 |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |  |
 |  |
Anxiety,
fear,
hate...
Why does fear bind our hearts? The unknown can be truly terrifying when shrouded in negativity.
I have been traveling all over the world, sharing memories and culture in hopes of spreading kindness and positivity.
My name is Andrew Chaffin and welcome to my story!
Chicago, Illinois 2019
A story is best spun at the beginning. Let us take a step back to June of 2019. A broke college student, struggling to find his way in the world.
After an intense year of college, I needed an out. I had no idea what my intentions were or what life had in store for me. So I kicked in my study abroad advisor's door and was given the chance of a lifetime, to go to Europe just by writing 3 papers.​
To start off my grand adventure, I ventured to the drug and gang-ridden city, of Chicago, Illinois.
Europe 2019
It was finally time to step foot in another country. The friendly city of Dublin was the first to greet me. A few beers in and I was already on my way to Paris where the language barrier crushed me. However, the beautiful views and delicious baked goods made up for it! After accidentally flooding my Airbnb, I was on a flight to Vienna. I spent my 5 hours in Vienna admiring the gorgeous buildings and stunning sunset. I admired the sunset too much, because I found myself boarding my flight to Macedonia missing a few things.
I had finally arrived at my destination, Macedonia. I spent the next few weeks perusing the bazaars of the capital and partying with friends on the beaches of Ohrid. The trip went by so fast that I was already departing for my final stop. No trip to Europe is complete without a quick nap outside the Buckingham palace at 3 AM in London.
Saint Louis, Missouri 2020
With a summer full of eye opening experiences behind me I needed to figure out what I was going to do next. I had begun a path in the medical field not too long ago, but I knew that was not for me. I wanted to inspire others to go out into the world to create their own adventures through photography and storytelling. Thus, Andrew the Wanderer was created! With nothing planned, it was time to explore my hometown for new adventures, which took longer than expected, so enjoy some beautiful photos from around the city.
Seattle, Washington 2020
While exploring my hometown, I had an epiphany to visit one of my dream destinations to live in - Seattle. With a love for water, mountains, and city life, it seemed like the perfect fit. However, I quickly realized the downside of the city, the cold breeze from Elliot Bay in winter was bone chilling! The city's location on the water, offering up some of the best seafood and scenic views I have experienced, made up for it though.
Cape Town, South Africa 2021
A year after my last journey, I learned the difference between motivation and inspiration. All my previous adventures were motivated by emotions. However, my next grand adventure was inspired by my favorite YouTuber Casey Neistat. His adventures and stories of Cape Town had me brimming with excitement. Not only that, everyone I knew urged me not to go, saying it was too dangerous.
I'm glad I didn't listen!
The Table mountain Range was home to the most amazing people and trails I had ever experienced. The city would glow a beautiful orange on the Atlantic coast during sunset. The waterfront would be covered with people wanting to see it!
Saint Louis Zoo 2022
When I arrived back in the United States, I was missing the wildlife of Cape Town!
So I went to the next best thing, the St. Louis Zoo. I might be biased, but this has to be one of the best zoos in the country! It houses so many different kinds of animals, like: Lions, Seals, Snakes, Gorillas and so on. To top it all off, the Zoo is completely free to visit!
Orlando, Florida 2022
Full of nostalgia and passion I decided to look into to other places from my past, hoping to find inspiration. At that moment a golden opportunity presented itself.
Orlando, Florida is home to many wonderful things. The most important being it plays host to Disney World, one of the biggest melting pots in the world. It is a place that brings people from all over the world together to make wonderful memories! It also was the first vacation I ever took in my life, this trip would be filled with nostalgia and new experiences.
​
Epcot is my favorite of all the parks!
Spain 2022
My desire to show people that there was still good in the world was burning brightly. As the gas crisis and war in Europe was heating up, I decided to go see how everyone was affected first hand.
Backpacking Spain with friends has become my favorite memory. The days were filled with biking, eating, hiking and partying. I had completely forgotten about the gas crisis and war when the World Cup started. The passion of Barcelona exploded after each game. It seemed like no matter the struggles, everyone was coming together to enjoy themselves!
I will definitely be returning!
France 2022
France... a place that has caused me a lot of trouble in the past. I was ready to give it a second chance when France announced all trains were on strike. I was stuck in Spain... A 9 hour bus ride later and I was in Marseille.
A city of undeniable beauty, as it sits on the Mediterranean. A waterfront walk is highly recommended! It is also known for having a slightly more dangerous side on the North so be cautious.
I eventually found myself back in Paris, in a hostel that reminded me of a prison. I have to admit that I had doubts about returning after my trip in 2019. However, the amount of history from the Louvre to the Catacombs changed my mind. The amazing friends I made and the delicious baked goods helped as well!
