A Journey of Discovery: My Travels Around the World
In December 2020, I crossed into Mozambique, becoming one of fewer than 30 women to have visited every country in the world at that time. Once the excitement of this achievement settled in, I took some time to reflect on my 20-year adventure and the lessons I had learned along the way.
The Start of My Travel Journey
Initially, my motivation for traveling wasn’t about checking off countries or collecting stamps in my passport. It all began with my love for scuba diving. Over the years, my passion evolved into a fascination with the rich variety of cultures and people across the globe. I grew to cherish those moments of cultural surprises.
I still vividly remember being in India, where I felt overwhelmed by an explosion of scents—spices, incense, flowers, and even pollution blending together. I also recall the hectic streets of Vietnam, alive with the sounds of motorcycles, many of which carried whole families or transported large sheets of glass.
Embracing Cultural Differences
As I traveled, my perspective expanded, and I became more open-minded. Eventually, my love for travel turned into a career in airline management and, later, aviation consulting. This role took me to fascinating countries like Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, where I gained insight into different cultures and ways of thinking.
For instance, I learned about the importance of cultural etiquette in Pakistan, where Muslim men and women typically do not shake hands. Understanding such customs helped me appreciate the values that shape human interactions.
Valuing Experiences Over Material Things
One of the best travel tips I’ve heard is to pack half the clothes and take twice the money you think you’ll need. This advice isn’t just for travel; it’s a lesson for life. Traveling light makes adapting to changes easier and helps foster resilience. I discovered that true richness lies not in possessions but in experiences.
I remember witnessing joy in some of the poorest countries, whether it was sharing a simple meal in Yemen or celebrating life with music and dance in a small community on Bijagos Island. These moments taught me to treasure experiences over material goods.
Finding My True Home
In late 2021, after losing my job as a freelance airline consultant and going through a personal upheaval, I saw this as a chance to start afresh. Faced with uncertainty about where to settle, I reflected on the lessons I had learned during my global travels. I recalled a young woman’s advice from Mozambique: “Do not put a roof on your dreams.”
After many reflections, I realized that my values no longer aligned with life in Texas, where I had spent most of my life. I sought a place that embraced my new perspective.
Choosing Portugal
I longed for a lifestyle where my core values were not just accepted but celebrated—a culture with a healthy work-life balance, less emphasis on consumerism, and greater safety. I wanted to live in a place where walking was common, and fresh, healthy food was accessible.
After considering several countries, I chose Portugal for its laid-back lifestyle, beautiful weather, and welcoming atmosphere. Although my first stop was Georgia, it didn’t feel like the right fit, and I soon shifted my focus to Portugal.
Lisbon charmed me with its friendly locals, emphasis on wellness, and vibrant outdoor life. After exploring every country, I discovered that home isn’t defined by geography but by feelings of safety, comfort, and belonging. I found that feeling in Portugal.
In summary, my journey across the globe reshaped my understanding of what it means to feel at home.
