In November 2022, I left Europe for the first time. Though I've always had a passion for travel, I hadn't ventured beyond continental borders until then. I moved to Canada on a one-year work and travel visa, spending the initial six months living and working in Montreal. After that, I used the remaining time until January 1st, 2024, to explore the East and West coasts of Canada, as well as the West Coast of the US. While both Canada and the U.S. showcased incredible landscapes, I couldn't help but notice that the pace of my travels had become a bit too brisk. It began to feel less like an immersive experience and more like a series of quick stops for photo opportunities, lacking a genuine connection with the local cultures. This was exacerbated by the vast distances and remote locations of those breathtaking views. Faced with this realization, I decided to take a different approach as I continue my journey into South America—the next, and likely final, chapter (for now) before my return to Germany. My aim is to forge more meaningful connections, allowing me to spend more time in each place, truly absorbing the culture and connecting with its people. I hope to slow down the pace of my travels, bringing a more profound and enriching experience to each destination, expanding my perspective and understanding of the world around me, and contributing meaningfully to my surroundings.