Meet our latest WOW: Holly, a British native who has found her way to Asia where she now works, lives, and travels. I’m excited for you all to read her story as there was so much I related to in her answers! From the challenges and rewards of traveling as an introvert, the reality that awkward situations won’t actually kill you, the advice to accept your feelings toward a place when it isn’t what you expected for better or worse…I’m sure you’ll find Holly’s story a bit relatable, but I hope you also find it as inspirational as I did. She shares some great examples of how to get out there and explore the world, beyond our ever-limited vacations, perfect for women interested in working and traveling at the same time. (Yes, I’m talking work!) As always, happy reading and happy travels.
Connect with Holly:
Tell us about yourself?
Hey, I’m Holly, a British expat living in Vietnam. After graduating a three years ago I tried a few things and ended up getting a full-time job, but ultimately it did not make me happy or give me the freedom I wanted, so I decided to make a drastic change and move to Vietnam to work as an English teacher. I’m currently enjoying the freedom it’s giving me – I work just 18 hours so I have time to travel and explore different hobbies (which includes writing this blog www.globalgoodyear.com – it’s a work in progress!).
Why do you travel?
I caught the travel bug after a trip to South Africa when I was 18; moving on to volunteer in Sri Lanka, study for a month in China, volunteer in Tanzania and travel for leisure in between!
I love the personal growth; as a naturally introverted person, travel really forces me out of my comfort zone by making me socialise with people I don’t know and do things I’m unsure of, which is extremely challenging but rewarding.
Then there’s the usual learning new things, exploring new places, learning about different cultures… I love it all! I especially love how we as humans are all from different backgrounds and speak different languages but can all make connections with each other and are more similar than we think.
How do you balance work and travel?
What’s the best lesson you’ve learned from your travels?
I’ve learned to manage my expectations. Sometimes you think you will love a place and you don’t, but that’s okay! Equally you may think that a place isn’t for you and then love it so it works both ways. It’s all about going with the flow. Also things are never as scary or awkward as you think, and if they are, you still get through them. The confidence and independence you gain is amazing.
THANKS FOR READING HOLLY’S STORY!
Looking for more interviews? Head to our Woman of the Week archives for the full library.
I’ve also created three freebies to help you plan your next adventure:
- 50 Practical Travel Tips from Solo Lady Backpackers (a 6-page PDF)
- 20 Tips for Sustainable Travel (a checklist)
- and 30 Jobs to See the World.
After you join the mailing list up, you’ll have access to all the freebies, AND get the password to the Global Directory! The directory will connect you to my recommended resources for each country and tons of travel topics. All blog posts I recommend are written by traveling ladies. From logistics to inspiration, the Global Directory will help you find the info you need no matter where you’re going.
