Tripper of the Week: Talia K, an American Expat in Sweden
Talia K is an American expat living in Stockholm, Sweden. An avid traveler who's been to over 30 countries, Talia is our Tripper of the Week.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Talia and I grew up in a small town in Eastern Washington called Walla Walla. When I was an undergraduate at Washington State University I studied abroad my junior year in Rome, which sparked my love for traveling and learning languages. I have been living overseas the last five years in both Rome and Stockholm, which I currently call home. Besides traveling I love to bake, read, knit and practice yoga. I love learning about new cultures and people from all over the world and consider myself to be a global citizen. I hope to inspire and encourage others to study abroad or take time to travel!
You've traveled to quite a few countries - which destination has been your favorite so far?
Of the over thirty countries, I would say my favorite place is Rome. I am a bit partial to Rome because it is where I first studied abroad and it changed me for the better. While there I also made some amazing friends, which are some of my best friends today, so it holds a special place for me.
[caption id="attachment_6160" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Rome"][/caption]
That being said, I think Istanbul is the most beautiful city I have ever been to and I would also call it my favorite.
[caption id="attachment_6161" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Istanbul"][/caption]
As the Sweden editor for the online community Wandering Educators, you contribute guest posts about great places to visit there: what are some of your personal favorites?
One of my personal favorites places to visit in Sweden is the Stockholm Archipelago because it is so unique and diverse and there are thousands of islands to choose from. They are not only relaxing and serene but they also offer spectacular beauty and they remind me of a Swedish summer. I also love the archipelago right outside of Götberg (Gothenburg), that is another must see. Småland is another favorite because it is completely picturesque with its rolling hills and red wooden houses, making it look like a postcard.
[caption id="attachment_6162" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Utö in the Stockholm Archipelago"][/caption]
Of the connections you've made with local people during your travels, which one has been the most memorable?
I think the most memorable connection I have made with people is when I studied in Rome and all the friends I made who are still some of my closest friends more than ten years later! We still continue to travel together and experience new things.
[caption id="attachment_6163" align="aligncenter" width="640" caption="Picture of one of my best friends, who I met in Rome, and I in Kotor, Montenegro"][/caption]
What is the most surprising experience you've had during your travels?
What always continues to surprise me as I travel is the openness and generosity I have felt from people willing to share their culture or open up their home to me.
Where do you want to travel next?
I would love to go to Iceland, Jordan and Israel next!
Trippers, you can connect with Talia via her Tripping profile and via the Wandering Educators Network on Tripping.