Blog post 1. My Journey & Passion for Travel

Hi, I’m Kimberly 🌻

I’m originally from the Netherlands, but my heart belongs to the world. When people ask me where I live, I answer I’m a world-citizen. Right now, I am writing this from the Sacred Valley in Perú, where I have decided to settle for a little while to restructure my life.

Over the years, I’ve lived in South Africa and Australia, and I’ve spent countless months traveling to places that inspire and also challenge me. Travel has always been more than just visiting new destinations and doing all the touristy stuff—for me it has been about exploring cultures, connecting with people and nature, and collecting stories in every corner of the world.

My journey - both professionally and personally - has been full of the most interesting experiences. I studied International Hospitality Management and specialised in Lodge & Wildlife Management in South Africa, immersing myself in the beauty and challenges of hospitality and tourism in rough natural environments. Living, studying and working abroad in a completely different culture than my own was challenging, but was also one of the most enriching experiences of my life. It broadened my world and gave me that travel bug,  that curiosity and desire to step out of my comfort-zone over and over again. Not with the goal to tick off every country on the planet, but to explore, immerse and just to learn new things.

After working in the travel agency and luxury hotel industry for a while, I set off on a solo trip to Australia. I never planned to stay there very long, but the pandemic changed everything. I ended up living there for 5 years - 5 years full of unexpected exciting opportunities. I worked several different type of jobs varying from being a cowgirl mustering cattle on horseback, to picking fruits and planting trees. I proved myself I could be one of the most independent women on the planet, a jack-of-all-trades and eventually built my own successful business: Vino & Van Gogh Australia, organising and hosting Sip & Paint workshops all over Australia.

It was in Australia, during the pandemic, that I opened up to my creative side. A creative side I know has always been there, but I suppressed for a long time. While the world seemed to stand still, I turned to painting, writing and photography. I found peace and joy in creation. Every place I visit, every person I meet and every adventure leaves a trace on my art, my storytelling and my personal growth.

Currently, as I have been going through another period of change after my Australian visa ended, I have decided to take a next step towards realising my childhood dreams. I have always wanted to one day open my own hotel: a place where people can connect, share joyful moments and feel inspired. With my art classes in Australia I was already doing so. I was connecting, sharing joy and inspiring people to step out of their comfort zone too. Until I find the perfect location for my hotel, I want to create spaces online as well as offline - with that same purpose.

This is how the idea of Colors of Kimberly was born. It is a space where I share the magic I see in the world, this time not only with my friends and family, but with anyone who loves travel, creativity, inspiration and personal growth. I would like to share stories collected on my travels, creative projects and practical tips to explore the world in your own way.

I’m excited to share my adventures, creative projects, and tips with you. Follow along, connect on Instagram and Facebook, and let’s explore the world together!

With warmth,

Kimberly 🌻