Not Just Where You Go… but How You Go

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s this:
A trip is only as good as the way you experience it.

Sure, you can type any destination into Google and get a list of “must-see spots.” You can follow a guidebook, hop from landmark to landmark, check the boxes, and come home with a phone full of pictures. You can book the flights, stay in the hotel everyone recommends, and eat at all the popular restaurants with the best reviews. And sometimes that’s fun! But what I’ve come to love the most is traveling in a way that feels inspired… paying attention to the little things most people walk right past.

I’m always the one lagging behind, taking pictures of beautiful old doors or stopping to peek into a tucked-away shop because it feels special. I love a good view, but I’ll also happily spend an hour chatting with a maker about their craft, or wandering side streets just to see where they lead.

After years of traveling, collecting, and chasing beauty, I know one thing for sure: it’s not just where you go… it’s how you go that makes the trip unforgettable.

It’s how you slow down.
It’s how you notice the details most people breeze past.
It’s how you walk into a shop or café and take the time to talk to the people behind it.
It’s how you choose to be present, open, and a little bit curious, wherever you are.

One of my favorite things to do while traveling is just wander (scan my blog archive for lots of Wander>Home entries about my travels). 

I look for textures, colors, and moments: the way an old door leans against a crumbling wall, the scent coming from a bakery that wasn’t on any “best-of” list, the quiet thrill of finding a one-of-a-kind treasure tucked into a tiny antiques stall.

It’s those moments I remember the most—not just the Pinterest views or Instagram stories, but the feelings. The people I met. The way a place felt.

And honestly… I think that’s the kind of travel we’re all craving.
Not just running through a list, but leaving with something richer. Stories, connections, and the reminder to slow down and savor life, even when we get home.

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Y’all…I know you’ve seen me globe-trotting and spending time in NYC, but this isn’t just about big trips to exotic destinations. It’s true for weekend getaways, road trips, or even a simple afternoon at the zoo with your family. 

Wherever you go, how you go changes everything.

Here are a few ways I practice slowing down and making travel feel more meaningful, no matter the destination:

1. Be curious on purpose.

Instead of rushing through a checklist, pause and look around. Ask a shopkeeper how long they’ve been there. Notice the colors and textures on the buildings. Be the person who asks questions…you’ll be amazed at what opens up. My friends & family used to tease me about this, but now they love it just as much as I do. 

2. Take photos of the little things.

I love snapping random photos of doors, signs, quiet streets, and table settings…just things I notice! I figure they’re speaking to me for a reason. I love lying in bed later that day and looking through all of my photos… it's like a little time capsule of everything I got to experience. Oh, and the key here is to snap the photo and MOVE ON! Stop striving for the “perfect shot” or just the right angle. It’s about the memory!

3. Find a simple, creative ritual.

Maybe it’s sketching from one of your photos (see number 2) with your morning coffee, jotting down favorite details in a notebook, or pressing a flower between journal pages. Even five minutes of creativity keeps you connected and present. Even if this feels weird at first…just try it! And let me know what you think. 

4. Don’t just do the touristy things. 

Sure, see the sights if you want, but make space to explore the side streets, the hole-in-the-wall diners, or the quiet corners no one told you about. Those moments usually end up being your favorite.

5. Collect stories along with your treasures. 

As a lifelong collector, you know I love bringing special pieces home from my travels. But what makes them priceless is always the story behind them. Whether it’s a tiny flea market find or a statement piece you hunted down (remember the chandeliers from Round Top!?), it’s not just what you buy…it’s the memory of where you found it, who you met, and how it made you feel. Don’t just shop. Soak it in! The best ‘souvenir’ is the one that carries a story you’ll love telling for years to come.

This is how I approach every trip I plan, whether it’s for myself or for clients. Thoughtful, inspired, beauty-filled travel that leaves you feeling more alive and more inspired.

✨ Want me to help you plan something like this?
Let’s dream about it together → Book a free discovery call here!

Here’s to traveling with your eyes (and your heart) wide open!