Cassie Shimek
Cassie Shimek
I’ve learned that traveling can be so many different things. Taking a trip can be relaxing, rejuvenating, adventurous, tiring, challenging, educational, and the list can go on. As a child, my family traveled within the states at least once a year, which in reality looked like six or more people crammed into a vehicle traveling ten plus hours to our destination. Traveling became routine and an expectation. As an adult, I was finally able to take control of my routine annual trips and visit places my husband and I wanted to see. Not only has traveling provided magical opportunities to step away from reality, but also a chance to learn and grow from being exposed and immersed in different cultures.
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Viewing travel as an educational opportunity coincides with the other role I play in life, that of a professor of communication studies and teaching intercultural communication. What better way to enrich the classroom than with personal testimonies based on travel experiences?! Bucket list destinations: Somewhere in the South Pacific - Fiji, Bora Bora, or Moorea in a over water bungalow… so dreamy, relaxing, and magical! I also want to travel all over Italy - Amalfi Coast, Rome, Venice, Sicily, Florence, Tuscany, and the list goes on! Just rent a car and stay at B&B’s or vacation rentals as we move from place to place. (This is basically what we did in Ireland and Scotland). Random fun Facts: My hobbies or favorite pastimes are crocheting and playing disc golf with my husband and my brother. I have a Ph.D. in Communication Studies.
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Mexico is the country we have visited the most, especially when we want to rest, relax, and have fun. A quick flight leads to days laying by the beautiful Caribbean blue waters (most likely with a drink in hand!), catching up on sleep and light reading, entertainment, and more.
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The people and way of life in Costa Rica is all about peace, happiness, and relaxation! Costa Rica has so much to offer: volcanoes, rainforest, and beaches! So, whether you want to soak up the sun, go on an adventure, or connect with the amazing people - Costa Rica has it all. ¡Pura Vida!
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Visiting Ireland and Scotland was a bucket list trip for my husband and I. We feel in love with the castles, loches, highland cows, and beautiful scenery. From tours (Game of Thrones and Outlander) to whiskey tastings to driving our rental car all over both countries - we quickly realized they are magical countries we can’t wait to visit again!