Nutrition and Food Relationship Healing through Travel: 2025 Year in Review: Finding Joy Across 15 Countries

Kassaundra Ferm

30 December 2025

Luang Prabang, Laos

As I write these words from the tranquil banks of the Mekong River in Luang Prabang, Laos, I am struck by the profound beauty of a year well-lived. Watching the sunset paint the sky over this ancient town, where the air is scented with mountain-sourced espresso and the artistry of local textile shops, I find myself reflecting on a journey that spanned 15 countries and three continents.
This year was defined by a singular pursuit: cultivating discipline in both my mind and my body. While I navigated the complexities of international travel, I successfully completed forty-eight credits of my undergraduate degree, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. From a capstone project surveying the food environments of rural and urban Sri Lanka to starting my Master of Science in Nutrition with Liberty University this coming spring, my travels have been a classroom without walls.

The Magic of Southeast Asia

My journey through Southeast Asia was a study in contrasts and cultural warmth. In Vietnam, I found a misty sanctuary in Da Lat. This mountain town offered a refreshing, cool climate and a serene lake, but its true beauty lay in its people; they were the kindest souls I encountered throughout Vietnam.

Penang, Malaysia

In Thailand, my heart returned to Chiang Mai. I have long been enamored by the juxtaposition of the rugged western mountains against the historic Old City, where a tranquil moat encloses a thriving culture of artisanal coffee and endless exploration. Similarly, Canggu, Bali, offered a vibrant, albeit touristy, energy. Beyond the trendy cafes, I found solace in the local warungs, where fresh, nutrient-dense vegetables were abundant, and the locals greeted every day with a smile that made me feel profoundly at home.

In Malaysia, the island of Penang captivated me with its multicultural tapestry. The blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences creates an atmosphere of immense warmth. Staying in a verdant and plant-filled homestay near Little India with my father, we spent our days walking the ocean promenade and enjoying the incredible culinary diversity.

Sri Lanka

South Asia

India challenged and inspired me in equal measure. Kochi stood out as an intellectual and artistic hub; its "Jew Town" offered a window into the history of the Indian Jewish community and its ancient synagogues. The culinary landscape here was distinct; the Keralans cooked a variety of meats that contrasted with the more vegetarian-centric north. Meanwhile, Bangalore impressed me with its modernity—a clean and green city that felt remarkably safe and sophisticated.

In Sri Lanka, the historic fort of Galle felt like a step back in time. My experience was anchored by a beautiful homestay where I was cared for like family, treated with genuine kindness that transcended the typical tourist experience. The rhythmic beauty of the waves and the world-class tea culture made it a place of deep peace and rejuvenation.

European Surprises

Georgian Food!

My time in Europe was a revelation of hidden gems. Tbilisi, Georgia, remains my favorite European capital. Despite the gray, rainy weather, the city radiated joy. I found a "hipster" sanctuary at the Fabrika hostel. I spent my days navigating the city’s hilly, vintage-laden streets, where I savored a culinary tradition that is criminally underrated (yes, Georgian food is incredible).

I was just as surprised by Yerevan, Armenia. Despite its size, the city was alive with energy and had a sophisticated cultural scene. Attending the ballet was a real highlight, stirring feelings of nostalgia and reminding me of Siberia’s stoic beauty. In Moldova, I discovered a fascinating, new landscape marked by Soviet-style architecture and an unexpectedly vibrant cafe culture. It was a place of great value, where I could enjoy a professional ballet performance for just ten euros.

Traveling with my father in Romania, I was captivated by the local "breakfast culture"—mornings filled with homemade cheeses and roasted vegetables. Brasov stood out for its historical significance and lively town squares. Lastly, Gdansk, Poland, offered a stunning port-city vibe. Exploring its university and historic streets in the colorful month of May was truly a highlight of my European trip.

Michigan with Mother and Aunt

The Americas: Family and Peace

The summer brought me back to the United States to reunite with family across Florida, New York, Buffalo, and Michigan. While returning to one’s roots can be a complex experience for mental health, it was a season of cherished memories. I found tranquility at the lake house in Michigan and felt the nostalgia of my childhood while perusing the farmers' markets of New York City. There is a timeless pleasure in the coffee shops of the Lower East Side, Chinatown, and Brooklyn during a New York summer.

In August, a spontaneous trip to Guatemala with my father became one of the year's most spiritually nourishing experiences. From the historic streets of Antigua to the shores of Lake Atitlan, we immersed ourselves in a culture rich in fiber-dense traditional foods and world-class coffee. We stayed at a remote farm, reachable only by boat, a homestay run by an American widower, where the lake's silence and the rhythm of the kayak provided a necessary moment of reflection.

The Discipline Behind the Journey

Throughout this year, I have adhered to a holistic health philosophy. Traveling 6 to 12 miles a day on foot allowed me to discover the "nooks and crannies" of the world while maintaining my physical health. I prioritized whole foods and honored my body as a temple while pursuing my studies with discipline.

Yet, beyond the credits earned and the miles walked, the most enduring lesson of 2025 is the universality of human kindness. Whether in the rural villages of Sri Lanka or the hilly streets of Georgia, I witnessed a shared joy that transcends borders. I thank Jesus Christ for this inherent light found in people across the world.

As a solo female traveler, I encountered moments of difficulty, particularly in the complexities of the South Asian subcontinent. However, the incredible individuals I met along the way were my North Star. I have learned that the actual value of travel is not found in the number of countries visited or the variety of cuisines sampled; it is found in the people who make the journey worthwhile.

I look forward to 2026 with a heart full of gratitude, one course remaining in my undergraduate journey, and the excitement of beginning my Master’s degree. The world is a masterpiece of beauty and kindness, and I am honored to be its student.

2025 Travel Itinerary:

Total Countries Visited: 15

Total Continents Visited: 3 (Asia, Europe, North America)