top of page

Blog Posts - the "Daily Diary"
Explore solo travel stories, cruise experiences, tips & guides.


Reflections from Alaska/Waterfalls, Tacos, and True Colors
A Month in Alaska š²š³ļøāšā“ļø I feel like the stars are aligning. ⨠Over the last 30 days in Alaska, Iāve had spaceāreal spaceānot just miles on a map, but space in my mind to think, reflect, and breathe deeply. Iāve let the crisp Alaskan air fill my lungs as waterfalls cascade down evergreen-draped cliffs. Iāve sat quietly on park benches overlooking fog-shrouded bays, watching life slow down around me. Iāve rediscovered an outdoor version of myselfāone that thrives on hikes,
colesjoholm
Jun 6, 20253 min read


Tapas + Tears: Finding Perspective in Barcelona
Sitting here in Barcelona on yet another rainy afternoon, I stumbled across an article titled āThe 25 Most Beautiful Cities in the Worldā ( link here ). A single tear rolls down my cheekānot from the sudden downpour (my trusty ā¬6 umbrella is holding up just fine)ābut from the realization that Iāve been to most of the cities on the list, with a few more already planned for this year. And just like that, it hits me again: I am truly, incredibly fortunate. A few short years ago
colesjoholm
Mar 24, 20254 min read


Donāt Apologize for the Sun in Your Path: Life at Sea Reflections
To say that things happen for a reason is probably the biggest understatement in the world. Iāve spent the last seven days onboard the Carnival Celebration with stops in Amber Cove (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and St. John via St. Thomas. Itās a ship that I am very familiar with, having spent two weeks onboard in January 2023 during my first solo cruiseāthe beginning of my journey to setting foot on all seven continents. I sailed again in March 2024 for a we
colesjoholm
Jan 19, 20254 min read


Up, Up & Away: New Chapter in Life and Travel
A new chapter beginsālife after seven continents, a meaningful relationship, and the excitement of a first cruise together.
colesjoholm
Mar 29, 20242 min read


Featured in Spoke + Blossom: Seven Continents Story
A reflective moment reading my seven continents journey featured in Spoke + Blossom magazine for the first time at a local coffee shop.
colesjoholm
Mar 2, 20242 min read


IguazĆŗ Falls: Getting Soaked at One of South America's Most Powerful Natural Wonders
A soaked, sweaty, unforgettable day exploring Iguazu Falls in Argentinaāfrom boat tours and costs to heat, humidity, and raw travel reality.
colesjoholm
Dec 17, 20233 min read


Buenos Aires Travel Diary Day 1: Recoleta, Food & First Impressions
A chaotic, cultural, and unforgettable first day in Buenos Airesāfrom Recoleta Cemetery to street performers, currency hacks, and steak in Palermo.
colesjoholm
Dec 16, 20235 min read


Touch Down on Continent Six: Seven Continents Travel Journey
An emotional milestoneātouching down on continent six, reflecting on tears, growth, friendship, and the journey towards all seven continents in one year.
colesjoholm
Dec 14, 20236 min read
bottom of page