As I reflect on my seven and a half to eight years of traveling throughout Asia, visiting eleven different countries, I'm reminded of the bittersweet feeling captured in John Denver's iconic song, "I'm Leaving on a Jet Plane." The anticipation of adventure and the thrill of the unknown beckoned me to explore new horizons, but the thought of leaving home and loved ones behind was always tinged with a sense of longing.

The journey was not without its challenges. Each new city, each new country, presented a fresh set of obstacles to overcome. Yet, as I navigated these unfamiliar surroundings, I discovered the importance of adaptability and resilience. I learned to appreciate the beauty of diverse cultures, the kindness of strangers, and the value of stepping out of my comfort zone.

From exploring the stunning caves of Malaysia, marvelling at the towering stalactites and stalagmites, to soaring above the majestic Pinatubo volcano in the Philippines in a hot air balloon, witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the rugged landscape, each experience left an indelible mark on my heart. And who could forget the unforgettable scuba diving adventures in Palawan, discovering the vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters that surrounded the island?

One of the most memorable experiences was walking on the Great Wall of China, filled with astonishment of the ancient fortifications and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The sheer scale and history of the Wall left me in awe. Another thrilling experience was white river rafting on the Yangtze River, navigating the rapids and taking in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding gorges.

But perhaps one of the most profound experiences was my visit to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The ancient temples, with their intricate carvings and majestic architecture, transported me to a different era. As I wandered through the complex, I felt a deep sense of spirituality and connection to the history and culture of the region. It was a truly transcendent experience that left a lasting impact on my life.

Another challenging yet rewarding experience was learning how to kitesurf in Vietnam. It was a daunting task that often left me wondering whether I had the strength and perseverance to master it. But with determination and practice, I found the inner strength to overcome my doubts and successfully learn the sport. This experience was all the more remarkable given that I was teaching English at a local language school in Vietnam at the time and balancing my teaching responsibilities with my kitesurfing lessons required careful time management and dedication.

These experiences, and many more like them, taught me to appreciate the beauty and wonder of our world. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to grow as a person. And as I look back on those adventures, I'm reminded of the importance of being open to new experiences and embracing the unknown.

But as the years passed, and my adventures took me further and further from home, I began to yearn for the familiarity and comfort of my own country, my own home. The longing to return home was like a gentle whisper in the wind, echoing the sentiments of "Take Me Home, Country Roads." The thought of winding roads, familiar landscapes, and the warmth of loved ones waiting for me was a constant source of comfort.

And then, finally, the day arrived when I boarded a plane, bound for home. The journey back was a mix of emotions - excitement to reconnect with loved ones, relief to leave the stresses of travel behind, and a sense of nostalgia for the experiences and memories I'd accumulated over the years.

As I settled back into the rhythms of home life, I realized that the journey had changed me in profound ways. The experiences I'd had, the people I'd met, and the lessons I'd learned had all contributed to my growth and perspective. And yet, as I looked out at the familiar landscape, I knew that there was no place like home. “It’s good to touch the green green grass of home”.