“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”
Ibn Battuta
So… I’ve been traveling. A lot.
I’ve been on the road, meeting people from all around the world, and it has been nothing short of incredible. It’s amazing how diverse our planet is, with each country offering its own unique blend of culture, traditions, cuisine, and fashion. Every new place I visit leaves me in awe.
Here’s a glimpse of where I’ve been from June end till early August:
1. Mount Shasta, California
One of the most peaceful places I’ve ever visited. This small town, with a population of less than 3,000, pulses with a different kind of energy. Known for its deep spiritual roots and meditation, it’s said to be the home of the root chakra. I meditated there and felt an unparalleled sense of peace. Mount Shasta is one of those places that calls to you, and you won’t find yourself there unless the mountain itself invites you.
2. Glacier National Park, Montana
This park is famous for having some of the darkest skies in the United States. I witnessed not one, not two, but dozens of shooting stars while stargazing—one of the most awe-inspiring moments of my life. The park, part of the Rockies, is breathtaking. It’s an artist’s paradise, with its icy mountains, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife. Montana might just be the greenest and prettiest state in the U.S., making it a must-visit.
3. Sandpoint, Idaho
A hidden gem. This bustling little town has a population of about 10,000, but it’s vibrant, with an amazing beach. I stayed for a couple of days and soaked in the sun. Amtrak runs through here, so I’ll definitely be back. Need to look for more photos for Sandpoint – was too busy at the beach here.
4. Istanbul, Turkiye
Last year, I had a feeling I’d return to this city, but I didn’t realize it would happen so soon. Istanbul is captivating—its food, history, and culture are unparalleled. Football (or soccer) is practically a religion here! I visited Galatasaray and experienced the electric atmosphere. Can’t wait to see what José Mourinho stirs up at Fenerbahçe! This time around, I explored Istanbul like a local—discovered hidden markets in Taksim Square, met amazing people from all over the world, and indulged in some incredible food and drinks. The Bosphorus tour, as always, left me in awe. I know I’ll be back.
5. Cappadocia, Turkiye
The city of balloons, or perhaps the city of rock formations. Initially, I wondered what I’d do in a couple’s paradise for three days, but I was so wrong. There’s so much to see and do! I took an ATV ride to catch the sunset against Cappadocia’s unique rock formations—truly a sight to behold. I even got a chance to visit Kaymaklı – the underground city in the region of Capadocia – which is now considered as a UNESCO Heritage site! The hot air balloon rides are breathtaking, with over 200 balloons rising at once. I met fellow travelers from Bologna, the UK, Italy, and, of course, Turkiye. Definitely worth a visit.
6. Los Angeles, California
The City of Angels. L.A. will always hold a special place in my heart—it’s one of the few places I’ve traveled solo. I have so many stories from this trip: not sleeping all night and then hiking to the Kaymaklı for sunrise, having the best ramen of my life in Little Tokyo, picking up some classical vinyls by Mozart and Beethoven, and of course, watching Manchester United vs. Arsenal live. And of course, can never get tired of Santa Monica Pier.
7. North Cascades National Park, Washington
I finally made it to Artist’s Point. I did some small hikes, found hidden spots, and was utterly blown away. Lake Diablo and the surrounding mountains are too beautiful to describe. Even having been to Switzerland, I have to say, these views are something else. I need to go back with a canvas and paint it all!
I visited these incredible places from late June to early August, and what a rollercoaster it’s been. Each destination brought its own unique experiences, leaving me with memories that will last a lifetime. The world is vast, and there’s so much out there waiting to be discovered. It’s easy to get caught up in the routines of daily life, but the real magic happens when you step out of your comfort zone and embrace the unknown.
Traveling while we’re young is more than just ticking places off a bucket list; it’s about growth, understanding, and opening your heart to the endless possibilities that the world offers. When you take the leap and venture into unfamiliar territories, you’ll find that the world has a way of surprising you—through the people you meet, the cultures you experience, and the beauty that surrounds you.
Every journey reshapes a part of who you are, adding layers of depth and perspective that you might never have discovered otherwise. It’s in these moments of exploration that you truly begin to understand not just the world around you, but also yourself. So, keep traveling, keep exploring, and let each adventure become a chapter in the incredible story of your life.
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