Coming from an international family, she had travel in her DNA. Her first big trip abroad, at the age of 7, opened her eyes, mind and heart to the world. While most of her contemporaries were dreaming about getting the latest Barbie doll, she dreamed about seeing more of the world.
Life at home was multicultural and European traditions intermingled with typical American ones. Although her family had neither the time nor means for frequent trips, she knew that one day, she would travel again. By the time she was 16, she had visited as many countries. An international exchange in high school transformed her life and she knew that, although this country had been a refuge to her parents and grandparents, she was not made from the same mould as her friends and her life would take her beyond the borders of the US of A.
During her college years she traveled whenever possible. Working at the college campus travel center, her eyes scanned the many ads. By the age of 21, she had visited as many countries. Asia and Australia were added to her list of destinations.
She settled in Europe, married and had children. The kids were included in their numerous family trips and she knew that they, too, had travel in their DNA.
The marriage unravelled, the kids grew up and moved to another country. It was as if a road block had fallen into her life’s path.
People worried and warned her about traveling alone. Prearranged group voyages weren’t appealing. Her passport expired and she stopped planning.
Some years later, a friend asked if she wanted to join her on a trip. After some hesitation, she agreed. A whole new world opened back up. Not only did she try and enjoy solo travel, but a new sisterhood was created with her traveling companion.
Her bucket list grew and is still growing.
— MCW
Life at home was multicultural and European traditions intermingled with typical American ones. Although her family had neither the time nor means for frequent trips, she knew that one day, she would travel again. By the time she was 16, she had visited as many countries. An international exchange in high school transformed her life and she knew that, although this country had been a refuge to her parents and grandparents, she was not made from the same mould as her friends and her life would take her beyond the borders of the US of A.
During her college years she traveled whenever possible. Working at the college campus travel center, her eyes scanned the many ads. By the age of 21, she had visited as many countries. Asia and Australia were added to her list of destinations.
She settled in Europe, married and had children. The kids were included in their numerous family trips and she knew that they, too, had travel in their DNA.
The marriage unravelled, the kids grew up and moved to another country. It was as if a road block had fallen into her life’s path.
People worried and warned her about traveling alone. Prearranged group voyages weren’t appealing. Her passport expired and she stopped planning.
Some years later, a friend asked if she wanted to join her on a trip. After some hesitation, she agreed. A whole new world opened back up. Not only did she try and enjoy solo travel, but a new sisterhood was created with her traveling companion.
Her bucket list grew and is still growing.
— MCW
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