The best places in the world to see humpback whales

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A humpback whale breaching the water near Ningaloo Reef Australia
A humpback whale breaching on the Ningaloo Reef, Australia.Credit: Rosie Leaney/Getty Images

Today, I stumbled across this article from Travel + Leisure Magazine, found here. For those interested in Travel and whale watching, this may be of interest.

“These Are the 4 Places in the World Where You Can Swim With Humpback Whales

From Tonga to the Dominican Republic, these destinations offer rare, regulated encounters. By Evie Carrick, Published on March 18, 2026

People travel all over the world to see a humpback whale’s dorsal fin glide through the water or to watch a tail or fin lift as a hello. A lucky few might even witness a breach or hear their haunting song. Any kind of humpback whale experience is special, even life-changing, but it often takes place from the deck of a boat, which can feel like a clumsy barrier between human and whale.

In very few places around the world, this barrier is removed, and people are allowed to enter the water alongside humpback whales to grasp their size and beauty fully. (Adult humpbacks are typically 46 to 49 feet long.) It is a very rare, very special experience, and one that should be taken seriously. Typical in-water whale swims are limited to four to seven people, and the experience is completely dependent on whale behavior; if they’re showing signs of annoyance or disinterest, you might have to try another day.

Below are a few places where swimming with humpback whales is allowed and well-regulated, along with each destination’s humpback whale season and the tour operators that are respected.

Vava’u, Tonga, South Pacific

One of the best places to swim with humpback whales is near the island of Tonga in the South Pacific. The island group of Vavaʻu is a popular place for mother whales who come to give birth and nurse their young in the warm, calm waters. Whale sightings tend to be consistent and are well-regulated. Operators use small boats and limit the in-water group size (typically four to six people at a time).

When: July to October
Popular tour operators: Tahi Tonga, Humpback Swim, and Acanela Expeditions.

Mo’orea & Ruruto, French Polynesia

Some of the clearest waters are found in French Polynesia, making the country an excellent place to swim with whales — especially if you’re hoping to capture crisp underwater photos and videos. Mo’orea is located just west of Tahiti, making it an easy-to-get-to option, while the more remote island of Ruruto is another 1.5-hour plane ride south of Tahiti.

Both islands offer the rare chance to swim with humpback whales. Respected outfitters and tour companies on Mo’orea include Mo’orea Moana Tours and Mo’orea Sea Experience. In Ruruto, most whale-watching excursions are part of week-long packages that include lodging with a local family, food, and multiple marine-life expeditions.

When: August to October
Popular tour operators: One With Whales and Baja Wild Encounters.

Ningaloo Reef, Australia

In the Ningaloo Reef off the coast of Western Australia, pods of humpback whales often swim and feed alongside whale sharks, the largest known fish. The chance to not only see but also swim with these two giant creatures is rare.

When: August to September
Popular tour operators: Ningaloo Whale Shark Swim and Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours

Silver Bank, Dominican Republic

The only humpback whale swimming experience in the Northern Hemisphere is found in the Dominican Republic, which is home to one of the largest humpback breeding grounds in the Atlantic. Like the offerings on Rurutu, the Silver Bank whale-watching trips typically take place over several days. The offshore bank where the whales breed is a journey from the coast, so most operators run liveaboard boats.

When: January to April
Popular tour operators: Aquatic Adventures and Aqua-Firma Worldwide Expeditions.”

In many countries we’ve visited over the past 13 years, we’ve eagerly signed up for whale watching tours, always hopeful, sometimes lucky, always grateful to be out on the water. But the moments that linger most vividly came in Pahoa on the Big Island of Hawaii, where humpbacks seemed to appear as if on cue, and again in Antarctica, where everything felt magnified by the wild, icy environment. There, killer whales surfaced beside our small zodiac boats, close enough to hear their breath. We ventured out several times a day, never tiring of the wonder, never quite believing our good fortune.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 19, 2016:

We found a holiday home in Fairlight, Sydney, Australia, for a future date. See the details here.

Lunch with local couple today that Tom met on a Facebook group…More new scenery photos…

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There is a wide variety of evergreen trees in Tasmania.

There is something deeply grounding about farmland in Tasmania, something that settles into your bones. Perhaps it is the way the land rolls rather than rises, soft green hills folding into one another like a well-worn quilt. Or maybe it is the steady, unhurried pace of life that seems to linger in the air, as if time itself has agreed to slow down out here.

Driving through the countryside, I often find myself gazing out the window longer than intended, caught up in the gentle repetition of paddocks lined with fences that have clearly stood for decades. Some lean slightly, weathered by wind and rain, yet still doing their job. Beyond them, sheep graze with an almost meditative calm, their thick wool rippling slightly in the breeze. Cows stand in small clusters, occasionally lifting their heads as a car passes, only to return to their quiet routine moments later.

