Travel Memories: Following My Heart to the British Virgin Islands and Self-Discovery. Part 1.

As I've been asked countless times about my most unforgettable travel experience, I finally sit down to weave together the memories of a journey that not only captured my heart but also altered the course of my life. This adventure was more than just a vacation—it was a soul-stirring odyssey to the farthest reaches of my wanderlust, a voyage of self-discovery amidst the sun-kissed splendour of the British Virgin Islands (BVI). So, are you curious to delve deeper into my BVI odyssey? Then, by all means, keep reading. (I must warn you, this is only the first part of 3. It's such a special story that I can't fit it into one article.)

As I reflect on my transformative journey through the British Virgin Islands (BVI), I can't help but marvel at the serendipitous chain of events that led me to this idyllic paradise. It all began with a chance encounter while learning how to dance kizomba and semba —a meeting with a very special friend, who would unwittingly become the catalyst for my profound connection to this captivating corner of the world. I didn't know anything about the British Virgin Islands (BVI). But as we became closer, I learned more and more about the beautiful BVI. He told exciting stories and described the islands with so much feeling that I could almost picture the clear blue water, sunny beaches, and interesting island life - it all sounded amazing!

Then, just when I saw the BVI truly as a paradise, a big hurricane called Irma hit the islands. It caused huge damage destroying all the islands. When it was all over, I felt really bad for the people who lived there and wanted to help them rebuild. I threw myself into ways how I could help, supporting charities, participating in events, and closely following the recovery process. With each passing day, my connection to the BVI deepened, until it felt as though a piece of my heart resided on those battered shores. It was then that I knew, with a certainty that bordered on inevitability, that I had to go—to see, to feel, to experience the beauty and resilience of the BVI for myself.

So, I decided to plan a trip to the BVI. It would be a big adventure - way more than anything I'd ever done before. It would also be expensive! Even my friend, the one who told me all about the BVI, was surprised I was going and I truly believe he did not believe it till the day I got a plane ticket. I was stubborn, I figured out how to get there and booked everything, and finally, I had a ticket to this amazing place! Little did I know then that this journey would become the cornerstone of my wanderlust, shaping my perspective and on day ultimately guiding me to move to Portugal. (But let’s come to this later)

I was on my way to the BVI, so excited! But guess what? Flights can be crazy! Mine got delayed, no big deal at first, but it messed up everything. When I finally landed, I had to run like crazy through the airport with a bunch of other people to catch another flight. We made it, but I was out of breath, stressed but at the same time happy. Unfortunately, in all the rush, our suitcases needed to be left behind! Ugh! There I was, in a new country, with just the clothes I was wearing. I felt terrible, but then my amazing friend came to the rescue, even by the distance! He helped me out right away and got some stuff for me to wear. It wasn't exactly what I packed - a man's shirt and a man's

swim shorts! It was weird, but kind of funny too, and a good way to start my island trip. :D

Later, on the beach, I laughed about the whole suitcase thing. But it also made me realize that trips can be surprising, and it's good to be prepared for anything. So, from now on, I'm always packing a change of clothes in my carry-on, just in case. Because the best adventures sometimes have unexpected moments, and those can be the most memorable!

As I disembarked from the plane onto the welcoming embrace of Tortola's tarmac, the darkness of the night enveloped me, yet the anticipation in the air was palpable. Although the sun had long since dipped below the horizon, the balmy tropical breeze carried with it the intoxicating fragrance of blossoming flowers, while the sky above shimmered with a tapestry of twinkling stars.

Despite the absence of daylight, I could sense the beauty that lay before me—a pristine coastline awaiting the first light of dawn to reveal its full splendour. At that moment, standing amidst the tranquillity of the night, I felt a profound sense of gratitude wash over me.

I am grateful for the journey that led me to this remote corner of paradise, for the friendships that enriched my life along the way, and for the sheer privilege of being present in such a magical place. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a pause to appreciate the wonders of the world and the serendipitous twists of fate that had brought me here. As I boarded the motorboat that would ferry me to the enchanting shores of Virgin Gorda, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building within me—a sense of adventure awaiting just beyond the horizon.

As I set foot on the shores of Virgin Gorda, I was immediately enraptured by the island's enchanting allure. The air was alive with the rhythmic pulse of the Caribbean, a symphony of waves crashing against rugged cliffs and gentle breezes rustling through swaying palms. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, yet infinitely more mesmerising in person.

Stay tuned for the continuation...