Hi, I’m Cecily - founder of Groovy Mashed Potatoes and an explorer at heart. You can call me Cec!

Born and raised in Rocky Mountain House, a small town at the base of the Canadian Rockies, I grew up surrounded by nature and had an early curiosity about the world.

Cecily, 8 years old, walking on a grassy driveway at her childhood home in the countryside of Rocky Mountain House.
Growing up in a small town in the Canadian Rockies (1997)

Family road trips across North America fuelled my love for travel, but it was my first trip to Europe at 14 that truly opened my eyes to different cultures, perspectives and creative expressions.

By 17, eager to explore on my own, I moved across the country to attend university in Waterloo, Ontario - an experience that marked the beginning of my independent adventures.

Taking the Leap: From Career to Global Adventure

In my late twenties, I felt like I was spinning my wheels. I had a great job in advertising in Vancouver, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing.

Travel had always been a passion of mine, and I made the most of every opportunity with weekend getaways and carefully planned trips. But the more I travelled, the more I realized I wanted something more.

Cecily relaxing on Kits Beach in Vancouver, lying on a colourful tie-dye blanket, holding a drink with mountains in the background.
Cec in a t-shirt dress standing by a concrete structure with vibrant street art on the coast under warm evening sunlight.
Cec and Ari's Mitsubishi Delica parked in Vancouver.
Scenic view of the snow-capped Tantalus Mountains framed by a tent opening, overlooking a forest and clear blue sky.

Life in Vancouver (2013-2018)

One day, I took a leap and pitched the idea of a year-long trip to my partner, Ari, through a PowerPoint presentation (I know, nerd alert!). What started as a dream on paper quickly turned into a 14-month, life-changing adventure around the world.

PowerPoint title page with collage of travel photos featuring Ari and Cec with the title "Around the World in 290 Days" at the centre.
Cover slide from the actual PPT I used to convince Ari to travel the world with me for a year 😂 (2017)

This journey wasn’t just about visiting new places - it was about immersing myself in local cultures, experiencing new ways of living and opening my mind to possibilities that I hadn't imagined.

It was exhilarating, challenging and grounding. I came back with fresh perspectives, a stronger connection to nature (leading me to move to an island), and unexpectedly, a new career in travel.

Where I’ve Been (So Far!)

World map with 58 shaded in countries that Cec has been to.

All together I’ve explored 58 countries, seeking out fun local experiences, under-the-radar destinations and adventures in nature.

I'm drawn to unique expressions in food, art, design and music - always looking for what makes each place creatively and culturally distinct.

My travels range from hiking mountains in Nepal and camping in the desert of Oman to people-watching in cafes in Provence and discovering Mexico City's art scene. I believe every destination has its own magic - you just need to know how to find it.

Cec standing on a sand dune in Oman under clear blue skies, wearing sunglasses, with rippled desert sand surrounding her.
Cec sitting in a denim jacket at a design-forward boutique hotel in Mexico City with pre-Hispanic influenced furniture.
Cec and her partner Ari sitting on the snowy Gokyo Ri summit in Nepal overlooking some of the highest peaks in the world, with colourful prayer flags waving in the wind.

Travels in Oman, Mexico City and Nepal

What started as a passion project - documenting my experiences and creating detailed travel itineraries - has now grown into a full-time career.

To date, I’ve written 200 travel guides, each one inspired by my personal adventures and tailored to help travellers plan trips that feel just as exciting as they do authentic.

Why Travel With Me?

Cec posing against a wall on a cobblestone street in San Sebastián, Spain, with lively outdoor cafes nearby.
Exploring San Sebastian, Spain

I know what it’s like to spend hours scouring blogs, travel sites and social media, hoping to plan the perfect itinerary. That’s why I’m committed to offering honest, tried-and-true advice that’s based on real experiences.

For me, travel is more than checking off landmarks. It’s about gaining new perspectives and connecting with the world in a meaningful way.

At Groovy Mashed Potatoes, I focus on creating itineraries that mix:

  • Local culture & food
  • Art & design
  • Outdoor adventures
  • Restorative getaways in nature
  • Hidden gems & under-the-radar spots

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, my guides are designed to help you plan a fun, stress-free trip tailored to your interests.

Read more about Groovy Mashed Potatoes.

Where You Can Find Me When I’m Not Traveling

Cec sunbathing on a grassy field, lying under warm sunlight, surrounded by lush green trees and nature at her home on Salt Spring Island.
Outdoor picnic spread on a colourful blanket with cheese, spreads, honey, and charcuterie by a serene oceanside view on Salt Spring Island..
Two-seat outdoor dining setup with sushi and sake on a wooden deck overlooking forest views on Salt Spring Island.
Cec sitting in a wooden hot tub glowing with warm lights in a snowy forest setting on Salt Spring Island.

At home on Salt Spring Island

When I’m not on the road, you’ll find me at home on Salt Spring Island, Canada, enjoying a slower pace of life. I spend my time writing travel guides, discovering new music, shopping at the farmer’s market, watching scary movies and enjoying nature with Ari, my husband and co-adventurer.

Happy Travels!

Cecily

Education

Bachelor of Science - University of Waterloo - Waterloo, Canada.

Marketing Management Communications Diploma - British Columbia Institute of Technology - Burnaby, Canada.

Professional Career

2015 - 2018: Digital Advertising Strategist.

2018 - Current: Travel Writer and Founder of Groovy Mashed Potatoes.

Follow me on IG: @cecilyprotsack