Clay lies still, but blood’s a rover

Breath’s aware that will not keep

Up, lad: when the journey’s over there’ll be time enough to sleep.

~ A.E. Housman

Cold, ice, snow – at the Hotel de Glace its a unique combination of all three. Built every January, this hotel offers a unique experience to sleep in the ultimate winter surroundings:

I used to love getting t-shirts. But of course I was a kid, and it was the best way to show off where I had been travelling.

Once that obsession faded, I definitely became a picture junkie – I took tons of photos and framed several to have around me in my home.

And that hasn’t changed – I love taking photos. I keep learning by asking questions and reading articles, to try and create better photos for work and myself.

But I don’t print as many photos as I used to do – instead I post them on Facebook, Flickr and Twitter, and share them with friends online, so they don’t feel like souvenirs.

So do I still have a souvenir? I love to buy jewellery, something unique that will remind me of a place – or art, which helps me satisfy my need to look at my walls when I’m at home and remind me of my past journeys.

But the one thing I really love is shells. I’m a beachcomber at heart, and love collecting shells when I’m at the beach. I do respect the rules and don’t remove shells if there are signs telling visitors not to do it.

But when I can, I love finding a few shells, washing away the sand with the sea water and examining the ridges and colours.

When I’m feeling the need for a little beach fix at home, far from the ocean, I look at my shell collection, bringing back my memories of beach time.

The beauty of the Northern Ireland coast seen in the city of Newcastle:

There’s a lot of beauty in the winter – and one of my favourites is seeing the contrast of frost-covered tree branches against the blue sky: 

I like travelling with friends. But not all friends.

Here’s where you need to be honest with yourself – and understand your friend(s). Its all about knowing what you want – where you want to go, what you want to do and how to do it.

These conversations always start with excitement and eagerness – where everyone is throwing out ideas and excited for the adventure. But the reality is how it all comes together.

This is where you have to know yourself – and to be honest about what you want. I’m a very laid-back person and happily compromise when making decisions with someone or a group.

But I will get upset if I’m constantly a follower, so I have to remember to assert myself and offer to make a decision or suggest a plan of action. One person shouldn’t be the decision-maker all the time and always be the leader – relinquish the power – you’ll be surprised if you let someone else take the reins.

So here’s a few tips – be clear about financial responsibilities, activities, meals and accommodation. Know who’s paying for what, what the budget should be and if you have any favourites or dislikes. And if there’s something one person has to do, there shouldn’t be any problem with you saying, go ahead, I’ll meet up with you later.

And be flexible too – even if its something you wouldn’t necessarily do, consider just doing it. The experience may surprise you and a great memory made. And if you don’t like it, chalk it up to experience and don’t complain.

Remember – compromise and discussion are key to travelling with others – and don’t forget to have fun.

The amazing landscape of Sedona, Arizona was hard to photograph – mainly because I kept thinking I’ll never capture the colour of the rock. But I was happy to try:

Heading to the Laurentians in Quebec to Mont Tremblant – skiing and snowboarding aren’t the only options – as I went on a snowshoe hike – a great way to explore the area and learn more about the geography that made these mountains unique: 

I’ve always been a chatty girl – and I’m proud of it.

I once remember my parents making fun of an old report card comment that said – too social at times with other students.

Is it a surprise that I became a journalist and on a regular basis I have to speak to a strangers? How did I learn the skill? Practise, practise, practise.

When I was in journalism school, we were encouraged to pick up the phone and call someone we didn’t know, ask them for information, sometimes personal, and ask, ask ask. And remember, no one has to tell us anything.

But you find a way to get up your nerve to ask, to chat, to converse and its about making a connection to someone, so they understand why you’re asking as much as why they should tell you anything.

Its served me well, whether I’m travelling for work or for pleasure – its ok to just start talking to someone. Sometimes its a lineup – proximity always helps. Sometimes its at a restaurant or a bar, where a question can lead to a conversation. Just ask – I’ve always remembered this phrase – if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

I remember being by myself in a raucous restaurant in New Orleans that I had heard many good things about. I had to squeeze in at the very crowded bar and instead of someone being upset with another body, they immediately asked – hey who are you? Although it was a bold question, I said, I’m thirsty girl, which made them laugh and I asked what are you drinking?

Within 10 minutes I had met several people, started sharing information and learned a lot. I ended up spending three hours with the group and had a fabulous time as well as enjoyed the amazing food I had heard about.

I’ve always remembered that experience, because it taught me that people are naturally curious and social. It happened again when I was in Boston at The Beehive, which was packed and getting more full. I sat at the bar, and met several people – people who asked what I was drinking, what I was eating and then overheard part of my conversation with others – opening myself up made the difference.

So even you shy types, don’t worry, there’s always a time to ask, chat, question or inquire. Just one question can lead to a lot of possibilities – and for me, every day I’m thankful how people will share a part of their knowledge with me.

The beauty of the Sonoran desert in the valley of the sun is seeing these Saguaro cactus up close and personal on a morning hike near Scottsdale at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve: