Having lived and worked across four continents, travel has been, and always will be, a huge part of my life. I’ve solo-interrailed across Europe, eaten my way through Egypt, and even heard a tiger roar in the Sumatran jungle (I live to tell the tale!).
At university, I studied French and Russian, which opened up incredible opportunities to explore more parts of the world I hadn’t yet experienced. My year abroad took me first to the Baltics, then to Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan) for the Russian-speaking side of my degree, followed by a move to Montréal to immerse myself in French-speaking Canada. I completely fell in love with Canada, using my weekends to explore the cities and nature on the East.
With Audley, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to return to Canada and explore even more of its breathtaking landscapes. My most recent research trip was a road trip from West to East Canada, uncovering even more of this extraordinary country.
Q&A with Flora
What's the one thing you always pack?
In my free time, I love to paint and draw, so one of my most treasured travel companions is a portable watercolour set and a mini notepad — a very thoughtful gift from a friend. I always take photos, but there’s something so special about capturing a view with a brush and some paints. It slows me down, helps me absorb the moment, and leaves me with a personal, painted memory of the journey.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
On my most recent research trip with Audley to Canada, one experience stood out above all: driving through the incredible Canadian Rockies for the first time. The sheer scale of the mountains was absolutely breathtaking. I kept joking that it felt like I was Homer Simpson, convinced each dramatic mountain scape was just a green screen. I’ve always adored being in the mountains, and this trip reminded me why: cycling and walking through alpine trails, surrounded by fresh pine-scented air and endless views, was pure joy. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best possible way.
Where would you love to travel next?
The list is very, very long! Within Canada, I’m especially drawn to Churchill, seeing polar bears is high on my wishlist. Beyond Canada, my top three destinations next on my list are Japan, Namibia, and Jordan, each offering such rich culture and adventure. One of my biggest dreams is to cycle from the UK all the way to Australia, exploring as many countries as I can along the way.