Farms are ready for the next plantings.

The colors are what strike me most. Green, of course, but not just one green. There are countless shades, from the deep, almost velvety tones of well-watered pasture to the lighter, sun-kissed hues of open fields. In between, there are bursts of gold when the grasses dry and the occasional brown patches where the earth peeks through, reminding you that this land is worked, lived on, and constantly changing.

Farmhouses appear sporadically, often set back from the road, surrounded by a mix of practicality and charm. Some are modest and functional, while others carry a kind of quiet beauty, with gardens that seem to have grown naturally over time rather than being carefully planned. You get the sense that generations have lived here, each leaving its own subtle mark without disturbing the place’s overall harmony.

Everywhere we drive, we see beautiful scenery.

There is also a certain honesty to farmland in Tasmania. Nothing feels overly polished or staged. Tractors sit where they were last used. Sheds stand sturdy and purposeful, often filled with tools and equipment that have seen years of use. Hay bales dot the fields in neat rows or scattered clusters, depending on the stage of the season. It is a landscape that reflects effort and resilience, shaped by both human hands and the unpredictability of nature.

What I find especially compelling is the way the farms seem to coexist with the surrounding environment. Patches of native bushland are often left untouched, providing shelter for wildlife and a reminder of what the land once looked like before it was cultivated. It is not uncommon to see a line of tall trees acting as a windbreak, as shown in our photos; their presence is both practical and beautiful.

Tasmania is very hilly in areas, providing exquisite views.

The air itself feels different out here. It carries the faint scent of earth and grass, sometimes mixed with the unmistakable aroma of livestock. It is not unpleasant, just real. Breathing it in, you become aware of how often we are disconnected from the origins of the food we eat. Here, that connection is undeniable.

There are moments, especially in the late afternoon, when the light shifts and everything seems to glow. Shadows stretch across the fields, and the hills take on a softer, more subdued appearance. It is during these times that I feel most aware of the quiet pace of farm life, even without seeing the people who make it all happen.

In a world that often feels rushed and overly complicated, Tasmania’s farmland offers a kind of gentle reminder. Life does not always need to move so quickly. There is value in patience, in routine, and in the simple act of tending to the land. And somehow, just passing through, you carry a little of that calm with you long after the fields have faded from view.

Tree-bordered farms are commonly seen.

We continue our mission to see more during our remaining 25 days in Penguin until, once again, we’re on the move to other adventures.

Soon, we’ll head out for lunch with a couple Tom connected with through a Facebook group for cruisers. It still amazes me how often these online interactions turn into real-life meetings, sometimes in the most unexpected corners of the world. They’ll be on the same upcoming cruise from Brisbane, which makes today feel like the beginning of a longer story rather than a one-time encounter.

At the end of the month, we’re looking forward to a special visit from Salli, a lovely woman we met on our last 47-night cruise. She’ll be making the drive from Hobart to spend two nights with us. It’s funny how quickly connections formed at sea can carry over onto land, becoming something more lasting.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 18, 2016:

Only a few days ago, Mont Blanc approached the fence, welcoming us. Perhaps somehow he knows how much we care. See his story in the post. Please click here.

Our 14 year anniversary of posting…Miscellaneous new photos…

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A man was on a paddleboard on the ocean in front of our house with his dog! Zoom in to see that the dog was wearing a life jacket.

Yesterday, we mentioned that it was the 14th anniversary of the beginning of something that has shaped every single day of our lives before we left to begin our journey. When I pause and look at the numbers, I can hardly believe them. After today’s post is uploaded, we will have written and published 4,926 posts. Even typing that number feels surreal.

It is difficult for me to wrap my head around the idea that I have sat down nearly five thousand times to write about our lives. Each morning, wherever we happened to be in the world, I opened the laptop and began again. Sometimes I knew exactly what I wanted to write about before I even took the first sip of coffee. Other times, I stared out the window for a while, letting my thoughts wander until something meaningful surfaced.

Oddly, I have rarely struggled to find a topic. Life on the move has a way of presenting stories, whether you go looking for them or not. There are the obvious moments, such as breathtaking landscapes, wildlife encounters, new cultures, and unfamiliar foods. Then there are the quieter moments that often mean just as much. A conversation with a stranger. A funny mishap at the grocery store. A small discovery during a walk through a town we had never heard of before.

Trains pass by several times a day. We don’t mind the sound at all.

