About Me

Hey there! I’m Zahra, the voice behind Zahra Travels. I’m a journalist and podcast producer based in Toronto, Canada. I’m passionate about exploring the world and sharing meaningful stories.

Travel and I didn’t always get along. When my family moved from Pakistan to Canada, I blamed travel for separating me from the people I loved. But over time, I came to see it differently. My parents wanted me to experience the mobility they didn’t have as young people. That shift in perspective has shaped my journey, taking me to live and work on five continents.

I started Zahra Travels to document my adventures and challenge mainstream travel narratives. To me, travel isn’t just about ticking off destinations or finding yourself on a year-long backpacking trip. It’s about appreciating the privilege of movement, connecting with local communities, and learning to see the world more mindfully—whether you’re halfway across the globe or exploring your own city.

When I’m not on the road, you’ll find me cafe-hopping, writing (sometimes illegibly), attempting salsa moves in the shower, or chatting with strangers on the subway.

My travels have so far included cities across: