What books do you want to read? As someone who loves to travel, I’ve always found books to be a form of mental luggage—they carry me to far-off places, spark my imagination, and leave me transformed when the journey is over. Whether I’m planning my next trip or reflecting on past adventures, I often turnContinue reading “Books to Fuel Wanderlust and Personal Growth: My Must-Read List”
Author Archives: Alex Pendell
Discovering Serenity: A Visit to the Lan Su Chinese Garden
Name an attraction or town close to home that you still haven’t got around to visiting. Living in a city as vibrant and diverse as Portland offers endless opportunities to explore hidden treasures, and one that has long captured my curiosity is the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Tucked away in the heart of Old TownContinue reading “Discovering Serenity: A Visit to the Lan Su Chinese Garden”
5 Fun Things I Do to Keep Life an Adventure
List five things you do for fun. Life’s too short to stick to the same routine. When I’m not working or checking off to-do lists, I prioritize having fun—because joy fuels creativity, passion, and growth. For me, “fun” often involves exploration, connection, and soaking in all that this beautiful world has to offer. If you’reContinue reading “5 Fun Things I Do to Keep Life an Adventure”
If I Could Make My Pet Understand One Thing: Why Travel Feeds My Soul
If you could make your pet understand one thing, what would it be? If you’re anything like me, you’ve experienced that pang of guilt every time you pack your suitcase. As the zipper closes, your pet tilts their head, eyes filled with curiosity, or maybe even suspicion. They can’t quite piece it together: Why doContinue reading “If I Could Make My Pet Understand One Thing: Why Travel Feeds My Soul”
The Lens That Opened the World: A Journey Through My First Camera
Describe an item you were incredibly attached to as a youth. What became of it? There was a time when life felt vast, mysterious, and just beyond the reach of my understanding. I was a restless kid, eager to explore but unsure where to begin. Then one summer, I was handed a gift that changedContinue reading “The Lens That Opened the World: A Journey Through My First Camera”
What Could You Do Differently? Exploring Life Through the Lens of Travel
What could you do differently? Have you ever paused mid-journey, looked at the road behind you, and wondered, “What could I do differently?” Life, much like travel, is an ever-unfolding adventure. Each detour, missed connection, and breathtaking view is a lesson waiting to be unpacked. But how often do we stop to evaluate our route,Continue reading “What Could You Do Differently? Exploring Life Through the Lens of Travel”
Chasing Nostalgia: How Travel Takes Me Back to Moments That Matter
What makes you feel nostalgic? Have you ever stepped into a new place and felt an old, familiar emotion wash over you? It’s that fleeting, bittersweet feeling—nostalgia—that seems to take you by surprise. For me, travel has a way of unlocking it. Every new destination whispers reminders of where I’ve been, the people I’ve sharedContinue reading “Chasing Nostalgia: How Travel Takes Me Back to Moments That Matter”
The People Who Lift Me: Relationships That Inspire Growth and Wanderlust
What relationships have a positive impact on you? In the grand journey of life, much like travel, the people we surround ourselves with often define our experiences. Just as a great destination can spark wonder and inspiration, meaningful relationships have the power to elevate us, challenge us, and fuel our personal growth. For me, theContinue reading “The People Who Lift Me: Relationships That Inspire Growth and Wanderlust”
Lessons from the Slopes: How Skiing Reconnects You with Joy and Growth
What was the last thing you did for play or fun? When was the last time you truly played? Not just watched a show, scrolled through social media, or went through the motions of “leisure.” I’m talking about a moment where you immersed yourself in pure, unfiltered joy. For me, that moment happened recently whenContinue reading “Lessons from the Slopes: How Skiing Reconnects You with Joy and Growth”
From Borders to Bridges: How Travel Transformed My Political Views
How have your political views changed over time? Have you ever returned from a trip and realized you’re not quite the same person you were before you left? That’s what travel does—it stretches your mind, challenges your assumptions, and sometimes, it even reshapes your political beliefs. For most of my life, I saw the worldContinue reading “From Borders to Bridges: How Travel Transformed My Political Views”
Beyond Boundaries 