ABOUT

Sammy Rae Green

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My Story

Kia Ora! I’m Sammy, a beach-loving Kiwi turned Vancouver Island local.

My love for exploring island destinations has taken me to some of the most stunning and unique places around the world, from the pristine beaches of Rarotonga and Fiji to the breathtaking landscapes of Vancouver Island and the diverse beauty of New Zealand.

I believe that exploring the world’s most stunning island destinations doesn’t have to be expensive. My mission is to help you make your travel dreams a reality with budget-friendly tips, insider knowledge, and amazing travel deals.

While island destinations are my main focus, I also have a special place for solo travel. My solo adventures in Portugal taught me the joys and challenges of travelling the world on my own, and because of this, I’m now a huge advocate for solo female travel!

travel destinations

Some of my favourite countries I’ve visited from around the world

Moraine Lake, Canada

📍 Canada

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📍 Portugal

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📍 Greece

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📍 Bali

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📍 Thailand

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📍 Mexico

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📍 Philippines

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📍 Rarotonga

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📍 Fiji

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📍 Samoa

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📍 Australia

My solo travel journey

As much as I loved growing up in New Zealand, I was on a mission to explore as much of the world as I could. But with the closest international trip being a 3-and-a-half-hour flight away, I had to use my annual leave pretty strategically to make the most of my holidays while working full-time.

In 2019 I decided to leave New Zealand to travel solo, it was one of the scariest but one of most amazing things I’ve ever done. Looking back I realise how young I was and why my parents were so scared (sorry mum and dad!) but one thing that I learnt pretty quickly is that solo travel isn’t all that scary.

Taking that initial first step is probably the hardest part but as soon as you realise you get to live life on your own terms and spend your days however you want, you really can’t beat that sense of freedom.

This first solo trip was when I discovered, and fell in love, with Portugal. I volunteered in a hostel down in the Algarve, went to the beach most days and didn’t have to pay for accommodation or food – it was the life.

Thanks to my experience, I’m now a HUGE advocate for solo travel! My goal is to give you the confidence to do so.

Ever since my first trip to Canada in 2019, I knew I had to come back – not just for a visit, but to make it my home. There was something about the vibrant cities, the welcoming people, and the breathtaking landscapes that just clicked for me.

Fast forward to now, and here I am, living on the stunning Vancouver Island. This place is a little slice of heaven for anyone who’s got a thing for endless coastlines and lush, mountainous backdrops that look like they’ve been plucked straight out of a postcard.

On the blog, you’ll get an insider’s look into life on Vancouver Island – from its hidden beaches to its most adventurous hiking trails, cozy cafés, and local secrets that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Whether you’re planning your first trip to the island, dreaming of moving here, or just in need of some travel inspo, I’m here to share all the best bits (and maybe some of the not-so-glamorous ones, because let’s keep it real). Expect stories filled with personal anecdotes, practical tips, and my genuine love for this incredible place that I now call home.

So, if you’re ready to fall in love with Vancouver Island, just like I did, you’re in the right spot!

No matter where I travel, New Zealand, with its rugged landscapes and pristine beaches, will always be my home. It’s the place where my love for the outdoors was born, nurtured by the rolling hills and the endless coastline that defines this incredible country.

The beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, with their golden sand and crystal-clear water, hold a special place in my heart and are, without a doubt, my favourite beach destination in the world. Then of course there’s Queenstown with its picturesque landscapes and endless sense of adventure.

I aim to share a piece of this magic with you and give you a bit of insight into what makes this country so special. I’ll take you on a journey through the heart of New Zealand, sharing the hidden gems and cherished memories to give you a bit of insight into what makes this country so special.

So, whether you’re a fellow Kiwi or a curious traveller, join me as I share the very best of New Zealand!