Garden Route, South Africa, June 2015. The most beautiful place I’ve ever been in my life. Of all of the places I’ve been, South Africa takes the lead by a longshot. It’s home to me. GoPro picture.
|
I can’t write about any of my travel stories unless I explain why it is that I travel. It’s long, but it will make more sense if I spill it all out. So, here you go. Why I Travel.
My background: Born and raised in Howard County, Maryland. I’m the 3rd child of 4; I have an older brother and an older sister. I also have a younger sister who passed away who is my guardian angel, especially when I travel. Both of my older siblings are married, and each have 3 kids…so I’m “Aunt Anna” to 6 perfect people! 3 girls and 3 boys. I have a ton of cousins, aunts, and uncles, and my parents are the greatest and most in-love people you’ll ever meet. I am very close to my grandparents and very close to both my brother-in-law and my sister-in-law. Anyone who knows me knows that my family is my life.
My parents have always loved to travel. One time, my Dad made French bread, Scotch, and London Broil for dinner and surprised my Mom with a trip to France, London, and Scotland! They also travel throughout the Caribbean more than any people I know. They are big travel people, and I’ve always admired that.
Luckily for me, Ole Miss turned out to be the school of my dreams. I met the most incredible friends, went (and still go to) every football game including just about every away game, and I even took a private jet to spring break as a freshman. I’ve had the opportunity to travel all over the Southeastern United States to have experiences in cities that most people dream of. My life had turned around. I met people who were positive influences on me and gave me their positive energy. I was happy about this.
But I was sometimes still feeling sorry for myself. I had a hard time getting over what happened to me in high school, and I was constantly looking to maximize my life to compensate for the time I spent moping. When I realized this, I was on a mother-daughter trip with my Mom in Mexico to celebrate finishing my first year of college. It was a wonderful trip, filled with snorkeling in cenotes, rappelling, zip-lining, dancing, boating, and massages on the beach. We explored the ruins of Tulum, the markets of Isla Mujeres, and the nightlife of Cancun. I was reminded, while having these thoughts, that I really am the best version of myself when I travel. Important realization. To be continued.
But it was hard work.
I started my first blog, Love All Things Britney, and tried to post at least three times a week. I spent days staying up all night writing a variety of content that I thought would reach a wide audience. Before I knew it…I was getting hundreds of comments, shares, and likes on posts. I woke up one morning and saw that I had over 13,000 views on a single post in one night. My project was working. I was enjoying myself in a hobby again.
Sophomore year of college came along, I did some reevaluation, and I decided that I needed to find more out of life. College was great to me, my college friends were great to me, and I still had my amazing family, but I was craving that feeling of “starting over” again. Since it had treated me so well when I relocated to Mississippi, I knew it was a feeling I sought and would continue to seek. I was incredibly depressed again; I was feeling like all of the amazing college experiences I had were a result of running away from what I couldn’t have anymore. I needed something that was mine, something that I did because I wanted to do it, not because I felt like I had to do it.
I heard about a study abroad program called Global LEAD that was going to Cape Town, South Africa. I got my best friend, Amber, on board, and within only 7 days, we were committed to study abroad. It was incredibly spontaneous. I was going to Africa!
So: Here comes in the REAL turning point of my life, as it pertains to travel and personal development.
Africa turned out to be the most life-changing trip I could have asked for. I went cage diving with great white sharks where Discovery Channel’s “Shark Week” is filmed, did the tallest bungee jump in the world, went skydiving, hiked Table Mountain, rappelled down Table Mountain (the tallest abseil in the world), went on a safari, rode an elephant, and pet cheetahs. I served in a township called Sir Lowry’s Pass, where I worked with children and families. I built connections with those people and learned the true power of love. I met the most amazing friends of my life, and they will, without a doubt, be my bridesmaids in my wedding and the Godmothers of my babies. I took leadership classes, global citizenship classes, history classes, and service learning classes to better understand myself, my world, and my place in my world. I came away from the trip having officially been bitten by the travel bug with no Benadryl that could ever do the job to stop me from scratching the itch. (Figurative). Oh…and I came away from the trip with a tattoo. Something I said I’d never do. Again…itch. (Literal).
