A Journey Back to Myself: Reflections from Turkey

Just a month ago, I was in Turkey. Looking back now, I realise that trip came into my life exactly when I needed it most. I didn’t take it just to discover a new country—I took it because I needed to restore my energy. Traveling has always done that for me. It gives me a sense of renewal, almost like my mind resets itself. I come back feeling lighter, more creative, more inspired, and with the energy I need to continue building my life and my projects.

What made this trip even more significant is that my last real holiday had been Cuba, two years earlier. Usually, I don’t go that long without traveling, but after my father’s health changed, I felt guilty spending my free time on myself. I felt I needed to be home, helping whenever I could. And for a long time, that felt like the right thing to do.

But eventually, there came a moment when both my body and my mind started asking me for a break. Quietly at first, then louder and louder. Deep down, I knew I couldn’t ignore it anymore. Even booking the trip felt strange at times, almost as if I had to force myself to allow it. I think part of that came from my sense of responsibility. But I also realised something important: in order to truly be there for others, I need to take care of myself too. And this trip became exactly that—an act of love towards myself.

I flew into Istanbul, a city full of movement, contrasts, history, and life. I loved the atmosphere from the moment I arrived. I wandered through the Grand Bazaar, getting happily lost among colours, spices, lamps, and endless little shops. I crossed the Bosphorus and experienced both the European and Asian sides of the city, each with its own energy. I visited the Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cisterns, places that made me feel as though I had stepped into another era.

From there, I explored other parts of Turkey. One of the places that touched me the most was Troy. I’ve always loved Greek mythology, so being there, imagining the stories connected to that ancient city, felt surreal in the best possible way. Ephesus also left me speechless. I completely understood why it’s considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the scale, the preservation, the history… it was incredible. And then there was Cappadocia. Unfortunately, I couldn’t do the hot air balloons because of the weather conditions, but honestly, the scenery itself was magical enough. The landscapes looked almost unreal.

And of course, there was the food. Delicious, comforting, full of flavour—I even took a cooking class. Although I have to admit that sometimes the spice level was a little too much for me!

But as always, one of the most beautiful parts of traveling was the people I met along the way. The conversations, the shared laughs, the little unexpected moments of connection that stay with you long after the trip ends.

This journey reminded me that the things that bring us joy are not selfish. They are necessary. Sometimes we become so focused on responsibilities, routines, or taking care of others that we slowly disconnect from the things that make us feel alive. And when that happens, it’s easy to forget parts of ourselves along the way.

So maybe the real question is: when was the last time you did something that genuinely made you feel alive? And if you can’t remember… maybe it’s time to reconnect with that part of yourself again.

Until the next adventure,

Teresa

Cappadocia