Travel

Sea views have my heart. I’m not sure what it is about the water, particularly the ocean, that captures my imagination. Being near the ocean makes me want to write. And write I have. My novel-in-progress is set in Ireland, in a tiny village in County Clare. Currently I’m housed on the tiny isle of Inishbofin, off the west coast, and oh my is it stunning. My love affair with Ireland began somewhere in college, when a friend of mine went to visit and explained to me “I just can’t believe you haven’t gone yet. It’s your place. I thought of you the whole time.” At the time I wasn’t a huge traveler, still paying off student loans and getting my bearings as a new teacher.

But I knew I wanted to be a traveler. Wanderlust is in my bones. I love having a home to come back to, my doggie, my husband, but I also have to be moving. The knowledge of an upcoming trip or the excitement of looking forward to being in a new place and exploring has gotten me through many a stressful time. Having summers off as a teacher, I’ve sort of come to depend on it as a means of inspiration and personal growth.

Travelling never disappoints me. I suppose I’m the type of person that can go without “urban comforts” as a friend once described it, and therefore am not uncomfortable when modern or familiar comforts aren’t as accessible. Travelling alone as well forces me to talk to people, to be confident, to be uncomfortable sometimes.

I’ve been thinking a lot about travel after the death of Anthony Bourdain. Anyone who knows me knew it was my pipe dream ambition to be Tony’s sidekick as he traveled the world. Several people scoffed at the idea but it seemed a good counterpoint to his seemingly crusty exterior. Plus, I figured it would be good TV. Tony was an empath in the rarest form: never overly emotional, but utterly open and connected with everyone he came in contact with throughout his travels. Even through a TV screen, knowing nothing about the man it was very clear that he cared deeply about others. He made it a point to see people. He taught me a lot about travel, being open minded, having conversations, and connecting over the most basic of human activities: sharing a meal. This trip I hope I travel well. I’m raising a glass to Mr. Bourdain. May you rest easy.