Many days, we have also been fortunate to include photos we took along the way. Our cameras have captured everything from dramatic scenery to the simplest details of daily life. A meal we cooked. A curious animal wandering through the yard. A sunset that seemed too beautiful not to share. Those images help bring each story to life and allow you, our readers, to feel as though you are right there with us.

Of course, there have been times when inspiration did not immediately appear. On those days, I might spend a little time researching something related to wherever we were traveling. Perhaps the history of a town, the origins of a local tradition, or an interesting fact about a place we planned to visit. Those moments of curiosity often opened the door to stories we might otherwise have missed.

What means the most to us is knowing that so many of you have taken the time to read these posts. Over the years, they have been read millions of times. That number is humbling and deeply meaningful. Each time someone visits the site, leaves a comment, or sends a kind message, it reminds us that this journey is not something we are experiencing alone.

We pulled into a driveway to capture this unusual succulent plant. Can anyone identify this?

In truth, we have never felt isolated during these years of wandering. There have certainly been times when we were far from familiar faces. Some of the places we have stayed were wonderfully remote. There were stretches when days passed with very few face-to-face conversations with anyone other than each other. Yet through this daily connection with all of you, there was always a sense of community surrounding us.

As we mentioned previously, we actually began writing seven months before we left Minnesota on October 31, 2012. During that time, we were in the middle of preparing for one of the biggest life changes imaginable. We wanted to share the process as it unfolded. The excitement. The uncertainty. The practical challenges of letting go of the life we had known for decades.

Those months were filled with sorting and making decisions about what truly mattered. Our goal was to leave unencumbered by possessions so we could step into this new chapter with a sense of freedom.

An artfully painted water tower in Ulverstone.

Even today, we still don’t have a storage unit waiting for us. Every photo album, piece of memorabilia, and sentimental item was passed along to our kids and grandkids. We wanted those memories to stay within the family rather than sitting unseen in boxes.

At the same time, we carefully scanned every paper photograph we owned during those seven months of preparation. It was a time-consuming project, but one that preserved a lifetime of memories in a way we could carry with us digitally, no matter where we went.

Interestingly, although we often say we miss people, we never find ourselves missing any of the possessions we left behind. Not once have we wished we had kept a particular piece of furniture or some forgotten object stored away in a box.

Three seagulls are resting in a parking lot.

Everything we truly need travels with us.

Now, to be clear, we do not travel light as some people imagine. We are not backpackers moving from place to place with only the bare essentials. Over time, we have discovered certain items that make this nomadic lifestyle more comfortable and manageable. Some of those things might seem unnecessary to others, but for us, they have become part of the routine that allows us to live well wherever we land.

When we stay in remote locations, which happens quite often, those familiar items become even more important. Many of the things we use regularly are not available in small towns or rural areas. Carrying them with us ensures that we can continue living in a way that feels comfortable and sustainable.

In a sense, that is the small price we pay for a lifestyle that has given us so much freedom and adventure.

But when everything is stripped down to its simplest truth, the conclusion is very easy to express.

We are happy.

Still happy.

And incredibly grateful that you continue to travel along with us.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 16, 2016:

I purchased two bottles of New Zealand wine and have yet to finish either of them over the past week. Tom doesn’t drink wine. For more photos, please click here.

Anzac Park memorials…More new photos as we experience Tasmania…

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The fountain in Anzac Park, located in Ulverstone, Tasmania, is the MH Wright Memorial Fountain. It is situated within a well-regarded family-oriented park on the banks of the Leven River, often frequented for its playgrounds (including a noted “rocket” ship) and picnic areas.

In the coastal town of Ulverstone, where the Leven River winds its way gently toward the sea, there is a park that quietly brings together history, community, and the simple pleasure of spending time outdoors. Anzac Park sits along the riverbank, a stretch of green lawn, pathways, and trees that seems to invite both reflection and recreation. It is the kind of place where locals walk their dogs, children race toward the playground, and visitors pause to take in the view of the water moving slowly past.

The long stairway from the upper road to Anzac Park. We drove down to the parking lot and walked for the photo ops.

It is easy to see why this park is one of the town’s most loved gathering spots. The lawns roll gently toward the river, with picnic tables and shaded areas where families settle in for a relaxed lunch or evening barbecue. The trees provide shelter from the Tasmanian sun and, on cooler days, a quiet place to sit and watch the clouds drift overhead. A walking path winds through the park, following the river and offering glimpses of boats, birds, and the changing light across the water.

The river that runs through Anzac Park in Ulverstone, Tasmania, is the Leven River. The park is situated directly on the banks of this river, near the town center and the river’s mouth, where it meets the Bass Strait.

The setting alone would make it worth a visit, but Anzac Park also carries a deeper meaning. Like many places across Australia, it serves as a memorial space honoring those who served in the nation’s military conflicts. The park itself was established as a tribute to these men and women, making it both a place of remembrance and a living part of the community.

