Traveling has a way of teaching us the best lessons when we least expect them—through little difficulties, happy accidents and moments that just make you smile. Here are a few of my favourite travel lessons and memories, not just for the places themselves, but for the life learning they snuck in along the way.
In London, I Learned That Tea Time Is Good for the Soul
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Sure, England’s countryside is beautiful, and its cities are full of history, but my best memory? A rainy afternoon in London when my mom and I got caught in a rainstorm. We were drenched, tired and just needed a break. That’s when we arrived at a cozy tea room. A pot of steaming tea and a warm scone with clotted cream instantly made everything better. It was the perfect reminder that sometimes the best way to deal with life’s little bumps is to just pause, relax and soak in the simple joys—like a comforting cup of tea beside my bestie.
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What I Took Away: Wherever you are, there’s always time to slow down and find peace in the little things, like a perfect cup of tea.
Paris Taught Me That We All Have Someone Perfect, Like a Café au Lait and a Croissant
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Paris is called the city of love for a reason, but my favourite moment there was a simple one. I was sitting at a café, with a warm croissant in one hand and a café au lait in the other, just watching the world go by. It was one of those moments where everything just clicks, and you realize that perfection isn’t about grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s about finding the perfect pairing in life’s simplest pleasures.
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What I Took Away: Perfection is in the little moments, like the harmony of a café au lait and a croissant.
In New Orleans, I Learned That It's Okay to Let Yourself Be Carried Away by the Music
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New Orleans is a city that feels alive, with music everywhere you turn. One night, I got caught up in a spontaneous jazz parade—no plan, no destination, just music and movement. Before I knew it, I was dancing with strangers, completely swept up in the moment. It was a freeing experience that taught me to let go of my worries and just enjoy the ride.
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What I Took Away: Life is a dance, and sometimes the best thing you can do is let yourself be carried away by the music.
In Mexico, I Learned That Traditions Are the Heartbeat of a Culture
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Growing up in Mexico, I’ve always been surrounded by rich traditions, especially during the Day of the Dead. It’s a time when the whole country comes alive with vibrant colours, music and the smell of cempasúchil flowers in the air. But it wasn’t until I spent a Day of the Dead in a small village in Guadalajara, watching families gather to honour their loved ones, that I truly understood the depth of these traditions. It’s not just a celebration—it’s a way of life, a way to stay connected to our roots and our loved ones.
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What I Took Away:Â Traditions are more than just rituals; they are the heartbeat of a culture, keeping us connected to our past and to each other.
In Brela, I Learned That Sometimes the Journey Is More Beautiful Than the Destination
While driving along Croatia’s stunning coastline, I found myself stopping constantly—not because of the destination, but because the journey itself was so beautiful. From the sparkling Adriatic Sea to the charming coastal villages, every turn offered a new breathtaking view. It was a reminder that in life, the journey can be just as rewarding, if not more so, than the destination.
What I Took Away: Don’t rush through life—take time to enjoy the journey, because it’s often where the best memories are made.
Written by: traveller Ximena
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