Along with working as coach for global nomads living around the world, I also post an Interview Series on this website where I share the stories of global nomads who have moved abroad, are traveling the globe, or are transitioning to life back at home. Today’s interview is with Kayla, who’s sharing a glimpse of her inspiring story of traveling the world.
Kayla embarked on what was supposed to be a one year round the world trip in 2012 and hasn’t stopped traveling since. She’s lived and traveled in over 40 different countries and is a freelance writer, social media manager, and yoga instructor.
When was the first time you went traveling on your own? What was your life like before that?
The first time I traveled on my own was during a school break in university. I only went to the neighbouring province (Prince Edward Island), but it was the first time I had traveled on my own, arranging the bus tickets, accommodation, activities, etc. Before that I had always dreamed of going traveling but this (small) trip made me realize it could become a reality.
What motivated you to leave your home country?
I had wanted to travel for as long as I can remember. Being somewhat young and unencumbered I didn’t have too many difficulties with the move. Mostly it was hard to say goodbye to friends and family and to decide what to pack and what to leave behind.
What’s the most difficult part about traveling the world or living outside of your home country? How do you overcome these difficulties?
The most difficult part is being away from friends and family. I overcome this by making time for regular video calls with the people closest to me back home!
What’s the best part about traveling the world or living outside of your home country?
The adventure. The food. Learning about different cultures, customs, and histories.
What has traveling the world taught you about life, romantic relationships, family and/or professional ambitions?
It’s shifted my priorities on what’s important to me. I knew that I wanted to do something to help people and give back to the communities I was visiting, so I focus on working with non-profits and people with chronic illnesses in my work. I also write about travel and share my experiences with others who want to go traveling themselves.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- The trans-siberian railway
- Walking the great trail in Canada
- Learn a third language
Do you have a favorite quote, book, movie, TED Talk, etc?
I recently read The Walking Man by Paul Dore. I thought of it reading the Intentional Expat website because it’s about travel and how that can affect us both emotionally and psychologically. Some of my other favourite travel books are Wild by Cheryl Strayed and My Life on the Road by Gloria Steinem.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself before starting this journey?
I think I’d tell myself to worry less about the future and do what you know is right in the present.
What do you hope people say about you on your 70th birthday?
I hope people will say I’ve had a great adventure!
Thanks so much Kayla for sharing your inspiring story of leaving your home country and embarking on the adventure of traveling the world. I know I’m looking forward to checking out some of the books you’ve recommended! If you want to connect with Kayla you can find her at the following links:
ABOUT MELISSA PARKS, THE FOUNDER OF INTENTIONAL EXPAT:
I moved from Seattle (USA) to Madrid, Spain in 2009 in order to work as an English teacher for a year. I soon discovered that when you accept the invitation to become a global nomad, life may take you in unexpected directions! This one year abroad turned into ten, and during that time I earned my master’s degree and PhD in Clinical & Health Psychology, lived in both Spain and the Netherlands, became fluent in Spanish, transitioned from an accidental to an intentional expat, and met my future husband, a fellow global nomad. I recently relocated back to Seattle and provide online coaching for global nomads, If you’re a global nomad yourself and want to be featured in a future interview, please get in touch!
Are you interested in working with me? You can learn more about my 1:1 coaching services HERE.
Or schedule your discovery call to meet me and decide if it would be a good fit to work together. Schedule HERE.