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Two Hearts, Twenty Countries
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Two Hearts, Twenty Countries

A 289-day adventure by andynangy Read more
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    🇦🇺 Sydney, Australia
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    Disney Detour

    March 9 in Hong Kong ⋅ ⛅ 73 °F

    We made a quick stop in Hong Kong for a Disney fix. It was a slice of home, and it felt so good. Our favorite land was Frozen Land with the Disney detail including a blue waterfall. Our favorite ride was the trackless Mystic Manor, where Haunted Mansion meets Indiana Jones. Although these things gave Disney a new twist, there were many things that were classic and some things that were a welcome throwback, like the price of admission, just $60 a day for a two day pass!!

    We also got to enjoy a parade just like old times, as well as multiple shows. Our favorite was the Lion King show. And the grand finale was the evening castle spectacular. This castle was next level, and so was the 30-minute laser, water, drone, projection, and firework display. And surprisingly, most everything was in English! Not a bad little detour. ✨    Read more

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    More Than Pho

    February 26 in Vietnam ⋅ ☁️ 82 °F

    We were excited to visit Vietnam because of the pho and the amazing hotel rates, but as soon as we arrived it became clear this place has so much more to offer. So many colors and beautiful things to discover!

    Our first stop was Hoi An, and it quickly became our favorite. The lantern-lit paths, romantic canal with colorful sampan boats, the epic Hoi An Memories Show, and the coconut basket boats spinning on the water made it a great introduction to the spark that makes Vietnam so memorable.

    Our next stop was Da Nang, where we enjoyed the lovely beach, toured a vegetable garden, and took a cooking lesson that deepened our appreciation for Vietnamese flavors. We also visited Ba Na Hills, a mountaintop amusement park filled with wild European style architecture, winding streets, and the famous Golden Bridge overlooking what feels like the whole world. Riding the gondola up into the mountains was unforgettable. The Ba Na cable car is the longest in the world, stretching nearly four miles up the hillside.

    Then we were off to Hanoi and Cat Ba Island. The highlight was a three hour kayak adventure over glassy water surrounded by towering limestone islands. Our beautiful room was just $26 a night, and all of our meals together cost us just $53 for three days. We capped it all off with a hike up Ngự Lâm Peak in Cat Ba National Park, where the view across the jungle was breathtaking.

    We are so grateful for the memories here and for the handful of flowers now pressed in our flower press, waiting for the project we’ll create when we get home.    Read more

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    Beach Hopping in Thailand

    February 5 in Thailand ⋅ ⛅ 86 °F

    We spent three beautiful weeks in Thailand chasing sunsets, swimming in warm turquoise water, walking on soft sandy beaches, lounging in hammocks and sipping fresh fruit smoothies. We ate unforgettable Thai food and ended nearly every night watching the Olympics together. Sunshine was plentiful, massages were ten dollars, and the beach vibes were unreal!

    We stayed at three different beaches in Phuket so we could snorkel, kayak, and experience a new stretch of coastline each time. From there we traveled to the island of Ko Yao Noi, where we slept in a yurt at the water’s edge, falling asleep to the sound of the sea and waking to what felt like our own private world. After that we made our way to Ao Nang, where we wandered through the night market, kayaked to a tiny island, and even spent time with monkeys. We finished in Bangkok with a river cruise, visits to their many malls, park strolls, and rooftop swims overlooking the city skyline.

    Somewhere along the way, we realized we were the only two people we know on this entire continent. There’s something humbling about being strangers in a foreign land, yet being so deeply known by your life partner.

    Beach hopping was the adventure.
    But the real gift was the reminder that wherever we go next, we get to go together. 🤍    Read more

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    Stayin’ Alive In India

    January 28 in India ⋅ ☁️ 61 °F

    We were swept up into a haze of hurry, streets bustling as a flurry of horns pierced the air. India is unlike anything we have ever experienced and was a culture shock at first. Our first stop was New Delhi, where we navigated our way to Agra by train, eventually making our way to Jaipur. I could tell you we rode first class with a surgeon in our cabin, but that description doesn’t really do it justice. The train station doubles as a makeshift homeless shelter, and first class is nothing more than a small metal room with wooden bunkbed shelves to sit on.

