Saying Goodbye to Strasbourg Again

I didn’t plan to write anything tonight, but this is what came out while wandering the streets and thinking about the end of another chapter here. It isn’t polished. It isn’t edited. It’s just honest.

I wish I didn’t have to leave Strasbourg again. This city has become a mirror, a teacher, and a kind of home. It has shown me who I am and who I am allowed to be. It taught me to be brave. It taught me to embrace alone time without fear. It helped me let go of the expectations society placed on me and lean into my passions without guilt. I arrived feeling uncertain and often alone. I now move through the city with a sense of belonging and acceptance that I didn’t know was possible.

Here I learned that presence is enough. That life doesn’t need to be chased or rushed. That uncertainty isn’t something to fear but something to live within. Strasbourg taught me to follow what calls me today and trust that it is enough. 

One of the strangest and most beautiful things is how often strangers stop me in the street. It rarely happens in France, yet it happens to me almost daily. People tell me I have a friendly face or a welcoming aura. I never heard things like that back home. It made me realize that it is okay to enjoy simply being alive. That giving every bit of myself to work is not what creates a meaningful life. Happiness comes from culture, connection, rhythm, and the quiet magic of everyday life. Here each step feels intentional. Each day feels like a beginning.

Strasbourg awakened parts of me I didn’t know were asleep. The emphasis on art and culture made me feel part of something bigger. I learned how much I love the slow life and how deeply I care about the earth. I learned that it is possible to live gently without being criticized for it. I discovered new hobbies and felt encouraged to try everything. I became less afraid of the world. I tried foods I would have refused five years ago. I learned how my choices shape the spaces around me.

This place taught me that the path I never walked is still there, waiting. It taught me how to integrate into a culture while still being the outsider, and how that outsider status can feel okay, even welcomed. It taught me the importance of communication and how powerful it can be. It taught me that mistakes are part of being human and that avoiding them only limits your life. It taught me the value of community, respect, presence, and the removal of distractions.

It may sound like a broken record every six months, but Strasbourg gave me the breath I was missing. Before, I felt suffocated. Here, I found room to breathe again.

Maybe the magic comes from its history as a free Roman city. Maybe it comes from its international character and its place in the European Union. Maybe it comes from its long struggle between two nations and its repeated loss of identity. Whatever the reason, this city has shaped me in a way no other place has. The lessons I’ve learned here feel singular. Irreplaceable.

As I reflect on my time here, I realize that my own duality mirrors the duality of this city. I want to be independent, yet part of something greater. I want freedom, yet community. I want movement, yet belonging. Here, those desires make sense. Here, they are encouraged.

There is a quiet magic in Strasbourg. A magic that helped me breathe, helped me soften, helped me come back to myself. I don’t know if I could have found it anywhere else. At least not like this.

Leaving never gets easier. But every time I go, I take more of this city with me. Thank you, Strasbourg, for the lessons, the people, the quiet moments, and the breath I didn’t know I needed.

 

French Festivals You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Experience)

France is a land of celebrations. Some are world famous, like Bastille Day in Paris or the Cannes Film Festival. Yet the heart of French culture beats strongest in the smaller, regional festivals that rarely make it onto international travel itineraries. These gatherings reveal traditions that have shaped communities for centuries, and they invite you to witness France not as a tourist, but as a guest welcomed into the rhythm of local life.

Here are ten festivals across France that carry the spirit of authenticity, from village apple presses to medieval parades.

1. Trévières Apple Festival – Normandy

In the small town of Trévières, the apple harvest is celebrated each October with pressing demonstrations, cider tastings, and stalls filled with regional products. It is not a spectacle for tourists but a moment of community pride. This festival captures the essence of rural Normandy, where food, tradition, and gathering intertwine.

2. Festival Médiéval – Bouliac (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)

Bouliac’s medieval festival feels like stepping into a village from centuries past. Costumed locals, crafts, and market stalls recreate a scene that is intimate and immersive. Far from the polished tourist shows, it is a celebration that belongs to the town itself, where visitors are welcome but not the focus.

