Let me tell you about the Kaz mountains in Turkey! These mountains are so incredible that even the air is special. That's right, the oxygen levels are through the roof! You can take a deep breath and feel like you're on top of the world. It's like nature's own personal oxygen bar! So, if you're feeling a little down and need a pick-me-up, head on over to the Kaz mountains and take a deep breath of that sweet, sweet oxygen, and have a glass of tea while you’re there :)
Oh, let's talk about the rock stars of Zion National Park - the rocks themselves! These majestic formations have been around for millions of years, but they're not immune to the wear and tear of time. Wind, water, and ice have all played a part in shaping the rocks of Zion, creating some of the most stunning erosion patterns you'll ever see. So come on down and rock out with the incredible geological wonders of Zion! ☀️🏔️🫶🏻
Here’s a double-sized Turkish coffee I enjoyed in Alaçatı, Turkey (that’s a whole lotta caffeine!).
Turkish coffee is always served with a glass of water and a small treat, like Turkish delight, chocolate, or a cookie. The water is to wash down some of the coffee grounds that you may sip (normal and a part of the experience!), and the treat is there to offset the strong brew. Plus we all deserve a lil treat 😁🫶🏻 Swipe to see the narrow walkways full of coffee shops and restaurants in Alaçatı!
Tulum's waters are a mesmerizing shade of blue due to the reflection of sunlight on the white sandy sea floor. The Caribbean Sea surrounding Tulum is blessed with a warm tropical climate, maintaining an average temperature of 80°F throughout the year. The ocean currents transport warm water to the coast, creating a welcoming environment for swimming and water sports. So take a dip and experience the warm, crystal-clear waters of Tulum for yourself!
I’m such a mountain boi 😁 warm desert sun, clear skies, hiking trails, cacti, unique wildlife; what isn’t there to love about Phoenix, AZ?!
(Swipe to see me increasing my vitamin D intake 😂🫶🏻)
Ever been to Zion National Park in Utah? The landscape of Zion National Park is a breathtaking display of nature's grandeur! Towering sandstone cliffs stretch toward the sky, their rugged surfaces a testament to the eons of erosion that shaped them. Deep canyons, chiseled by the flowing waters of the Virgin River, create a dramatic contrast against the bright blue sky. From the jagged peaks to the winding rivers, Zion's landscape is a playground for adventurers seeking to explore the beauty of the natural world! 🏔️ ☀️
Embark on a thrilling adventure along the stunning Maltese coastline, where azure waters hits rugged cliffs and sandy beaches! 🤩 Traverse rocky paths, climb steep cliffs, and soak up breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Don't miss the chance to explore hidden coves and ancient ruins, and marvel at the island's unique flora and fauna. Hiking along the Maltese coastline promises to be an unforgettable experience for any adventurous soul!
You ever been to Tulum? Located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, is a must-visit destination for a variety of reasons. With its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from swimming and snorkeling to exploring the impressive archaeological sites. Tulum is also home to a vibrant food and art scene, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers. As seen in the photo, it’s all smiles in Tulum 🥰
Happy weekend, y’all! Who else is wishing they were on the blue waters of Bodrum, Turkey now? I know it’s not just me 😅 The waters in Bodrum appear blue due to clear skies, abundant sunlight, and the geography of the region, including the mountains and rocky coastlines! This combination can create a contrast between the blue water and the earthy tones of the landscape, resulting in a beautiful blue color that is characteristic of the area 😁🌞
Malta really is something else 😍 On my final day there on my trip last year, I spent the day walking through Valletta and finished it off with the most delicious gelato I’ve ever tried (see next slide)!
Well, my sweet friend, Valletta is a charming little city with plenty of reasons to make you smile. From stunning architecture to delightful weather, it's no wonder gelato shops have popped up here. With tourists and locals alike seeking a cool treat, a gelato shop in Valletta is as necessary as a sunhat on a sunny day. So, why not indulge in a scoop or two while you soak up the Maltese sun?
So, you wanna know why guzzling caffeine late at night can sabotage your beauty sleep? Well, caffeine is a stimulant that can mess with your body's sleep-wake cycle. This can make it harder for you to fall asleep, cause you to wake up frequently during the night, and leave you feeling groggy in the morning. So, if you want to catch some quality Z's, it's best to lay off the caffeine after lunchtime. Sweet dreams!
This espresso I ordered in St. Julian’s, Malta came with the cutest lil turbinado sugar cube, I had to indulge. Turbinado sugar is brown sugar which comes from minimally processed sugar cane. It has a higher molasses content than your standard cane sugar, giving it a toastier flavor! A perfect pair with coffee. Do you drink your coffee with or without sugar? Let me know in the comments!
Check out this beetroot, ginger, and rose latte I made! No coffee in this beverage though! Just a creamy, caffeine-free delight. A latte doesn’t always need coffee, ya know? There’s endless possibilities for combos of teas, superfood powders, and milk! Would you try this?
Let's talk about Turkey, but not the kind you put in the oven. We're talking about the country where tea flows like a river! Did you know that Turkey is the top tea-consuming nation in the world? That's right, with around 3.5 kg per person per year, they sure know how to sip! So grab a çay and cheers to the Turkish tea-drinking culture.
Oh, the waters surrounding Malta - they're like a big, beautiful bathtub for the Mediterranean! These aquamarine waters are perfect for all sorts of aquatic adventures, from snorkeling to kayaking to leisurely boating. And let's not forget the sunbathing opportunities on the rocky shores. If you're lucky, you might even spot some dolphins or sea turtles swimming by. So don't forget to pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, because these Maltese waters are calling your name!
