In 2023, I did something that most people only dream of—I quit my job, packed two suitcases, and set off on a journey to see if I really could handle myself on my own in France. I chose Strasbourg, a city that had whispered to me through memories of my first visit to Alsace in 2014, during a time when I was just beginning to understand the world outside my own borders. As I boarded the train from a friend’s home in Chaumont, bound for a solo adventure that would redefine my life, I felt a profound connection to the journey ahead.
As the train wove through the French countryside, passing Vesoul, the first town I had ever visited in France, a rush of emotions washed over me. This was the place where I had stayed with my first host family, an experience that altered my life forever. Not long after, as I saw the familiar landscapes of Alsace, I realized that my journey had come full circle. Nine years after my first brief visit to this region, I was returning—not just as a visitor, but as someone determined to carve out a life here. The city of Strasbourg welcomed me with open arms, and I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging, as if every fiber of my being knew I was supposed to be here.
This experience taught me that I am braver, more capable, and more determined than I had ever realized. It was a moment of validation, a moment that silenced the self-doubt that had plagued me about making such a bold move alone. Strasbourg, with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and warmth, became my home in every sense of the word.
But my journey didn’t begin in Alsace; it began a decade earlier, in 2013, on a tiny island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. My first experience with international travel took me to Tahiti, where I arrived ignorant of the world beyond my own. I didn’t know that English wasn’t a universal language, and I quickly found myself immersed in a culture where communication was a challenge. But what could have been a frustrating experience turned out to be transformative.
In a small village far from the tourist crowds, I connected with locals who didn’t speak a word of English. We spent our days communicating through smiles, drawings, and hand gestures. For two weeks, we shared our lives with one another, learning and laughing together despite the language barrier. It was in this village that I realized travel is about much more than just seeing new places; it’s about connecting, learning, and being mindful of the impact we have on the world around us. This experience opened my eyes to the richness of other cultures and inspired me to embark on a decade-long journey to learn French and immerse myself in a new way of life.
Travel has become a path to self-discovery for me. Each destination I visit unlocks something new within me, guiding me closer to understanding my purpose. It’s not just the physical journey that matters, but the inner exploration that comes with it. Travel has given me a sense of purpose, though I am still refining what that means. It has opened doors to new friendships, altered my focus and goals, and provided countless opportunities for growth. Inner exploration, I’ve come to believe, is the natural byproduct of travel—the afterglow of the experiences we collect along the way.
Through this blog, I hope to share my journey in a way that inspires others. I want to encourage cultural understanding, open dialogue, and self-reflection. My goal is to create a space where readers can find inspiration, whether they are seasoned travelers or simply curious about the world. I want to be vulnerable and honest about my experiences, offering a safe space for solo female travelers and a window into the world for those who cannot travel themselves. Most importantly, I want this blog to educate and challenge readers to think about their own “what ifs.” We live in an age where change is possible, and I believe that through travel and connection, we can make a difference.
France holds a special place in my heart. It welcomed me when I was searching for a home and a sense of belonging. The culture, particularly in eastern France and Alsace, resonates deeply with me. I love the laid-back lifestyle, the importance placed on sharing meals and conversation, the value of intellectual debate, and the rich history of art and architecture. Recently, I discovered that my family has roots in Alsace, not far from where I am now planting my own. It’s as if the universe has been guiding me here all along.
As I continue this journey, I am guided by a few simple philosophies: be grateful, be mindful, try new things, be brave, trust yourself, and embrace adventure. These ideas have shaped my travels and my search for purpose, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and challenge my beliefs.
Finding oneself is an ever-changing mission. The person I am today is not the person I will be in the future. Each chapter of our lives brings new purpose, new challenges, and new growth. Travel, for me, is the key to unlocking these hidden aspects of ourselves—the reasons our souls awaken to breathe fresh air, to experience life fully, and to embrace the unknown. It’s not about reaching a final destination, but about continuously exploring, learning, and evolving.
I invite you to join me on this journey of discovery. Share your stories, your challenges, your triumphs. Let’s explore the world together, not just to see new places, but to find ourselves along the way.
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