3. Fêtes de Jaufré Rudel – Blaye (Nouvelle-Aquitaine)

Blaye honors its troubadour prince, Jaufré Rudel, with medieval music, poetry, and pageantry. This is not a festival that draws crowds from across France, but rather one that belongs to the locals who keep the memory of their poet alive. It is literature, music, and history woven into the streets of a riverside town.

4. Transhumance Festivals – Jura Mountains (Franche-Comté)

Each spring and autumn, herds of cows decorated with bells and flowers are led through Jura villages as they move to and from their high pastures. These transhumance celebrations are as old as the mountains themselves, rooted in the cycles of land and life. They are not staged for visitors but arise naturally from rural tradition. For travelers seeking authenticity, few moments feel as timeless.

5. Fête du Comté – Poligny (Jura)

Poligny, the capital of Comté cheese, gathers producers, cheesemakers, and locals each September to celebrate this cornerstone of Jura gastronomy. While it is better known regionally, it has not yet turned into a crowded spectacle. Visitors will find themselves in the heart of a cheese-loving community proud to share their heritage.

6. Fête du Fromage – Savoie (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)

In Savoie, cheese is more than food, it is identity. The Fête du Fromage brings producers together for tastings, competitions, and markets. This one is known among French food enthusiasts and mountain travelers, so expect larger crowds than some of the other festivals on this list. Still, it remains rooted in its alpine traditions and offers a chance to connect directly with the culture of terroir.

7. Grand Pardon – Chaumont (Haute-Marne)

I had the privilege of experiencing this one myself. The Grand Pardon in Chaumont is a centuries-old Catholic procession that honors Saint John the Baptist. It is deeply spiritual, with processions winding through the streets and locals gathering in reverence. While little known to outsiders, it holds great meaning for the community. To witness it is to glimpse the soul of France’s living faith traditions.

8. Festival des Forêts – Compiègne (Hauts-de-France)

Music drifts through the forest in Compiègne each summer during the Festival des Forêts. Concerts take place among the trees, where classical and contemporary works meet the silence of nature. It is not a large festival, and it is better known within French cultural circles than among international travelers. For those who seek a blend of art, nature, and reflection, it offers something quietly profound.

9. Pfifferdaj – Ribeauvillé (Alsace)

The oldest medieval festival in Alsace, dating back to 1390, Pfifferdaj transforms Ribeauvillé into a living tableau of history. Thousands gather to see pipers, costumed performers, and parades. This one is well known across Alsace and draws significant crowds, but it remains tied to the region’s medieval heritage rather than commercial tourism. It is worth experiencing at least once for the way it connects modern Alsatians to their past.

10. Les Géants – Lille (Hauts-de-France)

Towering papier-mâché giants parade through the streets of Lille, a tradition recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. This festival is famous in northern France and increasingly recognized beyond, but it is still very much a celebration by and for the people of Lille. The giants tell stories of community, folklore, and memory, and to see them march is to feel the weight of history carried with joy.

France does not reveal itself only through its monuments or museums. It reveals itself in these festivals, where community, tradition, and joy gather in streets, fields, and forests. Some are tiny, known only to villagers, while others have grown into regional spectacles. Together they offer a map to the authentic heart of France.

For those who wish to travel deeply and meaningfully, following these festivals is a way to join in the living culture of a nation that celebrates not just its past, but its enduring spirit.

This Is How I Come Back To Life

In Bloom: A Quiet Return to Myself 

There are seasons that pass outside of us and seasons that unfold within us. This spring, I find myself living in both.

After a long, heavy winter—one not just of weather, but of weight—I’ve started to feel something stir. Not all at once, and not with fanfare. But softly. Slowly. As if the quiet corners of my soul have begun to stretch again. And oddly enough, it wasn’t some grand epiphany that brought me here. It was a series of small, beautiful things—moments I might’ve missed if I hadn’t slowed down enough to notice them.

Back in Strasbourg, I’ve begun walking with no real agenda. No itinerary, no expectation. Just presence. And in that space, beauty found me.

I saw it in the blooming trees lining empty streets, their petals falling like soft confetti in the wind. In the tulips erupting in vivid color at the park, where the sound of children’s laughter mixed with the rhythm of fountains splashing. I found it in the silence of a stork’s nest high above the tree line—a moment I’ve waited years to witness, and one that arrived not with a spotlight, but with patience.

