From Florida to Amsterdam

Raised by artists in Florida, I grew up traveling the globe with my multicultural family, which shaped my deep respect for other cultures and belief in incorporating creativity into daily life.

In 2009, I traded Florida's swamps for a gap year along Amsterdam's canals… and fifteen years later, I'm still here.

My Amsterdam adventure continued as I stayed to pursue grad school and build my career as a travel writer and photographer, contributing to publications such as iAmsterdam, Fodor’s Guidebooks, Lonely Planet, and Tripadvisor. As a freelance creative director, I help purpose-driven brands bring impactful stories to life, but travel storytelling remains at the heart of everything I do.

My Travel Philosophy

I believe in slow, mindful travel by exploring the world through the intersection of culture and creativity. I love taking my time to observe, interact, and appreciate the sights, sounds, and scenery of new surroundings, often through the lens of my camera.

Whether I'm wandering Amsterdam's charming neighborhoods, traveling across Europe, or documenting an analog adventure on YouTube, I seek out the authentic experiences, captivating scenes, and cinematic moments that make a place unforgettable.

Explore with Me

Lily Wanderlust is my personal outlet to share bespoke travel guides, photo journals, photography tips and musings on creative living. I love curating stories that spotlight unique locations, diverse communities, and locally rooted experiences.

My mission: Encourage others to travel with purpose, welcome the unexpected, embrace creativity, and always stay curious — whether exploring near or far.

I've found joy in defining my own path, and I hope my blog inspires you to do the same!

Curious for more?

Discover my Amsterdam guides, plan your next European adventure, or get inspired with travel photography tips.