At 57, I’ve chosen to embark on a solo travel adventure despite being happily married. Why? Because life is short, and experiences are the currency of a fulfilling life.
My journey to this point has been anything but conventional. As a teenage mother, I raised three boys while navigating an eleven-year marriage that ultimately ended in divorce. Determined to provide the best for my children, I poured myself into my career, eventually retiring as an instructor for a major U.S. labor union, teaching union organizing and steward skills. This role allowed me to travel extensively across the United States, igniting a passion for exploration that grew stronger with time.
In 2012, life took another exciting turn when I met Steve in Washington, D.C. We married in 2014, and I embraced the role of stepmother to his three-year-old daughter. As our daughter approaches college age, Steve is committed to supporting her through this crucial phase—a commitment I wholeheartedly support. Additionally, I am proud to be a grandmother, and I hope to inspire my grandchildren to travel and fulfill their dreams of exploration.
Some might view this decision as selfish, but Steve and I see it differently. This quest for personal growth and adventure is a healthy way to expand my sense of self-worth and become the best version of myself. I aim to balance my passion for walking, traveling, and immersing myself in different cultures and histories with maintaining a robust family life.
I’ve already taken my first step on this journey. In September 2024, I started my early retirement by walking the Camino de Santiago, a 500+ mile pilgrimage from Saint Jean Pied de Port, France, to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This 36-day solo adventure was transformative, and I share details in a series of posts.
I’m planning a solo trip to France in February 2025. To challenge myself further, I’m approaching this journey with minimal planning—no pre-booked accommodations and only a rough itinerary. It’s an exciting prospect that thrills and slightly intimidates me, so stay tuned!
How about you?
Will you join me on this adventure as we prove that age is just a number and the world is waiting to be explored—one solo step at a time? What countries are you curious about? Any suggestions for future adventures and challenges for me?
Love this! So excited to travel along with you, even if it’s from afar.
Thank you, my friend:
I am so excited for you! You are a true Trail Blazer. I wish I could join you and who knows maybe somewhere in between here and there, I will. I will Stay tuned as you travel the world and explore new ventures. I love you my sister. I’m so very proud of you.
Thank you and I look forward to connecting on the road!
Looking forward to hearing more about your travels into the nooks and crannies that lay outside the beaten paths, of as well as popular tourists areas!
Sounds like there’s an emerging list of exciting adventures to be had! Very Happy for You!!
Thank you Ang, I hope you join me on one of those adventures.