Today’s interview is wit
h Ellie Geronikolos, 26-year-old flight attendant. Based in Toronto, Ellie is always on the go, but somehow managed to also find the time to create MissAdventures , an all-girls travel show. While many travel shows are run by people traveling long-term, MissAdventures tries to show other 20-something women, with full-time jobs and limited budgets, how they can still make a travel a part of their life.
How often do you travel just on your own and not for work? Any opportunity I get. I live for travel, and as soon as I step off the plane in uniform I get back on without it.
How old were you when you made your first big trip or visited another country? I was 9 years old and I went all the way across the ocean to Greece. I was in awe of everything. From the food being served on the airplane, to the kids my own age living such a different life than mine. That trip definitely ignited my travel obsession.
Where has been your favorite place to travel? This is such a hard question because I love so many places for different reasons, and everyday my answer changes. My answer today though would be Bali. I have never seen such a beautiful landscape with one of the richest cultures. I fell in love with the people and the place the moment I got there.
Least favorite? I would have to say Barcelona. Only because within a couple hours my friends and my belongings all got stolen. It’s an amazing city, but my time there was a little tainted.
Hostel or hotel? I am a hostel kind of girl. I don’t necessarily love the sharing of washrooms and low lighting, but it’s the best for meeting new people. I love getting advice from other travellers, and just being in a more social environment. Plus, who needs all those hotel amenities when you came to explore!
Good book recommendation to read while traveling: I am a sucker for guidebooks. I don’t want to miss out on anything, so I cram my head with all the tips I can get.
Best music for long bus rides: I usually fall asleep on buses, so anything mellow. Perhaps some Frou Frou.
Why do you think it’s important for our generation to travel? There are a zillions clichés or quotes that I can use here, but for me it’s just about seeing the world. Opening up your mindset. I know, personally, I figured out what I wanted and who I was by seeing what else was out there. I became independent, spirited, positive and gained knowledge. I don’t think a person can lose from travelling.
One travel tip: Pack less, you are always going to buy more than you thought.
What’s something you wish you had known before: When I was younger I wish I knew how much fun travelling solo could be. It always seemed so scary, and then you do it once and you realize how much fun and relaxed it is. Not to mention, it really opens you up and forces you to be social and involved.
What is the most important thing travel has taught you? I would have to say that the biggest lesson I have learned is to never take anything for granted. I have had the opportunity to visit places all over and meet people and really take into account how much I have, and how lucky I am.
To learn more about Ellie and MissAdventure,s check them out on Facebook and Twitter. You can also follow Ellie’s personal Twitter handle.
Do you know someone who would be a good fit for the Gen Y Wanderers interview series? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter!