For the past 33 years together, travel has been one of the greatest passions in our lives. Over the decades, we’ve explored many countries by planes, trains, public transportation, tuk-tuks, bicycles, and countless unforgettable road trips. Every journey has deepened our love for adventure, culture, and connection with people around the world.
After proudly owning and operating a boutique fitness and massage studio in California for more than 30 years, we made the life-changing decision to retire and begin our biggest adventure yet.
On May 31, 2026, we officially hit the road.
Traveling in our 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner named YOLA, we departed from Pleasanton, California with a dream of exploring the world slowly and intentionally over the next 3 to 5 years. Our hope is to experience all seven continents while immersing ourselves in different cultures, meeting amazing people, tasting incredible foods, and visiting some of the most breathtaking places on Earth.
But this journey is about much more than simply checking destinations off a map.
It’s about embracing the unknown, stepping outside of our comfort zones, and creating meaningful experiences along the way. We believe adventure is found not only in the grand landscapes, but also in the small moments — conversations with strangers who become friends, meals shared with locals, quiet mornings in nature, unexpected detours, and the stories collected along the road.
Through YOLA — You Only Live Adventure — we hope to inspire others to chase their dreams, take chances, and realize it’s never too late to create the life you’ve imagined.
This website is our place to share the journey with our family, friends, clients, and fellow adventurers around the world. Here you’ll find our travels, stories, photos, videos, route updates, and the real moments behind life on the road — the beautiful, the challenging, and everything in between.
Whether you’re here for travel inspiration, overland adventures, or simply to follow along on our journey, we’re grateful you’re here.
Thank you for being part of our story.
The adventure is just beginning.
— John & Kristi
You Only Live Adventure