To travel. To know. To grow.

Traveling has extraordinary effects on us.

Traveling has been, in addition to a pleasure I enjoy, a way of expanding myself, to gain perspective and grow - as an individual and as a professional.

Going into the unknown, smelling different smells, new textures and experiences, getting to know and getting involved with people, culture, customs and traditions. With the values, beliefs and faith of each people.

There is something of me that remains in each place and there is something of each place that remains in me. I believe, because it is my intention, that maybe I leave a little bit of me in every place I go and I bring with me lessons, learnings, feelings and thoughts from whom I was predisposed to receive. From the easy, sweet and contagious smile of the Indonesians, to the pragmatism of the North Europeans, to the resilience, hope and good mood of the Brazilians.

If we are awake and willing, knowing and feeling the difference helps us to understand much better all kinds of differences around us. Leaving our much acclaimed “comfort zone” and realising that there are many other ways of living. We choose ours, but that doesn't mean it's right for everyone else. Just because it's right for me, it doesn't have to be right for others. And the opposite is also true.

This tolerance makes us better beings. Be more competent.

I am constantly reminded of Saint Augustine's famous phrase “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”

I want to read the whole book! In fact, I made it one of my BIG 5 (5 major life goals) - visiting at least 150 countries until my last day here on this Planet.

And whenever I travel I reflect on:

1. What I liked the most;

2. What I didn’t like;

3. What I learned;

4. What will I change from then on;

5. What I don't want for myself and/or in myself;

6. I become even more grateful for what I have.

I sometimes see myself as a “patchwork”. A mixture of fabrics not from leftovers, but from the best pieces I managed to conquer, sewn one by one, with intention, which are increasing the size and density of this tapestry that I am, with which I warm myself and want to continue to warm those around me. Traveling is a privilege. But above all, a necessity.

With Love, Respect and Dedication.

João