From the Netherlands to Canada: Reconnecting with Home
Looking back on living in Canada for over a decade this month, I realized something I had unintentionally overlooked—the mismatch between my Dutch mindset and the Canadian corporate culture. Feeling homesick, I followed my heart and booked a last-minute trip to the Netherlands.
Returning to the Netherlands felt like going back to my roots, my true “home.” This trip was more than just a vacation; it was a long-awaited reunion after the challenging days of COVID. My last trip was just before the pandemic, and while I’d been scheduled to fly home every year during Covid, it never happened. Finally, going back, reminded me of the enduring power of human connections, no matter how far apart we may be.
Home, again
After a week of catching up and enjoying the comforting familiarities, it was time to go “home” once again. After boarding for my return flight and while enjoying the pre-departure bubbles, I couldn’t ignore that same feeling of going “home”, but this time to Vancouver, Canada. Our hearts can find a sense of home and belonging in different places, urging us to explore beyond familiar horizons.
Returning home to Canada, my wanderlust was ignited. Jet-lagged or not, I couldn’t resist the allure of the Whistler Half Marathon—an opportunity to push my limits amidst beautiful scenery (and bears, apparently). The support of fellow runners added an extra touch of magic, reminding me of the incredible connections waiting to be made when we’re willing to step out of our comfort zones. I consider myself lucky to have friends all over the world. No matter how far apart we may have been, some bonds we create endure the test of time.
Wanderlove
My unexpected journey taught me the beauty of spontaneity, the importance of reconnecting with loved ones, and the magic that can unfold when we surrender to wanderlove (forget about wanderlust). By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to embrace the joy of travel, even at a moment’s notice. Follow your heart. Life’s most precious memories are often the ones you didn’t expect. Unexpected adventures lead to unforgettable destinations and stories worth sharing.
I encourage you to follow your heart, embrace the unknown, and embark on your own adventure—whether it’s a spontaneous trip to a place you’ve always wanted to visit (but never did), or a long-overdue reunion with friends, near or far. I invite you to unlock the transformative power of travel together and preview a lesson from my Travel Revolution course free of charge. Just text me the hashtag #travel to 604-210-8668, and I’ll send you a link.
Ultimately, it’s not just the destination that matters but the journey itself—the connections we make, the moments we treasure, and the stories we carry with us. Embrace the unexpected, and let the world be your playground.
Bon voyage.
(Whistler Half Marathon photo courtesy of Rob Shaer & Scott Robarts)