And maybe that’s the lesson. Maybe some things come only when we’re ready to receive them. Maybe this is how life teaches us to listen again.

These days, my camera has become more than just a tool for documentation. It’s a way of learning to see again—really see. Not for the sake of content or productivity, but for the quiet whisper of truth that lives in overlooked things. A shadow across a canal. A splash of golden light at dusk. The first wisteria buds pressing out into the world as if unsure whether it’s safe to bloom. I know that feeling. I’ve lived it.

There’s something beautifully defiant about spring. It doesn’t ask permission to grow. It simply does. Whether anyone’s watching or not.

I’ve spent the last few weeks trying to move like that—gently, with intention, grounded in the small overlooked moments of each day. I haven’t written much, because truthfully, I haven’t had much to say. Not in the big, public way I’ve grown used to. But I’ve started to understand that it’s okay to pause. To go quiet. To let yourself lie dormant for a while. There’s wisdom in waiting. There’s healing in hibernation. 

And when you’re ready, the world will wait for you to bloom again.

This return to Strasbourg feels different than those before. Less like a reset, more like a re-rooting. I feel myself growing toward the light, even if I’m not yet sure what shape that will take. There’s comfort in not knowing. In learning to trust the process, the seasons, the self.

I share these photos not to impress, but to remember. These are the small anchors of joy that pulled me gently back toward myself. They remind me that life doesn’t always ask for big moves. Sometimes, it just asks you to show up—to notice. To soften. To begin again, in the quietest way possible.

Spring doesn’t arrive all at once. Neither do we.

As a final note…

I know the world feels heavy for many right now. It can feel strange—even selfish—to notice beauty while so much is unraveling. But I’ve come to believe that finding peace in small, quiet things isn’t a betrayal of the world’s suffering—it’s a way to survive it. A way to remember what’s worth protecting. If you’re in a season of uncertainty, grief, or exhaustion, I hope you still find something—however small—that allows your own buds to bloom. Even in a storm, we’re allowed to lean toward the light.

A Traveler’s Dilemma: Sharing Beauty in a World on Fire

Reconciling Privilege: Writing My Way Through

When I began writing this blog, it was on the advice of my therapist. At the time, I was drowning in grief and struggling to find meaning. She encouraged me to focus on beauty, to document the moments of joy I encountered, no matter how fleeting, as a way to remind myself that life still had something to offer. What started as a lifeline has grown into something much larger—a way to connect not only with myself but with the world around me.

Yet lately, I’ve found myself questioning whether I should even share these stories. Does posting about sunsets and far-off places feel tone-deaf in a world so visibly hurting? Is sharing my joy unintentionally dismissing the struggles of others? These are questions I’ve wrestled with, not just in my writing but in how I navigate the privilege of my life.

My therapist reminded me of something crucial: writing doesn’t just document joy—it creates space for it, even in the darkest times. It’s not about ignoring the pain of the world but about finding and sharing the moments that make it bearable. These stories of beauty, kindness, and connection are not about bragging; they are acts of resistance against despair. They remind me—and maybe others—that there’s still light to be found.

And light, for me, has often come from the people I’ve connected with around the globe. Since returning to the U.S., I’ve been overwhelmed by the love and support I’ve received from friends abroad. They’ve sent messages of encouragement, shared ways to organize and act, and reminded me that we not alone in this struggle. Their words have felt like lifelines, bridging the gap between where I am and where I want to be. Knowing that people thousands of miles away care about what happens here has given me a sense of belonging I never expected.

These connections have also given me hope. Many of these friends have faced their own struggles, in systems and circumstances as broken as ours, and yet they’ve managed to rise above them with courage and resilience. Their stories remind me of why I started this blog in the first place—not just to document the beauty of travel but to share the humanity within it. To write is to resist—to resist the cynicism, the apathy, and the overwhelming sense of helplessness that threatens to consume us.

The Weight of Writing in Difficult Times

Lately, I’ve found it harder to write. I sit with my thoughts, searching for inspiration, but it feels like it’s hiding beneath the weight of everything happening around me. Even when I encounter something beautiful— a vivid sunset, a kind gesture, a moment of calm— I hesitate to share it. My heart is heavy with guilt, knowing I have the ability to escape while so many I care about are left to face struggles they never chose.