Anzac Park in Ulverstone, Tasmania, is a highly regarded, well-maintained riverside space featuring a respectful Kokoda memorial and strong community, RSL-supported war history. Visitors praise it as a fantastic, quiet family stop with a popular, modern playground (including a large slide), BBQ facilities, and scenic, paved walks along the Leven River.

One of the park’s notable features is its dramatic memorial staircase, constructed between 1968 and 1970. The project was largely a community effort, with local residents and organizations contributing labor and resources to bring the structure to life. Thousands of hours of volunteer work and large amounts of concrete and steel went into building the steps, which lead visitors down toward the river and the park’s central areas. We didn’t tackle those stairs; instead, we parked at the lower parking lot with easy access to the walking path.

Standing near these steps, it is easy to imagine how much pride the community must have felt when the project was completed. There is something special about structures built through local effort. They carry the fingerprints of the people who live there, the quiet dedication of neighbors working together for something lasting.

Dedicated to the soldiers who served and gave their lives in Vietnam, as presented in Anzac Park.

Scattered throughout the park are several memorial elements that reinforce its purpose as a place of remembrance. Among them is the South African War Memorial, which commemorates the soldiers who served in the Boer War between 1899 and 1902. Over the years, this monument has been relocated a few times as the town developed, eventually finding a home within Anzac Park, where it continues to honor those early soldiers.

Despite its historical significance, the park is far from solemn or quiet at all times. In fact, it often feels lively and welcoming. Families gather around the barbecue areas while children head straight for the playground. One of the most recognizable pieces of playground equipment has long been the rocket-ship structure, a nostalgic feature that generations of local children remember climbing, sliding, and imagining their way through. Community discussions in recent years have even focused on restoring and upgrading the beloved rocket ship so it can continue entertaining future generations.

Recognition for those who served and gave their lives in Korea.

Events have also brought people together here. At times, the park has hosted community festivals and gatherings that fill the lawns with music, food, and laughter. When the weather cooperates, the combination of open green space and river views creates an ideal setting for a relaxed celebration.

For visitors passing through Ulverstone, Anzac Park offers something that many travelers appreciate: a place that feels authentic. It is not overly polished or designed purely for tourism. Instead, it reflects the character of the town itself. Locals walk here, children play here, and memorial services remind everyone of the history that shaped the community.

A gardener near the play area in Anzac Park.

Sitting on a bench near the river, watching the water drift slowly toward Bass Strait, we got the sense that this park holds many stories. Some belong to soldiers remembered in stone. Others belong to families who have spent countless afternoons here.

We always take a photo when we see a seagull standing atop a post.

And perhaps that is what makes Anzac Park special. It is not just a park, and it is not just a memorial. It is a place where remembrance, everyday life, and the beauty of Tasmania’s northwest coast come together in a way that feels natural and enduring.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 17, 2016:

This cockatoo stopped by for a visit, alighting atop Bob, our landlord’s medicinal Papaw tree in the yard in Fairlight (Sydney) Australia. For more photos, please click here.

Finally, a wildlife fix in Tamania…Today is our 14th anniversary of posting…

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At first, I thought this was a Tasmanian Devil, but I was so wrong. This is a Tasmanian Brushtail Possum that greeted us when we returned from dining out.

When we returned from dinner on Friday evening around 8:30, the night was quiet, as small coastal towns often are after dark. The streets around us were nearly empty, the air cool and still, and the sound of waves from the nearby shoreline drifted through the darkness. As soon as we pulled into the drive and I opened the car door, I heard something scrambling across the roof of the house. The sound was quick and purposeful, the unmistakable scurry of an animal moving across the metal roofing above us.

I froze halfway out of the car and looked up.

Within seconds, I spotted the creature clinging to the eaves of the house. Its body was stretched along the edge of the roofline, its long tail wrapped around a beam, as it paused to observe us below. In the dim outdoor light, I could see its round eyes reflecting toward us, alert and curious.

Tom came around the front of the car and followed my gaze upward.

“Back away carefully,” he said in a calm but serious voice. “If it’s a Tasmanian Devil, it could be dangerous.”

I understood his concern. After all, we are visitors here, still learning which animals are harmless and which ones deserve a little distance. The wild creatures of Tasmania are fascinating but unfamiliar to us, and caution always seems wise.

Still, curiosity got the better of me.

The animal wasn’t moving much now, simply watching us as if we were the unusual ones. I could feel that familiar pull that comes whenever we encounter a new creature, unexpected while traveling. These are the moments that stay with you long after the suitcases are unpacked and the photographs are sorted.

