We sometimes get stuck in our comfort zones. I remember the first time someone suggested that I visit Istanbul; it felt too far away. “What would I do there?” I’d ask. Plenty of people would rave on about how Istanbul’s one of those really great places with great markets and interesting sights to see. “Sure, … Continue reading
This summer, I visited what is now one of my favourite cities in the world – Stockholm! While I didn’t get to try a lot of typically-Swedish food when I was strolling through the city, I did try a few dishes at a vegan restaurant in the city. I’ve always known that salmon’s a staple … Continue reading
Have you ever heard the term, “Stockholm Syndrome”? By definition, it refers to a condition where a victim falls in love with his/her captor. The term has somehow been associated with the city of Stockholm (because the term was coined due to an event that occurred in Stockholm). As a kid, I remember hearing “Stockholm … Continue reading
I have a confession to make: this year hasn’t been the “easiest” year so far. I’ve already had to deal with a few hurdles that could potentially break anyone down. Having said that, I’m grateful for the experiences. I’ve seen myself grow in a short amount of time, because of all the difficulties I’ve had … Continue reading
When you think of “Helsinki” or “Finland”, what comes to mind? When I used to think of Finland, I really imagined something similar to Canada; an outdoorsy culture (where winter is at the center of most activities), reindeer, and Olaf from Frozen. Yes, Olaf. Because why wouldn’t you imagine a cartoon snowman when you think … Continue reading
Not too long ago, I mentioned that I’m going to Europe for most of June. I’ll be in various countries, including two that I’ve never been to before. I have a good friend and local showing me around one of them, but I’ll be visiting another one that I’ve never been to before nor know … Continue reading
I’ve been holding off on announcing this, but I think it’s time to come clean: I’m going to Europe for 21 days. This summer, I’ll be headed to four different countries for a friend’s wedding and for some reunion time. Although I’ve been enjoying being set in a routine these days, I know that I always … Continue reading
Before I moved to Spain, I had read a lot about the history of Spain, its people, and its position in Europe. While some places in Europe are, quite frankly, less fascinating in terms of their history, Spain has always stood out to me for its extremely diverse culture. Perhaps part of that is because where my parents … Continue reading
There are some cities whose reputations surpass reality. We tend to believe that these places are going to shake us to our very core, and that we’re going to walk away remembering them for the rest of our lives. These are the heavyweights of the travel world – the cities that never sleep, and/or never cease … Continue reading
I’ve been having some strange dreams lately. When I say ‘strange’, I refer to how vivid, surreal, and aesthetically beautiful these brief portraits have been. One of these dreams made me feel oddly emotional, while another one felt completely natural. How does any of this make sense? It all started three weeks ago, when I dreamt of … Continue reading
The Rooted Traveller 