Traveling has been woven into the fabric of my life for as long as I can remember. A decade of exploration, new friendships, and endless curiosity has taken me from my home in China to study and work abroad, beginning in the Netherlands and stretching to every corner of the globe I could reach. Ten years, countless cities, and endless stories later, here I am, filled with that same eagerness to pack a bag and hit the road again. For me, traveling has become something more than just a pastime—it’s a part of me, a way of living, of understanding the world, and of finding my place within it.
Studying and working abroad in the Netherlands opened up an entire continent at my doorstep. From the quiet canals of Amsterdam to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, from misty mornings in the Scottish Highlands to sunlit afternoons on the Italian coast—Europe became my personal playground. One winter, during my Ph.D. program, my colleagues and I decided to experience Disneyland together. It was my first time visiting, and although it was cold, the magic was undeniable. Wandering the park with friends, bundled up against the chill, made it feel like we were kids again, despite being there for serious studies. Moments like these helped me see how travel could shape not only my outlook but also my values and identity.
Beyond Europe, I ventured further afield, crossing oceans to wander the streets of New York City, explore the vibrant soul of Mexico, and bask in the sunny beaches of California. When I first arrived in New York, I felt an electric thrill. The city was massive, fast-paced, and buzzing with life. As a Chinese visitor, I found myself drawn to the big Chinatown, where I savored authentic dishes that made me feel right at home. I also indulged my love for reading, exploring every bookstore I could find and leaving with a heavy bag of new books to devour.
Each adventure brought its own joys and lessons, gradually becoming less about checking destinations off a list and more about connecting with the world in a personal and meaningful way. A beautiful moment I’ll never forget was during my time in Mexico City with my Mexican family. They took me out horseback riding for the first time, and as I sat on that horse, feeling the sun and surrounded by warm laughter, I felt completely in tune with a world so far from my own roots. Experiences like these were less about the place itself and more about the people, cultures, and kindness that travel had brought into my life.
One book that has been particularly close to my heart along this journey is Vagabonding by Rolf Potts. The concept of slow travel, of taking time to immerse in each place, resonates deeply with me. Potts emphasizes that vagabonding is about embracing the unknown and savoring life on the move. For me, it’s not about counting the countries I’ve visited or the cities I’ve stayed in, but about living with an open heart, willing to discover new perspectives and challenge my own beliefs. His philosophy aligns perfectly with the way I feel—traveling isn’t just an escape; it’s a way of life, an education in itself.
Even now, after so many miles and memories, the urge to explore is as strong as ever. The idea of a new destination, a different landscape, a fresh language, or a different cuisine is endlessly exciting. Travel has taught me patience, humility, and the joy of being present. It’s shown me that life has as much to offer on a busy street corner in Mexico City as it does on a quiet mountain path in the Swiss Alps. It’s gifted me friends in places I didn’t expect and moments that feel too vivid to be real.
And so, the journey continues. Whether it’s a short trip to a neighboring town or a flight across the world, the act of traveling brings me back to myself every time. Traveling has become part of my rhythm, my growth, and my joy, and I hope it always will be.
