It's Christmaaaaaaaas 🥳🎄

a personal share, lessons learned, and more...

Merry Christmas from Festive Brisvegas!

Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays

Well, here it is again!

Almost to the end of another year.

I don’t know about you, but does it feel like the years are getting shorter and going by faster?

I’m ending this year on a particularly exciting note as I start to prepare to launch my new over 50’s travel product brand - The Grey Nomad Co - in 2025.

Image courtesy of Canva Dream Lab!

If you’d like to join me on this exciting journey, click here to sign up for exclusive updates, sneak peeks, and the chance to help shape a brand designed just for over-50 adventurers.

So instead of winding down for Christmas, I’m currently ramping up!

A Personal Share

However, today (22nd), is a poignant day for me, as 16 years ago today, my lovely Dad collapsed in Marks & Spencers while shopping for a Xmas pudding. (Thank God it was M&S as he was a bit of a snob my father and would have been mortified if his death story was him keeling over in Poundland 😂)

Unfortunately we lost him a few hours later due to a massive aneurysm. It was painless and fast thank goodness, but he was too young to leave this world.

Mum also peacefully slipped away in 2021, and while I’d give anything to have them both at my dining table for Christmas, alas tis’ not to be.

I am not sad though as I write this message because I have such wonderful memories, and every time I think of them, I can’t help but smile! 😊 Plus I’m incredibly lucky and get to celebrate Christmas with my wonderful husband and beautiful daughter.

But I will be taking a moment to remember those who are either no longer with us, or for whatever reason are unable to spend Christmas with loved ones. And if that resonates with you, I’m sending extra love your way. ❤️

Mum & Dad with Cerys on her first Christmas - Dec 2006 ❤️

On a lighter note, years ago, I used to run a popular webinar at this time of year called “Lessons Learned in (year)” - and this year, I’ve turned it into a podcast!

Check out my top 10 transformative lessons learned in 2024 below (there’s some humdingers!). I hope it inspires you as you wind down the year and look ahead to what’s next.

(Also for the observant amongst you who may have noticed this week’s newsletter is coming from Beehiiv, I’m still mid testing Flodesk vs Beehiiv. Results coming soon!)

In the meantime, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, wherever you are in the world!

Wishing you peace, joy, and all the mince pies your heart desires.

SIDE HUSTLE HIGHLIGHT

How to Turn Travel Photos into Photo Books

Do you love capturing the beauty of your travels?

Turning your travel photos into curated photo books is a rewarding and creative side hustle that allows you to showcase your adventures while earning.

Whether it’s hidden gems, iconic destinations, or themed collections like architecture or food, there’s a market for authentic travel photography in print form.

This week’s guide shows you how to create and sell stunning photo books step by step.

You’ll learn:

  • How to choose the right platform to produce and sell your books.

  • Tips for selecting, editing, and organizing photos to tell a compelling story.

  • How to market your books through social media, partnerships, and local channels.

With minimal upfront costs and the flexibility to work on your photo books during or after your travels, this side hustle is perfect for nomads who want to balance creativity with income.

Download your quick-start guide now and transform your travel photography into a product you’ll be proud to share with the world!

NEW PODCAST EPISODE

THIS WEEK’S TOP READS

Which European city is home to the oldest Christmas market in the world?

Dating back to 1434, this city’s Christmas market is a magical experience filled with wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and traditional holiday treats. It’s considered one of the most charming Christmas markets, attracting visitors from all over the globe.

Can you name the city?

To find out the correct answer, select your preferred option below

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That’s All Folks!

That’s it from me this week.

Make sure to come and join the group to connect with me and meet fellow nomads.

Have a fabulous Christmas holiday period, get some well earned rest, and as always get out there and make it happen!

Looking for more resources to thrive as a 50+ nomad?

I'm here to help!

  • My Facebook group is all about travel, destinations, bucket lists, and connecting with other nomads. If you simply want to meet like-minded people, join the group here.

  • My blog covers it all - destinations, nomad tips, making money on the go, slow travel, and my own personal travel stories. You can dive in here.

  • My Substack is more about the mindset and processes behind it all - getting out of your own way, staying productive on the road, and building the habits that support a nomadic lifestyle. Subscribe here.

Join the Journey!

🚐✨ Big News for Over-50 Adventurers! ✨🚐

For years, I’ve dreamed of creating something extraordinary - a brand designed exclusively for over-50 adventurers who are redefining what it means to age and embracing freedom, connection, and purpose.

In 2025, that dream becomes a reality with Grey Nomad Co - modern, functional, and fun travel products tailored to the unique needs of our generation.

Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a slow, soulful journey around the globe, Grey Nomad Co will be here to make your travels more comfortable, practical, and inspiring.

💡 Be Part of the Adventure

Join me as I bring this vision to life! Sign up for early access, sneak peeks, and exclusive updates. Plus, get the chance to share your input and shape a brand created just for YOU.

Let’s create something extraordinary together.