When I returned home from my trip, my parents sat me down and told me that my Dad had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Had I not just come from the most incredible study abroad program where I learned to expand my emotional capacity, this would have destroyed me. But, I did, and still do, my best to stay strong.
I blogged about my trip in-depth on Love All Things Britney during my time abroad, and upon my return, I wrote a final reflection post. One of the quotes in the piece said something like this…
“It was the trip that opened my mind and heart, helped me to strengthen relationships that needed to be strengthened and eliminate relationships that needed to be eliminated, changed my way of believing everything I thought I knew. It made me who I am at this point of my life, and who I will be in the future. It brought clarity to who I’ve always been. By jumping, literally, outside of my comfort zone…I found myself. What could be more special?”
Fast-forward to now – I applied, was accepted, and completed an international internship with the same company and returned back to Cape Town, South Africa this summer for 2 months. I was able to be a staff member on the trip with which I was previously a student, and I worked hard in understanding the logistics of what makes a good study abroad program and how the power of travel can change the trajectory of individuals’ lives, thus inspiring them to become the best versions of themselves, impact their communities, and work to create a better world. I got to return to Sir Lowry’s Pass, continuing to pour love into and receive love from the wonderful people there, and I got to go on all of my once-in-a-lifetime adventures for a second time. Most importantly, I got to work with other college students who are soul-searching just like I was/am.
When finishing the internship, I went to Europe, where I am right this second, to backpack. I traveled throughout the United Kingdom, Italy, and France, both solo and with friends from study abroad. I met people from all over the world. I used my knowledge of the power of conversation to ask people their life stories and encourage them to ask others the same. I immersed myself in new cultures, submerged myself into the world outside of my comfort zone, got lost on trains, ate new foods, and spoke new languages. I poured sweat as I climbed mountains with a backpack. I flew from continent to continent completely alone. I asked questions. I found answers.
In Europe, I realized that the best trips are those that answer the questions that you didn’t even ask. And in Africa, I realized that most people go to Africa thinking that Africa needs them. But because of the unparalleled passion of Africa that gave me a different understanding of gratitude and zest for life, I needed Africa more than Africa needed me.
As my trip comes to an end, I remember all that got me here, the good and the bad. A lot of the people who wronged me in high school have admitted to me that their college experiences aren’t half of what I’ve made mine, and that they’re sorry for what they’ve said and done. A lot of those people haven’t apologized, but that’s ok, too. I’m not bitter anymore. I’ve found peace in new people, new places, and new ideas. I’m out seeing the world and working on becoming the best version of myself that I can be. I can only hope, that for the sake of the future of our world, those people will find a passion with which they can create a lifestyle that will help them understand themselves and others better. I hope everyone can do their own version of good in the world.
I’m about to finish up school, and then I am backpacking through Europe with my best friend, Amber, the same friend who studied abroad in South Africa with me. I plan on moving abroad at some point, and I’m still working out those logistics. I’m hoping to move to Brisbane, Australia and dance for a company called Mega Jam that I have admired for years. Travel is a huge part of my life. Writing is a huge part of my life. But, I want to make dance, again, a huge part of my life. Until then…
I live for my next adventure: testing physical limits, exploring emotional capacities, broadening mental perspectives.
For me, every day is an adventure. Join us (Global LEAD) in hashtagging #todaysadventure on Instagram. What are you going to do today to make today, right now, this very second, an adventure? Don’t wait for the future. The future is right now, and you can do with it whatever you wish.
“If you’re not obsessed with the life you live, change it.”
I am obsessed. And I wouldn’t change a thing.
Paris, France, July 2015. My current city crush. I love everything about Paris…from the fashion, to the lights, to the young people, to the bread.
|
Muizenburg, South Africa, May 2015. Surfing in one of the top 20 places in the world to surf.
|
If I had to pick something…there’s nothing quite like a really good, really cold Margarita on the rocks.
Evian Mineral Spray. I carry this EVERYWHERE. On a plane, in my purse, in my backpack, in my car. It can set your makeup, or it can be used on just fresh, clean skin. It hydrates my skin and leaves it fresh all day!
