Banff National Park, Canada
I've been living in Canada for almost four years now, and there's still so much left to explore. One of my goals has always been to spot a moose, and while that hasn't happened yet, I'm determined to make it a reality. Until recently, Banff National Park was at the top of my list, and earlier this year, I finally had the chance to visit for a long weekend. The beauty of the place was overwhelming. Winter, in particular, seems to have been made for Banff - snow blankets everything, from the towering mountain peaks to the frozen lakes, which are solid enough to walk on. The waterfalls freeze mid-flow, creating breathtaking photo opportunities at every turn. Though I'm still on the hunt for that elusive moose, I can't wait to explore the Canadian Rockies even more in the future.
South Africa
There's no country I'd recommend visiting more than South Africa. While I've never lived there, it's where my family is from, and every visit feels like coming home. The diversity of its landscapes is unparalleled, with mountains, deserts, coasts, savannahs, canyons, and everything in between. The wildlife is breathtaking, and though I didn't get to fully explore it on my latest trip, that just gives me more to look forward to next time (which will inevitably happen). Its people, despite a complex history, are some of the most resilient and beautiful, truly earning the title of 'The Rainbow Nation.' I know it's miles away, but put South Africa at the top of your travel list - you won't regret it.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is a city I feel I've only scratched the surface of. Despite countless adventures - hiking as much as possible, watching the Gastown Steam Clock strike the hour, and kayaking up close to snoozing seals - | left with an even stronger desire to return. One of my favourite shots from the trip is from a ferry to Vancouver Island, capturing a boy staring wistfully at another ferry. I couldn't resist titling it 'Away with the Ferries', a hilarious pun, if I do say so myself. Whether he was dreaming of adventure or just wondering how long until lunch, I'll never know, but the moment perfectly summed up the city's ever-present connection to the ocean.
Istanbul, Turkey
Golden hour suits this city best. The colours of Istanbul feel as if they were chosen straight from a sunset. Its architecture, its people, its constant motion. Seagulls photobomb every shot, whether invited or not, which worked in my favour this time. The streets hum with life, while the Galata Tower and countless mosque spires rise above it all. It's a city best explored with a local, someone who knows the hidden alleys, the best spots for tea with a view, and the layered history woven into every street.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Camels travel commonly in herds, so it's rare to see one out on its own. I saw this one on a desert drive particularly full of wildlife, and it was happy to pose for me. Standing against the endless dunes, it seemed unfazed by my presence, its gaze steady, as if accustomed to wandering alone.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a city whose architecture has outlived that of many prominent European hubs. Its skyline is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, with much of it remarkably intact due to the city's relative preservation through major European conflicts. I was particularly drawn to the trams - modern, yet still carrying a classic charm. The city becomes even more magical as night falls, especially near Charles Bridge, where a lamplighter still lights the old gas lamps near Christmas Town. I was lucky enough to meet him.
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is the city where I was born, so returning for a visit felt inevitable. Despite being one of the most expensive cities in the world, I managed to explore it on a relatively tight budget, mostly because many of the most interesting sights are completely free. Pictured here, the Fraumünster church is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows, including works by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti, as well as its deep ties to Zurich's political and social evolution.
Howth, Ireland
24 hours in Dublin doesn't seem like much, but we made it work. After speedrunning the city's main sights and craving a good hike with sunset approaching, we hopped on a short train to the nearby seaside town of Howth. I'm still not sure if it's pronounced 'Hoth' or 'How-th,' but it didn't matter; it was the perfect spot to explore. We wandered the piers, checked out the lighthouse, and indulged in some fresh fish and chips made from the day's catch. The hike we embarked on was short but stunning, albeit windy, and the view of the trails winding along the cliffs above the turbulent ocean was breathtaking. And the best part? We still made it back to Dublin in time for a pint of Guinness before bed.