This guilt doesn’t come from a lack of gratitude. I know how fortunate I am to have had the opportunity to explore the world, to find moments of peace in places where I can simply breathe. But that knowledge doesn’t make it easier to reconcile the privilege of escape with the reality others endure daily. My words feel fragile in comparison to their battles, my photographs too fleeting to capture the depth of what so many are going through.

As I navigate this tension, I’ve been thinking about how my writing and photography may shift in the months ahead. I may begin documenting injustices I see and writing about the difficult truths that need to be heard. This isn’t to add darkness to my readers’ lives but to keep the truth known, to contribute in some small way to the collective call for justice and change. I may even start a separate blog for these stories, one that allows me to explore this side of myself more deeply. Still, I want to ensure that this new direction doesn’t drown out the light and inspiration my other writings strive to offer. Both are necessary—the truth and the beauty—and I feel called to honor them both.

Yet, in those rare moments when I do find the courage to write, I remind myself why I started. Beauty, after all, is not a denial of pain—it is a counterweight. Sharing it doesn’t erase the world’s struggles but reminds us that even in the darkest times, there are things worth holding onto. Writing has always been my way of navigating life’s complexities, and maybe now, it’s more important than ever. Resistance is not futile.

Top 10 Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations for 2025: Sustainable Travel Gems to Explore

In a world where our favorite tourism spots are becoming increasingly crowded, there’s a growing desire for me to encourage my travelers to seek out lesser-known destinations that offer a more authentic, meaningful experience. As a passionate advocate for sustainable travel, I believe that exploring these hidden gems is not only good for the soul but also vital for preserving the beauty and culture of our planet.

For 2025, I’ve curated a list of the top 10 off-the-beaten-path destinations that embody the principles of sustainable travel. These are places where you can immerse yourself in local culture, explore pristine landscapes, and travel in a way that leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the communities you visit. Let’s journey together to discover these sustainable travel gems.

1. Azores, Portugal

The Azores are an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean that boast volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and lush greenery. This Portuguese gem is a haven for nature lovers and those looking to disconnect from the fast pace of modern life.

What to Do: Enjoy whale watching in São Miguel, hike around the volcanic crater lakes of Sete Cidades, or relax in the natural hot springs of Furnas. The Azores offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

Sustainability Factor: The Azores have been recognized globally for their commitment to sustainable tourism. The islands focus on protecting their unique ecosystems, promoting renewable energy, and encouraging low-impact travel activities.

2. Slovenia

Slovenia is a destination that often surprises travelers with its diverse landscapes, from towering mountains to emerald-green lakes. It’s a country that values sustainability, with a strong emphasis on preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

What to Do: Visit the enchanting Lake Bled, hike in Triglav National Park, or explore the charming capital, Ljubljana, which was awarded the European Green Capital. Don’t miss the chance to experience farm-to-table dining in the lush countryside.

Sustainability Factor: Slovenia is at the forefront of sustainable tourism in Europe, with green initiatives that protect its pristine environments and promote eco-friendly travel practices.

3. Faroe Islands, Denmark

Nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Faroe Islands are a paradise for those seeking raw, untouched beauty. With dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and quaint villages, this remote archipelago offers a perfect escape from the crowds.

What to Do: Hike through verdant valleys, explore the charming village of Gjógv, or go birdwatching to spot puffins and other seabirds. The Faroe Islands are also perfect for a peaceful boat trip around the stunning fjords.

Sustainability Factor: The Faroe Islands are committed to preserving their natural habitats and promoting eco-tourism. The local community emphasizes sustainable fishing practices and encourages visitors to explore the islands responsibly.

4. Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten Islands are a stunning archipelago located above the Arctic Circle, known for their dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, and opportunities to witness the Northern Lights. This remote destination is perfect for those seeking an intimate connection with nature.

What to Do: Kayak through the fjords, hike the Reinebringen for breathtaking views, or stay in a traditional rorbu (fisherman’s cabin) to experience local life. Don’t miss the chance to witness the magical Northern Lights dancing across the sky.

