Over the last 10 years, I’ve visited 39 countries. It started with a 4 month adventure with Semester at Sea, circumnavigating the globe by ship and visiting 10 countries. I’ve explored 6 continents with a lifelong goal of seeing all 7.

I’ve visited manmade and natural wonders with the Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal and Victoria Falls. I’ve slept in a hammock on a boat in the Amazon River. I’ve taken safaris in South Africa and Botswana. I’ve been face to face with an elephant and held a mini crocodile. I’ve zip-lined in Costa Rica and swam in waterfalls in Zambia. I’ve quadded on sand dunes in Namibia and rode on camels in Morocco. I’ve eaten tapas in Spain and pasta in Italy. I’ve swam in the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans. I’ve held children in orphanages and waved to others on the streets. I’ve stayed in tents and luxury hotels. I’ve eaten $2 sandwiches and fancy 3* meals. I’ve laughed and cried, pondered and wandered. My perspective on life will never be the same.

I’m now returning from a 2 week trip to Southern Africa, and it was wonderful. Travel changes you. There is so much to see in this world and it has been a privilege and great opportunity to explore it. Every adventure has opened my eyes and mind. I reflect on my past, appreciate my present, and look to the possibilities of the future.