    Navigating the taxi terminal and learning to embrace the chaos of the roads was our next hurdle. The driving is next level and makes LA look like a walk in the park. There seem to be no rules, yet everyone moves to one aggressive pulse, and somehow it works. Closing my eyes as we bounced through the streets in our little tuk tuk felt like the best option for my nerves.

    The streets are raw and unfiltered. Dirty, crowded, and shared with stray dogs, monkeys, cows, and people living life fully out in the open. Tucked in between the circus of the city are palaces, monuments, and landmarks. We got to see the Taj Mahal and learned about the marble and stone etchings that make it one of the wonders of the world. In our wonder, it was quickly evident that people were wondering about us. The curious blonde haired, fair skinned, blue eyed couple. We were blessed by the kindness of everyone we met and happily honored their many requests for a selfie. And when the day finally slowed, our homestays were a quiet, elegant oasis of comfort.

    India does take some adjusting to. The spicy food, often vegetarian due to Hindu practices, left us craving more protein. But the warmth of the people and their delight in simple joys, like flying a kite or crafting a hand woven scarf, was deeply endearing. It all gave new meaning to stayin’ alive.    Read more

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    Heaven on Earth

    January 21 on the Maldives ⋅ ⛅ 81 °F

    We spent two weeks in the tropical oasis of the Maldives. The water was so blue our eyes could hardly comprehend it, and the sand was so soft it felt like velvet on our feet. We were swept up into a place where time moves without a hurried care, and the sounds of the waves lapping the water’s edge lulled us into a peaceful state. There are over 400 inhabited islands, and we got to stay on and explore five of them, each so small you could walk across in just minutes. Each island had its own character, with sand-covered pathways snaking in and around dwellings and shops, and underwater worlds with endless things to see and explore. Each island had a mosque with daily prayer, a designated place where you could wear a swimsuit, no alcohol, 24/7 80 degree sunny days and at least one soccer field…usually busy with locals and full of life. Through it all, the hospitality of the Maldivian people was constant and made the Maldives feel like a slice of heaven on earth.Read more

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    Discovering Dubai

    January 6 in the United Arab Emirates ⋅ 🌙 68 °F

    After a 28-hour travel day with three layovers, we officially began the Asia leg of our tour with our first stop: Dubai. We stayed at the Dubai Marina and soaked in views of the city’s incredible skyscrapers. At night, they were especially dazzling as their lights reflected off the water. We took a dinner cruise and happened to be there the final week of their epic drone show!!

    We also experienced breathtaking views from the top of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. The elevator was surprisingly fast, and before we knew it, we were gazing down at the city from a bird’s eye view 125 stories in the air.

    Dubai felt unbelievably clean, safe, fancy, and enormous. The highlight of our time there was a day in the desert, complete with a camel ride, a dinner show, stargazing, and a delicious five-course meal! We absolutely loved Dubai and hope to return someday.    Read more

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    Sunny Days on Miracle Mile

    December 10, 2025 in the United States ⋅ ☀️ 75 °F

    After the chilly Christmas markets, it felt wonderful to spend a week in sunny California visiting Ashton and Madi. It was such a gift to step into their world and share everyday life with them.

    After four years as a color assistant at Company 3, working on many blockbuster films, Ashton recently launched into full time freelance. With Ash working from home, we got to peek behind the curtain and watch him color some pretty cool things including a NorthFace project, a vertical film and a Milani makeup commercial…while I was actually using the same product!

    We enjoyed his sweet collection of board games, took a visit to the beach, and even rode in a driverless Waymo to church, attending a service in English for the first time in four months! Too long!! Ashton and Madi introduced us to several of their delicious favorite restaurants. We also took many walks in his Miracle Mile neighborhood, enjoying The Grove, the Academy Museum, and a peaceful park.