Sustainability Factor: The Lofoten Islands focus on preserving their unique natural environment and cultural heritage. Local communities are dedicated to reducing the carbon footprint of tourism and promoting sustainable fishing practices.

5. Istria Peninsula, Croatia

Often overshadowed by Croatia’s more famous Dalmatian coast, the Istria Peninsula is a hidden gem known for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and stunning coastline. The region offers a unique blend of Croatian, Italian, and Slovenian cultures, with a strong emphasis on local food, wine, and sustainable tourism.

What to Do: Explore the charming hilltop towns of Motovun and Grožnjan, enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards, or hike through the scenic landscapes of Učka Nature Park. The coastline offers beautiful, less crowded beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities.

Sustainability Factor: Istria is committed to sustainable tourism practices, focusing on local agriculture, eco-friendly accommodations, and preserving its cultural heritage. The region encourages visitors to engage with the local community and support small, family-owned businesses.

6. Asturias, Spain

Asturias, located on Spain’s northern coast, is a green paradise known for its lush landscapes, rugged coastlines, and traditional culture. This lesser-known region offers a perfect escape for those looking to explore Spain beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

What to Do: Hike in the Picos de Europa, visit traditional fishing villages, or enjoy a meal in a local cider house. Asturias is a destination where nature and culture come together beautifully.

Sustainability Factor: Asturias focuses on sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, and preserving its natural beauty. The region’s commitment to maintaining its cultural and environmental integrity makes it a standout choice for sustainable travelers.

7. Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Montenegro, known for its rugged mountains, deep canyons, and glacial lakes. It’s a paradise for adventurers looking to explore a less-visited part of Europe.

What to Do: Go rafting on the Tara River, hike to the summit of Bobotov Kuk, or explore the breathtaking Black Lake. Durmitor offers a range of activities that cater to all levels of adventure.

Sustainability Factor: Durmitor National Park is a protected area with strict conservation efforts in place to preserve its natural beauty and promote sustainable tourism practices.

8. Alsace Region, France

Alsace, located on the border of France and Germany, is a region renowned for its picturesque villages, vineyards, and a unique blend of French and German culture. It’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking a charming, off-the-beaten-path experience.

What to Do: Explore the fairy-tale villages of Colmar and Eguisheim, cycle through the vineyards, or indulge in local wines and cuisine. The region’s focus on sustainable agriculture makes it a great spot for eco-conscious travelers.

Sustainability Factor: Alsace emphasizes local products, sustainable agricultural practices, and preserving its unique cultural heritage. It’s a region where you can travel sustainably and experience the best of both French and German traditions.

9. Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains, Morocco

Chefchaouen, also known as the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco, is a charming town nestled in the Rif Mountains. With its blue-washed streets, stunning mountain views, and laid-back vibe, Chefchaouen offers a unique escape from Morocco’s busier cities.

What to Do: Wander through the medina’s blue alleyways, hike in the surrounding Rif Mountains, or interact with local artisans who craft beautiful handmade goods. Chefchaouen is a place to slow down and immerse yourself in local culture.

Sustainability Factor: Chefchaouen promotes eco-friendly tourism by preserving its traditional crafts, supporting local artisans, and encouraging visitors to respect the natural environment and local way of life.

10. Tirana and the Albanian Alps, Albania

Albania is an emerging travel destination that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. From the vibrant capital of Tirana to the rugged beauty of the Albanian Alps, this country offers a unique blend of urban culture and natural splendor.

What to Do: Explore Tirana’s colorful streets, hike in the Albanian Alps, or visit traditional villages like Theth and Valbona. The region is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to experience authentic Albanian hospitality.

Sustainability Factor: Albania is developing its tourism industry with a focus on sustainability, respecting local communities, and preserving its natural landscapes. The Albanian Alps are a prime example of eco-friendly tourism initiatives in action.

These off-the-beaten-path destinations offer more than just stunning landscapes and unique experiences—they provide an opportunity to travel sustainably, connect deeply with local cultures, and explore the world in a way that preserves its beauty for future generations. As we look ahead to 2025, let’s choose to explore responsibly, support local communities, and make travel a force for good.

Are you ready to embark on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary? Together we can discover these hidden gems and make a positive impact through sustainable travel.