Katy

I’ve always loved to travel and visit new places but it was moving to Hanoi, Vietnam, back in 2018 that really kick-started my adventures. I’ll never forget the moment I stepped out of the taxi right in the bustling old quarter… A sensory explosion of smells, sights, and sounds, and I was like, “What on earth have I gotten myself into?”… but once I learned how to cross the road with confidence and got myself a motorbike, I knew I’d made the right choice. I ended up teaching English and living there for a year and a half, soaking in every bit of the adventure. Following Vietnam, I moved to Australia where I converted and lived in a campervan, travelling to Tasmania and up the east coast. Among the cherished memories, Vietnam’s Phong Nha National Park and Phu Quoc island remain etched in my heart as beloved havens of wonder and adventure.

I love the adventure! Whether it’s riding a motorbike from the north to the south of Vietnam, surfing in the crystal-clear waters of The Philippines or learning to free dive in Australia – I’m there! I’m all for a day of relaxation on the beach, as long as I can get out and feel the rush from an activity or adventure that challenges me. It’s always good to push yourself out of your comfort zone and helps you to connect to where you are on a deeper level.

My trips are usually planned around food…I love to scope out the best spots to eat before deciding on where to go. Finding delicious local foods that happen to be vegan are my favourite. On my recent trip to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam I fell in love with the huge selection of plant-based goodies. I love finding little nooks hidden away above shops, with no signage, where you trust the locals to guide you to a gastronomic haven.

Vietnam – The Bánh bao’s, wontons (Hoi An Market) and anything with tofu is usually a hit with me – but you can’t go wrong with a classic Bánh Mì!!

Thailand – The classic Pad Thai, MANGO STICKY RICE all washed down with a tasty Thai milk tea!

I love to keep a sketch journal while I’m travelling. I give myself some time to sit and really observe a scene, whether it is a majestic tree in a rainforest or a quirky little café in a bustling city centre. Taking the time to sketch a scene allows to me to hit pause and be present in that moment, plus I have a terrible memory and this is a great way to look back and reflect on good times!