As the year draws to a close, it’s truly remarkable how quickly time flies, bringing us once again to the cherished tradition of sharing my “Best of THM” selections. For those new to The Healthy Maven, this annual series is where I compile my most impactful and beloved posts across various categories – travel, recipes, lifestyle, and overall highlights from the past twelve months. It’s a fantastic opportunity for both long-time readers and newcomers alike to revisit content you might have missed, or simply skim through the year’s standout moments and discover new inspirations. It’s a reflective journey through the adventures and insights that have shaped our year. You can explore previous years’ highlights and see how our adventures have evolved: 2016 | 2015 | 2014.
Looking back, 2017 proved to be an exceptionally rich and rewarding year for travel. Despite the significant undertaking of moving our entire lives across the continent, I found myself fortunate enough to embark on numerous incredible journeys. While some of these adventures took me to far-flung destinations, a truly special place in my heart is reserved for the local explorations. Our relocation to the stunning Bay Area was driven by a desire for new experiences, and it has been an absolute dream to delve into the breathtaking landscapes and diverse offerings of Northern California. These regional discoveries have shown me that adventure isn’t always about distance, but about a fresh perspective and an open heart to what’s right on your doorstep.
Adding another layer of excitement to my travel experiences this year was the incredible opportunity to partner with Lorissa’s Kitchen as their dedicated travel ambassador. By now, many of you know my unwavering obsession with their protein-packed snacks. Whether it’s their convenient bagged jerky or their newly introduced beef sticks, I can honestly say that no trip this year was complete without these delicious companions in my bag. They’ve practically become an honorary third member of C’s and my travel team!
I am profoundly grateful to Lorissa’s Kitchen for empowering me to pursue my passion for travel and share these authentic experiences with all of you. Their support allowed me to explore new cultures, savor unique flavors, and bring those stories back to our community. I also have to chuckle and probably thank them for their patience – I might have, on occasion, finished all the delicious product before even embarking on a trip, necessitating an emergency restock! In all seriousness, my love for their snacks is genuine, whether I’m on the road or at home, making this partnership a true dream come true. For anyone new to the Lorissa’s Kitchen family, I highly recommend starting with the savory Korean BBQ variety and their incredibly satisfying Original Beef Sticks. The beef sticks, in particular, are a game-changer for active travelers, offering a super portable and easy-to-grab protein boost that keeps you energized no matter where your journey takes you.
Now, let’s dive into the core of this post! Here’s a comprehensive look at the best of THM travel experiences from 2017, packed with unforgettable moments and inspiring destinations:
1. Guatemala: A Vibrant Start to the Year
We certainly kicked off 2017 with an unforgettable adventure! A cherished family trip with C’s relatives led us to the incredibly rich and diverse country of Guatemala. This journey was a deep dive into ancient history and breathtaking natural beauty. We marveled at the majestic Mayan ruins in Tikal, stood in awe of the stunning, volcanic-rimmed Lake Atitlán, and soaked in the colonial charm and vibrant culture that Antigua has to offer. Guatemala proved to be an inspiring, welcoming, and profoundly cool country. Its people, landscapes, and heritage left an indelible mark on my heart. I still have a treasure trove of video footage from this incredible trip that I’m eager to edit and share – so if you’d love to see a travel video, don’t hesitate to nudge me to get working on it!
2. Israel: A Culinary and Cultural Revelation
Hands down, this trip to Israel was the most exceptional press trip I have ever experienced. The sheer volume of content – three videos and three blog posts – stands as a testament to my profound love for this country and every moment of this journey. I genuinely believe I have never consumed more amazing food in my entire life, from the bustling markets of Tel Aviv to the ancient streets of Jerusalem. So, trust me when I say, if Israel isn’t already on your travel bucket list (and it absolutely should be!), then my comprehensive Foodie’s Tour to Israel is the only guide you’ll ever need. Prepare for an unparalleled feast for both your senses and your soul.
3. Sarasota, Florida: A Fresh Perspective on Food
While a quick excursion, my trip to Sarasota, Florida, provided an unexpectedly delightful and educational experience. Exploring the expansive orange groves with Tropicana was truly captivating. I often reflect on the disconnect that exists between where our food originates and how it ultimately arrives in our kitchens. Therefore, witnessing firsthand the intricate workings of an orange grove and understanding the meticulous process behind orange juice production was incredibly eye-opening. It fostered a deeper appreciation for the journey of our food and the dedication involved in bringing fresh, wholesome products to our tables.
