Tag: adventure
What to pack for Iceland {Summer}
Visiting Iceland in the Summer is an unforgettable experience. From late May to early August, Iceland experiences nearly 24 hours of daylight. The weather is pleasant ranging from 50-60°F (10-15°C), making outdoor adventures more comfortable compared to the harsh winter cold.
The summer transforms Iceland into a green paradise, with lush valleys, vibrant wildflowers, and waterfalls at their most powerful due to melting snow.
Summer is the best time to see puffins, which nest along the cliffs, as well as whales, seals, and Arctic foxes. Whale watching tours are especially popular during this season.
The weather in Iceland in unpredictable even in the Summer. At times very windy and can rain at any time. Packing for Iceland in the summer requires preparing for unpredictable weather, including mild temperatures, wind, and occasional rain. Here’s a practical packing list I used:
Clothing:
- Waterproof jacket & pants
- Fleece or warm sweater
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers
- T-shirts & long-sleeve shirts
- Comfortable hiking pants
- Warm hat & gloves (it can get chilly)
- Buff or scarf (for wind protection)
- Sleepwear
- Swimsuit (for hot springs & pools)
- Casual outfit for Reykjavik
Footwear:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals (for hot springs or B&B showers)
- Warm socks (wool recommended)
Accessories:
- Sunglasses (for long daylight hours)
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel towel
- Eye mask (midnight sun can make it hard to sleep)
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Daypack for excursions
- Power adapter (Iceland uses Type F plugs)
- Camera & extra batteries (cold can drain batteries fast)
Toiletries & Essentials:
- Sunscreen & lip balm (protection from wind & sun)
- Moisturizer (air can be dry)
- Basic medications & personal prescriptions
- Motion sickness tablets (if planning boat trips)
Optional Items:
- Binoculars (for wildlife watching)
- GoPro or waterproof camera (for waterfalls & hot springs)
- Lightweight sleeping bag (if camping)
Even in summer, Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Enjoy your adventure!
What to pack for Iceland {Winter}
Visiting Iceland in the winter is like stepping into a magical wonderland of icy landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty. The Northern Lights dance across the dark skies, painting them with shades of green and purple, while frozen waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss glisten in the winter sun.
A journey along the Golden Circle reveals powerful geysers erupting in bursts of steam and the stunning Þingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates meet. Along the way, Icelandic ponies stand proudly in snowy fields, their thick coats keeping them warm against the chill.
To unwind, a visit to Sky Lagoon offers a soothing soak in warm geothermal waters with a panoramic view of the Atlantic. Whether exploring glaciers, black sand beaches, or volcanic landscapes, Iceland in winter is an unforgettable adventure.
Documents & Extras:
- Passport (make sure it 6+months before expiring)
- Travel insurance info
- Printed itinerary
- Snacks for long excursions
- Waterproof pouch for documents/phone
Clothing:
- Waterproof jacket & pants
- Fleece or warm sweater
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers (Merino Wool)
- T-shirts & long-sleeve shirts
- Parka jacket (windbreaker)
- Warm hat & gloves (it can get chilly)
- Buff or scarf (for wind protection)
- Sleepwear
- Swimsuit (for Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, hot springs, etc.)
