Step into our world with Matt & Amy, The Gallivanting Geese! Our Personal Adventures category is where we open up about the heart of our travels—the real, raw, and rewarding moments that shape us as a couple and as individuals. Beyond the destinations and dishes, these are the stories of how exploring together (and sometimes apart) brings us closer, sparks joy, fuels creativity, and helps us grow.
From the liberating feeling of reclaiming control on the open road, to the happiness boost from new cultures and shared experiences, the quiet reflections during long drives, the decompression after daily stress, and the little lessons learned along the way—we share it all with honesty and warmth. Expect tales of how travel strengthens relationships, reignites passion for life, inspires personal change, and leaves us with memories that last far longer than any photo.
Whether it’s the excitement of planning our next getaway, the magic of meeting new people, shedding old skins for fresh perspectives, or simply finding peace in the journey, these posts are our invitation to you: come along for the ride, feel the emotions, and maybe discover something about your own adventures too.
Browse our most personal reflections, couple stories, wellness insights from travel, and the heartfelt moments that make gallivanting truly special. Let’s adventure with heart!
Perched dramatically on a promontory overlooking the dark, mysterious waters of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of the most iconic and historically rich sites in the Scottish Highlands. Though now a ruin, the castle’s jagged walls and crumbling towers evoke a turbulent past shaped by war, political upheaval, and clan rivalries. Its strategic location…
A Historic Scottish Retreat Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Culloden House Hotel is a timeless testament to Scotland’s rich history and enduring charm. This elegant Georgian mansion, located just outside Inverness, offered Amy and me a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern luxury and warm Highland hospitality. With…
In 2024, Amy’s son Jaxton reached a significant milestone in every American teenager’s life: high school graduation. Well before this special moment, Amy had envisioned a unique gift for Jax—a senior trip to mark the beginning of his adulthood. Having previously enjoyed a Costco Travel all-inclusive resorts package to Cabo San Lucas on a girls’…
During our recent trip to Scotland, Amy and I knew we had to see Edinburgh, but we didn’t want to limit ourselves to just the city. So, we decided to split our vacation time between Edinburgh and another destination in Scotland. I had never been to the British Isles, let alone Scotland, but I was…
Castles have always held a special place in my heart, sparking my enduring passion for history. In my youth, and still today, I was captivated by their grandeur, particularly the resilience of those ancient stone structures, like the pyramids, that have stood the test of time. Seeing and perhaps even reaching out to touch a…
The first Old World European cathedral I ever enjoyed visiting was Saint Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland. Nestled on the Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh, Saint Giles Cathedral stands as a testament to centuries of history and faith. Dating back to the 12th century, its origins trace to a simple chapel dedicated to…
The Royal Mile, comprising a network of streets nestled in the core of Edinburgh’s Old Town in Scotland, holds profound historical importance. Originally a bustling medieval thoroughfare, its roots stretch back centuries. First introduced in W. M. Gilbert’s “Edinburgh in the Nineteenth Century,” it embodies the very spirit of the city, extending from the renowned…
Having grown up in the northern part of Idaho’s panhandle, I was privileged to have ample opportunities to relish in the splendor of the area’s great outdoors. The region caters to the interests of all nature enthusiasts with its exceptional outdoor offerings, ranging from rivers and lakes to mountains and forests. It’s a true outdoor…
Green Bluff is a scenic agricultural area located about 15 miles north of Spokane, Washington. This picturesque area is known for its abundant fruit orchards, farms, and vineyards, which draw visitors from all over the region every year. Green Bluff is a popular destination for families, couples, and groups of friends looking to experience the…
The Whiskey Barrel Weekend in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho While perusing upcoming local events, we stumbled across an annual event we didn’t know existed in our backyard. Whiskey tasting events + food pairings + learning about spirits crafting from world-renowned experts? WE’RE IN! The event was hosted at the Coeur D’Alene (CDA) Resort on the exquisite…
