Turning 50 and Traveling the World
Earlier this month I turned 50. These are not words I type lightly. Turning 50 was not an easy transition. Honestly, it’s still tough to even think that I am 50. I know, I know, 50 is the new 20 or 30 or 40, whatever you want to say. But that doesn’t make it any easier for me.
But what did make it easier for me was celebrating with my family in London, England. We spent a very rainy day visiting the sights of the city. When we returned to the hotel, my family had set up a cake, a bottle of Prosecco, and a Happy Birthday video from our closest friends and family. It even included birthday wishes from my cruise group who were visiting Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay! No surprise, the video made me cry!
What better way to celebrate a milestone event than in a foreign country with those you love ♥️
Throughout 2024, I have visited 6 countries; Mexico, Chile, England, Ireland, France, and Spain. (Confession, one was just an airport, but that still counts, right?) I’ll be visiting one more in September, the Bahamas.
For me, traveling feeds my soul. It makes me feel alive. It makes me feel like maybe 50 is the new 40 or 30 (definitely not 20!)
The first time I visited Paris in 2017, I cried when we walked off the plane, into the airport and saw the Welcome to Paris sign! My husband wondered what was wrong with me. There was nothing wrong, I felt like I was home. There is even a restaurant with my maiden name, Prunier, and a street in Bordeaux named the same.
At this point in my life, Europe is my favorite place to visit. I love the feel of the cobblestone streets beneath my feet. I love the small shops owned by the same family for a century. I love to visit museums and marvel over the paintings and ancient artifacts. I love to try as much new food and wine as I can!
Whether traveling with my husband (we are Empty-Nesters now), with my big kids, or traveling for work, I always make sure I do something I’ve never done before or try a food/drink I’ve never had.
On our cruise to Italy, Greece, and Turkey in 2022, we decided to try pizza and gelato in each port. We accomplished this goal. My favorite pizza was Roma while my husband & daughter preferred Napoli style.
My goal is to visit every country before I leave this earth. It may seem lofty but I feel like I am off to a good start! Hey, I’m only 50!
What will 2025 bring? So far, South Africa!
I know I am blessed to be able to travel the way I do. My kids are “big” and my job as a Certified Travel Associate affords me many opportunities. But I feel very strongly that everyone should find the time to travel. Whether it be to a city close by that you haven’t visited in a while, a tropical island where you sit on the beach and relax or, if you’re like me, a foreign land to fulfill your desire for exploration, there is a place for everyone!