- Casual outfit for Reykjavik
Footwear:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Snowboots
- Sandals (for Blue/Sky Lagoon & hot springs)
- Warm socks (wool recommended)
- Crampons/ice cleats (great for icy sidewalks, glacier hike)
Accessories:
- Sunglasses (for long daylight hours)
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel towel
- Eye mask (midnight sun can make it hard to sleep)
- Sunglasses (snow glare is real)
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Waterproof daypack for excursions
- Power adapter (Iceland uses Type F plugs)
- Phone/camera charging cables
- Battery pack ( I always carry two)
Toiletries & Essentials:
- Sunscreen & lip balm (protection from wind)
- Moisturizer (air can be dry)
- Basic medications & personal prescriptions
- Motion sickness tablets (if planning boat trips)
- Hand warmers (rechargeable ones from Amazon are great)
Optional Items:
- Binoculars (for wildlife watching)
- Small flashlight or headlamp
- GoPro or waterproof camera (for waterfalls & hot springs)
Christmas Gift Ideas
For the travel enthusiast in your life, Christmas offers the perfect time to give gifts that inspire adventure and make journeys more enjoyable. Consider something practical yet thoughtful items like a high-quality travel backpack, a versatile packing cube set, or a durable travel wallet to keep essentials organized. Tech-savvy travelers will appreciate portable chargers, noise-canceling headphones, or compact travel adapters. For those who love experiences, airline tickets, a group trip, or gift cards for hotels can help fuel their wanderlust. These travel-inspired gifts are sure to delight and accompany them on their next adventure. Here are my favorite travel items, travel deals, and info on my next group trips.
think practical
These packing cubes not only help you get organized, but can also make the most room of your luggage. They also work great when you switch hotels often and keep you organized and not having to unpack every time you switch locations.
A carry-on backpack is great for all travelers, they fit under the seat and provide ample space for a weekend trip. This is my favorite bag, it offers plenty of storage space and pockets.
Luggage covers have saved me multiple times but most recently on a tight connection where I was able to distinguish my bag quickly and efficiently. They come in all sizes and several different prints. If you want to make it even more personalized, you can add a funny picture on them. Amazon has several options for personalization. Personalized luggage covers
tech-savvy
Air tags are my #1 recommended purchase! These are great for tracking your luggage but can also be used on wallet, purses, and even passports. You can never have too many. I personally use three of them when traveling and always good to know I can depend on tracking my luggage in the event I check a bag. Amazon currently has a pack of 4 for $72.
Power banks are very much needed specially when traveling abroad and not having an immediate wall plug available. Using google maps and google translate can drain your battery, so having these available is always so helpful. I usually travel with 2-3 of them at a time. I don’t love one over the other, I just get whatever is reasonably priced. Here are some samples (I may or may not have all of these) lol
Noise canceling headphones/Airpods
Traveling abroad or catching an early flight may be too stimulating for some, so noise cancellation headphones come in handy to block all the unwanted noise and multiple airline messages (I do recommend you listen, sometimes it can be request for emergency personnel). I am between AirPods and Beats Studio Pros
A Universal plug adaptor is highly needed when traveling abroad as many countries have different plugs.
experiences
Now this part, is my favorite! You can provide someone with a great adventure. Maybe a solo/group trip, an upgrade on their flight, or credit gift card for their travel adventure. For a solo/group trip follow my page on IG for trip details. Travel Nurse Wanderer
Egypt
Visiting Egypt is a journey through time, where the ancient and modern worlds come together in a captivating way. Whether you’re fascinated with ancient history, culture, or stunning landscapes, Egypt offers an unforgettable adventure. I spend 8 days through Cairo, Aswan, & Luxor mesmerized with the beauty of this country.
cairo
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant and historic city offering a unique blend of ancient wonders, modern attractions, and cultural experiences. Here are a few reasons to visit Cairo…
Iconic Historical Sites
The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these iconic structures are a must-see.
World-Class Museums
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and mummies. The museum is the home and oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East and houses over 170,000 artefacts.
Rich Cultural Experiences
Khan El Khalili Bazaar is a bustling marketplace to shop for traditional crafts, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. The famous bazaar and souq is located in the historic center of Cairo, Egypt. The bazaar district has since become one of Cairo’s main attractions for tourists and Egyptians alike.
