A look back on a whirlwind journey through North America and Europe in 2024 and its transformative travel adventures.
Some years quietly tiptoe past, leaving only a whisper of memories. But then there are years like 2024—bold, loud, and transformative, the kind that demands you to live fully, deeply, and sometimes chaotically. It was a year of seemingly infinite flight paths, heartfelt reunions, and, yes, the occasional travel mishap.
From the bustling streets of Toronto to the sun-drenched shores of Calabria, 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to embrace the world with arms wide open, here’s a look back at my 2024 travel journey—full of excitement, surprises, and (as to be expected in the life of Emily) a sprinkling of chaos to make things everything extra interesting.
The Best of Toronto Starting my 2024 Travel
Starting off my year, Toronto remained my anchor—my city that buzzes with creativity, culture, and culinary wonders. The Canadian Opera Company’s 2023-24 season swept me away with its sheer brilliance. Each performance felt like a grand escape into another world, where emotions were heightened, and the music lingered long after the curtain fell. While I had seen Fidelio and La Bohème at the tail end of 2023, the continuation of the season into the new year brought along The Cunning Little Vixen, Don Giovanni, Don Pasquale, and Medea. For the second year, I brought my cousins along with me to show them how incredible the arts are and share my love of opera with them, which is something that is equally important as it was special to me spending one-on-one time with them before I left the country.
I also found myself transported by Mirvish’s Les Misérables at the Princess of Wales Theatre. It was impossible not to be moved by the raw emotion of the performers, and I left the theatre with Do You Hear the People Sing? stuck in my head for days (then again, I often catch myself humming the soundtrack to this musical—it’s one of my favourites).
For a different kind of magic, I attended a breathtaking concert by Joe Hisaishi, whose iconic Studio Ghibli scores—think Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro—came alive with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. There’s something about hearing those notes played live that tugs at your heart and makes the world feel like a Miyazaki dream. Plus, I'm not going to lie, I got a little teary-eyed when he came back for the encore of Merry Go Round of Life from Howl’s Moving Castle, which is my favourite Ghibli movie…but also, I generally get teary-eyed and emotional whenever I hear orchestras play.
Of course, no year in Toronto would be complete without indulging in its vibrant food scene—after all, it’s not all about the arts. Sud Forno on Yonge Street became my go-to for Italian food (since all of their ingredients, I’ve been told by staff, are imported from Italy), while Fresh on Front kept my plant-based cravings satisfied with creative, flavourful dishes. There are so many amazing spots in the city to eat, and I love finding new places to check out as much as I love revisiting tried-and-true favourites.
Amid all the eating and cultural outings, I also found time for nature walks with friends, backyard picnics with my cousins, and countryside drives that reminded me of Ontario’s quiet beauty.
Jasper National Park for a Wedding in the Rockies
One of the most memorable stops this year was a trip to Edmonton and Jasper for my cousin’s wedding. The ceremony took place in the heart of the Rockies, with Jasper’s majestic peaks standing as a breathtaking backdrop. There’s something undeniably magical about attending a wedding surrounded by nature’s grandeur, and Jasper didn’t disappoint. The crisp mountain air, the stark white snow, and the sheer vastness of the landscape created a perfect blend of awe and serenity, making it a celebration I’ll never forget.
While the wedding was the highlight, I also had the chance to explore some new parts of Jasper National Park while we went around to take photos (I was in the wedding party!). It felt like discovering a new side of an old friend—winding trails leading to hidden lakes, panoramic views that stretched for miles, and the quiet moments where the only sound was the rustling of the trees. It’s both humbling and exhilarating to witness such raw beauty in places like this, knowing that this pristine wilderness has been cherished by so many for generations.
What made this visit even more special, in hindsight, is that just a few months later, much of the park would be impacted by wildfires. Seeing Jasper’s stunning landscapes before nature took its course now feels like a gift—a reminder of the fragile beauty of our world. It made me appreciate the privilege of being able to witness it in all its glory, and to hold those memories close, knowing they were fleeting.
Northern Ontario Charm
While Toronto offers the pulse of city life, Northern Ontario has been a place that I often go to for peace and quiet and to see my family; in fact, I would go after my winter exams every April while in university to decompress and spend time with my cousins for a couple of weeks!
Here, despite it not being flashy or overflowing with an abundance of things to do, life slowed down in the best way possible. We drove north to Elliot Lake for a few days, where thrift shopping became a treasure hunt, each antique shop and record store offering its own slice of nostalgia. I can still taste the hearty meals from Fireside Classic Grill, where good food shared with my mom and cousins made for an amazing evening.
