Another year has wrapped up, and what a ride 2025 has been!
It’s been all about vibrant travels, meaningful adventures, and so many unforgettable moments. We saw the future zoom by as we explored amazing places and celebrated family events that kept our spirits high and our hearts full.
Now that we’re on the brink of 2026, it’s a great chance to pause, think back on our experiences, and get ready to dive into the next chapter of our lives with fresh courage and purpose.
Here’s a look back at the highlights of the year and a sneak peek at what’s coming next!
💭2025: The Year of Purposeful Exploration
The past year has been a fantastic adventure filled with travel experiences. Instead of just ticking off the usual tourist spots, I really wanted to dive deeper and have genuine experiences and meaningful connections. So, I made a choice to explore beyond the typical guides.
I spent time looking for hidden gems rather than relying on the usual tourist advice. This led me to discover charming little villages in the mountains and quiet beaches far away from the crowds.
While I did hit some well-known tourist areas, most of my travels were all about the joy of discovering new places with a fresh perspective. Every destination brought its own unique blend of culture, history, and beauty, making my journey more about the moments I experienced and the connections I made along the way.
Key Highlights
The exploration of New Zealand is a captivating journey that continues to unfold. Although we have visited some of the country’s most iconic attractions, a wealth of hidden gems lies off the beaten path, each offering its own unique charm and allure. Alongside New Zealand, we have also stumbled upon fascinating destinations in Australia. We also visited the picturesque landscapes of Germany and Switzerland, each brimming with its own cultural richness and stunning scenery.
Antarctica🥶
My recent trip to Antarctica was short but packed with unforgettable moments. I got to soak in the stunning and amazing landscapes. The Thanksgiving celebration was super emotional for me this year; it always makes me think about how grateful I am for my incredible life, the adventures I’ve been on, and the special times spent with my family. Unfortunately, we couldn’t reach the South Pole this year due to the weather.
Beaches🏖️
Pokohino Beach is a stunning, hidden spot on New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula. You’ll have to tackle a bit of a tricky trail through the forest to get there.
However, it’s totally worth it for the adventure and the peaceful vibe among all that lush Coromandel greenery.
Germany🥨
I had such a great time visiting Frankfurt, Germany! I got to check out St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral and St. Paul’s Church. I loved the cool Römerberg Square, which is packed with impressive medieval buildings. I also swung by the Goethe House and the gorgeous Alte Oper (Old Opera House).
The main reason for my trip was to see my family and meet my new grandkid. I was so excited to hold him and welcome him to the world. Now, I’ve got two beautiful grandkids, and I couldn’t be prouder! This was definitely one of the best parts of my year!
Switzerland🫕
Switzerland was a fantastic place for me to reconnect with my past. It had been a while since I last visited, and it felt great to dive back into the spots where I grew up. I enjoyed the delicious food I’d missed so much and loved spending time with my sister’s family, who made me feel right at home.
One of the best parts of the trip was checking out the Charlie Chaplin Museum, where I learned all about the man behind that famous character. I also stopped by Château de Chillon, a picturesque castle by Lake Léman that I know well, and Gruyères Castle, which was just as impressive as I remembered.
Each of these places reminded me of Switzerland’s beauty and charm, making the whole experience unforgettable.
Festivals🎪
🧙♂️Hobbiton
The Summer Harvest Festival in Hobbiton is an annual event that I genuinely appreciate. Since relocating to New Zealand, it has become a significant highlight for me, much like the Steampunk festival, which we attend with great enthusiasm. I find the festival’s unique atmosphere and the ongoing development of the movie set particularly appealing. It would be wonderful to see even more activities showcasing local culture and crafts, enhancing the exceptional ambiance the festival already offers.
🚂 Steampunck
Every year, we eagerly attend the Steampunk festival, and this year’s theme— “Circus in Time”—was particularly captivating. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a dazzling array of intricate costumes that blended elements of Victorian fashion with imaginative, circus-inspired designs.
It was heartening to see a more diverse group of attendees this year, with people from various backgrounds and ages joining in the festivities. Notably, there was an increase in younger participants, all of whom enthusiastically embraced the unique blend of creativity and community the festival offers. The charm of the Steampunk world was alive and well, making it a truly memorable experience.
I can’t wait to see what exciting programs and themes will be announced for 2026, as this festival continues to grow and evolve!
Australia🦘
Australia is packed with exciting adventures just waiting to be found. Recently, we checked out Colac, a cute little town in Victoria’s western district. It’s known as the gateway to the stunning Great Otway National Park, and it really draws you in with its gorgeous landscapes—think peaceful volcanic lakes, beautiful gardens, and towering ancient rainforests.
While we were exploring, we also swung by Red Rock, where the dramatic geological formations stand out against the vibrant scenery, leaving us speechless at the area’s beauty.
New Zealand 🌄
South Island😎
During our adventure in New Zealand, we really soaked in the fantastic scenery of the Nelson Tasman area. Our journey took us to Cape Farewell, the spot where Captain Cook set off on his last voyage. We joined a cool tour of Farewell Spit, where the golden sands meet the wild ocean, and checked out the historic lighthouse that stands bravely against the crashing waves.
Next, we headed to the stunning Maruia Falls, where water splashes beautifully into a shimmering pool. In the Grove Scenic Reserve, we strolled through vibrant, green forests teeming with life, enjoying the fresh, earthy scent of nature. Finally, we made our way to Wharariki Beach, where the breathtaking sunset offered a moment of peace by the sea.
North Island🐮
To wrap up our year, we headed up to the northern part of the island and found this awesome town filled with street art and cute cows that added to its charm. Growing up in a place where cows are celebrated during festivals, I’ve always had a soft spot for them, so this experience really stuck with me.
We also checked out Puhoi, which was eye-opening; the village has a fascinating history tied to its bohemian settlers. Exploring the Hamilton Gardens was a highlight too—those landscapes were stunning and so well thought out. Overall, this trip was a great mix of culture, nature, and memorable experiences.
Cook Island🏝️
The Cook Islands are my absolute favorite place to travel to every year. This beautiful group of islands in the middle of the Pacific has stunning blue lagoons where you can see schools of colorful fish swimming around you, creating an incredible underwater show. It really is one of the most peaceful spots on Earth.
Aitutaki, in particular, is the cherry on top. Its gorgeous white-sand beaches line the shore, and the clear waters are a mix of turquoise and blue, calling us to jump in and check out the fantastic marine life around the coral reefs. Swimming with those vibrant fish is an experience I’ll never forget. I can’t wait to go back next year and make even more memories in this paradise!
🎆On the Horizon for 2026
Next year is shaping up to be super exciting as we dive into some new adventures. After an incredible trip through New Zealand and major cities in Australia, we can’t wait to check out new places. We’re looking forward to hitting up various festivals in New Zealand, like the Arco Decor Festival in Napier. Plus, we’re planning to join in on the Steampunk and Summer Harvest events at Hobbiton in 2026.
We’re also thinking about visiting Alice Springs in Australia, right in the heart of the desert. We might drive from Adelaide, though we’re still figuring out whether we should go there first. We definitely want to swing by Perth and see Wave Rock, which is southeast of the city. On top of that, we’re planning to spend a couple of weeks in Portugal.
Overall, 2026 looks like it’s going to be packed with iconic bucket-list experiences while also keeping things sustainable, local, and personal. Get ready for some great adventures!