I slowly stepped back just enough to get a clearer view while reaching for my phone.

Tom watched carefully, clearly prepared to remind me again to keep my distance if the animal decided to climb down or come closer. But it stayed right where it was, balanced comfortably along the edge of the roof as though it had spent many evenings there observing the humans below.

I managed to snap a few photos before it shifted slightly and disappeared along the roofline, moving with surprising grace.

Inside the house, still talking and excited about our unexpected visitor, I posted one of the photos on Facebook. Living and traveling abroad has created a wonderful community of people who are always eager to share knowledge, especially when it comes to local wildlife. I suspected someone would quickly identify our mysterious rooftop guest.

Sure enough, the responses began arriving almost immediately.

Several Australians wrote to tell me that the animal in the photo was not a Tasmanian Devil at all. Instead, they explained that it was a Tasmanian Brushtail Possum described as follows:

These unusual New Zealand mushrooms appear translucent. For more photos, please click here.

Fun evening out with nomads like us!…

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Tom connected with this lovely couple, Jennifer and Ryan, also from Minnesota, who became home-free nomads at a young age two years ago.

Travel has an interesting way of bringing people together, often in the most unexpected places. Last night was one of those occasions that reminded me how small the world can feel, even when we are thousands of miles from home.

We met Jennifer and Ryan, a couple Tom had connected with through a Facebook group for travelers. Someone in the group had asked where people would be in a few weeks, and Tom happened to mention that we would be spending time in Penguin. Jennifer and Ryan replied that they would be here as well, although only briefly. With nothing more than that simple exchange, a plan was made to meet for drinks and dinner.

When we arrived, it felt as though we were greeting old friends rather than people we had never met before. Almost immediately, we discovered a fun coincidence…they were both from Minnesota, which gave us an instant connection and plenty to talk about right from the start. Something is comforting about sharing familiar reference points, even when you are standing in a small coastal town on the northern shore of Tasmania.

Ryan and Jennifer are having the time of their lives!

Of course, our conversation quickly expanded far beyond Minnesota. Like us, they have spent a great deal of time traveling, and it seemed that every destination one of us mentioned sparked another story from someone else. Countries we had visited overlapped again and again. At one point, they mentioned their cruise to Antarctica, which naturally led to more enthusiastic comparisons of icy landscapes, wildlife sightings, and the kind of surreal beauty that only exists in those remote corners of the world.

The conversation bounced back and forth like a ping pong ball. One story led to another, which led to laughter, which then reminded someone of yet another adventure somewhere else. It is always such a pleasure to talk with people who understand that particular curiosity about the world, the constant pull to see what lies beyond the next horizon.

We met at five in the afternoon for happy hour, and before long, we ordered dinner. Somewhere along the way, I forgot to take photos of the food, which is unusual for me these days. I suppose that says something about how engaged I was in the conversation.

Tom was enjoying being out and about and meeting new people. I felt the same way.

What I ordered turned out to be an unusual twist on a familiar dish. I ordered nachos with the chips served separately on the side. Instead of the typical pile of tortilla chips layered with toppings, the bowl contained shredded pot roast topped with melted cheese, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. The chips sat in their own basket beside it.

In the end, I never ate a single chip. The bowl itself was satisfying on its own. It was hearty and flavorful, the kind of dish that feels comforting after a cool evening along the Tasmanian coast. The basket of chips, however, did not go to waste. I pushed them toward the center of the table, and the three of them happily munched their way through the entire bowlful.

Before we knew it, the evening had slipped away. We had arrived at five, but by eight thirty we were already back at the house. It was the perfect amount of time to enjoy good company without turning the night into something exhausting.

Once home, Tom and I settled in to watch an episode of The Traitors, which has become our little evening ritual. Not long after the episode ended, I headed off to bed.

Last night, for the first time in years, I drank two glasses of 3.5% low carb beer. Since we haven’t had any alcohol lately, today I have a terrible hangover. I won’t be drinking beer again!

Unfortunately, sleep did not come easily. It turned into one of those restless nights where you drift in and out without ever feeling fully settled. Today, I am feeling its effects. Between making pizza for Tom and preparing a seafood dish for myself, I find that I am dragging my feet more than usual.

Still, tomorrow is another day, and I suspect a good night’s sleep will set everything right again. Besides, we returned home last night after seeing something quite special at the wildlife department, a thrill for both of us. Tomorrow I will share that story, along with a stunning photo, because it was one of those moments that remind us once again why we love being here and traveling the world.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago, March 14, 2016:

In New Zealand, these beautiful clusters of trees create a nice foreground for our photos at sunset. For more photos, please click here.

