Leaving home for a long trip is always bittersweet—but this time felt different. At 31, in transition between jobs, I was leaving my family and partner behind after years of caregiving and helping my mom’s business. I felt guilty, yet knew I needed this trip for me.

A layover in Abu Dhabi became a whirlwind of emotions and experiences: the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the indulgence of gold coffee at the Emirates Palace, and lessons in letting go of expectations when things don’t go as planned. In just a few hours, travel reminded me how big the world is, how small I am in it, and how rich life can feel when I step outside my routine.

Travel today is about more than checking destinations off a list - it’s about intention. Travelers are craving experiences that are both adventurous and grounding, spontaneous yet meaningful. But with endless choices of flights, hotels, and itineraries, planning can feel overwhelming, leaving us second-guessing instead of savoring.

That’s why I believe the most transformative journeys are the ones designed with purpose. From staying with a host family in Panama, to leading a women’s trip in Colombia, to learning new skills in Sri Lanka and India, my most powerful memories come from trips rooted in curiosity, growth, and connection.

Travel has the power to transform… not just how we see the world, but how we see ourselves.

Why I Love Cruises: An Easy Getaway

Exploring the Seas: My Recent Cruise Adventure