    We happened to be there the weekend of a Christmas play that Madi was set decorator for, and it was so fun. We love the life Ashton has built for himself, and after spending a week cheering them on, it is clear he is right where he is supposed to be, doing the thing he was created to do. We could not be more proud, and we cannot wait to come back and stay longer.    Read more

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    Full Circle in Paris

    December 8, 2025 in France ⋅ ☁️ 57 °F

    We capped off the Europe leg of our journey with a final stop in Paris. The last four months have been a dream. From the glow of the Swiss Alps to Italian sunsets over vineyards, Greek island breezes, iconic castle walls in Portugal, masterpiece cathedrals in Spain, Turkish delight and German Christmas markets. We’ve seen things that still don’t feel real. The beauty of the world is staggering. Travel has stretched us, expanded our vision, and clarified what matters.

    The truth is, the world is breathtaking, yet it doesn’t come close to the beauty of life with our people. We loved the new, but we are so excited and ready to enjoy the familiar. Grateful for this season, grateful for perspective, and grateful for the people who anchor our hearts. We will see you soon!! ❤️    Read more

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    The Sound of Salzburg

    December 6, 2025 in Austria ⋅ ☁️ 37 °F

    Salzburg, Austria - where the hills are alive with the sound of music. After spending a couple of nights here, it has become “one of our favorite things.” 🎵

    It was fun to walk on the set of The Sound of Music, through the gardens and pathways where those familiar scenes were filmed. Equally unforgettable was our deep dive into the life of Mozart. Salzburg doesn’t just claim him; it tells his story at every turn. From his birthplace to the squares he once crossed, to his first violin and piano… you begin to imagine the young prodigy walking these same streets and composing music the world would carry forward for centuries. Learning about his brilliance and his struggles added depth to the beauty around us.

    Salzburg left us feeling grateful for music that endures, stories that shape us, and travel moments that linger long after you’ve gone. This is a city we’ll carry with us…one magical note at a time.    Read more

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    A Heidelberg Holiday

    December 3, 2025 in Germany ⋅ ☁️ 41 °F

    Growing up, one thing that marks this time of year is Hallmark movies. My dad and I love them, even with their predictable happy endings. One of my new favorites, which inspired our itinerary, is “A Heidelberg Holiday.” The moment we stepped foot in Heidelberg, it was like stepping into a real life Hallmark movie, with cobblestone streets, castle views, glowing markets, and quiet magic everywhere we turned.

    We then spent three nights in Nuremberg where we enjoyed a bigger market experience. We took a two hour guided tour with a local and learned all about the timeless history. I think my favorite part of Germany was feeling a little closer to my Grandpa Marlowe and Marilyn, as it felt like I was stepping into one of those magical slide show pictures from my childhood. Festive, beautiful, and rich with story.    Read more

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    Fairytale at Christmas

    November 28, 2025 in Germany ⋅ ☁️ 39 °F

    We spent the last 10 days soaking in Christmas markets across Germany, and our first featured stop was Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This storybook town, tucked into the hills, felt like stepping into a fairytale. No wonder it inspired Walt Disney’s Fantasyland architecture!

    Coming from Turkey, where there were no signs of Christmas, the twinkling lights, festive decorations and the smell of German sausages felt especially magical. Everything here was exactly as dreamy as we hoped. 🎄    Read more

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    What A Wonderful World

    November 21, 2025 in Turkey ⋅ ☀️ 64 °F

    Today Titus turns 20, officially clocking us out of the teenage years. Watching time move forward while standing in another part of the world has a way of sharpening perspective. As we depart Turkey on the dawn of Turkey Day, we pause in gratitude for the lessons this journey has quietly been offering us.

    Our final days in Turkey brought us to Istanbul and into our first mosques, where we learned more about Islam. We were surprised by how many similarities we share. A belief in the virgin birth, reverence for Jesus, and respect for his teachings. The difference, we read, is that they believe Jesus had a stand in on the cross. That it was not actually him who was crucified, which is why he appeared later. A plot twist we did not expect.

    It was a different world watching the men take part in a washing ritual before entering the mosque. I wanted to share about atonement but language barriers kept those reflections unspoken. Perhaps that was part of the lesson too. To observe, to listen, and to hold space for a worldview different from my own.

    While we did not participate in the cleansing ritual, we did experience a three hour Turkish bath filled with bubbles, mud, and an incredible couples massage. A reminder that renewal can take many forms.

