It has been quiet here for a while. As Corona has affected everybody (and still does) it has also alternated my travel plans.
However, even in Corona times I was traveling. Maybe that is irresponsible but it is what I did.
After coming back from Africa I spent April in Germany. It was beautiful to see the spring there and experience the temperatures rizing from fucking freezing cold to a really beautiful and sunny pre-summer April.
But, there was nothing for me to do. And to spend 800 EUR per month on an apartment just to do nothing seemed not justifiable.
So, the initial idea of working with my friend Rob on the farm in England rebounded. After 2 flights got canceled by British Airways I chose one of Lufthansa out of Frankfurt and this one brought me to London on the 4th of May. I was surprised to find myself not being controlled once in light of Corona.
I had a fantastic time there and it was good to do some labor work again and probably more importantly…having a routine and spending time with my friend. Once again I came to the conclusion that it is not important what we do. We give the importance to whatever we do. Thus, putting up a fence can be the most fulfilling work there is.
After I learned that the borders in continental Europe are reopening (and the UK had no schedule for easing the travel restrictions) I felt an itching. How about touring through Europe since I have an RV and any overseas travel won’t be possible this year realistically? Which means I will be in Europe in winter also.
Finally, on the 19th of June I took another flight. This time to Lisbon, where I was picked up by Susana. I spent a fantastic week at her house and was reluctant to leave. Why go when I feel happy? But then again, if I don’t leave now I won’t make it to Sweden (another story) as we are quite late in the season already. Plus, I have the feeling that in fall we will experience a Corona rebound and by then I would like to have traveled a bit at least (aka take the opportunity). Not going would mean I would spend until next year in Portugal probably. With emphasis on “probably” as nothing is certain/projectable these days.
We decided to go on a road trip for a few days together, including the kids. 4 people in an RV. Uncertain as to how this was going to turn out 😉
The national road N2 crosses Portugal from Chaves to Faro (North to South). For some it is considered the route 66 of Portugal 🙂
We started in Faro and went northwards. Due to the heat we stopped at many lakes and water reservoirs. Skin grew between our fingers 😉
In between we crossed the geological center of Portugal and I even managed to throw in a cycling day.
I hate goodbyes, especially when I don’t know when we will see us again. On Thursday we went our separate ways and I continued the travel north by myself. I am back and forth between going on and just staying here. Yes, I have the freedom and it is fantastic to have it. Yes, I can do wonderful things. But they also come with some downsides. I have to let go of people go (at least temporarily) that are very dear to my heart in order to travel.
And letting go is not my strength. What I am also realizing this week is that I have to let go of my dream of a world trip. I mean, realistically, I am semi-retired since 2 years and I haven’t been able to get this thing going. Either external influences or my reluctance stopped me from fulfilling this dream. And in a way I was also relieved that the Africa trip was canceled and I didn’t “have” to do it. Maybe it is just not in me and my life is supposed to take a different path. I don’t know. I am letting it go and see what comes next. Maybe it will be shorter travels, maybe it is still going to happen, maybe it will be something completely else. I DON’T KNOW!
I realize that in the past I have always decided for fear and not love. Either by taking a job that seemed more secure than another that would have followed my passion or by saying no to a relation out of fear. Yes, as friends say that might have happened because I decided for self-love. But there is a fine line between self-love and fear or moving forward.
Bottom line, I am open for a new road and trust on the universe to push me there 😉
Love,
Matthias
PS: This blog post comes out late since my side was down for some time.