• My husband and I live in Canada, but have family in Ireland and Australia. • Our travel budgets and PTO are used exclusively to visit loved ones around the world. • I envy those who get to take exciting vacations to new places.

Despite visiting Sydney every year or two, I realized I had almost nothing to offer when a friend recently asked for travel recommendations.

She wanted to know the best beaches, must-visit restaurants, and activities for her child, but when I'm there, I'm not actually sightseeing.

Instead, I'm tucked away in a suburb with my close friend, grabbing coffee at her local café and watching her son's soccer practice.

It's nice, but it's been a while since I used my vacation days for an actual vacation — and I find myself jealous of those who do.

I'm grateful fo

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