    During this season of thanks, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to experience the world in this way. Our hearts have grown with an expanded appreciation and affection for the diversity and beauty of this planet. It truly is a wonderful world.    Read more

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    In Step in Antalya

    November 15, 2025 in Turkey ⋅ ☀️ 59 °F

    For the last 20 years we have celebrated our Anniversary with a week at an all-inclusive in Mexico. This has been such a meaningful tradition and has helped our marriage and friendship grow in so many beautiful ways. This year our all-inclusive celebration happened a few months later in Antalya, but the beauty and joy of this magical week were alive and well.

    I think this yearly tradition has really helped us transition into empty nest and long travel. Thankful for the good walks and good talks…the card games, ball games, spa days, pool plays, steam room, workout room, beach views, sun-soaked afternoons, and fabulous food!

    We found joy in life’s simple rhythms and reconfirmed our enjoyment in the dance of marriage.    Read more

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    Turkish Delight

    November 7, 2025 in Turkey ⋅ ☁️ 72 °F

    Our next stop is Turkey, where we’ll spend a few weeks exploring this vast country before heading to Germany, Austria and France for the Christmas markets. The last three months have taken us to some amazing places and our first stop in Turkey is definitely one of them! We spent six nights in Cappadocia exploring trails where rock formations felt a bit terrestrial, like stepping onto another planet.

    From the chimney fairies of Love Valley to the pink volcanic mountains of Red Valley, and finally the beautiful oasis of Ihlara Valley where the trail followed a river for miles and reminded us of walking the Deschutes river trail in Bend… a little slice of home.

    Each day we walked around eight miles, soaking in new views and colors with every step. We also went down into the world’s largest ancient underground city that once sheltered nearly 20,000 Christians hiding from persecution over a thousand years ago. Walking through eight levels of tunnels was both wild and a bit claustrophobic!

    The delight of Turkey is its people, so kind and hospitable. They always wanted to know where we were from, and when we told them America, they lit up with joy, eager to share how much they love Americans. It made perfect sense that their skies would erupt with hot air balloons in the early hours, reflecting the beauty and hope that reside in the heart of this ancient city. ❤️    Read more

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    Slow Days in the Swiss Alps

    November 1, 2025 in Switzerland ⋅ ☁️ 52 °F

    We spent the last week exploring the storybook towns of Leukerbad and Erschmatt, where our Airbnbs looked out over breathtaking mountain views.

    We soaked in the steaming thermal baths, rode gondolas to the peaks, marveled at old houses built on stilts to keep mice out, and navigated the winding switchback roads. We found new trails, caught a bit of snow, and soaked in the quiet beauty around every turn.

    One of the best parts of being in Switzerland this time of year is the brilliant larch trees. Unlike most conifers, they turn bright orange before letting their needles fall for winter. Their golden glow made our trip to the Matterhorn feel straight out of a dream, with glacier streams shimmering a soft baby blue.

    They say this is one of the most magical times in the Alps, and we would have to agree. Grateful for slow plans and the gift of moving through it all unhurried.    Read more

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    The Stillness of Switzerland

    October 27, 2025 in Switzerland ⋅ 🌧 46 °F

    We spent the past week tucked into a cozy chalet in Grindelwald, Switzerland. A storm front rolled in, so it rained far more than usual but honestly, it was the perfect excuse to slow down. We rested, made home-cooked meals, indulged in cheese fondue and way too much Swiss chocolate, watched Survivor, and binged both seasons of The House of David (so good!).

    And the view wasn’t so bad either. Whenever the rain let up, we squeezed in a few hikes, took a gondola up to Mürren, and explored the St. Beatus Caves perched above Lake Thun, which felt like stepping into Narnia. The mountains here are impossibly massive, the grass a glowing green, and the cows… well, their bells are basically the soundtrack of Grindelwald.    Read more

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    Captivated by Como

    October 21, 2025 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 54 °F

    We spent two nights on beautiful Lake Como and bought a day ferry pass to explore the famous golden triangle…Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna. Each corner of the lake had its own charm to discover: castles, villas, waterfalls, gelato, and peaceful gardens. Even with the clouds, the beauty was undeniable. We only wish for a little more sunshine and a lot more time. Lake Como, we hope to return!Read more

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    Hot Stuff in Vernazza

    October 17, 2025 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 66 °F

    We spent the weekend in Vernazza, one of the five hillside villages that make up Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera. All five towns are linked by narrow cliffside hiking trails and a tiny coastal train.

