Already feeling behind? Same.

Today, I talk about the pressure that comes with the start of a new year—and how I’m reframing what January means to me.

Plus, a re-air of one of the most played episodes from 2025: "Slow Travel Tips: Travel Smarter, Pack Lighter."

To sign up for my newsletter, go to SlowTravelDiaries.com to get monthly stories, guides, and lessons from my slow travels around the world.

Happy New Year! As I reflect on the year behind us and think about what’s next, I wanted to start the year with an episode that invites a little pause and perspective.

Today, I’m resharing one of the most listened-to Slow Travel Diaries episodes of the year—a Q&A on slow travel, loneliness, starting over, and finding your rhythm when life keeps changing.

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In this episode, I reflect on my three-month stay in Porto, Portugal. I revisit how I felt early on, and what ended up holding true. If you’re looking for specific travel recommendations on Porto, I share those in my monthly newsletter at SlowTravelDiaries.com

In this episode, I talk about:

• The pressure to get oriented quickly in a new city

• How routines helped me feel settled, and where they started to limit me

• What actually stood out food-wise after a longer stay

• What it was like living in the Cedofeita neighborhood

• What it feels like to close one chapter and step into the next

This is the first episode of a new series I’m calling Afterthoughts—a space to reflect on what’s stuck with me after guest episodes, what I’ve looked up since, or what I’m now curious to try.

It’s also where I’ll share other thoughts that don’t quite fit into city-specific episodes—like what this lifestyle is teaching me, and what I’m still figuring out along the way.

Feel free to email your review to [email protected] or send it via Instagram DM @kaphrynlee.

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I used to think house sitting was only for backpackers. Then I talked to Bianca Rappaport.

A slow traveler like myself who has turned house sitting into a sustainable and intentional lifestyle across 20+ countries.

The money she has saved will surprise you, but what it has allowed her to do is even more meaningful than you might expect.

This conversation changed how I think about travel, and it might do the same for you.

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TAP HERE and use code: BIANCA25 to get 25% off a membership.

Check out Bianca's WanderWell Club at wanderwell.club

For a limited time, Slow Travel Diaries listeners get $10 off a WanderWell Club membership. Just TAP HERE and use code: SLOWTRAVELDIARIES

An honest look at how travel can help you reconnect with yourself when life feels heavy or unclear.

What we get into:

• Why routines keep you from hearing what you really want

• How distance and quiet can bring buried truths to the surface

• My own turning points over seven years of slow travel

• Cheryl's experience of healing through grief and identity shifts

A gentle, grounded episode for anyone wanting perspective or a fresh start.

Want support or building travel routines and rituals that actually ground you?

Email me at [email protected] and tell me a little about yourself. I’ll let you know if one of the five spots is still open.

Want more slow travel stories and monthly recommendations?

Join my newsletter at SlowTravelDiaries.com.

Check out Cheryl Esch's podcast at Solo Travel Adventures

You can also find her at www.cherylbeckesch.com

Halfway through my stay in Porto, I’ve been thinking a lot about what makes living here so special.

In this episode, I share my favorite finds, weekend trip ideas, and what I’d do more of (or less of) to make the most of my time here.

> Get my monthly newsletter at SlowTravelDiaries.com or just TAP HERE.

In this episode, I bring you along to the coworking space I joined here in Porto, called Vertical.

I’ve been here a few weeks and finally found the courage to ask a few people what it’s really like to live here.

It turned into such an interesting mix of stories and perspectives — the kind you only get when you actually sit down and talk to people who’ve made this city part of their lives.

Get a monthly dose of slow travel stories and behind-the-scenes moments — TAP HERE or head to SlowTravelDiaries.com.

Want to get in touch with Guillermo from the podcast? Check out his Instagram @guillermomassage

In this episode, I share how we spent our anniversary weekend exploring Portugal’s so-called “Venice.”

We tried ovos moles, the city’s famous egg-yolk pastry, and wandered its colorful canals.

We escaped to Costa Nova, the beach town lined with candy-striped houses and wild Atlantic waves.

And as promised, ⁠TAP here⁠ to get the inside scoop delivered monthly to your inbox.

Ever wonder what it’s like to trade stability for a life of slow travel? In this episode, I chat with Jenn, who did exactly that.

We talk about choices, challenges, and the surprising upsides of designing life differently — including what it’s been like navigating the world as part of an interracial couple.

Get extra slow travel stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes notes once a month. TAP HERE.