Meet Daiva Petrauskas
Labas! I'm Daiva, a Lithuanian-Canadian travel enthusiast with a passion for exploring the world, one cultural gem at a time. Originally from Kėdainiai, Lithuania, I now call Toronto, Canada, home. Here, I live with my wonderful husband, James, and our bright daughter, Eglė. While I work as an administrative assistant, my true calling is travel. I created this blog to share my family's adventures, provide practical travel tips, and inspire you to embark on your own journeys. Whether you're a budget-conscious traveler, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking authentic experiences, I hope my stories will ignite your wanderlust. Join me as I uncover the beauty and diversity of our world, one trip at a time!
- Curious
- Adaptable
- Organized
- Empathetic
- Patient
- Paris, France
- Beijing, China
- Rome, Italy
- Agra, India
- Machu Picchu, Peru
Latest Travel Diaries by Daiva Petrauskas
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12 Day TripFamily Adventure in Tarragona: History and Culture UnveiledDiscover Tarragona's rich history and vibrant culture on a family adventure, exploring ancient ruins, charming streets, and local delights.
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11 Day TripAdventurous Trek to Choquequirao with FriendsJoin Daiva Petrauskas and friends on an unforgettable 11-day trek to Choquequirao, exploring the hidden wonders of Peru's Andes mountains.
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11 Day TripFamily Adventure in The Burren: Exploring Ireland's Limestone ParadiseJoin us as we explore The Burren's unique landscapes and rich history in Ireland, creating unforgettable family memories.
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10 Day TripSolo Art Exploration on Naoshima IslandDiscover the vibrant art scene of Naoshima Island on a solo adventure, exploring cultural treasures and staying at a cozy lodge.
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11 Day TripCultural Immersion in Kanazawa: A Solo JourneyDiscover the cultural gems of Kanazawa on a solo journey, exploring samurai heritage, traditional teahouses, and savoring local seafood cuisine.
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14 Day TripCharming Kyoto: A Cultural Adventure with FriendsExplore the cultural wonders of Kyoto with friends, as you experience traditional temples, vibrant markets, and cherry blossoms in full bloom.
More about Daiva Petrauskas
Daiva grew up in the cozy town of Kėdainiai, Lithuania, surrounded by a close-knit family and rich cultural traditions. After graduating from Vilnius University, she sought new opportunities abroad and moved to Toronto, Canada, where she met her Irish husband, James. While working as an administrative assistant, Daiva nurtures her passion for travel and shares her experiences on Evendo, hoping to inspire others to explore the world.
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47
Age
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Female
Gender
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Administrative Assistant
Occupation
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Lithuania
Birth Country
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Kėdainiai
Birth City
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Canada
Current Country
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Toronto
Current City
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Married
Marital Status
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James O'Connell, Male, 50
Spouse
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Children
- Eglė O'Connell, Female, 16
Interest
- History
- Culture
- Photography
- Culinary Arts
- Gardening
Hobbies
- Foraging for mushrooms and berries in local parks
- Attending Lithuanian cultural events in Toronto
- Learning about Canadian history and culture
- Trying new recipes from around the world
- Exploring Toronto's diverse neighborhoods
Recent Articles & Tips by Daiva Petrauskas
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Travel AdviceExploring the World Through Festivals and EventsDiscover the joy of experiencing local festivals and events as a gateway to cultural understanding.
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Travel AdviceConnecting with Locals: Building Relationships on the RoadLearn to build meaningful connections with locals during your travels for richer experiences.
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Travel AdviceTravel Journaling: Capturing Your Journey Through WordsDiscover how to use journaling as a tool to enhance your travel experiences and preserve memories.
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Travel AdviceNavigating Language Barriers: Communicating Across CulturesTips for overcoming language barriers while traveling and connecting with locals.
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Travel AdviceTraveling Green: Eco-Friendly Travel TipsLearn how to travel sustainably, minimizing your environmental impact while maximizing your cultural experiences.
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Travel AdviceCulinary Adventures: Exploring World Cuisines on Your TravelsA guide to discovering and enjoying local cuisines as a key part of your travel experiences.
Travel Essentials
- Passport and copies
- Travel insurance details
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera and extra batteries
- Universal adapter
- Local language phrasebook
- First-aid kit
- Medications
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack
- Phone and charger
Travel Tips
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Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. Even a simple 'hello' and 'thank you' can go a long way.
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Venture beyond the tourist hotspots and explore local neighborhoods. You'll discover hidden gems and authentic cultural experiences.
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Be open to trying new foods. Culinary experiences are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in a different culture.
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Respect local customs and traditions. Research beforehand and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
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Pack light and smart. Comfortable shoes, versatile clothing, and essential travel documents are key.
Recent Memories from Daiva Petrauskas
This Explorers Travel Highlights
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My Travel Highlight
One of my most cherished travel memories is when James, Eglė and I got wonderfully lost in the backstreets of Kyoto, Japan. We stumbled upon a small, family-run tea house where we shared traditional matcha and learned the art of calligraphy from the kindest old woman. It was an unexpected and authentic cultural exchange that I will always treasure.
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Favourite Destination
Italy holds a special place in my heart. The history, the art, the food – it all comes together to create an unforgettable experience. Exploring the ancient ruins of Rome and indulging in the regional cuisines of Tuscany and Sicily has been an absolute delight.
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Best Hotel
My favorite hotel experience was at the Four Seasons Hotel in Florence. The stunning architecture, impeccable service, and breathtaking views of the city made it a truly luxurious and memorable stay.
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My Adventurous Destination
Hiking through the cloud forests of Costa Rica was definitely an adventure. The biodiversity was incredible, and zip-lining through the canopy was an exhilarating experience. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a new appreciation for nature.
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My Food Destination
I have to say that Rome is the best foodie destination I've ever visited. From pasta and pizza to gelato and supplì, every meal was a celebration of flavor. The local markets were brimming with fresh produce, and the trattorias offered a taste of authentic Roman cuisine that was simply divine.