In a candid interview, Valerie Caneschi opens up about her love for travel, family, and the invaluable experiences that come from exploring new places. For her, each destination is an opportunity to grow, learn, and make lasting memories.
Valerie’s favourite place in the world? “Always the one I haven’t visited yet,” she says with a smile. She views travel as a source of endless beauty and transformation. “Every new culture, landscape, or experience adds layers to who I am, and that’s what makes travel so magical.”
Packing light but smart is Valerie’s go-to strategy. Her essentials include a camera for capturing moments, a travel journal, versatile clothing, and her favourite reusable water bottle. She also never forgets her power bank and, interestingly, a crossword
puzzle for the plane. “I have a huge fear of flying, so it helps distract me!” she laughs, admitting that comfort and practicality are her priorities.
When traveling with her children, Valerie’s list of essentials grows a bit. She makes sure to pack their favourite snacks, books, and compact toys for long trips. “I never travel without wet wipes, a first-aid kit, and travel pillows,” she shares, emphasising how little comforts from home make their journey smoother.
Cooking is another way Valerie bonds with her family. Her favourite meal to prepare is a meatball recipe passed down from her grandmother. “My kids absolutely adore them! Whether I make them plain or with sauce, everyone goes crazy for them,”
she says with a grin.
Valerie finds joy in both exploring new places and tasting local foods. “For me, travel is all about sharing and inclusion,” she says. “Trying new dishes tells you so much about the traditions and history of a place.” Balancing both experiences, she believes, deepens her understanding of different cultures.
Next on her itinerary is the Maldives, where she plans to head on November 12th. Though she’s been twice before, it’ll be the first visit for her kids. “I’m beyond excited to share such a beautiful place with them,” she says, clearly looking forward to creating
new family memories.
Valerie’s love for travel started young. Although she didn’t get to travel much as a child, her parents instilled a deep sense of curiosity in her. “They always encouraged me to explore, ask questions, and dream about the world beyond our doorstep,” she recalls. Today, she hopes to pass that same curiosity onto her own children.
One destination she’s particularly excited to experience with her kids someday is Africa. “Africa is a place where so many emotions come together, the beauty, the history, the people,” she says. She’s waiting until they’re older to fully appreciate the
experience.
For Valerie, travel is essential for young minds. “Traveling at a young age teaches children to be adaptable, embrace differences, and be open to new experiences,” she explains. She
believes these lessons will stay with them for life, enriching their worldview and helping them connect with others as they grow.