Netherlands 2022
Recreational "activities"?
I had never really considered going to Amsterdam, but my friends said it was a must! I am glad that I listened to them!​
​
The city would glisten as the sunlight reflected off the beautiful canals onto the buildings. The streets were lined with shops and restaurants that would keep you busy for hours! The wonderous Zaanse Schans, was an hour away and well worth the trip! It is full of flowers and windmills on the Zaan river.
Germany 2022
Germany, a place the entire world knows of. The country is full of history and emotions. I am excited and nervous to be experiencing it first hand!
Cologne was a very beautiful town and had some delightful Christmas Markets. As unusual as it may seem I also really loved the beauty of Melatenfriedhof, the major cemetery of the city.
Berlin was completely different, it was full of massive and sturdy looking buildings. The overall atmosphere was very serious. However, that was just on the surface, everyone was really friendly once I started talking to them! I am a little sad that I did not get to experience the famous night life of Berlin, I will definitely be back!
Switzerland 2022
The country was filled with the most beautiful of snowcapped mountains and lakes. It was very peaceful friendly everywhere I went.
Bern was built on a river bend giving it a very unique layout with many bridges. The city had some of the most beautiful architecture I had ever seen, for now... and by far the most beautiful Christmas Market. The Bern Star Market was full of amazing food, drinks, people and lights! I urge you to visit in wintertime just so you can experience this!
Then there is Interlaken, I felt like I was on another planet. I fell in love with every single detail of the town except the price. However, it is worth the price!
Milan, Italy 2022
I was unsure of what to expect from Milan, Italy as I traveled through the Swiss Alps. I had heard next to nothing about the city, except that it was fancy. With a fresh perspective, it was time to explore!
From the most stunning of architecture to the most delicious food, Milan had it all! The city was overflowing with so many shops and churches that I needed a rest day before heading to Venice!
My final day in Milan was spent resting in the thermal baths at QC Termemilano. The most memorable and refreshing place I had ever been to! From a beautiful movie room to ancient ruin themed pools, there were so many places to unwind!
Venice, Italy 2022
I had always dreamed of visiting Venice, Italy since I was a little kid. I have always been in love with coastal towns, and the thought of a city being built on the water was enchanting!
As my train arrived on the island of Venice, Italy, I could not believe my eyes! There were zero cars, only boats and water.
The city itself was very maze like, making for a fun adventure around every corner. I quickly became a sucker for all the lemon flavored treats and the gelato. I spent all of Christmas wandering the narrow canals taking it all in!
That was when I learned that one of the biggest carnivals was held on the island every February and I just had to come back!
Tuscany, Italy 2022
To spend Christmas in Venice and New Years in Florence was a wonderous experience.
I boarded my train with so much excitement, I could not help making an overnight stop in Bologna for the some of the delicious food and beautiful towers.
With no time to lose, I was already heading for Florence. The city was more beautiful than I had ever imagined! The city boomed with excitement as New Years Eve approached. Caught up in the moment I ate an entire Florentine steak (2 lbs.) and almost died. That night, the entire city was overwhelmed with drinks, food, fireworks and music! A night to remember!
I also could not help taking a day tour to Sienna, San Gimignano and Pisa. Tuscany was truly a dream destination!
Rome, Italy 2022
With an intense New Years Eve celebration behind me, I was making my way to one of the most famous places in the world, Rome, Italy.
With the standards set by all the other Italian cities, I had my hopes high for Rome. I will say I was slightly disappointed, which was my own fault for only staying 3 days and a very bad booking. However, I felt the life of the city as I wandered around the stunningly lit colosseum at night. All the buildings glowed a beautiful orange color and the streets were filled laughter and delicious food. Even in the day time it was nearly impossible to get around to Pantheon, the Trevi fountain and the Vatican.
As I entered the Vatican I was in complete shock by the massive and beautiful structures. I also had no idea that the Sistine Chapel was there and missed out...
Naples, Italy 2023
The biggest workout I received during my 4 months in Europe was Naples, Italy. I never realized how intense a city built on the side a "hill" could be.​
However,
I fell in love with the city in an instant, from dining on the most delicious food in all of Italy to the beautiful sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea. I almost forgot that the ancient city of Pompeii was right next door.
Pompeii was a very weird place for me, you could hear children running around and the laughter from the other tourists. However, you could feel a true loneliness, an immense feeling of emptiness.
Palermo, Sicily 2023
I thought to myself, it's not that far. If you look at the map Naples and Sicily are pretty close so lets go. I was not ready for a 10 hour train ride!