    History still lives in the worn stone lanes, first established around the 11th century. Perched on the rugged cliffs, these villages were largely spared from invasion as no one saw this dramatic coastline as worth conquering.

    The trails between the towns were stunning…bright blue water, church bells echoing and terraced vineyards. Each town held something new to explore and always gelato.

    Our recap video features one of our favorite hiking tracks, an original song called “Hot Stuff” by Titus. He recorded it last summer, and it never fails to put a pep in our step!    Read more

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    Echos of Umbria

    October 12, 2025 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 72 °F

    We spent the last week in the Umbria region of Italy, exploring so many incredible places. Thankfully, we had a car and were able to really enjoy the lovely countryside…the rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, stone villages, and those tall, pointy cypress trees that make Italy look like a painting.

    Our first stop was Assisi, and it was mesmerizing to immerse ourselves in the story of Saint Francis. It was amazing to learn how deeply he was moved by the love of God and how he left the comfort of his wealthy family, gave away his inheritance, and devoted his life to serving others and sharing about Jesus. He seemed like such an incredible person who valued simplicity, community, and compassion above all else.

    Our next stay was in a 1,000 year old castle, which felt like sleeping in a museum. We had the entire place to ourselves, perched high on a hill with not another soul in sight. It was peaceful, almost sacred. The kind of quiet that stays with you. The family who owns the castle has preserved its long history, and it was fascinating to read all about its past.

    Along the way, we stopped at Civita di Bagnoregio, a breathtakingly well-preserved ancient village built atop a volcanic tuff plateau about 2,500 years ago. It felt like stepping into another world. Also unforgettable was our visit to Marmore Falls, where we stayed to see the timed water release. This is when the falls thunder to life and a rainbow appears through the mist.

    Our last stop was Orvieto, a hilltop city built on volcanic rock known for its ancient caves and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy — the Orvieto Duomo. Inside, we learned about the miracle that inspired its construction and saw the powerful frescoes of Luca Signorelli, whose vivid depiction of the Last Judgment later inspired Michelangelo’s work in the Sistine Chapel. It left a deep impression on both of us.

    Umbria felt like the heart of Italy: peaceful, spiritual, and full of quiet beauty. Each hilltop town had its own story, and together they reminded us that history isn’t just something you read about, it’s something you can still walk through, touch, and feel.    Read more

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    Michelangelo and the Masses

    October 11, 2025 in Vatican City ⋅ ☀️ 79 °F

    Rome was absolutely packed! Especially with the Jubilee celebration, which only happens once every 25 years! There we were, shuffling along with thousands of friends through the places we’ve long dreamed of seeing. Visiting St. Peter’s Square, where the Pope would lead Mass the next day, and climbing to the top of the Basilica for a bird’s-eye view of the Pope’s “backyard,” was surreal.

    Then came the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece. After wandering nearly four miles through the Vatican Museum’s hallways, I didn’t even realize we were inside until Andy whispered, “We’re here.” It’s a square room, wall-to-wall people, and nothing like any other church we’ve been in. And everywhere I looked—hundreds of naked humans! There were over 300 on the ceiling alone. Many looked like they could have starred in Gladiator. After visiting the Colosseum and learning about the bloody battles where over 400,00 people were killed for entertainment, it hit me just how much has changed. We no longer kill people for sport and places of worship are thankfully free of gladiators with fig leaves.

    For us, the highlight was the Pantheon. After clocking over 20 miles on foot in two days, it was the perfect place to slow down. I dozed off in a cozy pew, and when I woke up, the place had emptied out. Finally, a moment to enjoy it at a pace that felt just right.    Read more

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    The Stone & Sea of Southern Italy

    October 9, 2025 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 68 °F

    During our time in southern Italy we got to add a few more stops along the way. The highlight was Alberobello where we stayed in a trullo, one of the town’s famous stone houses with cone-shaped roofs. Ours was still owned by the same family, and the grandma who was born there brought us a delicious homemade breakfast. We learned that people in Alberobello began building these homes in the 14th century without mortar so they could be quickly taken apart if government tax collectors came by. Creative tax evasion!

