The end of a journey is always bittersweet. Travellers often feel a mix of excitement to see old friends and family, and reluctance to return to daily life.
For the first time ever, when I boarded my plane last week, I was ready to come home.
After a combined 8 months abroad exploring the UK, I have had countless adventures, met incredible people, and seen some beautiful places. I fell in love with Edinburgh, worked way up in Wick, and stayed on a sheep farm in West Sussex. I wrote for two British newspapers (and dated two British boys 😉 ). My home video gives a hilarious overview of my month and a half abroad:
My personal health is another reason for my return. Backpacking is demanding—without a broken back. The freedom of my vehicle grants me the independence I cannot claim while travelling.
When I was forced to return home last January, it was the LAST thing I wanted. Even after surgery and two weeks in the horrific French hospital, I wanted to go back to work on Alp d’Huez. I loved it there.
I think I needed to leave Canada, if only to come home again.
Because this time, it was my choice.
I feel as though I have adequately experienced the UK. Although this journey is ending, a new one is just beginning. I’m moving to Kelowna to study Writing and Publishing.
Before you stop reading and complain that this is no longer a travel blog, let me explain the difference between settling down and settling in.
I’m moving to Kelowna next month. I won’t be settling down—buying a house, starting my career, halting my traveling days—but I will be settling in: going to uni, staying in a hostel, and maybe even trying to snowboard again at the neighbourhood ski hill, Big White.
I’ve gotten so used to running away; it’ll be a challenge for me to settle in. I’ll spend my weekends and time off exploring British Columbia and deepening my love for Western Canada.
I’ll still be blogging, tweeting, posting as I explore. So keep following me, and enjoy the ride 🙂