Better yet was cooking together with my cousins, with their dog Ellie eagerly waiting for scraps. We laughed a lot, experimented with recipes, and shared family stories. It was bittersweet, too, as it was our last time seeing Chloe before she moved to Ireland. Those moments reminded me how wonderful family time is, no matter how far the miles stretch between us (but now that we’re both in Europe, we’re going to try to figure out a trip to see each other soon).
Vitamin D and Turning 30 in Calabria
Leaving Toronto behind and landing back in Calabria after ten months felt like stepping into a sun-drenched dream. Southern Italy has a way of embracing you with its warmth—not just from the Mediterranean sun, but from the people, the culture, and the slower pace of life.
From the moment I arrived, it was as though time slowed down, allowing me to fully savour every moment. Calabria welcomed me back with open arms, its rugged coastline and charming towns the perfect backdrop for another beautiful summer. I spent countless days lounging on the beach, where the turquoise waters lapped gently against the shore and the sea breeze carried with it the scent of salt in the air.
Most nights were spent talking late into the night—or rather, the early hours of the morning—with family and friends. We shared meals that lasted hours, full of chatter and plates piled high with deep-fried vegetables, pasta, cheeses, and bread. I practised my Italian as much as I could, forever grateful for the patient encouragement from everyone. God knows my accent is far from perfect, and I’m constantly using the wrong words and bad grammar, but I am getting there slowly.
Calabria also gave me the chance to dive deeper into the local traditions. For the second year in a row, I volunteered at the Sagra di Pipi e Patate, a vibrant festival dedicated to the simple but delicious combination of peppers and potatoes (a dish I made while living on my own whenever I felt homesick for the south). The whole town came alive with music, dancing, and the irresistible aroma of frying peppers filling the air.
After, there was the Festa di San Francesco, with the numerous processions ending on the final day with fireworks. Somewhere amidst all of this, I turned 30, a particularly poignant milestone. I spent the day basking in the sun at the beach, which was really the only thing I felt like doing as one decade rolled into the next for me. Is there a more peaceful way to start your 30s? I think not.
In the evening, there was an outdoor closing mass for the celebratory weekend, followed by an auction that marked the end of the Festa. It was the perfect way to embrace the next chapter of my life.
Returning to City Life in Milan
After the warmth of Calabria, Milan offered a different kind of allure—though, I would discover, not one that I was so aligned with anymore. Settling into a city I had only briefly visited before was both exhilarating and challenging. Milan’s energy is electric, and I found myself intrigued by its blend of history and modernity (though not in love). It’s like when you go on a date, and there’s no spark, but they’re not a bad person, and you get along with them well enough. It’s just that there’s no hope for anything more to come of it, even if you decide to go on a second date (which you probably won’t).
Nonetheless, exploring the Duomo’s rooftop views felt surreal, as did its beautiful museum. As well, every corner of the Pinacoteca di Brera offered glimpses into Italy’s art between the 13th and 20th centuries, including the gorgeous Palazzo Brera. After all, this is the main public gallery for paintings in all of Milan!
What truly captivated me, though, was Milan’s fashion scene. I’ve always loved beautiful clothing, but Milan deepened my appreciation for the artistry behind every seam and fabric. I wandered through boutiques, marvelling at the craftsmanship and embracing a newfound passion for dressing beautifully. Milan has a way of making you fall in love with elegance, and I leaned into it wholeheartedly.
Meeting Friends in England
After spending a couple of weeks in Milan, I embarked on a three-week holiday to England, a trip that felt like both a reunion and an adventure. I finally met one friend in person, a close friend I’d bonded with since 2020 when we met on Instagram. Despite only ever chatting online and having semi-regular video calls, seeing her in person was effortless—we already knew each other’s quirks and stories, so it was more like catching up with an old friend.
Then, there was my long-time friend from Brighton, who originally brought me to the United Kingdom to the Manchester area back in 2017. Our friendship, also forged online through work and solidified in person, has weathered years and oceans, and seeing her again was like picking up right where we left off.
While reconnecting with friends was the heart of the trip, England’s rich cultural offerings filled my days. Liberty’s department store was another highlight—its Christmas collection was so enchanting; I had to remind myself that my suitcase had limited space as much as I had to remember that I am not a good seamstress yet and spending hundreds of pounds on fabric would be a waste.
I spent hours and hours wandering the halls of the V&A Museum, captivated by its endless treasures. I visited four times and still left feeling like there was more to explore. The National Gallery and the British Museum became sanctuaries for my art-loving heart, while the Natural History Museum offered a refreshing dip into the sciences. I really enjoyed the Queen’s House Gallery, with its sweeping staircases and maritime art, and marvelled at the Roman amphitheatre ruins hidden beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery.
