A travelers tale - From London to the world!

 Written by Jedediah

Read Time: 15 minutes

From Sandy Shores to Snowy Peaks

I’ve just begun this constant journey of travel, which will carry me for at least the next nine months. But may take me even further to unknown lands. Alas, I wasn’t always roaring and ready to leave my home, the comforts that family and a secure job provide. My journey to this path was on a slow burn, through family and profession I gradually grew to embrace the chaos that travel provides. Let me whisk you away on that whimsical journey through my travel history, where each adventure is a colorful chapter in the book titled wanderlust. Join me as we frolic on sandy shores, explore ancient ruins, and discover the vibrant pulse of bustling cities. Strap in, it's going to be a wild ride!

Sandy Shores of Dorset: A Beachside Bliss

Our travel escapades kicked off with sun-kissed days and salty breezes along the English south coast in Dorset. My family, full of travelling spirit. My mum and auntie always ready for an adventure and a journey to be had, blessed us with yearly excursions south. I guess they got it from their parents yearly voyages to the European mainland. Cycling every path that laid out before them. Finding the treasures in the mountainside and the people that filled them!

But alas, my travelling memories begin on the golden sands of Dorset, stretching as far as the eye can see, kissed by gentle waves that invite playful frolics in the sand and water. Our rental caravan nestled snugly by the beachside became our home away from home, a cozy retreat after days of seaside adventures.

Exploring nearby beachside towns like Lyme Regis, Weymouth, and Bridport was like stepping into postcard-perfect scenes. Cute sweet stores, fudge makers, and the iconic Jurassic Museum in Lyme Regis added a sprinkle of whimsy to our coastal escapades. And oh, the quiz at the museum—a timeless tradition that still challenges visitors to this day, with exactly the same questions printed on it as I first tackled 25 years ago. To the point that I can remember the answers, branded into my brain by joyous annual repetition and the promise of a fancy rock or crystal upon completion. Creating memories that span generations.

Mediterranean Marvels: Spain and Greece

As I grew older, my mum expanded my travel horizons to the sun-drenched shores of Spain and Greece, where ancient ruins and azure waters beckoned with tales of exploration and discovery. Staying as still as I could by the sea, we delved deeper into the Mediterranean wonders, immersing ourselves in local culture and traditions. Mainly enjoying the hotel amenities, the performances down by the restaurant or the dancers that wandered by. The Paella made for us on the beach side in Spain, the flavours still dance upon my pallet whenever I recall those moments.

Rushing to the local corner store for the England cricket scores became a cherished ritual, blending my sports enthusiasm with the thrill of travel. Each day brought new adventures, from exploring sites to savoring Mediterranean cuisine, creating a tapestry of vibrant experiences that shaped my love for exploration.

Musical Odyssey in Canada: Snowy North, Melodies, and The Maple Leaf's

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity unfolded as I joined the school concert band on a whim encouraged by my friends already in the band, armed with the formidable French Horn, dubbed the hardest instrument in the world. Our musical journey took us to Canada's snowy north (the only reason I joined the band in the first place), where we serenaded audiences at iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the CN Tower, and even a Maple Leaf’s game on the ice!

Playing 'The Final Countdown' solo on the steps of Parliament, surrounded by First Nation tribe leaders, remains a treasured memory—a harmonious blend of music and adventure that ignited dreams of living in Toronto one day. It was a musical odyssey that echoed with the rhythm of exploration and camaraderie. I never properly picked up the French Horn again after that trip, but felt truly grateful for the experience. Mr. Masters my old music teach and leader of our band, has changed the lives of any student who went on those trips and for him we are eternally grateful and honored.

Concrete Jungle Adventures in New York City: A Melting Pot of Wonders

My mum wasn’t done yet teaching me the ways of the world and the necessity to see outside of my limited perspective. Amidst chaos and uncertain times, New York City beckoned us. With its grandeur, self-obsession, and vibrant character, offering a melting pot of cultural wonders waiting to be discovered. From the larger-than-life persona of Times Square to the bustling streets teeming with life, every moment in the city was a whirlwind of excitement and amazement. A moment that remains with me; One morning about five AM I went for a run through Manhattan. I was stopped by somebody in the street who offered to rap for me, a bard of the boroughs. They told a tale of pain and hurt through the form of spoken word. They didn’t ask for anything in return, just an ear to hear their story. I can’t remember the content of their chorus, but the moment lasts. A constant reminder that out there, wherever you are, people want to be heard and it is our joy and duty to listen.

In New York, the lights seemed brighter, the people larger than life, and the streets buzzed with energy, creating a sensory overload that left an indelible mark on my travel memoirs. No matter what avenue we traversed, there was somebody willing to explode with creativity and self possession. From the Times Square rappers pedaling their mixtapes to the dancer in Central Park. New York City was a moment of self-discovery, a city that epitomized the essence of urban adventure.

Swedish Serenity in Stockholm: Tradition and Contemporary Charm

Armed with newfound independence, I embarked on solo explorations of European gems, starting with the enchanting city of Stockholm, Sweden. Viking pasts intertwined with contemporary charm, creating a mesmerizing blend of tradition and modernity that captivated my wanderlust. For years I was obsessed with Eurovision (truly one of the greatest modern cultural creations of our time) and Sweden were CHAMPIONS of the continental competition. I admired them for their nifty ability to slap a catchy beat and harmonious chorus together. I had to see where the recipe was concocted.