Upon arrival I was stunned by the most amazing views of the sea and mountains. I spent most of my time at the stunning waterfront taking in the views of the mountains. Then for some reason, I decided to walk 2 hours to the mountain and hike it for 5 hours. After the grueling trek back to the city, I was so tired I could barely stand. Therefore, I did what any sane person would do, I dined on the Sicily's famous cannoli and passed out. I then tried swimming in the beautiful freezing waters of the Mediterranean Sea and partied all night with new found friends before my train back to Naples! I was horribly sick.
Malta 2023
I found myself on a flight from Naples, Italy to my brothers dream destination of Malta. I had no idea what Malta had or where it even was, but I wanted to capture its beauty!
I fell in love with the island almost immediately. I stayed in St. Julian's Inħawi Hostel with an absolutely stunning view of the bay and delicious breakfast. I ventured across the isle to the stunning golden beach and the red tower before sailing to the isle of Gozo just north of Malta. From rolling hills, to beachside caves to stunning towns, the isle of Gozo has it all! I wrapped up my journey in Malta in the magnificent city of Valletta before flying to Cairo, Egypt!
Egypt 2023
In the midst of a massive 4 month trip to Europe, I decided to visit a whole other continent! My journey to Cairo, Egypt was filled with anticipation and excitement, so much that I could hardly sit in my seat on the plane!
I spent an entire day being hassled by the desperate beggars of the pyramids. I got so annoyed that I ran off into the desert, which was the best decision I made. Watching the massive pyramids in the distance was so peaceful. The next day, I pondered the thought of taking a camping trip into the white desert so much that I actually ran out of time to do it. On my 3rd and final day I planned on seeing the city on my way back to the airport, but I got scammed by multiple drivers and decided to head back to the airport. I was under prepared, Egypt is a must see place, just plan ahead!
Greece 2023
I rarely find myself in a position where I feel extreme peace and wonder. However, Greece was the exception!
As I flew from Cairo to Athens, I could see all the beautiful islands of Greece basking in the sunlight. When I landed I honestly had no idea what there was to do, so I started walking. I stumbled upon the most beautiful of ruins and food. I could have sat by the Acropolis overlooking the city for hours! Time flew by in an instant.
I was boarding my flight to Santorini before I knew it and I was scared. The entire island was calling for intense storms over the weekend. Thankfully, the news lied and I was greeted with the most amazing view I had ever seen, islands as far as the eye could see. I walked the entire island exploring beaches and towns for days. I was walking back very late one night when all of the stars came out. At that moment, I knew I was in love with Greece!
Budapest, Hungary 2023
After arriving in Budapest late at night, I couldn't see anything. However, I was in for a big surprise when I woke up to the sight of stunning gothic buildings, the aroma of goulash in the air, and a castle on a hill. I spent hours running around the streets seeing as much as I could. That was when it happened, I fell on my camera for the second time this trip. Luckily, it only got covered in mud! Over the next few days I kept hearing about thermal baths and I just had to check them out for myself! Szechenyi Baths was absolutely amazing, the sky filled with tons of steam and snow as I relaxed below!
Vienna, Austria 2023
I couldn't contain my excitement as I arrived in Vienna, my next destination! Even though I had visited before, this trip was going to be a whole new experience. I was determined explore the stunning historic center that I had missed out on last time. And of course, I couldn't wait to indulge in the delectable pastries once again!
If you're a lover of city lights, you absolutely have to visit Vienna on a snowy winter day. The entire city center is aglow with a captivating orange hue that will leave you in shock.
Prague, Czech Republic 2023
Wow, let me tell you about the amazing adventure I had in Prague! Despite the bitterly cold night when I departed Vienna, the beautiful glow of the city warmed me up in an instant. I walked every inch of the city over the next few days and every day was an adventure! The nights were even better, partying with new friends and strolling through the castle-like streets with a drink in hand. I absolutely loved it! But now, it's time depart for Copenhagen and see what other adventures await me!
Copenhagen, Denmark 2023
When I boarded my train in Berlin, I thought I had experienced true cold. I could not have been more wrong. Starting with Copenhagen, my body felt like it was shutting down due to the temperature.
The city felt modern and old at the same time. I wandered around for quite sometime and I accidentally stumbled upon the Royal Library. It was an absolute marvel! After a quick pasty I wandered straight into Nyhavn, a beautiful and colorful part of the city built right on the water! The city had captured my heart within just two days, but as always it was time to move on!
Sweden 2023
I thought I was going to die... When I disembarked from my train in Stockholm, I felt my bones shiver. However, this was just the beginning. Stockholm was stop #2, Kiruna, a town far to the North in the artic circle was stop #1.