Of course, not every moment was smooth during this trip. My first Airbnb in London turned out to be a disaster—a grimy flat in a super sketchy neighbourhood that looked nothing like its listing. After a tense evening, I found refuge in a cute little studio apartment in Shoreditch, and it turned out to be the perfect spot. From there, I explored London’s vibrant streets, admired Big Ben, wandered around the outskirts of Westminster Abbey, and soaked in the city's vibrant energy. I even braved Tate Modern, but as much as I tried to appreciate it, modern art is still far from being my cup of tea.
Despite the occasional hiccup, the trip was enjoyable, albeit a bit too long at the end (it felt dragged out I was travelling on my own for the last 9 days)—reconnecting with cherished friends, immersing myself in history, and creating memories for myself. By the end, I was more than ready to head back to Italy, but England had left a mark on my heart with its mix of warm friendship, rich culture, and a few unforgettable surprises. Not to mention that the week in London was the first time that I travelled day in and day out, all by myself.
Back to my Roots in Malta
After returning to Milan for only a day and a half, I packed my bags again for a trip to Malta, a place that has always held a special place in my heart. This time, it was even more meaningful because my mom joined me, and we had the privilege of partnering with Visit Malta.
For me, Malta isn’t just a beautiful Mediterranean island—it’s my nana’s homeland, the place she spoke of with such longing and pride. Walking through the sun-soaked streets of Mdina, often called the ‘Silent City,’ felt like stepping back in time. The ancient city walls whisper stories of the past, and every cobblestone is its own tribute to the island nation’s history.
We stayed at My Travel House, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of nearby Rabat, where every detail, from the warm hospitality to the chic décor, felt like home. Dining was a highlight of our trip, with a lineup of Michelin-starred and guide-recommended restaurants. Each meal was a masterpiece, whether it was traditional Maltese dishes infused with modern flair or dessert enjoyed while overlooking the sea.
The Heritage Malta pass also opened the door to Malta’s rich archaeological wonders. We explored ancient temples older than the pyramids, marvelled at intricate mosaics, and soaked in the stories of Malta’s layered past. For a history enthusiast like me, it was pure bliss.
Then, of course, there was the cooking class at Ta’ Xmun Olive Grove—truly a dream come true. Michela, our pastizzi-making instructor, showed us how to fold the flaky pastry dough just right. We filled them with creamy Maltese irkotta and curried peas, reminiscing about how my nana used to make them. The accompanying olive oil tasting, led by the passionate and knowledgeable Charles, was equally unforgettable.
This trip wasn’t just a little vacation; it was a homecoming, a chance to honour my roots yet again, all while making new memories with my mom. Malta reminded me that travel is not just about seeing new places—it’s about feeling deeply connected to where you come from and where you are going.
Exploring Northern Italy
Finally, I found myself back in Milan for the final month of my solo 2024 travel adventures. During this time, I was able to explore Italy’s northern regions, which offer a treasure trove of day-trip opportunities. Each destination is unique and captivating in its own way!
Along with my cousins who are living in the north, I set out to discover cities and towns that perfectly encapsulate Italy’s rich history and charm. Bergamo stole my heart with its Città Alta, a medieval upper town where cobblestone streets wind past ancient buildings and offer breathtaking views.
In Como, we wandered along the sparkling lake, marvelling at the serene beauty that has drawn travellers for centuries. That same day, we continued to Brunate, which offered a different kind of wonder, with its funicular ride that led from the town of Como to stunning panoramic vistas of Lake Como from above.
Sarnico, with its lakeside tranquillity, provided the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll, while Torino (Turin) dazzled with its sophisticated architecture and vibrant cultural scene. I found myself enchanted by Torino’s grand piazze and rich history, a perfect way to end any adventure before I packed up my things to head back south. These day trips added another layer to my Italian experience, each journey revealing more of the country’s rich tapestry and leaving me in awe of its endless beauty.
All in All
As the year draws to a close, I’ve now returned to Calabria, ready to spend the holidays with family during my first Christmas out of Toronto. Reflecting on 2024, I feel such immense gratitude for the adventures, the people, and the growth that I’ve been able to experience this year. It reminded me of the beauty of embracing the unknown and the joy of discovering the world.
If 2024 taught me anything, it’s that the world is vast, beautiful, and waiting to be explored. Life is so short—I’m happy to be making the most of it.
I so can’t wait to be able to travel and actually enjoy myself without having my toddler distract me every 2 seconds. I’ll be sure to save this page.