Hey, fellow wanderer!

Yes, it's Monday. I know I usually pop into your inbox on Tuesdays, but I just couldn't wait to chat with you today.

I completely skipped last week's letter. I had to have surgery.

I've been home recovering and taking things incredibly slow. Tomorrow I have my post-op visit to get my stitches removed, and I'm finally starting to feel a bit more like myself again.

And speaking of recovering at home... Thank you. To every single one of you who hit reply to my last email to help me name the tiny Greek stowaway.

My inbox was flooded with so many beautiful ideas. I read through all of them. And one name just clicked perfectly.

Meet Gaia. It means earth. It is such a beautiful nod to the earthy brown, black, and orange tones of her tricolor coat.

She's currently snoozing right next to me, making this whole recovery process a lot cozier.

SHORE NOTES

My travels look a little different this week. Instead of navigating ferry schedules or mapping out hidden beaches.. I'm navigating my living room and mapping out the most comfortable spots on the couch.

But there's a certain kind of peace in being forced to slow down. It gives you time to look at the photos you took. Appreciate the memories you made. And plan the next adventure without rushing.

Plus, having Gaia here reminds me that sometimes the best souvenirs are the ones that follow you home.

THIS WEEK'S LETTER

Since I've been resting up, I've had a lot of time to think about this little community we are building.

If you follow my Facebook page, you might notice a little change this week. "Isle Passport" is officially becoming "The Coastal Club."

I wanted a name that feels less like a travel agency. And more like what we actually are. A cozy corner of the internet where we share slow mornings, hidden beaches, and the peace of the coast.

We are also right on the edge of hitting 2,100 followers over there! To celebrate, I've put together a really fun surprise that I'll be sharing this Friday.

I'd love for you to join us. Come hang out, and make sure to give the page a follow so you don't miss Friday's surprise.​

FROM MY TABS THIS WEEK

❤︎❤︎ My Travel & Cozy Essentials — everything I actually use. Since I'm recovering at home, my backpack is unpacked, but these are my absolute must-haves for quiet days and coastal getaways.

🐈 These letters are still powered by curiosity, ferry tickets, and way too many open Google Maps tabs. They're now also quietly powered by one very tiny, tricolor appetite. If you'd like to support the next island letter, you'll probably end up buying Gaia a treat, too.

See you next Tuesday.

Love, Maya

P.S. 💌 Don't forget to give The Coastal Club a follow on Facebook! We are so close to hitting 2,100 followers, and I have a really fun surprise waiting for you there this Friday. See you over there! 🤍