Delicious Cuisine
Egyptian cuisine makes heavy use of poultry, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. Egyptian dishes include rice-stuffed vegetables and grapes leaves, hummus, falafel, shawarma, kebab, and kofta. The colors and aroma of these dishes are just spectacular and so delicious.
aswan
Aswan is located in southern Egypt, is a serene and picturesque destination known for its natural beauty, ancient history, and unique cultural experiences. Here are some great reasons to visit Aswan…
nubian village
The Nubian Village in Aswan, Egypt, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination known for its colorful houses, warm hospitality, and unique traditions. Located along the banks of the Nile River, near the famous Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple, these villages showcase the heritage of the Nubian people, an ancient African civilization with a distinct language and customs. We visited and had dinner with a local Nubian family. We chatted and learned about their culture and village. The food was delicious and we were treated like family. I highly recommend the visit.
stunning Nile River Views
Aswan sits on one of the most scenic stretches of the Nile, offering beautiful views of the river, surrounded with feluccas (traditional sailboats) and lush islands. Enjoy a felucca ride during sunset for a relaxing and memorable experience.
Ancient Temples and Monuments
Phiae Temple is Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this beautifully preserved temple is located on an island and accessible by boat. The temple walls contain scenes from Egyptian mythology of Isis bringing Osiris back to life, giving birth to Horus, and mummifying Osiris after his death.
Abu Simbel Temples is an ancient archaeological site in southern Egypt, famous for its two massive rock temples built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC. It is located near the border with Sudan and is one of Egypt’s most spectacular monuments.are these iconic temples of Ramses II, carved into a mountainside, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see.
luxor
Visiting Luxor is like stepping into an open-air museum filled with some of the world’s most incredible ancient treasures. Known as the “world’s greatest open-air museum,” Luxor is home to iconic landmarks such as the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs like Tutankhamun were laid to rest, and the grand Karnak Temple, one of the largest temple complexes ever built. You can also explore the majestic Temple of Hatshepsut, the awe-inspiring Luxor Temple, and take a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Nile.
Visiting Egypt is a life-changing experience that immerses you in the wonders of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Standing before the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, cruising along the timeless Nile, and exploring the temples of Luxor and Aswan connect you to a civilization that has shaped the world for thousands of years. Beyond the history, Egypt’s warm hospitality, bustling markets, and stunning desert scenery offer an adventure that captivates the soul.
Texas
When planning a road trip through Texas, you have an excess amount of options to explore due to the state’s vast size and diverse landscapes. We spend Christmas break and here are some suggested destinations and routes for an unforgettable road trip through the Lone Star State.
AUSTIN
We flew in and started the road trip in the state capital, known for its live music scene, vibrant culture, and outdoor activities. Visit the Texas State Capitol, explore the trendy neighborhoods, and enjoy the local cuisine.
WACO
Waco is a city in central Texas, located along the Brazos River and situated between Austin and Dallas. Waco was originally settled in 1849 and formally incorporated in 1856. The city played a significant role in the Texas Revolution and the Civil War. I have been wanted to visit ever since the Magnolia Market at the Silos was established, which is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper. Do yourself a favor and visit, spend the day in the grounds, and for God’s sake have her cupcakes. Enough said.
dallas
Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or entertainment, Dallas has something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to explore the city’s unique attractions and cultural offerings during your visit. Who knows, you may even spot an eye ball laying around.
FORT WORTH
We headed north to the Fort Worth metroplex to visit iconic sites like the Sixth Floor Museum, Fort Worth Stockyards, and the Dallas Arts District.
SAN ANTONIO
San Antonio offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. We visited the Alamo, explored the River Walk, & San Antonio Missions an UNESCO World Heritage site. We stopped at the Historic market place which offered unique and traditional gifts, authentic Mexican food, & live entertainment.
HOUSTON
Houston has a lot to offer. The city’s dynamic mix of history, culture, and attractions make it a great destination for visitors of all interests. Houston has a mix of history, culture, diversity, and big on sports.
Portland, OR
Portland is a city located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, specifically in the state of Oregon. Portland is renowned for its vibrant and diverse food scene. The city is known for its food carts, offering a wide variety of cuisines in convenient outdoor locations. Additionally, Portland is the home to many farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and coffee shops.
