Sep 28, 2022
Finland
Helsinki is the 2nd northernmost capital city in the world (behind only Rekjavik). I spent a short time in Helsinki but my experience was that it was a boring and cold city. The Finns have a choice of going outdoors into the cold or staying indoors, which explains a lot about why saunas are popular (heating!) and why Nordic interior design has a lot of thought put into it. But interior design and saunas aside, I don't see myself returning to Finland unless I decide to opt in to their healthcare system later in life (which is apparently not an uncommon path taken by other Schengen passport holders).Sep 21, 2022
Estonia
Tallin, Estonia is the furthest north I have been (until I visit Helsinki), with a latitude comparable to Juneau, Alaska. The summer is the best time to enjoy the outdoors here before everyone jumps back into their jackets. The country is compact, with a population of just 1.2 million.Jul 31, 2022
Intermission - In Progress
Any long trip requires flexibility, and at this time I'm "taking a vacation" from exploring new places. The travel photos will resume soon. In the meantime, please enjoy some memes related to traveling or the areas I have recently visited.Jul 27, 2022
Turkey
Turkey is the true intersection of east meeting west, Europe meeting Asia, combined with a long and ancient history. The country is home to Göbekli Tepe, an ancient archeological site from 8000 B.C. that makes Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids look young. The kebabs, baklava, and other Turkish foods are globally renowned, and the geography of the country offers a wide variety of locations and destinations.