Growing up, my mother was always so fascinated by seeing the world. So much so, that this open outlook grew on me. There is something special about being able to experience rich cultures and escaping the mundane scenery altogether. These communities have connected to my heart.
My mother and I have also been a ‘traveling duo’ since before I could remember. She taught me to appreciate worldly cultures, distinctive foods, and lifestyles. She makes our destinations momentary homes. My other family members are also intrigued by travel. With the help of my mother, we began holding traditions in different time zones, making holiday breaks a whole lot more interesting.
During the Thanksgiving break of 2024, I was given the opportunity to go to Barcelona and Madrid, two of Spain’s most important cities. I toured the tan streets of Barcelona by Taxi. The sun shone on each Tuscan roof so precisely and the mountains were so majestic. This scenery left me feeling enthusiastic about future adventures.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed it, I cannot say I was always chipper towards ‘international travel’. In my earlier years, I grew a mentality that “the world is on fire and the only safe place is your home!” Now I reflect on that and I disagree. It’s best to enjoy the riches of the world while I still can. My trips to France, Iceland, and Spain, shaped that notion. I became fond of beauty outside what I knew.
I can also thank my mother for being so open-minded. When Covid hit, my extended family put our traditions on hold, opting to stay home. No virus ever dimmed the passion in my mother’s heart. Consequently, we were back on our feet in roughly two years, visiting the capital of Iceland: Reykjavík.
The rest of my family followed now too, returning to some of our favorite traditions. For each destination, my family would decide on two different themes: a theme for photoshoots and another for our nightwear (Pajamas).We buy different onesies or outfits and snap family photos in them. Our themes so far have consisted of decades looks, rocker chicks, monochrome, and much more.
Although we might not celebrate as frequently as we used to, we still make an effort to reunite as often as possible. Every trip we embark on leaves me more open to new and unique experiences. I’ve allowed myself to find home in places kilometers away from where I live.
I owe it to my family to make the most distinct corners of the world so familiar to me. The aspect of family is so valuable. When you spend enough time with them, you can see them grow, watch them improve, and marvel at what they accomplish. The lessons you learn through them resonate with you throughout your lifetime. With the continuation of my family tradition, I’ve learned to love, to grow, and to explore different areas of the world.
