How did we meet?
18,000 Kilometers to Happiness: How it All Began in New Zealand
As you may already know, we originally come from two different countries. But our paths only crossed when we both bravely decided to fly 18,000 kilometers to the other side of the world – in search of grand adventure, foreign cultures, and a true sense of freedom.
It all began in Auckland, New Zealand's vibrant metropolis. We first ran into each other in a typical backpacker hostel. A chance encounter quickly blossomed into a close friendship. We shared the same dreams, spent countless evenings together at the hostel, and simply laughed an incredible amount with each other.
Separate Paths Became a Shared Adventure
We each spent the first few months in different places, working and exploring the country on our own. But we never lost touch. Eventually, the travel bug really bit us both, and we made a decision that would change our entire lives: We'd pack our backpacks together into a van and embark on a shared road trip!
It was the New Zealand summer – the perfect weather to discover the unknown every day. We drove down endless, small roads, admired breathtaking mountain panoramas, found hidden coves, and stopped repeatedly for spontaneous swims in crystal-clear lakes in the middle of nowhere.
"During those 8 weeks of absolute freedom, in the confined space of our small rolling home, it happened: friendship turned into love."
This unforgettable road trip was not only the perfect end to our time on the North Island. It was the beginning of our life together, the origin of our deep connection to the ocean – and the very first spark for what is now Salty Dreamers.