Sightseeing in Tasmania continues…

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Not our photo, although we took the others below of the Three Sisters. We couldn’t get close enough for such a photo because of traffic on the narrow, two-lane road.

Not far from the quiet seaside town of Penguin lies one of those places that manages to feel both humble and magnificent at the same time. The Three Sisters of Tasmania sit just offshore near Table Cape, rising from the restless waters of the Bass Strait like silent guardians that have watched the coastline for thousands of years.

At first glance, the Three Sisters appear almost modest. They are not towering cliffs or dramatic mountains. Instead, there are three weathered sea stacks, separated from the mainland by centuries of wind, waves, and erosion. Yet the moment you see them, especially from the lookout along Table Cape, you realize how special they are. Standing there, looking out over the vast expanse of ocean, the three stone pillars seem to tell a story without saying a single word.

These same railroad tracks are across the Main Road, where our holiday home overlooks the sea. We see a train a few times each day, returning hours later. Of course, Tom, as a former railroad worker, enjoys seeing the train.

We drove out toward Table Cape on a cool morning a few days ago, the kind of Tasmanian day when the sky seems to stretch endlessly, and the air carries the scent of the sea. The farmland surrounding the cape was dotted with grazing cattle and open green fields that rolled gently toward the cliffs. It felt peaceful in that way many places in Tasmania do, where life moves at a comfortable pace and nature quietly takes center stage.

As we approached the edge of the cape, the view suddenly opened up. The land simply stops, replaced by dramatic cliffs that drop down to the churning waters below. Out there, not far from shore but far enough to stand alone, were the Three Sisters.

These same railroad tracks are across the Main Road, where our holiday home overlooks the sea. We see a train a few times each day, returning hours later. Of course, Tom, as a former railroad worker, enjoys seeing the train.

Each of the stacks has its own character. One stands slightly taller and more solid than the others, while the remaining two appear more slender and worn by time. The rock itself consists of soft shades of brown and grey, with patches of green where plants have found a way to cling to the stone. Waves crash endlessly at their bases, slowly shaping them, year after year.

It is easy to imagine what this coastline must have looked like long ago. The Three Sisters were once part of the mainland, connected to the cliffs of Table Cape. Over countless years, the ocean carved away at the softer sections of rock, gradually separating these pillars from the land. What remains today are the last fragments of that ancient connection, standing proudly in the water.

It’s been cloudy and rainy most days since we arrived at this house. Today, the sun is shining, and we’ll head out again soon.

From the lookout above, we could hear the distant roar of the waves far below. Seabirds drifted on the coastal winds, occasionally circling the stacks before gliding back toward the cliffs. There is something deeply calming about standing in a place like this, where the landscape reminds you just how powerful and patient nature truly is, particularly the sea.

Visitors often come here for photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts long golden tones across the sea. But even without a camera, it is a place worth lingering. The view encourages you to slow down and simply take it in.

What I found most striking was the sense of quiet permanence. While towns grow, roads change, and travelers like us come and go, these stone formations remain, slowly evolving but never in a hurried manner. They have witnessed storms, calm seas, migrating birds, and generations of people pausing along the cliffs to admire them.

Although it’s cloudy and overcast, the scenery along the coast, near Three Sisters is still breathtaking.

In a region already filled with beautiful landscapes, the Three Sisters stand out not because they are the largest or most famous landmark in Tasmania, but because of their quiet presence. They are simple, natural sculptures created by time itself.

And sometimes, those are the places that stay with you the longest.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 12, 2016:

Later, upon returning to our holiday home in New Zealand, we laughed at this photo that appears to be what??? A six-legged cow? No. The photo is a fluke which one cow standing behind the other. Belted Galloway cattle, affectionately known as “Oreo cows” or “Belties,” are a Scottish heritage beef breed defined by their thick, double-layered, waterproof coats and a distinctive white stripe, or “belt,” around their midsections. They are hardy, polled (hornless), and efficient foragers known for producing high-quality, low-fat, and tender meat. We didn’t stay long for better photos when they began showing a few signs of aggression. For more photos, please click here.

Out and about taking photos…Food photos…Why is cooking so much fun in Tasmania?…

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Plains, tall grasses, and mountain-scape, typically seen in Tasmania.

Something is refreshing about simply getting in the car with no particular destination in mind, other than the hope of discovering a few worthwhile photo opportunities along the way. That’s exactly what we did yesterday—heading out for a leisurely drive through the countryside surrounding Penguin, camera ready, curiosity leading the way.

The landscape here is a patchwork of farmland that seems to roll endlessly toward the horizon. Wide green pastures, scattered farmhouses, and the occasional cluster of trees break up the scenery, while cattle and sheep graze as if they have all the time in the world. It’s the kind of countryside that begs to be photographed. Unfortunately, the logistics of doing so are not always quite so simple.

