnecting from technology more often, and remembering to take deep breaths all of which has allowed my nervous system to reset. This is why you will see many of my trips either centered around or highlighting hiking adventures.

I also find that having a creative outlet whether it’s painting, drawing, gardening, planning fun trips, or learning a new hobby has been a phenomenal way to funnel my chaotic, restless energy when I am not able to travel. I like to say that learning new hobbies is one of my favorite hobbies (#neurospicy!).

Final thoughts

If you are here (and you’ve made it this far), then you are a probably a like-minded individual who enjoys travel, great food, and living in the moment. I hope my adventures inspire you as you are planning your own future travel. See you in the mountains. ❤️