Strolling along cobblestone streets, marveling at Swedish architecture, and basking in the serene beauty of Stockholm's lakes. The city's vibrant culture and welcoming ambiance added a playful touch to my solo adventures, setting the stage for more escapades yet to come.

Toronto Tales: The City of My Dreams

Putting my nose to the grindstone and chasing a dream job was the catalyst for my next adventure—a journey to the vibrant heart of Toronto! At work, me and a treasured companion discovered a nifty trick to ordering pizza utilizing the company’s equipment. We timed it perfectly so the pizza would arrive at the back door just as both of us were to begin our breaks. On few occasions this resulted in late returns to work or less than ideal temperature pizza but, it begin a bond that would be unbreakable. We were, are and always will be… ‘The Pizza Boys’.

One day we played with the idea of Pizza Boys on tour, going international with our tomfoolery. We pondered where the perfect location for our high jinks may be, but for me there was always only one option, Toronto! The city's magnetic pull had always beckoned, promising a blend of welcoming locals and vibrant urban energy. I knew if I was to live there I needed to do a reconnaissance trip to certify it’s legitimacy as a landing spot for me.

Arriving in the autumn of 2016, we dove headfirst into the buzz of 'the 6', where every street corner seemed to whisper tales of possibility and adventure. It was more than just a visit; it was a soul-searching expedition to test the waters of potential residency. And oh, what an expedition it turned out to be.

From lively parties to street football matches that showcased my friend's dazzling skills (mine were more of the enthusiastic cheerleader variety), we embraced Toronto's vibrant spirit with open arms. The warmth and friendliness of Torontonians became a hallmark of our stay, as we made friends and memories that would last a lifetime.

Returning to Toronto later on felt like coming home, a testament to the city's magnetic charm and the lasting bonds we forged during our initial visit. Toronto, with its open-hearted embrace, had woven itself into the fabric of my dreams, setting the stage for future chapters of adventure and discovery.

New Orleans Magic: Creole Charisma and Big Easy Delights

Just two days after our Toronto escapade, fueled by an insatiable thirst for adventure, my mum and I embarked on yet another journey—this time to the enchanting Creole capital of America, New Orleans. The city's soulful rhythms and rich cultural heritage cast a spell on us, drawing us into a world of jazz, bayous, and delectable Creole cuisine. There truly isn’t a feeling like strolling down Bourbon Street, eating a beignet covered in the most sugar you have ever seen while listening to a jazz band playing in the middle of the road. Or as the whole neighbourhood comes to a stand still because somebody has booked out a marching band and you best believe they’re marching it all the way through the French quarter!

Just as we arrived in New Orleans, fretting and froing about how to get into the city. Somebody who worked in the airport pulled up on us, and with an incredibly relaxed energy said “Relax, you’re in the Big Easy now”. And with that spell placed upon us, nothing could go wrong. We immersed ourselves in the city's vibrant tapestry, from cheering at a Saints game (I still vouch that we should have won that game!) to exploring the mystical bayous that whispered tales of hidden treasures, like holding a baby alligator in our hand. No Big Easy leaf was left unturned as we savored every moment, soaking in the essence of New Orleans' magic.

Dream Job Adventures: Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Beyond

Securing my dream job was a milestone that unlocked a world of travel opportunities, from the picturesque canals of Amsterdam to the architectural wonders of Barcelona. Each city welcomed me with, If only for a few beautiful moments, offering a glimpse into its unique culture, history, and character.

Amsterdam's laid-back vibes and scenic beauty, Barcelona's artistic flair and culinary delights, and the eclectic energy of cities like Porto, New York, Portland, and Shirebrook (the ones who know, know!) painted a vivid mosaic of experiences. Riding boats in Porto. Gazing out over the city that never sleeps on the Empire State Building. Watching the Champions League at 8 in the morning in Portland. Walking around the warehouse in Shirebrook (like I said, the ones who know, know).

Yet, amidst the thrill of exploration, a realization dawned—no matter how many cities I dropped into, the joy of truly being myself in those places was fleeting. The deadlines of work and the rush of travel imposed limits on the depth of experience, prompting me to seek a new chapter in my journey.

Toronto Revisited: The Dream Takes Flight

And so, my journey came full circle as I heeded the call of my heart and made the leap to live in Toronto—the dream that had been brewing for 12 years since that fateful day of playing the Canadian National Anthem on ice. Living, working, and building a life in Toronto became the next thrilling chapter in my travel saga, a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the magic of exploration. An even bigger testament to the people who build this path for me; My mum who from the moment I was born knew I was never going to sit still, and never stop chasing infinity. My aunty who took care of me, who helped hone my love for running around without a clue in the world, many times she would be the one driving me around the country or drying me off when I ran straight into the sea without even taking my clothes off as a child. I am a result of all of this love and so much more. My time in Toronto was incredible, life changing and maybe even a bit underwhelming...

But as they say, every adventure is a chapter waiting to be written, and the tales of Toronto will unfold in due time. Until then, let the playful spirit of wanderlust guide your footsteps, and may your travels be filled with laughter, discovery, and endless moments of joy!

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