Chasing Adventure: How Creator Renee Buckingham Ran Headfirst Into Love With Europe

If you ask content creator, podcaster, and avid traveller Renee Buckingham how she likes to explore the world, she’s got a couple of different modes.

“I'm all about a trip with a small group of friends to commit to, while also having solo moments among them to recharge. I'm a “get up at 5am” kind of person, so I'm always raring to go. That being said, I think solo travel is one of the best things you can do for your growth. It forces you to interact and navigate your way around a new environment and has produced some of the best connections.”

When she’s looking to travel solo, she turns to Contiki to provide her with the unforgettable experiences that you just don’t get when you’re exploring self-guided. Whether you’re looking to dive deep into the culture of a particular city or country, or you just want to sample everything a continent has to offer, Contiki can power your next trip and unlock core memories you wouldn’t have made otherwise. Buckingham explains, “If you want to see as much of Europe in one go, Contiki was the way to go. 

“There's no way I could have covered that much ground and diversity without them. It's a great way to sample your favourite spots. Mine was Berlin, and YES, I would go back again. I see it as a BIGGER Melbourne. Live music in the park, great art, amazing plant-based eats, fun nightlife and of course some really important history.”

It’s not just the major countries that get ticked off on a European Contiki trip—and as it turns out, some of the less-mentioned countries can provide the most exciting experiences. “I recall our evening in Austria where we were hosted by a local family,” Buckingham says.

“Enjoying schnapps, dancing and telling stories. This was one of the highlights and exactly how I love to travel. Getting to know the local people is the best.”

Looking for a truly memorable feed? For Buckingham, if there's one place you can go in Greece, it's Naoussa Restaurant in Fira, Santorini. “The smashing plates ‘OPA’ experience had my cheeks hurting from laughing and having fun. My other favourite meal was the Maoz Falafel bar in Amsterdam. It was the final day, and you bet I'm a sucker for a DIY bar. Load your pita as big as you need. So simple, but so memorable.”

But what do you do after a big feed? If you ask Buckingham, there’s an excellent way to see the sights of a city—and best of all, it doesn’t cost a cent. “If you run, one of my favourite ways to see a city is to run around it. I covered all the tourist landmarks in one 21.1km run around Paris. It was UNREAL.” She adds, “I had seen the Eiffel Tower online, but to see it in real life is a whole different level of beauty. It truly is mesmerising, and I could stare at it for hours and hours… and people do.”

To make the most of her next Contiki trip, Buckingham’s going in with a slightly different plan. “If I had to do it again, I would get more sleep and rise earlier,” she says.

“I think some of the most beautiful sunsets and peaceful moments happen in the early hours. You can sleep when you get back home. Don’t waste a precious day.”

If you’re chasing love while abroad, then Contiki can help with that too—as a couple of Buckingham’s previous travel buddies can attest to. “Two people from our group got close on the trip during our 30 days in Europe, and now they are happily married with two kids!”

And if you’re weighing up whether travel is the right move for your near future, Buckingham has a simple piece of advice. “Travel has been the biggest joy of my life. I wrote a 4000-word paper in year 12 about the importance of travel for perspective and identity. If you're questioning or waiting to do a trip, do it—I promise the growth, adventure and connection you will get from it will exceed any gift you will ever receive.” 

“Bon Voyage, my friend.”

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Contiki and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Image: Renee Buckingham.