I can’t believe it, it’s that time of year again - 2015 Review!
As i write this, i am on a plane home for the New Year celebrations and it has got me thinking. The last 365 days have gone by so fast, what did i do with my time?
In the last year i have discovered 16 countries over 3 continents and stayed in over 30 hotels around the world.
So where do i start..
I started my travelling year in Norway. I now understand what it feels like to leave your heart in so many places. I visited Oslo and fell in love. I fell in love with the city, the ocean, the place. I had my own spot that i felt i could call my own, that i would just sit, relax and let the world go by.
With the thrill of travelling again, i was so excited to visit Egypt. I happily logged more dives by scuba diving in the red sea. I was even lucky enough to swim with a magnificent manta ray. And of course, visiting Cairo to see the incredible Pyramids and Sphinx made my time in Egypt perfect.
As the post travel blues set in after returning from Egypt, i couldn't wait to start my tour of Europe. This year my Europe tour included Belgium, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Sweden and Denmark!
During my time in Belgium it was Liberation Day. Being part of the celebrations was incredible. A day that brought so many together was so heart warming.
Next i visited Germany! Berlin was so full of history, i learnt so much, more than i ever did at school! As i explored the streets of Berlin there was a reminder of it's well known history on every corner. During my time in Germany, I also visited Lubeck. Lubeck is such a beautiful city full of charm.
Poland is definitely a hidden gem! I was so happy that Poland suprised me. The brightly coloured buildings were such an eye catcher and such a big attraction! Exploring the cobbled streets had such a homely feel to it.
As i wondered what adventures i had yet to come and what beautiful countries i had yet to explore, Lithuania answered all my questions! I explored fairytale castles, beautiful cobbled streets and mysterious landmarks! Magical!
So many beautiful countries! And Latvia did not disappoint! I love colour, and Latvia was full of it. From beautiful gardens, brightly coloured buildings to incredible flower stalls on the city streets. I was on such a high point at this stage in the trip and i knew it was only going to get better.
As i was half was through my tour i went back in time to visit the medieval city of Tallinn, Estonia! From the medieval dressed people and buildings, to the beauty of the magnificent harbour. There is so much to love!
Scandinavia! A big love of mine that i had been looking forward to since the start of the trip! Finland was my first port of call, quite literally! I spent some time on the Batlic Sea seeing the coastlines before exploring this incredible country on foot.
As Sweden is one of the largest countries in Europe, there is so much to see! From the colourful old town buildings to the hidden gems of the remains of a castle looking over a magnificent lake! Sweden is one of those countries you can visit again and see so much more!
Denmark was the last country of my tour, and one that couldn't have been more perfect. As i ticked off the last Scandinavian country off my list, i explored the colourful streets, beautiful churches and found the famous Little Mermaid statue.
As this year comes to an end, my last moments of 2015 have been spent travelling round Australia and New Zealand. And i couldn't think of anything better.
My time in Australia was incredible. Spending December in the summer is one of my new favourite things to do! Exploring the streets of Sydney and of course seeing the famous Sydney Opera House - Perfect!
I ended my year discovering New Zealand. This is such a breathtaking country. From exploring the national parks, abseiling into glow worm caves, learning the local culture and surfing and sea kayaking in the beautiful ocean that surrounds this island. This was the perfect end to a perfect year that i will remember forever!
Throughout this year i have found myself discovering more of England, Scotland and Wales too. Staying in hotels all over these countries for work or a long weekend away to discover a new place and to satisfy the travel bug.
As i look back on my year and what i have achieved, i find myself feeling an inner happiness. I am so grateful i found the courage to live the life i love. I can only hope i inspire you to do the same.
I can truly say this year couldn't have been more perfect. I have seen so many incredible places around the world, and met some amazing people along the way. But next year is going to be even better.
In 2016, there are so many things planned that i am so excited about! - I can’t wait to share it with you! I look forward to sharing my journey with you over the next 365 days as i continue to fulfill my thirst for adventure and world travel!
I hope 2016 brings you all adventure and happy travels!
Happy New Year!
Niki x