Hallstatt, Austria, is approximately a 4-hour train ride from my home base in Vienna, winding through the Alps to reveal this enchanting town. Serving as inspiration for the Disney movie "Frozen," this town has since been inundated with tourists. Fortunately, we arrived at this viewpoint early in the morning, beating the crowds and witnessing the morning fog lift, unveiling the true beauty of this charming town nestled between the mountains.

Leaving my old life behind in Minnesota and venturing into the unknown world of seasonal work, my best friend, her brother, and I signed up for the trip of a lifetime, spanning from Minneapolis to Denali. The views were humbling, and they made any worries I had about the vast unknown seem small and irrelevant

What an honor it is to connect with people who inspire you just by sharing their passions. This shot is from a heli-hike excursion led by my dear friend, Jeff, who shared his love not just for the mountains, but for every little thing that makes up this vast tundra.

My first trip with just my sister and me was truly one for the books. A bit chaotic, a few oopsies, and so many speechless moments turned into the most cherished memories. A night outside our campground, admiring the stars, was certainly one of them. I cannot wait to create so many more magical moments with this woman.

A view that became my morning ritual, just a mile walk up the hill from a place I called home for a bit. This place tore me between being a beach or mountain girl; I never want to settle for one or the other again.

After a 5-hour road trip across Switzerland, we were determined to see the Matterhorn, even though we were told our chances of seeing it were close to none. With a little hope, good vibes, and happy hiking energy, we reached an overlook to see nothing. However, our determination did not fade, and within minutes of patiently waiting, the sun peeked over an adjacent mountain and illuminated the left side of this magnificent mountain. The rays reflected off the snowflakes, creating a sparkling effect over its glory. A moment I truly will never forget.

A trip absolutely worth the long day on a bus and the sanity-testing motion sickness. To see the clouds break just in time for us to wander these fields felt like a blessing. Endless valleys and hills adorned with beautiful, vibrant tea bushes. Bonus: we got to try the tea right from the source afterward.

My first experience in Italy was roaming the simple yet captivating streets of Bari, Polignano A Mare, and Monopoli. It was love at first sight—the architecture, colors, weather, people, food, everything. This picture says so much about the beautiful aesthetics of this town.