Portland has several different neighborhoods, each offering a unique look, vibe, & diversity. Alberta was my favorite, but maybe I am biased because my favorite bake shop was located there.
alberta Arts district
Alberta Arts District is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its galleries, studios, and public art. Alberta street is lined with unique shops ranging from handmade to vintage, as well as artisan art. I absolutely loved this area and frequented the area as my favorite bake shop was nearby.
villevelo bAKESHOP
If you’re even in NE Portland area, please go check out VilleVelo Bake Shop. Jeff the owner is not only friendly and welcoming, but he makes the best savory tarts and desserts in the area. Bonus if you’re a Drew Barrymore fan and love ecleptic decor, check it out below.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a public municipal park in the Tualatin Mountains west of downtown Portland, Oregon, USA. Stretching for more than 8 miles (13 km) on hillsides overlooking the Willamette River, it is one of the country’s largest urban forest reserves. The Stone House located within the trail was actually the restroom building for the park back in the early 20th century. Over time, the building fell into disrepair and became a popular spot for local legends and ghost stories, leading to its nickname “Witch’s Castle.” Check out my buddy Che, the sweetest rescue ever and child to my roommate Brooke. We kept each other company and he made it bearable when I missed my tribe from back home.
downtown portland
Exploring downtown Portland was quite relaxing. Despite there being an increase homeless population and substance abuse problem, Portland is a beautiful city to visit, explore, and I highly recommend exploring their iconic area such as Powell books and Portland Waterfront and experience their beautiful cherry blossoms. I was even lucky enough to find my favorite Nicholas Sparks book, “The Wedding” I was also luckily to capture the cherry blossoms before leaving Portland and heading back to North Carolina. Let’s just say, it’s definitely a popular time of year, plan accordingly as parking can be difficult.
London
Celebrating Christmas in London is a magical experience, as the city comes alive with festive decorations, lights, markets, and events. I spend two days and definitely need to go back. Here are a few things you can see and do while visiting this beautiful city.
Visit the Christmas Markets
London has several Christmas markets offering unique gifts, delicious food, and mulled wine. Some popular markets include Southbank Centre Winter Market and Leicester Square Christmas Market.
Admire the Christmas Lights
Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, and Covent Garden are known for their stunning Christmas lights and window displays. London is truly magical at this time of year, a must visit.
Afternoon tea bus tour
This was a highlight of my trip. As we sip tea and indulge in delicious treats, you will pass by famous attractions such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and more. The tour typically includes live commentary about the history and significance of the landmarks you pass, providing an informative and entertaining experience. Best part was the Christmas theme bus with onboard caroling.
and of course SIGHTSEEING
London is a vibrant city with a rich history and a multitude of attractions to explore. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye to neighborhoods, such as Notting Hill, Camden Lock, London Theatre District, there is no shortage of things to see and do in London.
Day Trips from Portland
Living in Portland temporarily for work gave me the opportunity to take several day trips on my days off. Some trips were solo, some with co-workers, but one thing is certain…Oregon is an incredible state to wander off to.
columbia river gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a stunning river canyon located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, straddling the border between the states of Oregon and Washington. The gorge is known for its dramatic landscape, including towering cliffs, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls.
Some of the most famous waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge include Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. These waterfalls are easily accessible via hiking trails and scenic viewpoints along the Historic Columbia River Highway.
cannon beach
I have visited Cannon beach before and the coastal view never gets old. Located only 8o miles west of Portland, Cannon Beach offers picturesque beaches, local art, and restaurants. Known for its natural beauty including the famous Haystack Rock. The sunset here was just spectacular.
mount hood
Mount Hood is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and climbing opportunities depending on the season. It is located about 50 miles east-southeast of Portland. The snow and winter vibes were just magical, we had a great time snow shoeing which was quite the workout.
depoe bay
Depoe Bay, Oregon, is a charming coastal city located along the Pacific Ocean. Known for its picturesque scenery, Depoe Bay is a popular tourist destination that offers opportunities for whale watching, deep-sea fishing, and exploring the nearby beaches and state parks. At 118 miles from Portland, spending the day here is not only is not only possible, but so worth it.
silverton (trail of 10 waterfalls)
Oregon is known for its stunning natural landscapes and numerous waterfalls. One of the most famous trails that features multiple waterfalls in Oregon is the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park. Located only 88 miles from Portland , makes it easy to spend the day there, pack a picnic, and enjoy the magnificent views.