Cattle in the countryside.

Many of the roads winding through these rural areas are narrow two-lane stretches with just enough room for passing traffic. While the views are spectacular, there are surprisingly few safe places to pull over. More than once, we spotted a perfect photo: a hillside dotted with sheep, a weathered barn sitting proudly in a field, or distant mountains framed by soft clouds, only to realize there was no practical place to pull over.

It became something of a game between us. “Oh, look at that!” one of us would say, followed immediately by, “Too bad there’s nowhere to stop.” We laughed about it more than once, accepting that sometimes the most beautiful moments are meant to be enjoyed in passing rather than captured on camera.

I took this farm photo while we were moving.

Still, we managed to grab a few photos when small gravel turnouts appeared or when the road briefly widened enough to allow us to stop safely. Even when we couldn’t stop, the drive itself was rewarding. There’s a peaceful feeling to rural roads, the quiet hum of the car, the steady unfolding of scenery, and the sense that life out here moves at a gentle pace.

In many ways, the experience reminded us that not every adventure needs to be meticulously planned. Sometimes the simple act of exploring, of wandering through unfamiliar back roads, is enough.

This coming week, we plan to venture out even more, gradually exploring some of the popular attractions scattered throughout the region. A few local vineyards have already caught our attention, and we’re looking forward to visiting them, learning a little about the area’s wines, and perhaps enjoying a tasting or two along the way.

Red Flowering Gum tree, which produces vibrant clusters of red, orange, or pink flowers. These native trees are a popular, hardy, and spectacular feature in Australian gardens and streetscape.

For now, though, we’re grateful to be here, discovering the beauty around Penguin one country road at a time. Even when the camera stays in our laps, the memories are already being made.

On another note, I find myself spending more time in the kitchen than usual these days. That may sound surprising for someone who has spent the past thirteen years traveling the world, often relying on restaurants, takeaways, and whatever simple meals we could pull together in small kitchens along the way. But here, something about the abundance of beautiful local food makes it almost impossible to resist the temptation to cook.

Close-up of blooms on the Red Flowering Gum tree.

Tasmania offers an incredible selection of fresh ingredients. Everywhere we turn, there are markets, farm stands, and local shops filled with organic produce, grass-fed meats, free-range chickens, and some of the most wonderful cheeses and dairy products we have encountered anywhere in the world. When such high-quality ingredients are readily available, it feels almost like a privilege to step into the kitchen and create something with them.

Tom has certainly been enjoying the benefits of this little cooking spree. Each morning, he starts the day with coffee topped with what they call double cream here. It is rich, thick, and wonderfully indulgent, and he looks forward to it the way some people look forward to dessert.

This dish’s recipe was featured in yesterday’s post here. It’s delicious and reheats perfectly in the microwave.

Over the past few days, I have also been making him a hearty breakfast of butter-sautéed halloumi cheese with a side of bacon. The halloumi browns beautifully in the pan, forming a golden crust while remaining soft and salty inside. The aroma alone is enough to make the kitchen feel warm and welcoming early in the morning. As shown in today’s photos, it has quickly become one of his favorite starts to the day.

Tom is not currently following the OMAD concept that I am practicing. For now, I am sticking with one meal a day, focusing on packing as much nutrition as possible into that single meal while maintaining a vigorous exercise routine. It works well for me, and I feel great doing it.

Yesterday’s anniversary dinner turned out wonderfully, and fortunately, there is plenty left for tonight and tomorrow as well. Whenever I make a more time-consuming recipe, like the recipe featured in yesterday’s post with the photo of the finished dish today, I always prepare a large enough batch to last for three evenings. It saves time later, and somehow the flavors seem even better on the second and third nights.

Tom’s breakfast of butter-sauteed halloumi cheese with a side of bacon.

Along with the dish, Tom enjoyed his with rice and a fresh salad. I kept mine a bit simpler with a small avocado, broccoli, and salad on the side. It was truly a treat.

After we finish this post and I complete my exercise routine, Tom will likely enjoy his usual nap. Early this afternoon, we plan to head out to the Penguin Undercover Market, which runs from nine in the morning until three in the afternoon each Sunday. We will be sure to take photos and share them tomorrow.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 8, 2016:

The noses and lips of the cria are pink until they mature. This alpaca cria is only 24 hours old, hugging close to mom. For more photos, please click here.

Today is our 31st wedding anniversary…Celebrating with a favorite recipe shown below…

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On our Antarctica cruise, we were drinking French champagne while on the 10-person zodiac boat with icebergs and wildlife all around us. Memorable.

