When I look back on the European summer of 2023, it feels like a series of memories strung together. A journey of connection, service, and deep exploration. I had the opportunity to stay in Portugal through a mix of Workaway and a bit of luck, which led to some incredible experiences, from working with families to exploring the rugged beauty of Portugal's coastline, and even a visit to the vibrant streets of London.

The summer began in Cascais, a vibrant coastal town that quickly became a backdrop for self-reflection and personal growth. Travelling solo meant I had the freedom to explore at my own pace, and Cascais offered plenty to dive into, both literally and figuratively.

Every morning, I joined João, a local with a deep connection to the sea. Together, we braved the icy Atlantic waves, plunging into the water as the sun rose above the rugged coastline. It wasn't just a physical challenge but a mental one. A daily practice of stepping into discomfort and emerging with clarity and renewed energy.

Outside of the ocean, I spent my days exploring Cascais' vibrant streets, training at the outdoor calisthenics park, and enjoying Portuguese pastries at local cafes. These solo moments were pivotal, teaching me to embrace my own company, trust my instincts, and appreciate the beauty of simplicity.

A few months later, I had the opportunity of a lifetime in Aljezur, a small charming village by the ocean in Portugal. Through Workaway, I connected with Kia, a warm-hearted German woman who graciously welcomed me into her world. My role was to help care for her two boys, both of whom have a unique condition that made them highly sensitive to touch. Though they couldn't speak, their love for hugs and physical closeness brought an unexpected layer of warmth and joy to the time there.

Each day felt like a gentle rhythm. Taking the boys to the beach, playing music, creating art, and watching their faces light up as they connected with the world in their own way. Kia provided accommodation and even let me use her car to explore the nearby beaches and coastal areas. The whole experience was about creating moments of joy and connection, and it also gave me a way to experience a full summer in one of the most beautiful spots on the Portuguese coast.

After Aljezur, I travelled to Lisbon and eventually made my way to Madeira. The island's lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and welcoming locals made it feel like stepping into a different world. Madeira carries a rich history and runs at a slower pace, which was the perfect contrast to the weeks of work and travel that came before it. Spending time soaking in the island vibes and experiencing the culture up close was a highlight of the whole journey.

One of the most unique parts of the summer was staying with an Israeli family, where I got to live in a small camper van on their property. The mother, a free-spirited traveller who had just spent seven years living on a Thai island, was now setting down new roots in Portugal. My role was to help with day-to-day tasks, cooking, driving the kids to school, and keeping the rhythm of family life steady.

Living in that camper van brought a whole new level of adventure to the experience. Waking up each day surrounded by nature, driving the kids to school, then having the rest of the day to explore the coast or lend a hand around the house. It was a different kind of travel, one that required adaptability, service, and an openness to new ways of living.

This summer wasn't just about seeing new places. It was about building relationships and stepping into a role of service, something I had also experienced in Costa Rica. Being part of these families, supporting them in small but meaningful ways, allowed me to dive deeper into each culture and create genuine bonds. In return, I gained new skills, a broader perspective, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of alternative travel.

Looking back, this journey through Europe wasn't just travel. It was a journey of growth, connection, and discovery. Each experience, whether caring for kids, embracing the cold waves of Cascais, or sleeping in a camper van, became a piece of a summer I will always hold close. It taught me that travel can be about more than seeing places. It is about the people you meet, the connections you make, and the ways you give back to the world around you.

​True adventure lies in the unexpected. In stepping beyond the ordinary and finding purpose in the little things.