The list goes on, but I won’t bore you. Read about it all on the beauty section of my blog.
Chianti, Tuscany, Italy, July 2015. Went on a wine tour and absolutely fell in love with the Italian countryside! Hat by Free People.
|
Sir Lowry’s Pass, South Africa, May 2015. Here I am reunited with one of my favorite kids in the township, Ronaldo. This place has taught me such compassion. Service: because we can, we must.
|
Birkenstocks.
Huge hats.
To read more about my travel adventures, work life, and personal life, follow my three blogs, and follow me on Instagram:
www.goglobalexperiences.com/blogwww.loveallthingsbritney.com
41 Comments
Eye Serum Review
November 27, 2015 at 9:15 amHello, I enjoy reading all of your article post. I wanted
to write a little comment to support you.
Bri
November 28, 2015 at 12:37 amThank you so much!
Natto 5 Supplement
November 29, 2015 at 12:16 pmI got this site from my friend who informed me on the topic of this site and
at the moment this time I am visiting this website and reading very
informative articles or reviews here.
wifi orange
December 11, 2015 at 1:10 pmI really like what you guys are up too. This type
of clever work and exposure! Keep up the terrific works guys I’ve incorporated you
guys to blogroll.
blog here
December 12, 2015 at 7:41 amWow, awesome blog format! How lengthy have you ever been running a blog for?
you made running a blog glance easy. The full look of your site is fantastic,
let alone the content material!
Rental Mobil Malang
December 14, 2015 at 3:02 pmAwesome! Its truly amazing post, I have got much clear idea concerning from
this article.
Rental Mobil Yogyakarta
December 16, 2015 at 12:14 pmI simply could not depart your site before suggesting that I actually loved the usual
information an individual supply on your visitors? Is gonna be back ceaselessly to investigate
cross-check new posts
parabola marketing
December 18, 2015 at 2:32 amThank you for sharing your thoughts. I really appreciate your efforts and
I will be waiting for your next post thanks once again.
Tiffani
December 20, 2015 at 6:44 amI savour, cause I found exactly what I was having a
look for. You’ve ended my four day lengthy hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day.
Bye
http://www.bolalist.com/11906/Arturo_C__Stevens.html
December 21, 2015 at 6:13 amAmazing! Its really amazing post, I have got much clear idea concerning from this piece of writing.
تأجير يخوت فى دبي
December 22, 2015 at 5:46 amIt’s awesome to visit this web page and reading the views of
all mates concerning this post, while I am also keen of getting know-how.
Shelley
December 23, 2015 at 2:02 pmI quite like reading an article that will make men and women think.
Also, thanks for allowing me to comment!
spider profit
December 23, 2015 at 10:05 pmWonderful article! That is the kind of info that are supposed to be shared across the web.
Disgrace on Google for now not positioning this put up higher!
Come on over and talk over with my web site .
Thank you =)
trichetohack
December 24, 2015 at 8:14 amVery soon this web page will be famous amid all blogging and site-building visitors,
due to it’s pleasant articles or reviews
Online dog training
December 25, 2015 at 8:49 pmI think this is among the most significant info for me.
And i’m glad reading your article. But wanna remark on few general things, The web site style is ideal, the
articles is really excellent : D. Good job, cheers
joint pain causes
December 26, 2015 at 6:25 pmWe’re a bunch of volunteers and opening a new scheme in our community.
Your site provided us with helpful info to work on. You’ve performed a formidable process
and our whole neighborhood will likely be thankful to you.
medicinal benefit
December 27, 2015 at 5:31 amHi, i believe that i noticed you visited my website
thus i came to return the want?.I’m trying to in finding issus
to improve my web site!I suppose its adequate to make use of some of your ideas!!
lightroom presets
December 27, 2015 at 6:58 amWonderful work! This is the type of info that are meant to be shared
across the net. Disgrace on Google for no longer positioning this put up higher!
Come on over and consult with my site . Thanks =)
roadkilltshirts
December 27, 2015 at 9:59 amHey! This is my first visit to your blog!
