The Real Treasure of Travel: Reconnecting with Loved Ones
Our maiden voyage has come to an end, closing seven incredible weeks of travel with a journey rich in unforgettable moments and heartfelt reunions.
As we reflect on this final leg, one message stands out: the importance of connecting with loved ones — both on the road and in life.
A Cultural Evening in Hamburg
Our week began in Hamburg, where we spent a memorable evening with Annika’s mum. Together, we visited the Elbphilharmonie, an architectural marvel and one of Germany’s finest concert halls. It was a calm, cultural highlight that set the tone for the week ahead.
A Heartwarming Family Reunion in Fulda
The next day, we traveled to Fulda for a long-awaited family reunion. It had been 10 years since our last gathering with all uncles/aunts and cousins. We agreed last year it was time to reunite for a joyful occasion this November rather than waiting for the next funeral.
Friday night was especially emotional as we reunited with our kids first after months without seeing them. As both arrived the evening before, we spent the night catching up, laughing, and sharing impressions of our travels. It was in that moment we realised how much we had missed them.
Saturday brought the main event: a gathering of uncles, cousins, and loved ones from around the world. It was a day filled with hugs, conversations, and plenty of delicious food.
Exploring the Rhön Region
After the reunion, we took again a slower pace to explore the Rhön region. We visited Wasserkuppe, Germany’s highest peak in the area, and stayed in the small town of Hünfeld, where we learned about Conrad Zuse, the pioneer of computer science who lived and worked there. Though the museum dedicated to his work was closed, it’s a visit we’ll save for another time.
A Walk Through the Wild
Later in the week, we joined friends for a drive hunt, serving as drivers in the forest. This experience took us deep into untouched nature, walking without paths and navigating as the crow flies straight through the wilderness. We saw wildlife up close — deer, rabbits, and raccoons. Although only one deer and two foxes were shot, much to Annika’s relief, the experience offered a unique perspective on nature.
The Real Treasure: Connection
As we are one our way back to Meerbusch, we realise the true highlight of this week wasn’t a place or an event — it was the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones.
While travel offers breathtaking views and unique experiences, the most meaningful moments come from the people we share those moments with.
This lesson is true for everyone. We’re all on a journey in life. Just as long-term travelers seek meaningful connections on the road to travel together, those navigating their own life paths — raising children, building a home, or chasing dreams — find fulfilment in shared experiences with those moving in the same direction in life.
Though we didn’t make many new connections on this trip, we look forward to those serendipitous friendships future travels may bring. For now, this journey has been a reminder to cherish the relationships we already hold dear.
Wherever you travel — whether on the road or through life — the real treasures are the connections you make along the way.
Looking Ahead
As this chapter ends, we’ll spend the coming weeks reflecting on what we’ve learned, sharing what worked/didn’t work, and preparing for future adventures in a few weeks.
Stay tuned for what’s next!