Phoenix, Arizona has a thriving coffee scene with plenty of options to choose from. From local roasters to national chains, coffee lovers can find a variety of cafes and shops throughout the city. In recent years, there has been an increase in specialty coffee shops that focus on high-quality, ethically sourced beans and unique brewing methods. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a trendy latte, Phoenix has something for every coffee enthusiast! (That’s me, the coffee enthusiast 😘)
Picture this: I’m walking down the streets of Valletta, Malta and I pass this little “hole in the wall” Italian restaurant with a chalkboard that says “we speak horrible English but we make a great cacio e pepe”. Naturally, I had to stop and indulge and BOY am I glad I did! Maltese cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean flavors with a touch of Italian influence. The proximity to Sicily makes pizza and pasta dishes common, but Maltese cooks have also adapted traditional Italian dishes, like rabbit stew and timpana, adding their unique twist. Buon appetito, or as they say in Maltese, bonġu! (stay tuned for some authentic Maltese cuisine posts, you’re in for a treat!)
Let me tell you about the outdoor cafes in Alaçatı, Turkey! They are like little pockets of paradise sprinkled throughout the town. You can sit outside, sip your Turkish coffee, and watch the world go by. The colorful umbrellas provide the perfect shade, the sun gleams through the glass evil eye beads hanging across strings in the trees while the aroma of Turkish coffee fills the air. It's simply delightful!
Ah, the travel bug - once it bites you, you're infected for life! There's nothing quite like the thrill of discovering new cultures, sampling exotic foods, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's backpacking through Europe or lounging on a beach in Bali, the world is your oyster! So pack your bags, grab your passport, and let's go catch that travel bug together!
Oh, the Maltese coastline! It's like a sea nymph's playground, with its turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. From the charming bays of St. Paul's to the sparkling Blue Lagoon, you'll find hidden coves and sandy beaches just begging to be explored. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even go cliff diving or hop on a boat and sail into the sunset. It's a coastal paradise!
Did you know that Turkish coffee isn't just delicious, but it can also predict your future? That's right, fortune telling in Turkish coffee grounds is a centuries-old tradition. After you've sipped your coffee, simply turn the cup over and let the grounds settle. The shapes and symbols left behind can reveal your fate. And if you see a heart in the grounds? Well, that could mean love is on the horizon!
Turkish coffee is a delightfully unique experience for the taste buds. The finely ground beans are boiled in a traditional copper or brass pot, producing a rich, thick brew that's bursting with flavor. But what really makes it special is the care and tradition that goes into every cup. From the preparation to the serving, Turkish coffee is steeped in love and culture, making it a truly unforgettable drink.
The seafood in Malt was unreal! This was my absolute favorite dish I had on my visit! A simple recipe of fried mixed seafood, such as this big chunk of tuna in my hand!
Malta is a seafood lover's paradise, boasting a mouth-watering selection of fresh catches. From the humble octopus to the majestic swordfish, Malta's coastline is home to a variety of tasty treats. Whether grilled, baked, or fried, Malta's seafood dishes are sure to leave you feeling satisfied and full of Mediterranean flavour. Bon appetit!
Man, I’m such a nerd for ancient ruins. This was one of my favorite places I visited in Malta!
Welcome to Ħaġar Qim, a Neolithic temple complex located on the southern coast of Malta. Ħaġar Qim is believed to have been constructed between 3600-3200 BCE and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is not just a remarkable feat of engineering and artistry, but it also has a fascinating astrological connection.
The temple's entrance is aligned with the solstice sunrise, and its central chamber aligns with the equinox sunrise. It is thought that the temple was used as a place of worship and ritual, and the alignments of the structures were intended to mark the changing of the seasons and the movements of the stars and planets.
Visitors can explore the intricate carvings, megalithic structures, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, all while learning about the fascinating astrological connections of Ħaġar Qim. The site is a testament to the advanced knowledge and skill of the ancient Maltese people, and a testament to the enduring power of human ingenuity and curiosity.
Our human connection to the stars is strong!
After a day of exploring the city of Mdina, I walked over to the neighboring city of Rabat and found a cafe that served traditional Maltese coffee, so I had to give it a try! Maltese coffee is known for its unique taste and aroma. The coffee is brewed with water, sugar, ground cloves, and anise giving it a slightly sweet and spicy flavor. It is typically served in small cups called "cuccinetti" and enjoyed as a mid-morning or mid-afternoon pick-me-up!
Malta has to be my favorite place I’ve visited! A small island nation a 2 hour boat ride south of Sicily, Malta is rich with culture, delicious food, beautiful beaches, hundreds of ornate Catholic Churches, and ancient ruins that date to 10,000 BC! I can’t wait to share more stories about the food, coffee, and culture I experienced while visiting!
In another life, I would have been an archeologist! Seen here are archeologists in Ephesus carefully excavating under layers of ground to uncover finds such as sculptures, pottery, and coins, as well as evidence of the city's rich cultural and religious history, including temples dedicated to a variety of deities, Christian churches, and a synagogue. Somebody get me a shovel and a brush!
You know this page isn’t ONLY about coffee, it’s about travel too! One of my favorite ancient cities I’ve visited is Ephesus in modern day Turkey. The ancient city of Ephesus had a magnificent library which was considered one of the largest and most impressive in the ancient world. Built in the 2nd century AD, it held an estimated 12,000 scrolls and was a center of learning and scholarship for centuries. Too bad they didn’t have any coffee back in those days, though 😅
Coffee is a mood enhancer because it contains caffeine, which acts as a stimulant and can increase the levels of feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of that first sip of hot coffee in the morning, am I right? It's like a little burst of happiness in a cup!
Did you know that raw nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, are rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats, fiber, protein, and antioxidants? Eating a handful of raw nuts daily may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering bad cholesterol levels, decreasing inflammation, and improving bl00d vessel function!