4. Toronto, Canada: Reconnecting with Roots
It’s almost ironic that it took moving to an entirely new country for me to finally compile my comprehensive Toronto Travel Guide! While one might debate if it truly counts as “travel” when you’ve previously called a place home, Toronto certainly earned its spot as a top destination in 2017. My love for Toronto, my hometown, will forever endure. It’s the city where my family resides and where many of my closest friends have built their lives. Revisiting its vibrant neighborhoods, diverse culinary scene, and lively cultural attractions felt like a warm embrace. If you’ve never had the pleasure of visiting, I wholeheartedly recommend adding Toronto to your travel bucket list – it’s a city that truly offers something for everyone.
5. Mendocino, California: A Place of Special Moments
Mendocino will forever hold an incredibly special place in both C’s heart and mine. Our initial visit with our families immediately followed our engagement, making it feel like an integral part of our unforgettable engagement weekend. The picturesque coastal beauty, the serene redwood forests, and the charming village atmosphere captivated us completely. We loved it so much that we returned later in the year to celebrate my birthday, and that second visit only solidified our deep affection for this enchanting destination. We harbor a pipe dream of one day owning a house there, a tranquil escape where we can continually create lasting memories. Stay tuned for updates on that dream!
6. Yosemite National Park: Embracing the Wild
It’s hard to imagine a place on Earth more utterly magical and awe-inspiring than Yosemite National Park. While this wasn’t our inaugural visit – and it most certainly won’t be our last – it marked my first time witnessing the park’s thundering waterfalls in their full glory and experiencing the raw beauty of actually camping within its boundaries. Despite encountering some less-than-ideal weather, our spirits remained undeterred, and we had an absolutely incredible time immersing ourselves in nature’s grandeur. What I cherish most about trips like this is the profound digital detox they offer. Disconnecting from screens and escaping into the wilderness for a few days is not just a break; it’s a deeply healing and rejuvenating experience for the mind, body, and soul.
7. Alaska: (Juneau and Glacier Bay National Park): A Journey to the Last Frontier
This magnificent journey to Alaska was another memorable family adventure with C’s side, and I am endlessly grateful that we made the trip! Alaska’s raw, untamed beauty is simply unparalleled, offering an immense landscape waiting to be explored. While our travels focused on the captivating wonders of Southeastern Alaska, I would return in a heartbeat to discover more of its vast wilderness. Glacier Bay National Park, in particular, was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The sheer scale and majesty of those glaciers will forever be etched in my memory, inspiring a fervent hope that they will continue to exist for future generations, especially if I’m fortunate enough to bring my own children to witness Alaska’s splendor someday. This journey instilled in me a profound appreciation for our planet and underscored the urgent necessity of protecting its precious natural treasures.
8. San Francisco and its Surrounding Wonders: Embracing Our New Home
While San Francisco might not traditionally count as “travel” for a Bay Area resident, my dedication to exploring every nook and cranny of this vibrant city and its stunning surroundings certainly earns it a spot on this list. Since our move, C and I have fully embraced our new home, transforming weekends into micro-adventures. From invigorating hikes along the dramatic cliffs of Pacifica to wandering beneath the ancient redwoods of Marin, and indulging in exquisite wine tasting excursions in picturesque Sonoma Valley, we’ve made it a mission to discover all that Northern California offers. The city itself presents an endless array of experiences, and I was absolutely thrilled to finally share my favorite healthy hot spots and local gems with all of you, ensuring you can maintain your wellness goals while exploring this iconic destination.
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I sincerely hope this journey through my favorite travel moments of 2017 serves as a powerful inspiration for all of you to seek out new adventures, whether they are near or far, in the upcoming year of 2018. Travel, in all its forms, has profoundly opened my mind to new perspectives, delighted my palate with diverse flavors, and expanded my heart with incredible connections and experiences. I understand that hopping on a plane and traveling across the globe isn’t always accessible for everyone, but please know that equally transformative lessons and joys can be found much closer to home. Whether it’s camping in a nearby state park, discovering a new hiking trail in your local area, or simply exploring a neighboring town you’ve never visited, adventure truly awaits. The world is an undeniably beautiful place, brimming with endless lessons and wonders to teach us. So, don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone, embrace curiosity, and go forth to explore it!
Here’s to a 2017 filled with mind-expanding journeys and heart-opening moments, and to an even more adventurous and discovery-filled 2018!
Disclaimer: This inspiring post is proudly sponsored by Lorissa’s Kitchen. I was deeply honored to be chosen as their travel ambassador for 2017, and it has been an absolute pleasure to share my authentic travel experiences and love for their products with you. I received compensation for my time and efforts in creating this content; however, I want to assure my readers that all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own and genuinely reflect my experiences. Your support of the brands that collaborate with The Healthy Maven helps make this platform possible, and I am truly grateful for it!