Located near Silverton, Oregon, the Trail of Ten Falls is a beautiful 7.2-mile loop trail that takes hikers past ten breathtaking waterfalls. Some of the notable waterfalls along this trail include South Falls, North Falls, Double Falls, and Winter Falls. If you are planning to visit the Trail of Ten Falls in Oregon, be sure to check the current trail conditions, park regulations, and any necessary permits before you go.
hood river
Hood River is a charming town located in the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon. It is known for its picturesque setting, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant community. Hood River offers outdoor activities, scenic beauty, & solace. Hood River is home to a thriving craft beer and wine scene, with several local breweries, cideries, and wineries offering tastings and tours. Visitors can sample a variety of locally produced beverages and enjoy the vibrant food and drink culture in the area.
Willamette Valley
If you are interested in wine tasting near Beaverton, Oregon, I recommend researching and visiting some of the acclaimed wineries in the Willamette Valley region to experience the diverse and delicious wines that Oregon has to offer. While Beaverton itself is not a major wine-producing area, it is situated close to the renowned wine country of Oregon. The Willamette Valley, where Beaverton is located, is particularly famous for its Pinot Noir wines, which thrive in the region’s cool climate and diverse soils. Some notable wine regions near Beaverton include Dundee Hills, Yamhill-Carlton, and Ribbon Ridge, all of which are known for producing exceptional Pinot Noir and other varietals.
Spain
This was my first hosted group trip through Trovatrip and boy did we have fun. Our trip was 7-days and we traveled to Sevilla, Granada, & Cordoba. Our guide was a local to the Andalusia region and not only was knowledgeable but also super funny. At the end of the trip we all decide to extend and so we flew to Madrid for a 2-day visit to explore and indulge in the Spanish culture.
Sevilla
Seville (Sevilla in Spanish) is the capital of Andalusia, a region in the south of Spain. It is known for its history, stunning architecture, culture, and flavorful cuisine. We visited sites such as Alcazar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is known its beautiful Mudejar architecture, lush gardens, & intricate tilework.
cordoba
Cordoba is a city in southern Spain, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history. One of the most famous landmarks in Cordoba is the Great Mosque of Cordoba, also known as the Mezquita. It is a stunning example of Moorish architecture with a unique blend of Islamic and Christian influences. The Roman Bridge of Cordoba is another iconic symbol of the city, spanning the Guadalquivir River. It offers beautiful views of the city and the Mosque-Cathedral.
Granada
Granada is a city located in southern Spain, in the region of Andalusia. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. The Albaicin is a well-preserved medieval Moorish quarter in Granada with narrow winding streets, white-washed buildings, and picturesque squares. It offers fantastic views of the Alhambra and the city below.
The Alhambra
The Alhambra is one of the most famous attractions in Granada and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning palace and fortress complex dates back to the 9th century and showcases exquisite Islamic architecture and beautiful gardens.
madrid
Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain. Madrid is a dynamic and vibrant city that offers a blend of history, art, culture, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Spanish experience. We stayed at the city centre making it easy to easily walk to our destinations. A great end to our Spain adventure.
the food in spain
Spanish cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture. Tapas are small, savory dishes typically served with drinks at bars and restaurants. They can range from simple olives and almonds to more elaborate dishes like patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce) or jamón ibérico (cured ham). Whether you’re treating yourself to tapas, savoring a paella, or enjoying a glass of sangria, Spanish food offers a rich and satisfying dining experience. Also, please don’t forget to try their amazing coffee and churros and hot chocolate, you will thank me later.
