Do you choose the familiar or unfamiliar?

Michael and I just came back from a week-long stay at Martha’s Vineyard, MA. It wasn’t our first time but it’s been nine years since we last visited our friends who have a home there. We flew out of JFK and in an hour arrived at the island. In Massachusetts, masks are optional for fully vaccinated people except in certain locations.

We had a bounty of fresh seafood, local produce, and were spoiled by the culinary prowess of my friends. We explored several beaches, fairs, and markets. We also met some of their friends who are local, summer renters, and even my neighbor from NYC.

Usually, I like the novelty of the unfamiliar when traveling. But in this instance, it was an absolute pleasure to be in the familiar embrace and company of friends we love. This visit even had some of the elements I look for while traveling: great food, local artisans, and hidden gems.

Discovery is at the core of why I travel and this trip was full of delights and surprises.

Next week, I’ll be in unfamiliar territory. Michael and I are taking our first ever cruise aboard the World Navigator of Atlas Ocean Voyages on their maiden voyage from Athens to Cairo. It’ll also be our first time in Egypt. We’re spending nine days post-cruise to explore Cairo and sail on the Nile River from Luxor to Aswan. There is WiFi on board so please follow our adventure on @travelswithtesa.

At the end of August, I’ll be in Hilton Head, SC (also a first) at the Sea Pines Resort for my second in-person T+L Board Meeting. Judging from our last meeting at Montage Healdsburg & Pendry West Hollywood, this promises to be as productive, informative, inspiring, and fun.

I hope you’re having a wonderful summer. Stay safe and healthy.

I hit a wall in Namibia

We were touring on the Skeleton Coast, named for the wooden ships that once ran aground here. In this spectacular part of southern Africa, driving an all-terrain vehicle on the towering dunes is one of the highlights for travelers.

Our guide Shiimi assured us the ride would be smooth and easy. It was my friend Teresa’s first time driving any kind of motorized vehicle. But I watched her just GO. She climbed on her ATV and drove fearlessly behind Shiimi for two hours.

Me, not so much. It was my first time driving an ATV (my excuse) and I drove like an old Asian lady (I’m pretty sure I’m allowed to say that because I fit the description sometimes). My husband Michael literally drove circles around me, entreating me to shift out of first gear so I’d go a little faster.

Suddenly, in the distance, I saw Teresa and Shiimi at the base of what appeared a very high wall, of Game of Thrones proportions. Had I forgotten to tell Shiimi about my fear of heights? If I followed them to the top, would I have the nerve to go down?

Again, I watched Teresa just GO. If she could do it, so could I.

I decided not to look too far ahead and to just focus on what was directly in front of me. I drove like this until I reached the top. And then I stopped to look around.

BREATHTAKING, right?

And so WORTH IT.

I’d like to share a few takeaways from this experience with you: Be present. Trust your guide. Open yourself to new experiences (why we travel). Travel with people who can set the pace, lead the way and be by your side. I hope your travels result in equally breathtaking moments.