Discovering Myself Through a Year of Solitude and Travel

After a life-altering breakup and intense burnout, I set out on a journey that rekindled my passion for exploration—a dream long-held but never realized.

From my bustling media career in London, I took a leap of faith and embarked on journeys across the world, marking my 33rd birthday in Bali. During this year of exploration, I found love once more and eventually relocated to Belgium to be with him.

From Comfort to Crisis

Previously, the highlight of returning from a trip was watching London’s skyline unfold beneath the aircraft. The city represented familiarity, filled with cherished people and career success. But on a flight returning from Italy, emotions overwhelmed me.

By 30, life seemed picture-perfect with a thriving career in communications. Then everything changed as a long-term relationship ended, thrusting me into solitude once more, while work pressures intensified, affecting my health dramatically.

Chasing New Horizons

A friend's invitation to a spontaneous Italian backpacking adventure was transformative. The journey reignited a joy and thrill I hadn’t experienced for years—freedom in train rides, hostels, and lively nights out. Leaving Italy rekindled my buried dream of global travel.

Leaving behind a job I no longer loved, I mapped an expedition across nine enchanting realms on three continents. Taking the solo flight to India marked the beginning of my self-discovery.

Lessons from Faraway Lands

In Goa, India, I adapted to the serene symphony of ocean waves. Yoga and meditation soon alleviated deep-seated anxieties. With each affirmation of yes and living in the moment, my connection with the place deepened.

Malaysia followed, presenting me with scuba diving's challenges. Overcoming initial panic, I gained my certification. Celebrating my birthday in Bali taught me to ease into relaxation and joy.

My travels reached New Zealand, where I joined the workforce temporarily, hiked up volcanoes, and enjoyed beachside barbecues. In Chile's Atacama Desert, the starry sky impressed upon me the vastness of existence.

From Travel to New Beginnings

Returning to London felt familiar yet surreal. I’d evolved, partly due to a serendipitous meeting with a Belgian fellow traveler. We connected profoundly, sharing visits to each other’s countries.

When his journey called him back to Belgium, my heart compelled me to join him or remain in long-distance longing. Once again, the bags were packed—this time for Belgium.

Creating a New Home

Belgium posed its own set of challenges: language barriers and cultural adjustments. Nonetheless, friendships grew, and a new career in communications emerged in Brussels.

Now, after a decade, we cherish life in Belgium: market strolls, café moments, and shared beauty in the mundane. Travel remains dear, as does returning to London's nostalgia.

Redefining 'Home'

That year of adventure taught me that home transcends birthplace. It’s a tapestry of experiences and connections that anchor us. Home is wherever your heart finds peace and companionship—a place you can reroot and flourish repeatedly.