Thirty-one years ago today, Tom and I stood side by side and promised one another a lifetime together. At the time, like most couples standing at the beginning of their marriage, we couldn’t possibly have imagined where life would lead us. We knew we loved each other deeply, and we hoped for a happy future, but the details of that future were still unwritten pages.

Today, as we celebrate our 31st wedding anniversary, those pages have filled into a story far richer than either of us could have predicted.

In many ways, our marriage has been a journey, both figuratively and literally. Long before we ever packed a suitcase to travel the world, we were already navigating the many twists and turns that life naturally brings. Careers, family milestones, unexpected challenges, and joyful celebrations all shaped the path we walked together. Through it all, one constant remained: we faced everything side by side.

When I look back over these three decades, what stands out most is not any single event or accomplishment. Instead, it’s the countless ordinary moments that quietly built the foundation of our life together. The early mornings, the late nights, the shared meals, the laughter over something silly, the comfort of knowing someone understands you completely, even when you don’t say a word.

Those small moments are what truly create a marriage.

Of course, life isn’t always smooth sailing. Like any long-term partnership, we’ve experienced our share of challenges. Health scares, stressful moves, unexpected detours—each one testing our patience and resilience. Yet looking back now, those same challenges often strengthened our bond in ways we couldn’t see at the time.

Marriage, after all, isn’t about perfection. It’s about commitment. It’s about choosing each other again and again, even on the difficult days.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable chapters of our story began thirteen years ago, when we made the bold decision to sell everything we owned and begin traveling the world. At the time, many people wondered if living such an unconventional lifestyle would put stress on our relationship.

In truth, it did exactly the opposite.

Traveling together has given us the gift of shared discovery. We’ve watched sunsets on beaches halfway around the world, as we do today while in Tasmania, wandered through ancient cities rich with history, and found ourselves laughing over language barriers and unexpected mishaps. We’ve lived in homes across continents, met fascinating people from countless cultures, and learned that the world is both much larger and much smaller than we ever imagined.

But perhaps the greatest gift of this lifestyle has been time.

Time to talk. Time to reflect. Time to truly enjoy each other’s company without the constant rush that often defines modern life. When you live this way, you quickly learn that experiences matter far more than possessions. And when those experiences are shared with someone you love deeply, they become even more meaningful.

Over the years, we’ve also learned the importance of gratitude. Gratitude for good health, even after a serious health struggle I experienced in 2019, for the opportunity to explore the world, for the kindness of strangers who often become friends, and for the quiet comfort of simply being together.

As I write this today, I’m reminded that our marriage has evolved just as we have. The love we felt on our wedding day was genuine and strong. Thirty-one years later, that love feels deeper, steadier, and more resilient. It has been shaped by time, by experiences, and by the simple act of sharing life day after day.

I sometimes think about that younger version of us standing in front of a justice of the peace with three of our four kids standing beside us, all those years ago. If we could somehow tell them what the next years would hold—the adventures, the laughter, the challenges overcome—they might find it hard to believe.

And yet here we are.

Thirty-one years later, still walking this road together.

We may not know exactly what the next chapters will bring. Travel plans will continue to evolve, new places will capture our curiosity, and life will undoubtedly offer both surprises and lessons along the way.

But one thing remains certain.

Wherever the road leads next, we’ll continue traveling it side by side—just as we have for the past 31 years.

And for that, I am endlessly grateful.

Tonight’s special dinner:

Jess’s Low-Carb Sausage, Mushroom, and Chicken Casserole

● Prep Time: 20 mins
● Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
● Servings: 8

INGREDIENTS

3 -4 cups diced cooked chicken

1 lb cheesy sausages

1 stalk celery, chopped fine

1 tablespoon onion, chopped

1/2 lb mushroom, sliced

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

16 ounces frozen cauliflower, cooked well and drained

8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded

1 cup unsweetened coconut cream (in a can)

2 tsp salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

DIRECTIONS  (8 servings)
1. Brown the sausage with the celery, onion, and mushrooms.
2. Stir the softened cream cheese into the sausage mixture until well blended.
3. Coarsely chop the cooked frozen cauliflower.
4. Mix all remaining ingredients and spread in a greased baking dish.
5. Cover with grated Parmesan cheese
6. Bake, covered with foil, at 350º for about 30 minutes.
2. Uncover and bake until hot and bubbly and the top is lightly browned, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 7, 2016:

The sun was peeking through the clouds, casting a glow on a beach in New Zealand. Of course, the scene would have been more impressive had it not been so late in the evening. For more photos, please click here.

How to avoid getting kicked-off a flight!…

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Have you ever experienced this?