Based in World
As a Scotland-based travel blogger, my passion lies in active travel, immersing myself in nature, promoting ocean literacy, and ensuring adventures are accessible to everyone. My journey has led me to wear many hats – expedition guide, naturalist, and even an occasional Viking (in spirit, of course!). I'm also a tall ship sailor, always navigating by the stars, and a proud mother of penguins (figuratively speaking, but I do adore them!). My blog, These Vagabond Shoes, is where I share my personal stories and experiences from the places I've been and the people I've met along the way. I write about adventures, travel, and ways to get outside and explore more, with honesty and a healthy dose of humor. From my small corner of the UK to far-flung islands, distant cities, and the more remote parts of the world, I seek inspiring places and wild spaces, always making sure to stop at local cafes, bookshops, museums, and other intriguing spots. Originally from a small fishing village in northeast Scotland, I've always felt a deep connection to the outdoors. I hold a degree in marine biology and a master's in environmental management for tourism and recreation. Before dedicating myself fully to blogging, I spent several years working in conservation as an environmental education and youth work specialist. My love for travel ignited during a geography field trip to Switzerland at 16, but it was an expedition to Belize with Raleigh International that truly shaped my perspective. Trekking in the jungle, sleeping in a hammock, scuba diving on the barrier reef, and working with archaeologists on Mayan temples made me realize what "real life" should be. Since then, I've explored both home and abroad on road trips, rail journeys, and sailing voyages, my wanderlust deepening with each experience. I'm a hiker, camper, biker, and paddler, and unashamedly a geek for natural history. If you ask me why you should travel, I've got a thousand reasons, and I'll keep listing them until you book that trip!