My goal was to capture the Northern Lights on camera, but I missed them by 10 minutes. I ended up making friends and exploring the town until I went back to Stockholm. However, my train was canceled and I ended up having to stay an extra night. Stockholm was an absolute frozen marvel. The entire city captured my heart in an instant! From the architecture to the people, I was never bored! I walked as much of that city as I possibly could before flying to London!
United Kingdom 2023
This has to be my biggest album so far, and I hope you stay till the end for some amazing night photos!
​
Arriving around midnight, I could not help heading straight for River Thames! I have always adored a night time walk along the river. However, with two weeks in London, I had to find a little bit more to do... that's when I remembered! I promised a good friend of mine I would visit Stonehenge. Salisbury was the nearest town to Stonehenge so I decided to spend the whole day exploring this beautiful town! Stonehenge was very peaceful. Ad my time in the United Kingdom came to an end, I tried to visit Scotland but a train strike happened last second! Before I knew it, I was flying back to the United States...
New York 2023
My first step back into the United States in 3 months. I forgot how difficult the public transportation was in the United States, it took me nearly 2 hours to figure out how to get from JFK airport to Manhattan.
My first day in the big apple. I was brimming with energy to the point where I walked 30 miles in one day! I saw all of Central Park, I climbed the Empire State Building, walked all the way to lower Manhattan, tried New York pizza at Scars, and finally saw the Rockefeller Center and Times Square at Night! I was lucky, I thought I had another day in New York, but it turns out I was wrong. I woke up with only a few hours to spare. I quickly sprinted to the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty! Then it happened, my long winter journey came to a close, I was back home...
Las Vegas 2023
After spending 3.5 months abroad, I expected to hunker down at a stable job before my next trip. However, I found myself boarding a flight to Las Vegas almost 2 months later!
I was completely broke and heading to the gambling capital of the world. To my surprise I did not gamble almost at all. I enjoyed an interesting show by the Blue Man group and got quite an unusual souvenir. The rest of my time was dedicated to trying to explore the entire strip, eating and climbing! I have to say, spending all day climbing massive boulder formations out at the Red Rocks was one of my favorite moments from that trip! As I was laying down for bed that night, I got offered a very weird way to end off my trip.
How could I say no!
So I spent the last day in Las Vegas getting a $5 tattoo!
Argentina 2023
I thought a trip to Las Vegas right after Europe was wild. That was before I ended up in Argentina, Brazil and Peru only a few months later. Right after I left Las Vegas, I began planning a trip for my birthday. I ended up choosing Peru for Machu Picchu and invited my friends from Spain. They told me no almost immediately because they would be in Argentina a month earlier. However, they invited me with them. So naturally I said yes!
I ended being delayed multiple times and missed my entire first day in Buenos Aires. Once I had landed, we had to turn around and fly to Iguazu, a dream destination for any adventurer. We were in the heart of the jungle surrounded by waterfalls on the border of Argentina and Brazil. We spent our time crossing between the two countries exploring the waterfalls and eating as much as we could! We eventually returned to Buenos Aires for sight seeing and more eating. It has to be one of my favorite food capitals of the world!
Peru 2023
As I returned to United States for one of my shortest stays ever, I was already thinking about my next trip. It would be my first solo trip since Cape Town, South Africa back in 2021. I also only had a little over a month to prepare for the most unexpected trip of my life!
I planned a 3 day layover in the capital of Lima to see what the country had to offer and I was thoroughly ​impressed with all the markets and food the city had to offer. On my last night in Lima I went to a club where I met the most amazing person who would end up becoming my wife!
When I arrived in Cusco I was a little nervous. It had been so long since I solo traveled and I did no research at all. However, I fell in love with the city instantly. I was able to do a 4 wheeler tour of the Sacred Valley, have a party with my hostel roommates and make my train for Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu. I was so happy I booked Huayna Picchu as well, I was able to see the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu from above. The only thing I regret was I did not realize you can hike from Cusco all the way to Machu Picchu on a multi day hike!
Costa Rica 2024
While in Peru, I met the most amazing person. While traveling back through Lima on my way home, we scheduled an airport date to get to know each other better! During that date we decided to stay in contact and planned a trip to Costa Rica together!
We met in Costa Rica two months later to celebrate New Years together. It was such a wild adventure that on our first day we ended up climbing a volcano! I also fell in love with the Starbucks Farm Hacienda Alsacia for its stunning views and design! During our stay in the capital, San Jose, we ran into so many issues with public transport and lack of things to do. So naturally we rented a car and explored the entire west coast from Tortuga island to Adrenal Volcano all the way to the Guanacaste province. After 10 days we were horribly sunburnt, but extremely happy with the beautiful countryside of Costa Rica. Most of all, we were sad because our trip had come to an end.