    Another highlight was our two nights in Bari where we watched local women making pasta in the narrow streets of the old town, a tradition that has been passed down for generations since the early 1900s. The best part was sampling the fresh orecchiette they made. So yummy! While in Bari, we also visited the Basilica di San Nicola, the church where Saint Nicholas (Santa Clause) is buried. It was really special to stand in such a meaningful place and think about how far his story has traveled through time and across the world.

    Finally, we spent an afternoon taking in the lovely views of the Adriatic Sea along the cliffs of Polignano a Mare. All in all, this was a place where stone and sea tell their own story…one we’ll never forget.    Read more

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    Timeless Matera

    October 6, 2025 in Italy ⋅ 🌬 63 °F

    We spent a couple of unforgettable nights in Matera, a city carved into the cliffs and believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, dating back about 10,000 years.

    We hit some windy weather, but we didn’t let the high winds stop us. We purchased a couple of hats, and I got to wear the base layer my parents bought me for Christmas… it worked perfectly!

    Exploring the winding stone stairways and ancient cave dwellings felt like stepping back in time. The light on the stone made everything glow, and it’s easy to see why The Passion of the Christ and the upcoming Resurrection were filmed here.

    We wandered through rock-carved churches, crossed the ravine for stunning views, and fell completely in love with Matera’s timeless beauty.    Read more

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    Our Final Chapter in Croatia

    September 30, 2025 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 72 °F

    We returned to Croatia for five days in Dubrovnik, determined to make new memories. This time, we stayed well clear of the permit-only zone, though our GPS still tried to tempt us down that costly lane again!

    The weather wasn’t exactly on our side, but we still managed some beautiful sightseeing and hiking before the wind and rain moved in. The city’s stone streets and seaside views are as stunning as ever, even under gray skies. And they take water fountains to another level!

    Honestly though, It’s the first place we don’t think we’ll be returning to. Not only do they charge you to drive on the roads, but it’s also €40 each just to walk on the wall. Umm… I don’t think so!    Read more

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    Moments In Montenegro

    September 26, 2025 in Montenegro ⋅ ☁️ 75 °F

    We spent five days enjoying the beauty of Kotor Bay and stayed in two different Airbnbs that gave us totally different perspectives. Our lakefront spot was our little oasis where Andy took the paddleboard out and we soaked in sunsets that didn’t look real. The steep mountains coming right up to the waters edge created a view that was mesmerizing.

    Our second place was a garden retreat tucked in the hills near Old Town. It even had a hot tub which made it feel extra cozy. From there we hiked up to St. John’s Fortress one day and another day we hiked up to the Cheese House. That is where we met the legendary Cheese Man who has been serving plates of cheese for decades while taking shots with travelers. It was quite comical watching him shuffle around taking orders from a non-existent menu where we all tried to decipher what he was saying, and when you asked for the check he would tell you to “relax” before eventually bringing it to you on a sticky note!

    We’ve met other characters along the way too, like a couple from Australia and a kind gentleman from Yorkshire, England. This is our first time traveling in shoulder season and it seems this time of year brings out a particular cast of characters…unhurried, job-free, and ready to linger, just like us.    Read more

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    GPS Gone Rogue

    September 24, 2025 in Croatia ⋅ ☁️ 75 °F

    Our first stop along the Adriatic Coast was Cavtat. The plan: relax and enjoy a few slower-paced days. And we were off to a great start, until a simple drive to the grocery store took a costly turn.

    This summer Dubrovnik introduced “permit-only” zones… something our GPS knew nothing about. After a few conversations with locals we ended up writing a letter to the city, hoping to avoid a €1,600 fine. Pray with us that it works out!

    We’ve since heard stories of other travelers caught in the same trap, which brought a little comfort but it still left us with some sleepless nights. In the end, we’re simply grateful for home and for the reminder of what truly matters. Note to self: car rentals abroad are not for the faint of heart!    Read more

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