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A Journey To Germany-Expectations Vs. Reality
Back in 2014, while living abroad in Greece, I took an unexpected trip to Germany to visit a friend. Let me begin by saying, Germany was not at the top of my list of places I wanted to see. But, the opportunity arose and I figured, why not add another country to my list? So I booked the ticket and set off to Germany. My expectations were as follows: Germany would consist of the stereotypical aggressive persona that is often demonstrated in the media. The people would be very closed-off. The cities and the architecture would be nothing to write home about. It would be cold and gloomy (I was…
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Beginning To Focus On What’s Important
When someone tells you to focus, what comes to mind? Do you think about your schoolwork? Perhaps, doing your best at some sort of athletic sport? Or maybe you think about focusing in terms of meditation? No matter where this word may lead you, the art of focusing is vital in all aspects of life. I say “art” because this practice isn’t something that comes easily. In order to really conquer this practice, it will take a lot of time, commitment and diligence. As I sit here writing this, I can scan over a million different situations that are going on in my life right now. A million different points…
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Learning To Let Go Of What No Longer Serves You
The older I get, the more that I like to believe that I’m beginning to learn something out of this crazy adventure we call life. We all go in different directions when we grow. Life throws us all into unique situations, helping us connect and associate with like-minded people and, sometimes, not so like-minded people. But throughout all the experiences I’ve had and all of the people I’ve come in contact with, there is one lesson that seems to resonate: the lesson of letting go. I know, easier said than done. Learning to let go is by far the toughest obstacle to overcome. Because we are not just talking about…
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Beautiful Greek Destinations That You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
While living abroad in Greece, I was eager to explore as much of the land as I possibly could. And so I made it a point to try to go to some not-so-touristy Greek destinations. Let me be the first to say that this country never ceases to amaze me. Every new area I visited was more beautiful than the last. Every landscape was a perfect picturesque representation of the Greek culture. And so I’ve compiled a list of my favorite secret spots that I found throughout my many travels in Greece. So without further ado, I give you my list of Greek destinations that you’ve probably never heard of:…
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How To Start A Blog In Just A Few Simple Steps
Always wanted to start a blog? Got a really unique idea? Something that your passionate about, but don’t know exactly how to get started? Well I am here to tell you that you can start today! Note: Each link in my posts are affiliated in some way, which means that I will be making commission if you purchase any products through my blog. These products are my recommendations based off of what I strongly believe can and will work for you too! Starting a blog can be a little intimidating. I know, personally, I held off on it for the longest time. I felt intimidated. I felt like I wasn’t…
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The Truth About Travel
So today I am going to tell you something about travel that most people will try to hide from you: Traveling can be stressful. We have a misconception in our society today that all travel bloggers/adventurers/enthusiasts are on a constant vacation, and that things always go accordingly because, well, doesn’t it look that way on their Instagram photos?? But the truth is that things don’t always fall into place, you don’t always end up in the most glamorous hotels, the adventures aren’t always a 24/7 high, and life doesn’t always go the way you plan. On a more personal note, I learned this truth the hard way. In the summer…
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Milos Island: Greece’s Hidden Gem
Often times when we hear about Greek islands, we are bombarded with lists that include the obvious, popular choices like Santorini, Mykonos, and Zakinthos. These are all beautiful islands, but most people aren’t aware that there are literally thousands of Greek islands to choose from. So I’d like to take a little time today to talk about one in particular and give this island some of its due credit. Milos island-oh where to start? Exploring Milos island had to be one of the most unusual and interesting adventures I’ve experienced thus far. This was the first Aegean island I’d been to, and it did not disappoint. The island was a…
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What I Learned From Spontaneously Moving Abroad
Four years ago, my sister had a beautiful destination wedding in Greece. The majority of my large family of eight packed their things and flew out to attend. We have relatives in Greece, so I decided I would crash for a mini vacation after the wedding took place. After the wedding, everyone flew home, and I stayed with my cousin, soaking up the sun as much as I could. I had just recently gotten out of a long-term relationship back home, and had actually quit my job before hopping on that plane. So one afternoon, over our habitual cup of afternoon coffee, a friend of mine mentioned the possibility of…
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About Valentina
Growing up, I was a dreamer. I dreamed of traveling the world and, slowly but surely, that’s just what I’ve been doing. Although, I have to say, I never expected to be as lucky as to have a husband by my side to join in on the ride. Since I’ve found my husband, Adem, life has been nothing if not adventurous. This is what I love to do, and life has felt ever more enriched by the time I’ve spent traveling. Even though traveling with my love has been great, I am also not ashamed to admit that I have my fair share of internal struggles. And so, through this…
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Fear of the Unknown
Shortly after my husband and I were married, we took a small trip north of Chicago for a weekend getaway. During our visit, we came across a company that offered zip-lining, and decided to give it a try. Jumping at the opportunity to try something new, I had my doubts as to how I would feel when we actually got up there. I am terrified of heights. But sometimes my mind makes decisions about things and voluntarily blurts them out before actually consulting with my emotions. But, that’s always been me. Act now, consequences later. As our instructor latched us in, I found myself becoming more and more apprehensive. I…
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