We are a group of volunteers and starting a new project in a community in the same niche.
Your blog provided us beneficial information to work on. You have done
a wonderful job!
Leoma
December 28, 2015 at 7:25 amThese are actually wonderful ideas in concerning
blogging. You have touched some good factors here. Any way keep up wrinting.
spider profit
December 28, 2015 at 11:35 amThis is a topic that is close to my heart… Best wishes!
Where are your contact details though?
Click here for news about ganar dinero encuestas
December 28, 2015 at 1:42 pmHello it’s me, I am also visiting this website on a regular
basis, this web page is genuinely nice and the viewers are actually sharing good thoughts.
clash of clans hack
December 28, 2015 at 4:09 pmWonderful article! This is the type of info that should be shared
across the web. Disgrace on Google for not positioning this submit upper!
Come on over and seek advice from my web site .
Thank you =)
Latanya
December 29, 2015 at 3:48 amHis furniture remains in the Ornamental Fine arts Compilation of the Chicago Past
history Museum.
oyster perpetual rolex replica
December 29, 2015 at 11:10 amPretty! This has been a really wonderful post. Thanks for supplying this info.
warto
December 29, 2015 at 4:30 pmI’m curious to find out what blog system you are working with?
I’m experiencing some small security problems with my
latest site and I’d like to find something more safe. Do you have any suggestions?
Western culture
December 29, 2015 at 8:07 pmHi, I do believe this is a great site. I stumbledupon it 😉 I wipl
return yet agaikn since I book marked it. Money and freeom
is the best way to change, may you be rich and continue to help other people.
differenza tra rolex e replica
December 31, 2015 at 4:13 amFine way of explaining, and good article to take information concerning my
presentation subject matter, which i am going to convey in academy.
Ian Leaf
December 31, 2015 at 10:44 amI am regular reader, how are you everybody? This post posted at this web
page is truly good.
https://jamfree56.wordpress.com/2015/12/09/how-to-get-free-membership-in-animal-jam-for-unlimited-access-to-resources/
December 31, 2015 at 2:30 pmWOW just what I was searching for. Came here by searching for network channels
how chiropractic care keeps you health
December 31, 2015 at 3:18 pmHi, I read your new stuff regularly. Your writing style is awesome, keep doing what you’re
doing!
Bri
December 31, 2015 at 4:09 pmThank you so much!
http://membership45.webeden.co.uk/blog/4591318717?preview=Y
December 31, 2015 at 3:52 pmIf some one needs expert view on the topic of blogging and site-building then i suggest him/her to
go to see this web site, Keep up the fastidious work.
Laurene
December 31, 2015 at 9:43 pmWe stumbled over here different page and thought I should check
things out. I like what I see so now i’m following you. Look forward to exploring your web
page again.
cash from home
January 1, 2016 at 3:12 amAdmiring the persistence you put into your blog and in depth information you present.
It’s good to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same old rehashed
information. Great read! I’ve saved your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.
replica tag heuer watch bands
January 1, 2016 at 4:12 amPeculiar article, just what I wanted to find.
Hyper Tone Excel Trial
January 1, 2016 at 11:03 amHave you ever considered about including a little bit more
than just your articles? I mean, what you say is important and all.
However think of if you added some great images or videos to give your posts
more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with images and clips,
this site could certainly be one of the best in its field.
Great blog!
shirts with sayings
January 1, 2016 at 7:05 pmHello there! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if
that would be okay. I’m undoubtedly enjoying your blog and look forward to new updates.
Eric Gibson Music
January 3, 2016 at 2:37 amThanks designed for sharing such a fastidious idea, article is nice,
thats why i have read it entirely
replica audemars piguet cheap
January 3, 2016 at 3:55 pmI think this is one of the most vital information for me.
And i’m glad reading your article. But wanna remark on few general things, The website style is ideal, the articles is really nice : D.
Good job, cheers
www.qqbet.net
January 4, 2016 at 2:43 amI’m really enjoying the design and layout of your website.
It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more pleasant for me
to come here and visit more often. Did you hire out a designer to create your theme?
Great work!