Boots, Bikes and Border Crossings
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Sunrise Spectacles & the Crazy Lunch Swimmers
The morning began in spectacular fashion — the sky painted itself in oranges and yellows, as if it knew it had an audience. Absolutely breathtaking. A perfect start to the day… visually, at least. Temperature-wise, it’s a brisk 5 degrees outside. We’re promised a generous high of 12 degrees today, though only between the very…
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An Unexpected Slice of Joy
The evening had settled into a peaceful hush when, out of nowhere, Demet, Karim and Ranyar appeared “just to say hello.” A few laughs in, the lights suddenly went out. Next thing I knew, they reappeared with a cake, singing Happy Birthday. Completely unexpected, completely heart-melting. Such warm, generous souls — I felt incredibly lucky…
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Choosing Gratitude Over Celebration
This year, I spent my birthday in Turkey, not celebrating in the usual way, but giving thanks for the life I’ve been able to live. I visited tombs and graves, including those of former sultans. Standing there was a reminder that no matter how powerful, wealthy, or influential a person once was, life is finite.…
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Detours, Gözleme & Guardian Angels
Today started off feeling a lot like Groundhog Day. I hopped on a minibus, a friendly passenger assured me, “Yes, this one goes to the square,” and—poof!—before I knew it, I was right back where I started, with the driver looking mildly baffled at how I managed that. He patiently mapped out my new quest:…
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Silk Scarves, Ancient Mosques and a Cup of Coffee with Meaning
The heart of the city is famous for its ancient mosque—one of the oldest in all of Turkey —along with beautiful silk scarves and unbelievably smooth coffee served in your very own hand-picked cup. Honestly, picking the cup felt like choosing a tiny porcelain soulmate. I was spoiled with a feast, starting with a Muradiye…
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From Golden Soles to Studio Goals: My Inspiring Visit to Nisa’s World
Yesterday was an absolute treat! Niss and Demet whisked me off to see Nisa’s studio—and wow, what a place. The walls sparkle with her athletic medals, and sitting proudly among them are her golden-soled boots, gifted by the Turkish government for being the fastest 400-metre runner in all of Turkey… at just 13 years old!…
Visited Countries
Interactive World Map
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Route Plan (Eastern Europe)
Here’s the planned route PDF. Download below.
Route Map
About Me
Happy, grateful, and full of joy – that’s how I see my life. Growing up in the small country town of Karaka, New Zealand, I was a curious little girl who dreamed of seeing the world. At 14, I took my first trip overseas to Fiji, and since then I’ve explored 66 countries, each adventure filling me with wonder at new cultures, unexpected moments, and the thrill of discovery.
I’ve leapt from planes, dived into unseen depths of the ocean, pedaled across borders, and roared through deserts on motorbikes. From crossing the Gobi Desert on two wheels to cruising down to Antarctica, from riding through roads less traveled to moments that took my breath away, I collect memories, not possessions.
Contact Me
Have a question or want to collaborate? Drop me a line.